The Royal Hotel

The Royal Hotel, a Victorian hotel with sea views in Ventnor

The Royal Hotel is a four-star establishment located on Belgrave Road, Ventnor, on the Isle of Wight. It occupies a four-storey Victorian building constructed in 1832, with a wrought-iron veranda overlooking Ventnor's Esplanade and the English Channel. The hotel presents itself as a destination for discerning travellers and has been in operation for more than 180 years. Its distinctions include Four AA Silver Stars and 2 AA Rosettes for its cuisine, which it has held for more than 28 years. The website itself notes the TripAdvisor Traveler's Choice Best of the Best 2026 recognition and the "Ultimate Hotel Experience" award granted by Red Funnel.

Rooms and stays

The hotel has 51 rooms, decorated with fine fabrics and furnishings, spread across several categories: Classic, Deluxe, Premier and Family, as well as Dog Friendly rooms for those travelling with a pet. The offering is completed by accommodation and dining packages, such as Dine & Stay rates, discounted longer stays and packages that include dinner and ferry discounts. Direct booking is presented as the way to obtain the best rates, with the guarantee that the hotel compares prices on the website.

Geranium Restaurant and dining offering

Dining is one of the cornerstones of the establishment. The Geranium Restaurant, led by Head Chef Tom Axford, has been honoured four times at the Beautiful South awards and has held 2 AA Rosettes for three decades. Its offering is based on seasonal dishes, carefully paired wines and service that the hotel describes as five-star. The offering includes fine dining dinner, relaxed lunches, Sunday roast and traditional afternoon tea, which according to the website was once enjoyed by Queen Victoria herself. The restaurant is open seven days a week and is available both to guests and to outside visitors. It is complemented by a cocktail bar.

Facilities and surroundings

The hotel sits in south-facing, subtropical gardens and has a clifftop terrace, the Riviera Terrace, with views over Ventnor Bay. Facilities include a heated outdoor pool and close access to the beach. Ventnor's surroundings are described as a unique microclimate within the island, with cliffs and headlands that form part of the coastal path. The location is presented as a base for exploring the main attractions of the Isle of Wight.

Events, celebrations and other services

The hotel offers spaces and services for weddings and events, as well as gift vouchers and a programme of activities and content under the heading What's On. The website includes a blog with recent news, including the arrival of chef Tom Axford, the hosting of classic car club meets, the welcoming of the LeBlanq Joyride 2026 festival and seasonal dining offerings. Customer service, frequently asked questions, privacy policy, terms and conditions, accessibility and inclusivity, sustainability and job opportunities are also mentioned.

Location and contact

Belgrave Road, Ventnor, Isle of Wight PO38 1JJ · Telephone: 01983 852186