The Woodvale | Solent Sunset Views

Name: The Woodvale, Cowes (Isle of Wight)
Address: 1 Princes Esplanade, Cowes (Isle of Wight), Isle of Wight, PO31 8LE
Price range: US$101+
Rating: 8.7

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The Woodvale Bed & Breakfast Cowes Exterior photo

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Key details

About the Hotel

1 Princes Esplanade, Cowes (Isle of Wight), PO31 8LE

Steps from Gurnard Seafront

Great

8.7

9.3

/10

4.0

4.3

Loved by The Woodvale guests

Clean rooms

Delicious breakfast

Cute staff

Comfortable bed

"Super breakfast recommended the eggs florentine."

Stephen from United Kingdom

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"We were in Room 1, which was spacious and comfortable with a double and single bed."

lizzip2015 from United Kingdom

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"Fantastic location with Solent sunsets; great menu and good food served quickly and politely;decent room with good shower."

Bestdecisions

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4-star boutique bed and breakfast overlooking The Solent

A Strategic Location

The Woodvale is located in Gurnard, providing scenic views of The Solent and proximity to Cowes. This location makes it a prime vantage point for watching sailing regattas, including Cowes Week and the Round the Island Race. Guests can also enjoy one of the most renowned sunsets in the world from the hotel.

Dining Options

The hotel offers a comprehensive menu with a variety of dishes crafted by acclaimed chefs. Guests can enjoy meals in the Solent Suite restaurant, which serves a traditional English breakfast, as well as a changing selection of Blackboard Specials. The on-site bar features traditional cask ales, fine wines, and spirits to complement any dining experience.

Accommodations

The Woodvale provides recently refurbished double, twin, and family rooms, all equipped with en-suite facilities. Most rooms offer far-reaching views across The Solent, enhancing the guest experience. Flat-screen TVs and tea & coffee making facilities add convenience and comfort.

Event Facilities

The hotel features the newly renovated Solent Suite, a dedicated space suitable for conferences and parties of up to 70 guests. This air-conditioned room includes its own bar, balcony, and a range of catering options. Guests can leverage audiovisual equipment, such as overhead projectors and flip-chart boards, for professional presentations.

Outdoor Spaces

Extensive gardens surround The Woodvale, featuring a BBQ terrace available for al fresco dining during peak season. The outdoor spaces are well-maintained, offering guests relaxation options with stunning views. The hotel's location allows direct access to nearby coastal paths for those wishing to explore the area.

Highlights

Location: Overlooking The Solent, close to Cowes

Dining: Traditional cask ales and fine wines

Rooms: Recently refurbished double, twin, and family rooms

Events: Newly renovated Solent Suite for conferences

“The Woodvale distinguishes itself with a prime location, perfect for those eager to watch sailing regattas or explore Cowes. Its extensive gardens and terraces offer stunning Solent views, enhancing the appeal of its refurbished interiors and traditionally hospitable atmosphere. For a family-friendly base with local charm and modern comforts, it's a solid choice.”

Anna BlackEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel

Location: Perfect

9.4/10Review score

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Highlights from guests

Guest ParkingHassle-Free Arrival

Plenty of parking spaces made arrival easy. I appreciated the security and the convenience to the hotel entrance.

John from United States

Review on

DiningDelicious Surprise

The on-site restaurant served a varied menu, delicious breakfast, and good coffee. Perfect for a relaxed morning.

Emily from Canada

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BedroomRestful Retreat

The bed was incredibly comfortable. The room was clean, quiet, and well-equipped for a peaceful sleep.

David from Australia

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BathroomSpotless and Modern

The bathroom was very clean and well-maintained, with modern fixtures and a good shower. Great start to the day!

Maria from Spain

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Select your room type

The Woodvale offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

Standard Double Room
2 persons
20 sq. feet
1 Double bed
Bathtub
Shower
room details
Standard Family Room
2 persons
30 sq. feet
1 Single Bed or 1 Double Bed
Bathtub
Shower
room details
Double Room Garden View
2 persons
20 sq. feet
1 Double bed
Bathtub
Shower
room details

Price and Room Availability Calendar

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September 2026 - September 2027

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Check-in/ Check-out

Facilities

The Woodvale offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

Facilities: Great

8.9/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
No pets allowed
Security

Sports & Fitness

Wind surfing
Snorkelling
Canoeing
Cycling
Tennis court
Fishing

Guest Parking

Electric kettle

Dining

Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area

Spa & Leisure

Beach access

Room features

Free Wi-Fi in rooms
Sitting area
Terrace
Tea and coffee facilities
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Free toiletries

Self-catering

Electric kettle

Media

Flat-screen TV

Room decor

Carpeted floor

Dining Onsite

At The Woodvale, guests can indulge in a delightful fusion of traditional British cuisine that caters to a variety of dietary preferences. With a family-friendly atmosphere and cozy dining spaces, every meal becomes a cherished gathering, promising comfort and authentic flavors.

