Haunted Hosts

The Royal Hotel has a distinguished two-hundred-year history, originally built in 1832 as an inn on what was then a new road from St Lawrence leading to the newly forming seaside town of Ventnor. Initially established as Fishers Hotel, it became known as The Royal Hotel after receiving Queen Victoria's royal patronage. The hotel gained immense prestige when Queen Victoria visited in 1844 during her journey to Steephill Castle and famously popularised afternoon tea here in 1845. Sir James Clark, Queen Victoria's surgeon, had recommended Ventnor's unique microclimate and fresh English Channel air as beneficial for those suffering from ill health, establishing the town as a fashionable Victorian health resort. The Royal Hotel became a favoured destination for the crowned heads of Europe and notable guests including Charles Dickens, who stayed between 1837 and 1838, declaring it 'the prettiest place I ever saw, in my life, either at home or abroad.' The hotel has maintained its prestigious status throughout its history, earning the rare privilege of being listed in every Michelin Guide since 1911 and becoming the first hotel on the Isle of Wight to receive a four-star rating.