The forecast was a few days' sun and we found an ad for 3 nights B&B on the Isle of Wight, £99 pp including car ferry. We rang and booked for the following day. It started badly. Our 11am ferry crossing was in fact 2pm, so we had to kick our heels around Southampton for three hours. Red Funnel blamed the hotel, I blame Red Funnel. We arrived at Calverts Hotel in Newport, parking on the street nearby. Reception was pleasant, helpful and informative. Our room was old and tired, just one bedside light. Reasonably clean apart from a filthy light fitment hanging beyond reach, a toothpaste ring on the bathroom shelf and some mouldy bath sealant. Tea and coffee supplied was tasteless and undrinkable (we carry our own), but we hadn't come to sit in a hotel room so we quickly unpacked and went out for afternoon tea. Newport is not exactly vibrant but has some good pubs and restaurants. We returned around 10pm to Calverts, whose plush lounge bar was deserted, a lone receptionist/barmaid watching tv. The bed was comfortable, and we had a good night's sleep. Breakfast was mediocre, just above complaint level. About a third of the tables appeared to be in use. The staff "team" appeared to take each job in turn, one receptionist was working in the kitchen next morning, while the waitress was vacuuming later. A good location for exploring the island. We'd stay there again, but take room only if it was offered, there are plenty of places selling decent breakfasts.
