The Old Garage

The Old Garage Overview

First Impressions

You know what caught me off guard about The Old Garage? It’s actually housed in a converted garage — but not in the way you might think. This four-star gem sits tucked away in Shipton Green, and honestly, the name makes perfect sense once you see it. The building has this charming industrial-meets-countryside vibe that immediately tells you this isn’t your typical cookie-cutter hotel. There’s something refreshingly honest about a place that embraces its automotive past while delivering genuinely sophisticated accommodation.

Location & Village Life

Itchenor is one of those West Sussex villages that locals try to keep secret — it’s right on Chichester Harbour with sailing boats bobbing around everywhere. The Old Garage sits perfectly positioned to explore both the waterfront and the South Downs, though you’ll find yourself wanting to linger in the village itself. I mean, couples absolutely rave about this spot (they’ve given it a perfect 10 for romantic getaways), and after spending time here, I completely get why. The harbour walks are spectacular, especially at sunset, and you’re close enough to Chichester for culture but far enough away to feel properly escaped.

The Accommodation

The rooms here strike that tricky balance between contemporary comfort and character — no easy feat in a converted building. What impressed me most was how they’ve worked with the original architecture rather than fighting against it. You’ll find thoughtful touches throughout, from the carefully chosen furnishings to the way natural light fills the spaces. The attention to detail is obvious without being showy, and everything feels genuinely comfortable rather than just Instagram-ready. Actually, the parking situation deserves a mention too — having your own dedicated spot right on-site is brilliant, especially in a village where parking can be, well, interesting.

Exploring the Area

Here’s where staying at The Old Garage really pays off — you’re perfectly positioned for both water activities and countryside adventures. Itchenor’s harbour is practically on your doorstep, so if you’re into sailing or just fancy watching the boats, you’re sorted. The coastal walks along the harbour are genuinely stunning, particularly the path toward West Wittering. For something different, the South Downs are close enough for proper hiking, and Goodwood (yes, that Goodwood) is just a short drive if you’re feeling fancy. The village pub serves decent food too, though booking ahead is wise — locals know a good thing when they see it.

Why Guests Love It

That 9.6 rating isn’t accidental — The Old Garage delivers on the things that actually matter to travelers. The location consistently gets perfect scores because it offers that rare combination of peaceful village life with easy access to activities and attractions. Guests particularly appreciate the genuine character of the place — it feels authentic rather than manufactured. The free parking might seem like a small thing, but anyone who’s struggled to find a spot in rural villages will tell you it’s actually huge. Most importantly, it’s the kind of place where you can properly unwind without feeling like you’re missing out on anything.

Isle of Wight’s hotels pair solarium lounges with concierge-led fossil walks along Compton Bay.

The Old Garage Accommodations

Reviews of The Old Garage

• Everything we expected and more. – Sam from United Kingdom (10/10)

  Very cosy, clean, everything you needed was there. Louise is very accommodating, parking is easy and plenty of footpaths nearby.

• Outstanding Holiday Home – Derek from United Kingdom (10/10)

  Everything! Very well designed so extremely comfortable for 2 people. Outdoor space and off street parking a bonus. Host friendly, accommodating and helpful.

• Perfectly Self Contained Paradise – Van3 from United Kingdom (10/10)

  The location is spectacular – such a quiet and peaceful place. We slept like the dead! Very secure parking for our car.
  
  The accommodation itself also perfectly thought out – we had plenty of space for 2 + our dog. It was very easy to find everything and all the necessities (small milk, full set of cooking knives) were included in the kitchenette meant it was full useable. Appreciated things like shower gel and towels in the bathroom. A perfectly self contained space (including drive space and a private chunk of gravel garden!)

• Louise is the perfect host – Helen from United Kingdom (10/10)

  Comfortable, clean and convenient
  Louise was a perfect host and we felt home from home

• Lovely place to stay – Christopher from United Kingdom (10/10)

  Location was good for touring the area. Lovely host.

• Excellent! Will be back. – Faith from United Kingdom (10/10)

  Communication with Louise was excellent and she was friendly and helpful.
  The Old Garage was clean and had everything I wanted.
  I will definitely be staying again!

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

  It has all the amenities to ensure your stay is easy and stress free. Very clean and comfortable in a stylish setting. Louise, the host is very welcoming. Would definitely recommend.

• Comfortable self-catering overnight stay ! – Celia from United Kingdom (10/10)

  Homely welcome by the hostess to this bijou property. Enclosed area outside with covered section. Well equipped kitchenette. We had everything we needed and more; like enough supplies for breakfast.
  Suitable for a couple and a little dog; so perfect for us. We would definitely book again.

• Great base to explore from – Amanda from United Kingdom (10/10)

  Louise had clearly thought hard about what visitors require. Really lovely place. Ideal for a couple. It was great to have milk, tea, coffee and croissants. The local pub served great, reasonably priced food too. Outstanding local walks. Beautiful area.

• Lovely spot for a weekend away, wonderful long walks right by the sea. Two lovely pubs close by to the accomdation. Woul – Pippa from United Kingdom (9/10)

  Lovely place to stay for a couple of nights away! Very clean and new accommodation! Everything you would need for a few nights away is provided

Facilities