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POPULAR REGION! A property was booked in Isle of Wight & Hampshire 32 minutes ago

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Bishops Retreat

(Ref. 1087994)

Ventnor, Isle of Wight Show on map

4.9

Sykes rating

  • 5 Guests

  • 2 Bedrooms

  • 2 Bathrooms

  • Pets Yes

Features

  • Ground floor accommodation
  • Cot available
  • Highchair available
  • Pub/shop < 1 mile
  • Washing machine
  • Dishwasher
  • Seaside
  • Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing
Cleanliness
Comfort
Facilities and Maintenance
  • All reviews
  • great (18)
  • no (18)
  • holly (18)
  • helpful (16)
  • stay (14)
  • retreat (14)

32 Customer Reviews

  • "We have stayed at Bishops Retreat a number of times and it never disappoints."

    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.

    Hi Maureen. This must have been your third or fourth visit how wonderful ! I'm thrilled you love Bishops Retreat as much as we do! Cannot wait for you to return. Holly x Property Owner

    Reviewed by Maureen5.0Oct 2024

  • "Holly the owner was so helpful to us and so kind when we unfortunately lost her house keys on a Friday evening!"

    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

    Hi Jane. Thankyou so much for taking the time to write a review. The lost key was absolutely no problem at all. Just pleased we managed to get you back in as quickly as possible. We loved having you stay at Bishops Retreat and hope to have you back here soon! Holly Property Owner

    Reviewed by Jane5.0Sep 2024

  • "Lovely base for exploring the island."

    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.

    Hello Philip Thankyou so much for your review and your helpful tips for future guests. So glad you had a a great time and hope to welcome you back very soon. All the best Holly Property Owner

    Reviewed by Philip5.0Sep 2024

  • "A very comfortable and stylish apartment in a great location."

    and commutation was excellent

    Hello Steve Thankyou . It was a pleasure to have you all stay at Bishops Retreat. I am so pleased you enjoyed the apartment and would love to have you back one day . Holly Property Owner

    Reviewed by Steve5.0Sep 2024

  • "Hats off to Holly, my wife and I stayed at Bishop's Retreat last week and for 7 Days on the island it was a great home away from home finished to a high standard modern yet comfortable."

    It had everything you could need in an apartment.with some lovely touches from the milk and prosecco in the fridge to the complementary ice creams just down the road. Also to anyone visiting use the bath it's not just an outstanding centre piece it's a lovely self indulgence with a candle and a glass of fizz. If we do return to the island in the future we would not hesitate to book again. Cheers Holly

    Hello Carl and Audrey. Thank you so much for taking the time to write such a lovely review. I'm so happy to hear you enjoyed yourselves. Hope your journey back home was an easy one.Would really love to welcome you back another time! All the best Holly Property Owner

    Reviewed by Carl5.0Aug 2024

  • "Holly was fantastic and always ready to help - we had no issues at all with this beautifully appointed property."

    Fixtures and fittings were top class - everything you could want from a holiday apartment was provided and all in a very unique property. Absolutely fantastic holiday on the Isle of Wight. We will be visiting again without hesitation!

    Hello Keith and Family. It was an absolute pleasure to have you stay at Bishops Retreat and so happy to see that you have booked again already for next summer . All the best Holly Property Owner

    Reviewed by Keith5.0Aug 2024

  • "Fabulous property with everything you could need."

    Extremely comfortable throughout - fantastic beds, lovely linen and towels. Holly was an amazing host - so helpful before, during and after our stay - nothing was too much trouble. She gave us excellent recommendations of places and restaurants to visit. Would definitely book again.

    Hello Melanie and party. Thankyou so much for your kind words, It was wonderful to have you all stay at Bishops Retreat and I do believe you were my first party of cyclists. I thoroughly enjoyed your updates and pleased to know 4 electric bikes fit with ease into the lobby area and the grassy garden area at the front door perfectly suits lounging with Harvey Wall Bangers! Looking forward to you returning again soon. Holly Property Owner

    Reviewed by Melanie4.7Aug 2024

  • "Bishops retreat is utterly stunning!"

