Hotel The Havelock (Shanklin, United Kingdom)

Owners are always there to extend the warmest of welcomes and it’s not long before guests returning as friends mingle with ‘first timers’ to enjoy the unusual appeal of this hotel.

Super breakfasts are of excellent quality and cooked to order. Much thought goes into the preparation of this first meal of the day, with homemade sausages, preserves and homemade bread not going unappreciated by enthusiastic guests.

The lovely outdoor pool is in a real, sun trap, location with a number of guest rooms enjoying balcony views over the pool to the sea. You could easily be in the Mediterranean here.

If on one of the higher floors, it’s worth noting before booking, the lack of a lift!

It’s tempting to say that it’s beginning to look a bit out of date but, on reflection, maybe that’s part of the unusual appeal and charm!

It’s difficult to control to get a steady warm flow. Tends to be too hot or freezing cold.