Business Details
41 Years
experience
Luxury Boutique Hotel in Cowes, Isle of Wight
Established in 1873 as a private residence, Villa Rothsay has evolved into a distinguished boutique hotel in Cowes, Isle of Wight. Originally frequented by royalty and yachting elites, including the Prince of Wales and Sir Philip Perceval, the property transitioned to a carvery restaurant in 1981 before becoming a hotel in 1985. Under the stewardship of the Ankers family, we have preserved its historic charm while offering modern luxuries. Our clientele includes world-renowned yachtsmen, royalty, and celebrities, drawn by our prime location overlooking the Solent and association with Cowes' yachting heritage.With 29 elegantly appointed rooms, private dining options, and proximity to sailing events, we combine timeless elegance with contemporary service. Our team ensures guests experience the same hospitality that attracted Prime Minister Edward Heath, a key figure in our hotel's founding. Committed to excellence, we maintain the legacy of this Grade II-listed property while providing unparalleled access to the Isle of Wight's cultural and maritime attractions.
Services
Luxury Accommodation
Private Dining
Event Hosting
Catering Services
Airport Transfers
Details
- Year established: 1985
Highlights and features
- We offer historic charm with modern comforts in a prime yachting location
- Our staff provides personalized service rooted in local maritime expertise
- We host exclusive private dining experiences in our Captains Room
- Our proximity to Cowes Week and Round the Island Race events is unmatched
- We maintain a legacy of royal and celebrity patronage since the 19th century
Services
Luxury Accommodation
Our 29 individually designed rooms combine Victorian elegance with modern amenities, featuring premium bedding, en-suite bathrooms, and panoramic Solent views. Each room reflects maritime heritage through curated decor while providing contemporary comforts like high-speed Wi-Fi and climate control. Ideal for both leisure and business travelers seeking refined coastal living.
Private Dining
Host intimate gatherings in our historic Captains Room, offering candlelit dining for up to eight guests. Our head chef creates bespoke menus using local Isle of Wight produce, with wine pairings and personalized service. Perfect for special occasions or business meetings requiring discretion and culinary excellence in a heritage setting.
Event Hosting
Utilize our Grade II-listed spaces for weddings, corporate events, or yachting-related functions. The property accommodates larger groups through interconnected lounges and terraces, with dedicated event coordination and proximity to Cowes' premier sailing events like Cowes Week and the Round the Island Race.
Questions
What is Villa Rothsay Hotel's historical significance?
Built in 1873, the property hosted royalty including the Prince of Wales (later Edward VII) and Sir Philip Perceval, a key figure in British yachting history who helmed the Royal Yacht Britannia.
How does the hotel cater to yachting enthusiasts?
We offer prime Solent views, proximity to Royal Yacht Squadron events, and special packages during Cowes Week and Round the Island Race, with historical connections to Olympic sailing teams.
What dining options are available?
We provide private dining in the Captains Room for eight guests, room service, and access to our sister restaurant's carvery, with seasonal menus featuring local Isle of Wight produce.
Are there event hosting facilities?
Yes, our historic lounges and terraces accommodate weddings, corporate events, and yachting-related functions, with dedicated coordination services and stunning maritime views.
Reviews (5)
Michael Carling
Jun 17, 2022
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Like stepping back in time to a world where service and attention to detail came as standard. We stayed in Mrs H's room which had wonderful views over the Solent. The room was comfortable and spotlessly clean. Decor throughout the hotel is faded elegance (in the best possible way) from the Victorian and Edwardian eras. The owner and staff were efficient and charming with wonderful stories about the great and good that have graced it's wall in bygone years. We are looking forward to our next visit.
Lesley King
May 31, 2022
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This is a great find, an established historic event hotel supporting Yachting &, powerboat racing. Founder of Fastnet race passed to family to run hotel. Now venturing into opening up to public, 24 hours of being spoilt. Book it & see for yourself.
Philipp Conen
Apr 20, 2022
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We had a wonderful stay in a very nicely furnished hotel. With very nice staff and a great breakfast! We would love to come back!
Karen S.
Dec 15, 2020
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Some of the bedroom's furnishings in need of repair or replacement, and a strong musty smell in my room, but spotlessly clean. Gorgeous sea view. Breakfast area lovely and breakfast itself amazing, with a variety of options and immaculate tables. Owner very helpful and delightful young lady serving breakfast
Kathryn Robinson
Oct 20, 2020
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Our stay was lovely. The hostess could not have been more welcoming. The room was clean and homely with an exceptional view of the Solent. Breakfast was excellent. We would highly recommend this hotel.
