Guests say
Wootton offers a peaceful woodland retreat with lovely views, easy access to the ferry, and proximity to local attractions. Guests appreciate the tranquil setting, spacious lodges, and dog-friendly environment. While many found the accommodation comfortable and well-equipped, several noted that some lodges are in need of refurbishment and deeper cleaning. Facilities are generally adequate, though some guests wished for more on-site amenities. Overall, the property provides good value for a relaxing break, especially for those seeking a quiet escape.
Reviews are mixed regarding cleanliness. Some guests found their lodges clean and tidy, while others reported issues such as dust, cobwebs, stained furniture, and a need for deeper cleaning. The inconsistency suggests room for improvement.
The location is highly praised for its tranquillity, woodland setting, proximity to the ferry, and easy access to beaches and attractions. Guests consistently highlight the peaceful environment and convenience.
Most guests found the lodges spacious, comfortable, and well-equipped, with quality bedding and peaceful surroundings. However, some mentioned tired furnishings and maintenance issues that affected comfort for a few.
Facilities are generally adequate, with well-equipped lodges and some on-site amenities. However, several guests noted a lack of features such as a pool, limited bar hours, and some maintenance issues, indicating potential for enhancement.
There are no mentions of welcome gifts or special thoughtful touches in the reviews, so a score cannot be provided for this category.
About this property
Luxurious and contemporary lodge with one double and one twin both with en suite bathroom with bath and overhead shower. Stylish well-equipped open plan side aspect living space including solid wood floors in the lounge area, modern kitchen with breakfast bar and spacious dining area. Patios doors leading to decking, perfect for al fresco dining. Great for a family escape to celebrate any occasion. Pets allowed in selected accommodation only.
Images are representative and may not be the specific accommodation assigned on booking.. Woodside Bay Lodge Retreat part of our Evermore collection is a stylish beachside resort just a short drive away from vibrant Cowes. This Diamond award-winning getaway nestles at the water’s edge on the Isle of Wight’s serene north-east shores, perfect for unwinding and taking in the breath-taking sights over the Solent, or venture into the lush woodland complete with nature trails nearby and discover the abundant wildlife, all at your own pace. Take a stroll along the adjoining shingle beach or explore the scenic, cultural, culinary and historic attractions of this ‘Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’ by foot, boat or bicycle.
Featuring luxurious, premium contemporary design and an outdoor hot tub on selected lodges, each opulent accommodation creates a tranquil ambiance that offers all that you need to unwind, letting the everyday hustle and bustle drift away.
Have a glass of bubbly at the bar, all set in a picturesque area of the retreat.. Woodside Bay Lodge Retreat part of our Evermore collection is a stylish beachside resort just a short drive away from vibrant Cowes. This Diamond award-winning getaway nestles at the water’s edge on the Isle of Wight’s serene north-east shores, perfect for unwinding and taking in the breath-taking sights over the Solent, or venture into the lush woodland complete with nature trails nearby and discover the abundant wildlife, all at your own pace. Take a stroll along the adjoining shingle beach or explore the scenic, cultural, culinary and historic attractions of this ‘Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’ by foot, boat or bicycle.
Featuring luxurious, premium contemporary design and an outdoor hot tub on selected lodges, each opulent accommodation creates a tranquil ambiance that offers all that you need to unwind, letting the everyday hustle and bustle drift away.
Have a glass of bubbly at the bar, all set in a picturesque area of the retreat.. Woodside Bay Bar
Outdoor sun terrace with spectacular views over to Portsmouth
Free open Wi-Fi access
Woodland walks
Discounted ferry** Up to a 25% ferry discount from Portsmouth or Lymington, or up to a 15% ferry discount from Southampton
. Opening times and dates of the on site facilities will vary throughout the year, without prior notice.
** Discounted Ferry - Please refer to the FAQ’s for the park.
Discounted ferries - refer to your 'important park information' link on your confirmation once your booking has been confirmed which will give you directions to follow to claim your 25% discount on your ferry crossing.
Arrival Information: Darwin Escapes check-in’s are available from 16:00. If you are likely to arrive later than 18:00, please call our resort reception team on 01983 885 220 to let them know. Please note any guests under the age of 18 needs to be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
Departure Information: Check out time is at 10:00am on the day of your departure. Darwin Escapes kindly ask that you leave your accommodation as you found it.
Bathrobes: Bathrobes are available to hire for £5.00 per bathrobe. Please note: Bathrobes are only available on a request basis when you arrive at the park.
Hot Tub Information: Please note due to water change and maintenance your hot tub may not be up to the correct temperature when you first arrive. By using the hot tub you are agreeing to Darwin Escapes’ terms and conditions, and agreeing that you have read their hot tub safety information, found here.
Travel cot hire: You can request a travel cot on your booking. Please note, there is no bedding provided and the mattresses are folding, thin and firm and is provided by manufacturer. We require you to follow the safety instructions, which state not to use a secondary mattress or any padded bedding such as pillows or quilts. You must bring your own bedding (e.g infant sleep bags). Please contact reception for mattress dimensions should you require. For further information on safe sleeping in travel cots please refer to information available from sites such as the Lullaby Trust. Important travel COT information Manufacturers instructions are provided at the point of issue and cots are cleaned in line with these after each use. Please also be aware that travel cots may not fit in double/master bedrooms in selected units, please call reception on 01983 885220 for more information if a cot is needed.