    The decor is amazing & everything had been thought of- even ear plugs & eye masks if we ever required them! We were greeted with prosecco, milk & a treat of homemade ice cream from the local parlour- so luxurious!

    Thankyou so much Hannah! So pleased you all enjoyed it . Looking forward to welcoming you back again soon . Stay in touch Holly Property Owner

    Reviewed by Hanna5.0Jul 2024

  • "A fantastic property with great facilities."

    At the heart of Ventnor with all facilities within walking distance. The property owner was really friendly and couldn’t do enough to help.

    Thankyou so much for your kind words Zoe and thankyou for choosing Bishops Retreat. We can't wait to see you again soon Holly x Property Owner

    Reviewed by Zoe Anne4.7Jul 2024

  • "Thoroughly enjoyed our stay at this wonderful holiday home!"

    Top end facilities, fixtures and fittings with restful nights every night in the cosy bedrooms. Supplied us with complimentary treats such as free ice cream which was a big hit with all of us! The host is very attentive and responded to any inquiries promptly and with the utmost care! We would recommend our stay to anyone looking enjoy a visit to the island and we look forward to returning again soon!

    Thankyou so much for your review Jill. As you know we loved having you all stay at Bishops Retreat and can't wait to see you again soon ! Property Owner

    Reviewed by Jill4.7Jun 2024

  • "Lovely apartment with everything you need."

    Holly was a great host, if you needed her for anything she was always on hand, and the free ice cream treat was delightful! Would highly recommend

    Thankyou so much for taking the time to write such kind words Gareth. Bishops Retreat is looking forward to seeing you all again soon !! Property Owner

    Reviewed by Gareth5.0Jun 2024

  • "This is our second visit and we have already booked again for October."

    Bishops Retreat is situated in an ideal position in the town, close to all the amenities. The property is very spacious and feels modern. The beds are all very comfy. The large copper bath in the family bathroom is great to relax in. There is a bus stop directly outside the property, which is useful for getting around the Island. Holly, the Owner, has been very helpful and kind on both of our visits and we felt she was always available if there was a problem.The bottle of prosecco on arrival was a nice touch. We highly recommend visiting The Met and Cantina in Ventnor.

    Maureen as you know I was delighted to welcome you back for your second visit and cannot wait to welcome you back in October !! I hope you are well and looking forward to speaking to you soon P.S Don't forget to contact me for your ferry discount . Holly X Property Owner

    Reviewed by Maureen5.0May 2024

  • "This was my second visit to bishops retreat, having been there in April 2023 for a girly weekend."

    This time I have brought the hubby and kids to show them the delightful property as well as the delights of both the Isle of Wight and ventnor itself! The island has so much to offer. We highly recommend west wight alpacas and llama walking, off the rails cafe just outside Yarmouth, the needles landmark attraction, donkey sanctuary (free entry but donations warmly welcomed), garlic farm, the gin distillery (has good grub), Besty and spinky’s, the spyglass inn for its amazing views, masala bay has amazing Indian food and my personal favourite a walk along the coastal path to steep hill cove and the botanical gardens. We have had two fabulous days on the beach in the glorious sunshine (rather different to my rather wet 2023 experience!). And now to the host Holly, what can I say, exceptional hospitality, helpfulness and from Prosecco on arrival (and milk!!) to donkey sanctuary biscuits and leaving body boards, buckets and spades out, to treating us to an icecream from the amazing crave (opposite tescos) for being return guests, we have been made to feel so welcome and I feel like I have know Holly for years!! The kids also were thrilled to have access to the Disney channel for a movie night and throughly enjoyed the big nickel bath tub, as did I with a glass of bubbles! Some people might be put off by having no dedicated parking but I’ve easily found a spot on both of my trips and the bus is the best way to travel around and see the sites anyway! Totally 5* thank you and see you again next time!

