The Hambrough, The Isle of Wight – Review

The Hambrough sums up what the new Isle of Wight is all about. There are still old-fashioned seaside towns and no shortage of quaint tearooms but the island is changing and with it, the people it is attracting.

Good food, sandy beaches, long walks and ubiquitous greenery, are all there – a mere three hours from London.

After refurbishing an old hotel in the pretty seaside town of Ventnor, in July 2008, chef patron Robert Thompson unveiled The Hambrough.

With only seven bedrooms, the establishment soon earned itself a reputation as one of the finest boutique hotels in the UK.

Within a very short space of time, Thompson has earned himself a reputation not only as a serious hotelier, but also as an award-winning chef. In early 2009, a Michelin star was awarded to Thompson for his hotel restaurant – a first for Thompson and, crucially, for the island.

Each room is modern using clean lines with muted browns and off-whites. Beds are swaddled in cream flannel blankets, as if inspired by a local seashell.

Book early and opt for rooms 1 or 2. Here, you`ll be treated to large Edwardian balconies with 180 degree views of Ventnor Bay. Staff will offer to bring you breakfast outside in the morning and by day, you can relax on reclining chairs.

The bathrooms boast under-floor heating as standard and coffee lovers will delight in the in-room Illy espresso makers.

At the tender age of 27, and with plans for similar developments nearby, Thomson is certainly one to watch, as is the Isle of Wight. Move over Rick Stein, this could even be the new Cornwall.

A room at the Hambrough costs from £150 per night in low season based on two sharing on a bed and breakfast basis. Rooms 1 and 2 cost from £260 per night in low season and £280 in high season based on two sharing on a bed and breakfast basis. Weekends are subject to a supplement of £20 per room.