Gotten Manor - The Old House

For me, the Milk House at Gotten Manor is perfection. I've only stayed there, though the manor has several options. It's a beautiful, modern and clean house with everything we needed, tucked away along a single-track country lane among fields, with a fantastic sea view. There are three big bedrooms: one with two single beds, one with three singles and a cot, and one with a king-size bed. Each has an en suite with a bathtub. Downstairs there's a wet room with a shower, a separate toilet room, a lounge and a very large kitchen that's the heart of the house. There's plenty of private parking. During our stay, the only animals we saw were pheasants, cows and birds. You'll need to drive or cycle to get around from here. For me, the Isle of Wight would be hard to manage without my own transport because so much is spread out. My three children loved the safe setting, the wildlife and the garden where they could play. At night there was little, if any, light pollution, which was great for stargazing. It's a real countryside escape, completely relaxing, and honestly makes you want to leave the rat race behind.

Breakfast in the old creamery was amazing, and Caroline went above and beyond. We left the table stuffed each morning. There were cereals, yoghurt, compote, homemade jams, fresh croissants, fruit, juices and a cooked breakfast, including smoked salmon on our last day. We could choose between two freshly baked loaves each day, such as rye with cherry, chocolate and walnut, or different sourdoughs. The ingredients were locally sourced and delicious. We stayed four nights in Room 2 of the B & B in July. It was idyllic, quiet and private, with its own entrance and lots of rustic charm. The big bed was comfortable, the roll-top bath had plenty of hot water, and there were fluffy robes, garden flowers, cookies and tea and coffee supplies. We also had use of a private garden and sitting room. Beautiful walks across National Trust land start right from the back door. We'd love to stay again.

The location was lovely, but the self-catering cottage made for a very disappointing stay. The double-bed mattress was worn out, with the springs coming through, and I couldn't get a good night's sleep. Several spotlights were out, so the place felt gloomy. The kitchen window wouldn't shut properly and banged around in the wind. In general, everything felt tired. The path to the cottages is like a rockery with stepping stones, and could be a real ankle-breaking hazard for anyone unsteady on their feet. On the day we left, we were asked to strip the beds and put the laundry in a bag.

A lovely family getaway in the IOW countryside, with a great chance to relax and enjoy a holiday. At dawn and dusk you can spot red squirrels, and in the morning hear pheasants and cows. Great place, fully recommended! ☺