    Amy ! I hope you are well . It was amazing to have you back to Bishops Retreat with your family this time around and so happy all loved it as much as you did on your first visit. Great to hear about your escapades on the island again and thankyou so much for sharing in this review. Cannot wait to have you back Holly Property Owner

    Reviewed by Amy5.0May 2024

  • "Had a lovely few days at Bishop's Retreat which is a very well equipped, spacious ground floor 2 bed apartment."

    There were 5 of us, including 2 young children and there was everything you could need including a lovely bath in the main bathroom and a shower into ensure bedroom. Cooking facilities were good, plenty of plates and cutlery. A large fridge/freezer, a dishwasher and the added bonus of a washing machine. Although the apartment is on a fairly busy road, you couldn't hear any traffic noise whatsoever. It was in a good location to access the shops and beach although it is uphill coming back to the apartment. Holly was was very helpful, gave us loads of information including ferry discounts. Would definitely recommend and hopefully we can revisit soon!

    Reviewed by Joanne5.0Apr 2024

  • "We had a lovely stay at Bishop’s Retreat."

    Travelling as a family of 5 with 2 adults and 3 children it really met our needs. There is plenty of space and bathroom facilities for everyone! The standard is high and the decor etc is very plush. Holly is a great host and has really thought of everything. There was lots of lovely little touches like a towel and buckets for the beach by the door and a booklet with lots of recommendations for dinner not to mention the delicious cupcakes to welcome us for the Easter weekend. Ventnor is a lovely place and Bishops Retreat is in a great location to access the beach and the town, we would love to stay there again and hope to soon.

    Reviewed by Katie5.0Mar 2024

  • "Had a very enjoyable stay at Bishops Retreat."

    The location is close to all amenities that you would want. We found the accommodation very modern and spacious. Being November time, we used the heating a lot, and found it very warm and efficient. We found Holly, the Owner, to be very kind and helpful, and was always available to solve any problems. We would have no hesitation in returning and hope to next year.

    Reviewed by Maureen5.0Nov 2023

  • "Fantastic high street location, the place was extremely clean, Prosecco was a lovely touch, very spacious, comfy, accommodating for families with young children and a dog, beautifully decorated, the host is absolutely wonderful, really friendly, happy to help, she’s on call, really goes the extra mile, great ferry discounts, we were all extremely impressed and satisfied with our stay."

    Reviewed by Georgia5.0Oct 2023

  • "Had a lovely stay at Holly’s property."

    It was well decorated and had everything you could possibly need when away from home. It was noisy when other people were walking about in the upstairs apartment and next door, it was loud enough that it did sometimes sound as if they were in the same apartment. The plumbing was also noisy, especially with what I assume was a toilet right above the master bedroom, which when flushed in the middle of the night multiple times did keep waking us up. Location was good and only a few minutes walk from the town centre. Holly was extremely helpful before we arrived with recommendations for food, days out and areas to visit which was great! We had lovely meals at True Kitchen and Masala Bay and a nice brunch at The Bistro. We also went to Osborne House which is definitely worth a visit!

    Hello Anna. So pleased you had a lovely stay and enjoyed the decor, location etc. I am so sorry you were able to hear guests walking about upstairs. I can only think this is coming from hard outdoor shoes being worn indoors . With regards to hearing the toilet flush I had not been aware and have now contacted a sound proofing company to fix this with sound proof panels so thank you for bringing this to my attention . I look forward to welcoming you back one day . Very best wishes, Holly Property Owner

    Reviewed by Anna4.1Oct 2023

  • "We had difficulty in operating the hob and couldn't work out how to operate the microwave."

    Lack of cupboard space for our self catering food, etc.. Difficult to empty cars if unable to park nearby.

