On a crisp autumn Friday, the typical village pub was traded for an extraordinary library. But this was no ordinary library. Sliding ladders rested against floor-to-ceiling shelves, not filled with books, but with over 1,100 bottles of wine. This is the heart of The Terrace Rooms & Wine Hotel, a landmark seafront villa in Ventnor on the Isle of Wight, and it is, without doubt, one of the most beautiful boutique hotels in the UK.
A Coastal Haven with Mediterranean Flair
While the design and sophisticated vibe might make you feel like you're in a high-end corner of London, the location is firmly in Ventnor. This charming seaside town on the Isle of Wight is fast becoming a culinary hotspot, often dubbed the 'English Mediterranean' due to its unique microclimate and villa-style architecture. The Terrace is the perfect embodiment of this namesake. The Italianate-inspired mansion is the first building visitors see as they descend the zig-zag hill towards the seafront, offering panoramic views of the English Channel from its glass-fronted pergola.
During the quieter shoulder season, the island's already relaxed pace becomes even more tranquil. A stay in 'The Annex,' the largest bedroom with a private entrance and unobstructed sea views, provides ample space to unwind. The hotel's other five suites are equally special, each with its own unique selling point, such as Room 3 which features a free-standing roll-top bath perfectly positioned by the window.
An Unforgettable Culinary and Vinous Journey
The core of The Terrace experience is its dedication to wine and food. At 5pm sharp, guests are invited to the wine library for a tasting, an experience included in every booking and held seven nights a week. For 30 minutes, owner and self-taught chef Tom Fahey passionately discusses wines from regions like Provence, Bordeaux, Australia, and Argentina. It's no surprise that he and his wife, Ashley, were recently ranked #12 in the prestigious 2025 Harpers Top 50 Sommeliers.
The pinnacle of the gastronomic offering is the hotel's prestigious Friday night dinner, priced at £80 per person. For an additional £50, guests can enjoy a expertly curated wine pairing. While it is an investment, it is designed as a one-of-a-kind treat, and most guests are there for a special occasion, happy to splurge. Over two hours, Tom creates a mouthwatering five-course tasting menu, featuring dishes from grilled bream and smoked aubergine to venison and honey tart, all meticulously chosen to complement the evening's wine selections.
Integrating with the Island's Foodie Scene
Aside from daily cheese and charcuterie boards available from 12pm to 7pm, The Terrace only serves full meals on Fridays. However, this is a deliberate choice that encourages guests to explore the island's vibrant culinary landscape. The hotel partners with multiple local restaurants, with staff making reservations for guests based on their palates. 'If our guests wish, we can help them choose wines to go with their meal,' Ashley explains.
It is this commitment to a holistic and sophisticated experience that has earned The Terrace the title of Best B&B in the UK from the Good Hotel Guide and a place in the Top 50 Boutique Hotels. It stands out as one of the most relaxing and refined staycations available.
Everything you need to know:
- Price: Rooms start from £250 per night, including a four-course breakfast and nightly wine tasting.
- Perfect for: Couples seeking a romantic getaway, and wine and food lovers.
- Standout features: The incredible wine library and the glass-roofed pergola with sea views.
- Disability access? The main hotel does not have suitable accessibility for wheelchair users due to space restrictions and a lack of lifts. It is recommended to contact the hotel directly to discuss specific needs. However, the pergola is accessible to non-residents for a drink between 12pm and 5pm daily.
