The Isle of Wight, a captivating gem off the southern coast of England, beckons visitors with its sweeping coastlines, verdant woodlands, and rolling hills.
The island’s quaint towns and villages are steeped in history, with beautifully preserved architecture and cobbled streets evoking a sense of timeless charm.
Whether you’re a lover of nature, history, or culture, the island’s hotels will capture your heart. From clifftop boutiques to seafront mansions, here are my favourite cool and unusual hotels in the Isle of Wight, England (in no particular order)…
1. Lakeside Park Hotel & Spa – a trendy, modern and fancy hotel perfect for Millennials and Gen Zs to enjoy a rejuvenating stay
This blissful spa retreatis one of the Isle of Wight’s premier 4-star hotels, offering unparalleled experiences, high-quality accommodations, and amenities catering to both business and leisure travellers.
Set beside a 20 acre tidal lake and within 17 acres of countryside, the ever-changing views and opportunities to spot wildlife around the property are exceptional.
On-site you will find a 10-metre pool, a thermal spa garden, and other wellness facilities enveloped in pristine greenery. I thoroughly enjoyed dining at the stylish Brasserie, which overlooks the lake and offers smart yet informal dining experiences, replete with a menu that changes with the seasons.
2. Luccombe Hall Hotel – one of the Isle of Wight’s most beautifully located hotels providing guests with a family-friendly, award winning and spacious stay
Here we have the island’s most gorgeous clifftop hotel, overlooking the quaint thatched Shanklin Old Village. Luccombe Hallbeckons guests to wake up with the sounds of the sea and early morning birdsong, as their elegant guestroom becomes flooded with natural light.
Freshly prepared meals are served in the Grand View Restaurant, which offers a supreme vantage point over the sea.
Upon entrance I was immediately charmed by the intimate family presence, and the staff were always on hand to help me draft up the perfect Isle of White itinerary. The guestrooms are equipped with many cosy amenities, and are dressed in a soul-soothing white canvas which really brings to life the vivid colours of the furnishings.
3. The George Hotel – a hip, rustic and Instagrammable hotel located in the heart of Yarmouth
This historic hotellies right on the waterfront in Yarmouth, which is a quaint traditional town close to the Wightlink ferry terminal.
The interior quirks reflect those of a 17th-century townhouse, notably the magnificent four-abreast staircase. The wall of ‘George’ portraits (depicting the faces of celebs called George on large period portraits), adds a playful touch, and the lounge, replete with a fireplace, is a super characterful place to relax in the winter.
In the summer however, an Italianate outdoor terrace invites you to revel in the charm of olive trees, and the endless views of yachts.
I thought the brasserie, situated in the light-filled conservatory, was the perfect spot to return to after a day exploring the island, owing to its flavour-filled dishes which celebrate the best of local produce.
4. Villa Mentone Hotel – a vibrant, quirky and cotemporary hotel with a beachfront location
Built during the Victorian era, Villa Mentone’s roots are evident through the high ceilings and original covings.
Modern touches have however been added, notably the floor-to-ceiling windows in the public spaces which flood them with an abundance of natural light.
The hotel positions itself elegantly on a cliff, pleasantly overlooking Shanklin Beach from a panoramic viewpoint. I thoroughly enjoyed reclining on a swinging rattan chair on the gorgeous wooden deck in the afternoon, admiring the sweeping ocean vistas.
There’s a modern Bar & Grill on-site, which serves hearty dishes in a lavish, light-filled, and communal atmosphere.
5. Hillside Ventnor – a charming, beautiful and unique hotel moments away from the beach
Stylish and eccentric, Hillside is a real gem of the Victorian seaside town Ventnor. The property plays host to an exquisite art collection that many galleries would envy, and the coastal views are magnificent.
Built in 1800, this thatched property has adopted a rather minimalist and semi-Scandinavian feel over the years, and everything down to the tiniest detail has kept up with the times to ensure a feeling of timeless elegance.
The sparkling white walls provide a beautiful canvas for the collection of avant-garde third-wave Cobra art, and there’s plenty of comfy chill-out areas sprinkled around the property. My favourite spot was the charming sun terrace, which overlooks the peaceful gardens, and the views extend across Ventnor’s gleaming rooftops to the sea.
A short stroll from The Royal will land you at both a beach and a fabulous Victorian Botanic Garden. Built in 1832, this four-storey hotel boasts lofty and elegant public rooms, my favourite of which was the bright conservatory, where my partner and I savoured a delightful afternoon tea.
There’s also a pretty trellis-covered terrace which overlooks the pool and gardens, where tropical planting hints at the unique microclimate of the area. For me, the food was a stand-out feature here – You can choose to eat in the formal dining room, the more relaxed brasserie, or the conservatory.
7. Haven Hall Hotel – a stunning, elegant and lavish boutique hotel offering Insta-worthy views overlooking the ocean
Blissfully blending a country-house glamour with the friendliness of a B&B, this A-list residencepromises tranquillity and sophistication.
Haven Hall nestles on the seafront at the end of a quaint cul-de-sac, and a step outside the property lands you on a path which leads down to the toffee-coloured stretches of Sandown Bay.
Edwardian in architecture yet artsy in style, inside you will find many immaculately crafted pieces which exude a real sense of ‘old meets new’. I loved that my room came with such modern amenities, which added to the level of intimacy and luxury.
These included Netflix, a Nespresso machine, and Blupont speakers, and the expansive ocean vistas were just the icing on the cake!
Its traditional exterior is beautifully contrasted on the inside by a functional, minimalist aesthetic, topped with quirky pops of colour. Each room is equipped with a flat-screen HDTV with satellite channels and coffee & tea-making facilities.