    Hello Peter. We were pleased to welcome you back for your second visit to Bishops Retreat. Thankyou for the lovely comments in our guest book again. Just to let you know the operating instructions for the oven and microwave are in the welcome pack by the front door still. You were given two numbers to call should you need any assistance or help in showing you how to use any of the equipment, we are always more than happy to assist. Extra kitchen storage has been added since your last visit but we will also move some of the cupboard items around to create extra space. Yes the car has to be unloaded outside and then moved if parking is not available at the front .. Thankyou again for choosing Bishops Retreat & Best Wishes Holly Property Owner

    Reviewed by Peter4.4Sep 2023

  • "Fantastic apartment with everything you would require, clean and very welcoming, ..."

    Fantastic apartment with everything you would require, clean and very welcoming, close to town only a couple of minutes walk to all shops I’d definitely book again

    Reviewed by Patrick5.0Aug 2023

  • "The apartment is stunning."

    Full of lovely fixtures and furniture and very well decorated. In a great location, with a short walk to town, though parking can be a little tricky. Holly the owner and the housekeeper couldn’t be any more helpful and gave us lots of tips. Only downside was that we did hear the people above and to the side of us quite clearly at night, so as a fairly light sleeper I was woke up a fair bit. But that is the only criticism for a very nice stay. The kids really appreciated the beach toys too - nice touch.

    Reviewed by Tim4.7Aug 2023

  • "Beautiful apartment with a great location."

    Holly was very helpful and suggested lots of places for us to visit. We had a wonderful family holiday, thank you

    Reviewed by Steven5.0Aug 2023

  • "Our stay at Bishops retreat was amazing beautiful flat easy access to the ..."

    Our stay at Bishops retreat was amazing beautiful flat easy access to the Esplanade to some great restaurants and pubs holly was most helpful giving us great suggestions on places to visit would highly recommend Bishops Retreat

    Reviewed by Paula5.0Jul 2023

  • "Excellent accomodation & great location to explore Ventnor & the Isle of Wight."

    Holly was most helpful with providing information on restaurants & places to visit. Our picks would be Osborne House, The Donkey Sanctuary, Steam Railway & Botanical Gardens. There was so much do on a beautiful island. We loved it!!

    Reviewed by Clive4.7Jun 2023

  • "Great property in good location."

    Owner couldn't have been more helpful with lots of suggestions for places to visit or eat prior to our arrival. Highly recommended

    Reviewed by Simon4.7May 2023

  • "Wonderful place to stay Spotlessly clean and such a great place to stay and explore from…."

    Owner is amazing and really helpful with places to go and things to see I will definitely stay again next time I’m in IOW

    Really appreciate your kind words.!! It means so much . Looking forward to seeing you all again soon Holly Property Owner

    Reviewed by Wayne5.0Apr 2023

  • "5 ladies came for a stress free weekend for a 40th birthday!"

    Blown away by the stylish decor but more importantly by the warm welcome and hospitality of Holly (and cleaner Tracey!). Nothing was too much trouble and so accommodating! Walking Llamas and Alpacas in the rain was something we will never forget and so much fun thanks to West Wight Alpacas! The challenging but beautiful coastal (not all coastal) walk from Ventnor to Shanklin was a highlight and was finished off with a lovely sandwich at Pencil Cottage (highly recommended)! Plus the bus service back to Ventnor for our aching feet meant we saw even more stunning views from up high on our return. Swimming in the freezing cold sea being watching by onlookers from the infamous Spyglass Inn made it even funnier! Garlic bread with cheese at the Garlic farm is a must and the IOW gin distillery is worth a visit and purchase or two! Ventnor itself has many pubs, lovely little shops and places to eat, there is even live music along the esplanade in the afternoon/evening bringing a lovely atmosphere. The IOW has so much to offer everyone. We had a wonderful stay and would highly recommend Holly and Bishops Retreat to anyone! Thank you Holly From Amy, Cat, Beth, Jenny and Collette x

    Thankyou so much for the review Amy and thankyou for the recommendations. So pleased you enjoyed your return stay. Bishops Retreat can't wait to see you all again soon .Holly x Property Owner

    Reviewed by Amy5.0Apr 2023

  • "We had a wonderful stay at Bishops Retreat."

