The Waverley

The salt air drifts in through your window before you've even opened the curtains — you're that close to the island's coast, with gulls wheeling overhead and the promise of a full English downstairs.

This is a proper Isle of Wight guest house with camping pods out back, perfect for families who want a mix of indoor comfort and outdoor adventure, or couples combining a bed-and-breakfast break with a taste of pod life. The island's gentle hills and sandy bays are on your doorstep, and you're ideally placed whether you're here for coastal walks, cycling the old railway trails, or just watching the Solent ferries come and go. Dog owners should ask ahead about bringing their four-legged crew along.

With both guest house rooms and pods available, you've got options depending on the weather and your mood. It's open all year, so you can catch the island in any season — blowy winter walks or August bucket-and-spade days. Check the campfire policy when you arrive if you're hoping for an evening under the stars. A friendly, flexible base with one foot in proper hospitality, the other in the camping world.