Elegance, sophistication…and an unbeatable view – that’s the buzz at The George in Yarmouth, Isle of Wight.
This wonderfully historic building sits in just about the perfect spot looking out over the water in one of the Isle of Wight’s prettiest resorts and is a fabulous experience, whether you are staying or dining.
Nestling on the water’s edge between the historic Yarmouth castle and the beautiful pier in this bustling harbour town, the magnificent building is steeped in history and was once home to the most noteworthy of the island’s Governors, Sir Robert Holmes, who often entertained King Charles II.
Walk into the grand entrance hall and it feels like you are instantly stepping into a place where for centuries weary travellers have sought relaxation and rejuvenation. And, thankfully, that remains the case today.
It manages to maintain its historic feel while also offering the most modern touches any discerning hotel visitor requires. Interiors wonderfully complement the wood-panelled rooms and yet there are quirky, bang-on-trend touches which reflect the sense of fun which seems to be permanently in evidence at this social hotspot.
I was particularly taken with the mock Georgian oil portraits which graced the main staircase…which on closer inspection feature modern day famous Goerges, such as Clooney, Hamilton and Harrison. Made me smile every time I walked past.
If the weather allows – and the mild climate in Yarmouth should for much of the year – make your way to the stunning Italian-inspired beachfront garden, with its olive trees and driftwood-clad beach bar. There you can while away the day wining and dining as you watch the activity on the water, including the regular arrival of the Wightlink ferry just a 40-minute ‘hop’ from Lymington, making The George accessible even if you just want a quick day visit from the mainland.
What are the rooms like?
With everything from a cosy snug room to a prestige suite with its own private terrace, there is something for every budget. I was lucky enough to be enclosed in one of the prestige rooms for a couple of nights, which was a true delight.
A spacious, beautifully-appointed space, with a sumptuous bathroom, the real showstopper was that terrace. Day or night, it was wonderful to be able to relax awhile and take in the magnificent sea views, looking straight down the barrel of that wonderful, historic pier, fairy lights twinkling.
In the depths of winter this terrace was a real bonus – one can only imagine how magnificent it is when the weather warms up. Must be hard to tear yourself away to explore the island!
And if you really want to make a stay of it on the island for the whole family, then The Goerge also has two fabulous self-catering properties it rents close by, giving you another option for your stay.
Hot Hotel: Hotel Portmeirion, North Wales
Best sea view?
My room took some beating, but in reality that outdoor garden is the place to see the sea. As your boat approaches The George from the water, the welcoming sign seems to be winking at you to enter and if the garden is packed with folks enjoying themselves then it must take a strong will not to stop off and join them, rather than pass on by. And, however busy the space gets, my previous experience on a Yarmouth summer visit was that the team – well versed as they are in superb service – will do their very best to get you a slot in good time.
How about the food?
The Conservatory is a family-friendly, brasserie style restaurant with a light airy interior and uninterrupted views of The Solent. The food here is fabulously unfussy and dishes are created and cooked from the wonderful natural Isle of Wight larder. In the months when it’s not possible to dine outside, this space truly comes into its own.
On the winter menu offered to us our picks for starters were such delights as fish soup with rouille, gruyere and croutons or cured Loch Duart salmon with dill, cucumber and horseradish.
For mains I couldn’t look beyond the showstopper George Pie with mashed potatoes and whole grain mustard sauce, whilst across the table the choice of baked stone bass, cauliflower, parsley sauce and crispy capers looked inspired too. I was in two minds about dessert until I spotted chocolate marquise, orange sorbet and plum gel on offer – too hard to resist and I am mightily glad I didn’t. Superb.
What will it cost?
Cosy snug room from £375 for two people for three nights. Make sure to check the hotel’s website for regular seasonal break offers.
How do I book?
Visit thegeorge.co.uk, telephone 01983 760331 or email [email protected].
