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The Island is renowned for its beautiful walking trails and landmarks. Let local explorer Caroline guide you to her favourite spots to visit.

Caroline's Travel Tips

Caroline's Travel Tips

Wonderful Walks


We offer maps from reception and often asked where we recommend visiting.

I like to start with the local area, as Ventnor really is such a beautiful place and if you are only here for a couple of days you do not need to go far.

Obviously, there are some challenging hills so not advised for everyone. Our Riviera Terrace across the road offers a tranquil space with a beautiful view across Ventnor Bay.

Turning left out of the Hotel takes you to Ventnor Town, with access to the promenade, Ventnor Heritage centre, with a variety of shops and one in particular I mention is the rare clock shop, some find fascinating, and the owner is very knowledgeable.

Walking through the town centre will take you into the village of Bonchurch, filled with picturesque views and historic houses and churches including Winterbourne, where famous novelist and ‘loyal royal’ Charles Dickens was inspired to write six chapters of David Copperfield. Shore Road takes you to the beach and the very popular Bonchurch Pottery Studio.

Turning right from The Royal will take you to our award-winning Ventnor Park and Putting Green and beyond The Botanical Gardens and ‘’The Loyal Royals’’ favourite Steephill Cove.

Hop in the car


The Iconic Military Road is a fabulous scenic drive, Head South West towards the village of Niton, (The lighthouse and the Buddle Inn are on the coastline here.) The one-way route takes you towards Chale where you will reach the coastal drive of outstanding natural beauty and runs right out to Freshwater.

Mottistone Manor a National Trust property has fantastic Gardens and opening from 2nd March to Mid-October, is accessible through the picturesque village of Brighstone that has a few shops, cafes and a pub. Overlooking the sea on the left is the Isle of Wight Pearl, with a large car park, café, various shops and beauticians.

When you reach Freshwater, you can drive towards the Needles and Tennyson’s monument and the Old Battery overlooking the Needles. In the summer months you can take a tour by boat. Alternatively drive on to Yarmouth which Host’s plenty of eateries, art galleries and gift shops and my favourite to go to is Harwoods chandlery plenty for him and her.

From Yarmouth you can head North towards Newtown National Nature Reserve, famous for bird watching, wild seals and The Medieval Old Town Hall.

Head through Calbourne and back onto Military road, not

forgetting to stop off at Winkle Street to see the quaint row of

thatched cottages.

Enjoy your holiday, and happy touring!

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