    The accommodation is beautiful, very clean and a great location. The host and cleaner were both amazing, they couldn’t have been more helpful, welcoming and friendly. I will be recommending this property to family and friends.

    Reviewed by Katie5.0Apr 2023

  • "We have just returned from a magical, family Christmas at Bishops Retreat!"

    The beautiful, spacious apartment is a perfect mix of old, exterior architecture and modern, ‘Instagrammable’ interior. The location is a short walk from the beach and quaint, seaside town of Ventnor and the lovely village of Bonchurch. Holly is an amazing, friendly host who went above and beyond, with Christmas decorations and treats ready for our arrival. The apartment’s heating kept us cosy and we had all we needed for a comfortable stay. We were able to park on the road outside for the duration of our stay but there is a car park very close by for busier times. It was a great base for us to explore the island and we are looking forward to booking again in the summer months!

    Reviewed by Julie5.0Dec 2022

  • "Wonderful property very close to the centre of Ventnor."

    The host is extremely friendly and helpful, always on hand for recommendations and help! Had an issue with the kettle and was swiftly replaced in a few hours! 5* service

    Reviewed by Jasmine5.0Sep 2022

  • "We had the best week staying at Bishops Retreat."

    Great location, clean, such a lovely apartment with an amazing bath!!! We loved it and will be back.

    Reviewed by Charlie5.0Aug 2022

  • "A fantastic place to stay."

    Bishops Retreat is in a great location in Ventnor. We arrived to a friendly welcome from both the owner and cleaner, who pointed us in the right direction for tourist attractions, great places to eat and drink and all other amenities via text messages. Bishops Retreat was beautifully presented, a bottle of Prosecco waiting for us, clean towels and bedding with appliances we were able to use. One thing to be wary of is car parking, which can be a little difficult directly outside of the building, however, we did not find this a problem. Thank you for a fantastic stay

    Reviewed by Naomi5.0Jul 2022

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Summary

  • 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

The 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.

Note: This property has a Good Housekeeping bond of £250.

View on map

About the location

VENTNOR

Newport 10 miles; Cowes 15 miles.

The quaint Victorian seaside resort of Ventnor is located at the southern end of the island and accessed via an array of steep winding roads set amidst beautiful scenery. Sheltered by St. Boniface Down, one of the island's highest points and an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this charming town has a uniquely mild micro climate enabling tropical and exotic plants to grow throughout the area. The gently sloping sandy and fine shingle beaches and coves provide excellent facilities for watersports and offer a range of stunning coastal paths to explore, while the harbour sells a broad range of fresh fish and locally-caught seafood. Ventnor is one of the Isle of Wight’s most prestigious food destinations with a good variety of high-quality restaurants,
Bistros, pubs and shops along the esplanade and close to the town centre. The Botanical Gardens are within easy reach and well worth a visit, whilst around the island there are great walking and cycling opportunities, medieval castles, historic houses and a variety of gardens and waterfalls, as well as the unspoilt fishing bay. This great holiday destination has plenty to offer all year-round, and it's easy to see why it's known as the prettiest place on the Isle of Wight!

View more holiday cottages in Ventnor

Note: Sofa bed in the lounge can accommodate a sixth person if required.
One small well-behaved dog allowed upon prior arrangement with the owner; please call the office when booking.

Generous ferry discount offered with this property (subject to availability).

Please note: Ground floor easy access due to slope.

No smoking on the premises and the grounds.

Please note: The lobby area can also be used to store your bikes.
Note: Minimum of 3 night stays.

This property offers the following short breaks:

  • Winter
  • Off-season
  • Last minute
  • Christmas