Pets: Please make sure that you have included your pet in your booking. If your pet is not included, Darwin Escapes will either relocate you to a pet-friendly lodge, if there is one available, or holds the right to refuse access to the resort. You may be liable for any charges incurred.
Resort Facilities: Woodside Bay’s facilities are currently working at a reduced capacity. The gym can be used by people over 18 years old only. You can access the gym by visiting reception, you may be asked for a fully refundable deposit.
Additional Information: Please note your car registration number will be requested upon arrival for Woodside’s security barrier system. Please read Darwin Escapes’ park rules found here.
Group Bookings/Party Types: A security deposit may be requested on arrival.
Work Parties: No Work vehicles or Workwear will be permitted on site. Un-authorised Work Parties will not be allowed to stay.
Discounted ferries - please refer to your 'important park information' link on your confirmation once your booking has been confirmed which will give you directions to follow to claim your 25% discount on your ferry crossing.
Arrival Information: Check-in is available from 16:00. To make your check in as smooth, quick and easy as possible, we’d like to request you call ahead for specific arrival information and to inform our reception team of your car registration number in advance of your arrival, particularly if you’re arriving outside of normal working hours. Please contact the retreat reception on 01983 858 220. Please note any guests under the age of 18 needs to be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
Hire of Travel Cots: You will need to supply your own cot mattress and bedding as this is not included in the hire of travel cots. Please be aware that travel cots may not fit in the double/master bedroom of selected accommodation.
Hot Tubs in Premier Accommodation: Please be aware the hot tub may not be up to temperature when you first arrive due to water change and maintenance.
Departure Information: Please ensure you leave the accommodation by 10:00am on your day of departure.
Pets: Please note, if you are planning on bringing your pet or animal on holiday, this must be included in your party make up when booking. If you arrive on holiday with an undeclared pet/animal, the park operators are entitled to either relocate you to suitable pet/animal-friendly accommodation (if available) or refuse access to the Park. You may also be liable for any Pet charge, cleaning costs and/or relocation costs incurred. Please check with the retreat prior to including any extra pets. Any pets arriving undeclared could be asked to leave the retreat if there is no pet accommodation available.
Group Bookings/Party Types: No Work vehicles or Workwear will be permitted on site. Un-authorised Work Parties will not be allowed to stay. A security deposit may be requested on arrival.
In line with government guidance and to ensure you and your family are safe during your stay all leisure facilities, restaurants and bars are currently closed to guests. A takeaway and delivery service will be available from restaurants and bistros.
Discounted ferries - please refer to your 'important park information' link on your confirmation once your booking has been confirmed which will give you directions to follow to claim your 25% discount with Wightlink or 15% with Red Funnel for your ferry crossing.
Highway works in New Road, Wootton - 25/09/2023 – 06/10/2023
Island Roads have been in contact with us to let us know about the highway works that are due to take place in the local area shortly. These works will comprise of carriageway and footway maintenance with some realignment to short sections of kerb and channels. This approach will allow access to be maintained; although we would inform anyone using the road to expect short delayed during the works and where possible to minimise journeys through the site.
As the nature of these works are affected by the weather, the below dates may be subject to change at short notice.
· Timing of works- 25/09/2023 – 06/10/2023 inclusive (weekdays only)
· Time of works- 07:30 – 18:00
· For further information please refer to info@islandroads.com
Location of works- New Road, Wootton- between St Edmunds Walk to property named "Inwood"
Applicable to Premier accommodation only - We take care to ensure the hot tub is ready for you to use on your arrival although whilst every attempt is made on some occasions due to the strict cleaning and disinfection procedure, we follow the hot tub may not have reached the required temperature and there could be a delay before you can use it.
Reviews (51)
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Paul
Lodge 60 needs some tlc …no Ariel for tv (we had to call reception and get it sorted but all they did was hook the tv up to the internet with a cable and reception was still poor) 4 bulbs needs replacing , paint flaking of everywhere and the bush in front of the decking just completely blocks any view. It was an ok stay but doesn’t make us want to come back unfortunately.
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Charlotte
This is our second visit and feelings are much the same as last year. The site has potential to be wonderful but the lodges are tired and scruffy. They really need a deep clean, a lick of paint and the appliances need some attention.Hard to score this place highly on facilities as there is very little there. There is a gym which we didn’t use and a bar, but when we enquired about watching the England game there on Tuesday night we were told it closes at 5 which seemed a bit early. I’m not sure if they close that early every night. The website says there are 3 restaurants on site. We didn’t find any. There looks like there is a pizza oven outside but it’s not been in use during either of our visits. There is a nice walk to the beach and the beach is okay to walk along but not the prettiest. We went elsewhere for our beach days.We went during term time and paid a fair price. We used the lodge as a base but spent most days and evenings out. For the price we paid it was acceptable for that purpose. I wouldn’t pay school holiday prices.
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Gail
Way too hot inside the lodge, despite bringing to fans from home. Only baths, no walk in showers, making it impossible for our disabled guests to wash at all over the weekend.