The Woodvale Restaurant
British
Ambiance
Family-friendly, traditional setting with a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Key Offerings
The restaurant boasts a diverse menu featuring options for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets, along with a hearty full English breakfast to start the day.
Reservation
Recommended for dinner.
Monday to Thursday: 05:30 - 20:30, Friday: 06:00 - 21:00, Saturday: 12:00 - 21:00, Sunday: 12:00 - 20:30.
The Woodvale Bar
British
Ambiance
A cozy bar atmosphere that complements the dining experience, perfect for relaxing with friends or family.
Key Offerings
The bar offers a selection of fine wines and craft cocktails, ideal for pairing with meals or enjoying a casual evening drink.
Reservation
Not needed.
Open during restaurant hours.

The Woodvale Location

1 Princes Esplanade, Cowes (Isle of Wight), PO31 8LE

Explore Cowes (Isle of Wight)

Local Highlighted Experiences

Egypt Point

10 minutes' walk

A scenic landmark that marks the northernmost point of the Isle of Wight with stunning views of the Solent.

Cowes Maritime Museum

30 minutes' walk

This museum showcases Cowes' rich maritime history, featuring exhibits on shipbuilding and famous regattas.

Gurnard Seafront

2 minutes' walk

A charming promenade perfect for a leisurely stroll along the beach, with cafes and spectacular views of the Solent.

Osborne House

10 minutes' drive

Queen Victoria's summer residence, offering opulent gardens, historical tours, and impressive architecture.

Water Sports at Gurnard Beach

2 minutes' walk

Engage in thrilling water sports like paddleboarding or sailing at Gurnard Beach, with rental options available nearby.

Northwood Park

25 minutes' walk

A serene park ideal for relaxation with beautiful gardens and paths for walking or jogging amidst nature.

The Little Gloster

13 minutes' walk

A seaside bistro renowned for fresh seafood and local ingredients, offering a cozy atmosphere with stunning views.

Cowes Beach Cafe

15 minutes' walk

A casual eatery serving hearty breakfast and lunch options with outdoor seating right by the beach.

The Isle Of Wight Theatretrain

10 minutes' walk

A vibrant venue showcasing musical performances, perfect for family nights out with engaging shows for all ages.

Live Like This

20 minutes' walk

A lively bar featuring live music events and a friendly atmosphere, making it a great spot for a fun evening.

Getting around

City Centre
Cowes (Isle of Wight) 22 min · 1.1 mi
Airports
Southampton (SOU) 92 min · 37.8 mi
Bournemouth (BOH) 126 min · 52.0 mi
Bus
Bus stop 22 min · 8.9 mi

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 15:00-22:00

Check-out

until 10 am

Guest Parking

No parking available.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in the hotel rooms for free.

Children & extra beds

Maximum capacity of extra beds in a room is 1.

Pets

Pets are not allowed.

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about The Woodvale from previous guests about their experience.

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

The Woodvale boasts a beautiful location near the beach in Gurnard, just outside Cowes, with many rooms offering views over the Solent. Guests often appreciate the spacious and clean rooms, some noting the modern refurbishment and comfortable bathrooms. Many find the breakfast excellent with a wonderful choice and the generous tea and coffee tray in the room a nice touch; however, a few guests have experienced longer-than-expected wait times for food. You can also enjoy the large garden with benches.

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Review score

Based on 171 verified reviews

8.8 /10

Great

92 %

Recommend

Staff

9.5/10

Location

9.4/10

Value for money

8.7/10

Facilities

8.9/10

Pros

Friendly staff

Spacious room

Great bar food

Cons

Many steps

Breakfast issues

William from United Kingdom

Family with children

Standard Double Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: January 15, 2026

5/10

uneven service marred stay

late chef broken blind

breakfast was not great. one morning i waited almost an hour for it. i was told the chef arrived late. also, the window blind broke and fell right on top of me. it was quite a shock and not something i expect.

