Guests say
Bishops Retreat in Ventnor is highly praised for its cleanliness, stylish decor, and welcoming atmosphere. Guests appreciate the helpfulness of the host, Holly, and the property's proximity to local attractions and amenities. The unique experiences, such as llama walking and coastal walks, add to the charm of the stay. While parking can be challenging, the property's location and the host's thoughtful touches, including welcome treats, contribute to a memorable holiday experience.
Guests consistently mention the spotless condition of Bishops Retreat, highlighting its cleanliness as a significant factor in their enjoyable stay. The property is described as beautifully presented, with clean towels and bedding, contributing to a comfortable and hygienic environment.
The property's location in Ventnor is frequently commended for its convenience and proximity to the beach, shops, and restaurants. Guests appreciate the easy access to local attractions and the stunning views, although some mention the uphill return to the apartment and occasional parking difficulties.
Reviews reflect a high level of comfort at Bishops Retreat, with guests enjoying the plush decor, spaciousness, and cosy bedrooms. The large copper bath and comfortable beds are particularly appreciated, although some guests note noise from neighbouring apartments.
While guests are generally pleased with the facilities, there are mixed comments regarding the ease of use of kitchen appliances and noise from plumbing. Due to the lack of consistent feedback on maintenance issues, a definitive score cannot be provided.
The host's thoughtfulness is evident in the personal touches and recommendations provided. Guests mention welcome gifts such as prosecco and ice cream, which are well-received. However, it should be noted that such gifts, while appreciated, are not guaranteed for every stay.
About this property
Nestled in the charming seaside town of Ventnor, boasting a beach and spectacular scenery to explore, is this beautiful ground-floor 1860’s church-conversion, Bishops Retreat. Enjoying a central location within the Victorian town and impeccable interior design, perfectly blending original features with contemporary elements and a grand entrance. This superb apartment boasts many luxurious touches. Bishops Retreat is a unique, all-ground-floor base for five friends or a family wishing to explore this fantastic region. Admire the magnificent entrance and front door as you walk up the ramp or steps to your own private entrance vestibule, perfect for unloading luggage or even relaxing with a glass of wine or challenging your loved ones to a game of chess. From here make your way up the long and striking hallway to the light open plan living space. This gorgeous space is well designed to accommodate a group of friends or family. With its cobalt blue sofa, which can be converted into a sofa bed for one extra guest, Bentwood dining chairs and stunning mural this is the perfect place to relax. Enjoy films on the Samsung Smart TV or prepare a meal in the elegant kitchen, well-equipped with an induction hob, oven, fridge/freezer, and microwave. After a day exploring the coast travel along the corridor to the first well-presented bedroom which contains a double bed and a single. Continue along the corridor to the master bedroom where you will find the emphasis is on romance. Have a lie down on the muslin draped four-poster bed which enjoys its own en-suite shower room. A family bathroom completes this stunning apartment, with its glamorous Nickel bathtub and Italian floor tiles it really is the perfect place for those Instagram shots. In the morning, gather in the open-plan social space to discuss the plan for the exciting day ahead. Outside, of the property roadside parking is available, or alternatively there is a pay and display at the end of the road where visitor permits can be purchased. A short stroll will lead you to the heart of this wonderful town, home to excellent museums to uncover the heritage of the town and on warmer days make use of the proximity of the shingle beach where you can soak in the sun or enjoy exhilarating water sports. Visit the central point of the island to the town of Newport, steeped in history with its handsome Georgian and Victorian architecture and Newport Roman Villa to see a Roman designed property; here you are within easy reach of Carisbrooke Castle to tour the museum. Venture a little further afield to the pretty town of Cowes, where you can explore the Maritime Museum, enjoy the variety of Yachts on the river and sample fantastic restaurants with sea views. For a memorable getaway with your favourite people, enjoy a refreshing break at Bishops Retreat.
The seaside resort of Ventnor rests on the southern end of the island and boasts spectacular scenery. The town is surrounded by an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and has a mild climate for exotic plants to thrive in. The shingle beaches and coves are great places to explore and carry out water sports. Ventnor is home to a great selection of shops, cafes, pubs and restaurants; the Botanical Gardens is nearby. Explore ancient castles, historic houses and wonderful waterfalls whilst in the area.
Accommodation
Sykes Gem Awards 2024 Gold winner for Best In South Coast England and Isle of Wight All ground floor.
Two bedrooms: 1 x four-poster bed with en-suite bathroom with shower.
1 x family room with double and single.
Sofa bed in the lounge can accommodate a sixth person if required.
Two bathrooms: Bathroom with freestanding bath, basin and WC, Shower room with walk-in shower, basin and WC.
Open-plan living space with kitchen, dining area and sitting area.
This property was voted in the top 5 places in the South East to stay by Sykes Gem awards 2023
Electric central heating.
Electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge/freezer, washing machine and dishwasher.
Smart TV, WiFi.
Fuel and power included.
Bed linen and towels included (beach towels are not provided).
Roadside parking nearby - but please be aware availability of this may be limited during busy periods, there is also a pay & display car park at the bottom of the road opposite Tesco.
There is the option to purchase a weekly parking permit that can be used for the entire island, please contact us if you require any additional information about this.
No smoking on the premises and the grounds.
Small well-behaved dogs allowed upon prior arrangement with the owner; please call the office when booking.
It is helpful to note there is a pay and display car park 2 min away and Isle of Wight tourist parking permits can be purchased on the council website - This is helpful if travelling around the island https://beta.iow.gov.uk/parking/permits/parking-permits.
Generous ferry discounts available for this property from Portsmouth & Lymington, subject to availability - discounts via the owner.
Please note: Ground floor easy access due to slope (One step up to the front door.) Please note: The lobby area can also be used to store your bikes.
Note: There is a minimum requirement of 3 nights at this property.
Note: During the month of August, there is a minimum stay requirement of 4 night
Reviews (32)
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Maureen
We noticed that Holly, the Owner, had made a few alterations since our last stay, which made our stay even more pleasurable. Holly also kindly arranged for us to have free sausage rolls at the local bakery , which were very tasty. As we have come to expect from Holly, she was very helpful and friendly and we felt that we could easily contact her if we had any problems. We are hoping to go back next year again.
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Philip
Comfortable main room with everything you need and high quality bathrooms. Main bed really comfy - didn't try others. Entrance foyer useful place to store coats and shoes. Very friendly, helpful and supportive host. Supermarkets, cafés and restaurants 2 minutes walk. If you buy an island tourist car park pass you can park in the nearby car park all week plus most other council car parks on the island. Lots of lovely places to walk in Ventnor plus a 5 minute car ride to the Downs with fab views. Also enjoyed exploring Bembridge, Ryde, Cowes and the Needles.
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Jane
Her also very helpful cleaner was soon kindly sorting us out! The care for guests very much appreciated and we really enjoyed our week in Ventnor even had perfect weather in October! Thanks very much Jane