History

"A Haven of peace and tranquility. Thank you." Ivan and May Holmes, San Diego, USA 

The Hermitage was originally the home of Michael Hoy, a successful late eighteenth and early nineteenth century merchant trading mainly with Russia, and was originally built in 1813. He erected the Alexandrian Pillar, known locally as the Hoy Monument, in commemoration of a visit by the Russian Czar. In the 1860's the main house burnt down and was re-built, as it is today, in 1895.

Its more recent chequered past includes being the Island's first Youth Hostel in 1935 and a centre for Hitler Youth until the start of World War II, when it was used as a school for Ventnor children. During the 1970's it traded as a restaurant, hotel and conference centre until 1987. In 1990 the Hermitage was purchased as a private home. In 1998 it was decided to open the doors to guests, the aim being to offer the finest bed and breakfast accommodation on the Isle of Wight.