It’s easy to see why the Victorians loved Ventnor. This small seaside town tumbles gently down a chalky hill facing the sea, and is sunnier and warmer than the rest of the UK due to having its own sub-tropical microclimate. It's also quietly sheltered by the highest point on the Isle of Wight — St. Bonifce Down. Ventnor’s long, gently arching sand and shingle beach is still lined with Victorian bathing huts, behind which there’s a charming old arcade. Some of the best places to stay in Ventnor are fabulous picks for food lovers, as well as families on seaside holidays.
Ventnor has become quite a foodie town; there are numerous excellent pubs, cafes and restaurants to try — we highly recommend The Hambrough, which is a fantastic restaurant with rooms. Crab and lobster are the specialities, and there’s a local fishery, the Ventnor Haven Fishery, which is worth visiting if you’re interested in that side of the industry. We also recommend a stroll along the seawall at Wheeler’s Bay or Bonchurch, and a visit to Appuldurcombe House. If you have a bit of time, head further afield to Cowes and Yarmouth, or take a trip to The Needles.
Ventnor is the perfect destination for anyone craving a quiet, simpler, more wholesome life of sunshine and the beach, in a sub-tropical microclimate. However it gets very busy during the peak summer months. So if you're planning to visit in July or August, book your room in the best place to stay in Ventnor well ahead.