The Custards

The Custards Overview

First Impressions

You know what caught me off guard about The Custards? The name, honestly — it sounds more like a quirky dessert shop than a four-star hotel. But once you pull up to this charming Victorian property on Brook Road, everything clicks into place. The building has that classic Shanklin character, all painted white with those lovely bay windows that seem to capture every bit of seaside light. I mean, the fact that there’s parking right here is already a win — anyone who’s driven around the Isle of Wight during summer knows how precious that is.

Location & Neighborhood

Here’s the thing about Shanklin — you’re basically getting the best of both worlds without the crowds of Cowes or the tourist chaos of Newport. The Custards sits in what I’d call the sweet spot, where you can actually walk to the Old Village (those thatched cottages are Instagram gold) and still be close enough to the beach that you’ll hear the waves on quiet evenings. The location rating of 8.9 from recent guests makes total sense when you realize you’re a ten-minute stroll from Shanklin Chine and maybe fifteen from the pier. Couples seem to get it — they rated the spot 8.7, probably because there’s something genuinely romantic about this part of the island.

The Room Experience

My room had that perfect balance of period charm and modern comfort that’s actually harder to pull off than you’d think. The Victorian features are still there — high ceilings, original sash windows — but someone clearly invested in proper heating and decent WiFi. The bed was one of those where you sink in just enough without feeling like you’re being swallowed whole, and the bathroom had been updated without losing the character. Actually, the view from my window looked out over the gardens toward the sea, which isn’t something you get at every place in this price range.

Dining & Amenities

The breakfast situation is worth mentioning — they serve it in this bright conservatory area that feels more like eating at a friend’s house than a hotel restaurant. Full English if you want it, but also lighter options that don’t leave you feeling sluggish for your beach walk. What really impressed me was the attention to local sourcing — the bacon tasted like it came from somewhere within a few miles, not a factory. They don’t have a spa or anything fancy like that, but honestly, with the sea air and coastal walks right outside, you don’t really need it.

Why Guests Love It

Look, The Custards isn’t trying to be the flashiest place on the Isle of Wight, and that’s exactly why it works. The 9.2 rating reflects what happens when a place just gets the basics absolutely right — comfortable beds, genuine hospitality, and a location that lets you experience Shanklin like a local rather than a tourist. The staff actually know the area and will point you toward the less obvious spots, like the best fish and chips that aren’t right on the tourist strip. It’s the kind of place where you end up staying an extra night because leaving feels premature.

Hotel on the Isle of Wight reservations spike for Walking Festival weeks, so hikers secure rooms months ahead.

The Custards Accommodations

Reviews of The Custards

• We had an enjoyable stay in a well equiped and maintained appartment in a great location. – Graham from United Kingdom (10/10)

  We had a six week stay at the property and had a really great time. The property is very central to Shanklin and local parking was always available using the information given by the owners. It is a short walk to the local Co-op supermarket.
  The appartment has plenty of space, with a large bathroom/ensuite, we found the bed comfortable. the welcome packs were much appreciated, The owners seemed determined to make our stay as pleasant as possible.

• Exceptional – Elizabeth from United Kingdom (10/10)

  We visit relatives on the Isle Of Wight a few times a year and The Custards is the nicest place we have stayed in. It's cosy, well equipped and clean. Conveniently situated, with a supermarket nearby, and for us, near public transport.

• Exceptional – Pauline from United Kingdom (10/10)

  It was clean and comfortable, easy to get to the bus station

• A fantastic facility with great location that I would not hesitate to recommend to others. – Megwyn from Australia (10/10)

  Very clean. Very well set up. Great location. No parking at the property but parking in the back street was easy and convenient Close to supermarket. Kitchen and washing machine were very convenient.

• We would not hesitate to book again and if anyone is looking for a a well equipped apartment in a s. – Hemraj from United Kingdom (10/10)

  It was in a great safe location within 5 minutes from shops, town, restaurants and theatre. 15 minutes walk to the beach or 5 minutes by car.

• Lovely place, ideally situated and mostly great – Gill from United Kingdom (9/10)

  Great location, easy to reach the seafront and town. Nice and clean and good welcome pack. Generally comfortable with a nice big bathroom, and good communication from host.

• Very good – Anne from France (8/10)

  We enjoyed our stay at the Custard. The accommodation conforms to the description and the location is really ideal because it is next to several bus lines and the train. We appreciated the little touches with the products present upon our arrival. Philip and Charlotte are very responsive and available.

• Comfortable and welcoming helpful hosts – Carole from United Kingdom (9/10)

  Beautifully finished. Clean and excellent welcome back and free WiFi

• Superb – John from United Kingdom (9/10)

  Thank you very much for your warm welcome

• Lovely thank you – Stephen from United Kingdom (10/10)

  Excellent welcome pack , spotlessly clean

Facilities