You can’t go wrong at the on-site restaurant, with full English breakfasts served in the morning, and hearty dishes provided throughout the day. For me, the main perk of staying here was being able to step out of the resort and right into the sea.
To book, check prices or availability for Waterfront Inn
9. The Hambrough – a beautiful, classic and upscale boutique B&B providing guests with an award-winning heart breakfast each morning
This boutique Bed & Breakfast is set in a prime spot just up from the sandy beach at Ventnor. The Hambroughis a smart converted Victorian villa, and pristine sea views gleam through many of the guestroom windows.
The colour scheme of the public areas is muted, evoking a slightly executive feel, however, the spaces are brightened up with stripped wood floors and vases of colourful flowers.
I thought the service here was top-notch, whether savouring a delightful Afternoon Tea, indulging in a hearty breakfast, or booking local excursions.
At the back of the property you’ll find a quaint outdoor patio where you can sit and relish the summer sun. The high-ceilinged guestrooms each offer a different theme, set by charming wallpaper and colourful furniture.
To book, check prices or availability for The Hambrough
10. The Grange B&B – an elegant, bright and spacious B&B where guests can enjoy and array of on-site activities and amenities
This gorgeous Georgian country house is listed in the AA’s Best British B&B Guide, courtesy of its holistic wellness atmosphere, its immaculately manicured gardens, and its stunning range of activities on offer.
Set in Shanklin’s Old Village, the property is surrounded by charming pubs and restaurants, and is just moments from a long sandy beach. Each room is eloquently decorated in natural tones which mirror the surrounding environment, and come equipped with complimentary designer toiletries and state-of-the-art amenities.
During the summer months, The Grange is the place to see and be seen, and kicking back on a lounger in the verdant garden is as majestic as it gets.
To book, check prices or availability for The Grange B&B
11. The Havelock – a cool, sleek and stylish accommodation in a location perfect for Millennials and Gen Zs
This tranquil hotel, originally built as a gentleman’s residence however carefully renovated to its modern eclectic presence, is nestled in the traditional seaside resort of Shanklin.
Around the property, you’ll find glorious long sandy beaches set against a backdrop of dramatic sandstone cliffs, as well as countless attractions inviting you to soak up the area’s charming history.
Set within lush manicured gardens, the property boasts a Mediterranean-style heated pool, beckoning tourists to relax and unwind.
There’s a comfortable lounge which overlooks the garden, where I spent many hours playing on the many games on offer. The bar is another graceful space, where you can savour light meals and snacks, as well as a wide selection of refreshments.
To book, check prices or availability for The Havelock
12. One Holyrood Hotel & Café – a romantic, hip and charming accommodation in close proximity to local popular attractions
This exquisite boutique hotel is teeming with character and history. The creative design offers a unique vibe, which is an ambient blend of extravagance and cosiness.
Strolling through the property brought to light a relic of its history in every corner, through the traditional décor, graceful artwork, and soothing wooden elements.
The on-site café is full of charm, and offers both Afternoon Tea experiences and delicious seasonal dishes where each ingredient has been sourced in the local area. I absolutely loved hanging out in the south-facing garden, where fragrant plants contributed to an oasis of beauty and peace.
13. Arreton Manor – a grand, historic and traditional B&B perfect for a couple’s romantic getaway
Here we have a historical Grade II* Listed private residence, which has opened its doors to tourists so they can savour the rich and reviving atmosphere of the Arreton Down Nature Reserve.
The property is steeped in history, and surrounded by ornamental gardens. It has been the proud host a handful of high-profile weddings over the years, and simply taking a stroll through the lush manicured grounds is enough to get lost in the charm and splendour of nature.
The guestrooms are topped with vaulted ceilings exuding a traditional feel, yet complemented with the amenities of a modern high-end resort.
To book, check prices or availability for Arreton Manor
14. The Bay Colwell – an upscale, stylish and modern accommodation within walking distance of several restaurants
The perfect base for explorers searching for a relaxing retreat, The Bay Colwell invites you to experience the beauty and bounty of the Isle of Wight.
The alabaster cliffs, heather-clad hills, and timeless forests can be enjoyed easily within a short drive. Whether you choose a tranquil cottage or a stylish beachside lodge, a splash of luxury awaits in your secluded home from home.
My stand-out experiences here were dining al fresco in the sunshine, ending the day with a glass of wine on my graceful balcony, and embracing some well-needed downtime in the many intimate communal areas.
15. Godshill Park Cottages – a tranquil, pet-friendly and cozy accommodation ideal for a family or group vacation
I felt an authentic family presence upon arrival to Godshill Park, a comfortable accommodation situated on a working livestock farm in a hamlet near the picturesque village of Godshill.
A network of footpaths and bridleways surround the property, which lead you from the farmland toward the downs and the coast.
Pet-friendly and beautifully traditional, each unit is airy and open plan, and comes with a sitting area, a kitchen area, and large bathrooms. As a guest you are invited to fish in the private lake, and take part in the yoga and well-being retreats during the winter months. You can also hire a bike on-site.
My first true adventure began as a six month voyage around South East Asia as a fresh faced backpacker and ever since I’ve lived a semi nomadic existence, clocking up visits to over 40 countries. I’m a lover of US Road Trips, deserted beaches bathed in warm glow of a sunset, Cuban mojitos, travel destinations far away from the tourist crowds and all things Scandinavian – from cloudberry liquors to Nordic noirs. When not wandering the world and running Global Grasshopper, you’ll find me walking my rescued Greek street dog in leafy South West London, strolling around the Brighton Lanes on random day trips, hunting for photogenic landscapes or daydreaming about my favourite places; Havana, Copenhagen, Italy, Laos, California and the surreally beautiful landscapes of a wintry Iceland.