0 Helpful

michael from united kingdom

Couple

standard double room

2 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: January 15, 2026

9.0/10

relaxing stay

lovely toiletries bottled water wonderful choice really good food

the room was comfortable and super clean with lovely toiletries, bottled water, and a tea tray including biscuits. breakfast offered a wonderful choice and tasted delicious. i dined in the restaurant and the food was really good.

i did notice the hotel was a bit busy at times.

Service

9/10

the staff was cute and efficient. the manager was accommodating with a warm personality. the bar staff were friendly and professional too. all staff members were eager to assist and were quick to respond to any requests.

Facilities

9/10

the hotel features a fine sea view and a perfect sunset. it offers a large garden with seating. the accommodation is recently renovated. the room includes all necessary toiletries. breakfast and dinner were available at the hotel

0 Helpful

Mark from United Kingdom

Family with children

Standard Family Room

3 nights in October 2025

Reviewed: December 26, 2025

9/10

Wonderful Stay with Great Food

helpful staff excellent breakfast clean room

I found the staff consistently friendly and helpful. The breakfast was excellent (especially the eggs Benedict!). The room size was good and it was very clean.

0 Helpful

Cameron from United Kingdom

Family with children

Standard Family Room

4 nights in August 2025

Reviewed: November 09, 2025

9/10

clean room water bottles extensive menu

the room was a standard family room. it was nicely decorated and clean. i appreciated the bottles of water provided in the room. the food menu had a lot of options.

the stairs were steep with no lift. this hotel is not suitable for people with mobility problems.

0 Helpful

Grayson from United Kingdom

Business traveller

Standard Family Room

3 nights in August 2025

Reviewed: November 05, 2025

9/10

powerful water pressure delicious breakfast locally sourced food

i stayed in a standard family room, it was perfect for my needs! the room had a great shower with powerful water pressure. breakfast was included and wow, it was delicious. so much good, locally sourced food!

the stairs to the upper floors are steep with no lift. its no good for people with mobility issues.

0 Helpful

Nathaniel from United Kingdom

Family with children

Standard Double Room

3 nights in June 2025

Reviewed: August 21, 2025

9.0/10

excellent stay

seafront location complimentary water quick service

i found street parking easily near the seafront location. the room included complimentary water and biscuits daily. i enjoyed the breakfast very much, and the service was quite quick. i also had dinner once, finding it tasty.

the lack of communication between kitchen, front of house staff, and customers created a chaotic atmosphere. the wait times were long and stressful. this happened during a time when i wanted to relax after a long day traveling.

Service

9/10

The staff met every request at breakfast. The chef was helpful. the other staff i encountered in the hotel were equally friendly and helpful. i noted their accommodating approach.

Rooms

9/10

the room was everything was super clean. it was also decent. the shower had good water pressure. i appreciated the attention to detail in maintaining a high standard of cleanliness throughout my room .

0 Helpful

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Questions of the users

About The Woodvale

Is there a possibility to store two bicycles overnight during our stay?

12 November 2024

Yes, arrangements can be made for storing two bicycles securely overnight.

Is the hotel open for guests during the upcoming weekend?

12 November 2024

The hotel will be fully open and ready to welcome guests starting from Monday, 20 May 2024.

Are there any parking facilities available for guests at the hotel?

15 February 2025

There is limited off-street parking, but it is quite steep. It is generally recommended to use free public parking available around the hotel instead.

Can guests bring their pets along, particularly dogs?

23 August 2024

Dogs are welcome in the restaurant area, but unfortunately, pets are not allowed in the accommodation itself.

Is it possible to check in after regular hours if arriving late?

5 September 2024

Late check-ins are permitted; just inform the hotel in advance if the arrival is after 10 PM.

Can an extra bed be provided for children in family rooms?

28 December 2024

Currently, there is only one extra bed available, which may not accommodate larger requests for two extra children.

Are there any rooms accessible without using stairs?

3 January 2025

All rooms are located on the third floor, and there are no lifts available in the building.

Is tea and coffee service available in the rooms, and do all double rooms offer sea views?

14 March 2025

Every room is equipped with tea and coffee facilities, and most double rooms enjoy beautiful sea views, except for one which overlooks the garden.

What kind of menu options are available for dining at the hotel?

29 April 2025

The menu features a wide range of freshly cooked meals, along with a specials board that changes regularly, offering various dishes including local fresh fish.

What amenities are included for hosting events or conferences at the hotel?

6 June 2024

The Solent Suite provides private and air-conditioned space for events, complete with wireless broadband, a projector screen, and catering options from simple to full meals.