Built in 1832, as Ventnor burgeoned from fishing hamlet to resort for health tourists, the Fisher Hotel became ‘royal’ thanks to the patronage of Queen Victoria. Today, under the ownership of William Bailey, it’s a ‘luxurious’ place that ‘well deserves’ its Guide entry, says a trusted reader this year, praising the ‘staff consistency, comfort, good food and very personal welcome’. ‘Wonderful!’ another concurs. ‘The reception team are most pleasant and helpful. They booked our ferry both ways, sending us tickets and useful directions.’ The traditionally styled bedrooms have fresh fruit, flowers and garden views; family rooms sleep four or five. The ‘splendid’ Royal Tea is one of the old-fashioned charms, but prudence suggests settling for a slice of Battenberg at cake o’clock, leaving room for head chef Jon-Paul Charlo’s inventive cooking. ‘Our starter, the Gallybagger cheese soufflé with white onion purée, is amazing! An ‘excellent breakfast’ has ‘many cooked choices’. The sub-tropical gardens and sea bathing are as salubrious today as they were during Victoria’s reign. (Mary Coles, Mary Woods).