"This is one of the loveliest places in the Kingdom!"  So wrote the American poet, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, about the Isle of Wight, and specifically Shanklin, when he stayed here in 1868.

Some things may have changed since the writer of the 'Song of Hiawatha' visited our beautiful island town, but we feel sure that he would have little difficulty in recognising Shanklin's Old Village, with its street of exquisite thatched buildings, which so inspired him. 

We are a small, friendly, family-run hotel, which nestles on the border of the 'Old Village' of Shanklin and the beautiful Isle of Wight downs. Only a short walk to the magnificent cliff top views of Sandown Bay, this hotel has been a regularly-frequented and popular haven since 1949.

Built in 1857, originally as a luxury Victorian villa, the Fernbank (which became a hotel in 1949) enjoys one of the most beautiful positions in the town of Shanklin. It is ideally located for both the world-famous Shanklin Chine, the downs and the six miles of 'Blue Flag' sandy beach of Sandown Bay: Big Mead and the lovely Manor Walk are just across the road; the Old Village, Chine and shops are all within a few hundred yards, while the beach is but a short stroll through the beautiful Tower Cottage Gardens. The Fernbank is central for all amenities, whilst being tucked away in a quiet corner on the edge of the countryside with uninterrupted views of country and downland. Standing in half an acre of land, including a landscaped garden, it also possess its own off-street car parking.

We aspire in offering traditional hospitality and value within a friendly and relaxed atmosphere and believe that today's Longfellow would appreciate not only the level of service, but the fine food and wine that has marked out the Fernbank as one of this island's foremost places of welcome for many years.

Whether you are with your family, here to enjoy a traditional British seaside holiday centred on Shanklin's beautiful sandy 'Blue Flag' beach or perhaps a lone traveller, intending to take advantage of some of the walks that traverse the breathtaking countryside and coastal scenery on the Isle of Wight; or, maybe just someone who simply needs a break to unwind; we invite you to stay at our charming Country House by the sea.  It is our aim to provide all our guests with the best service and hospitality at our disposal. 

We hope that via this website, you'll discover something of our beautiful island, and our hotel.