By Mal Butler
One of the Island’s most prestigious hotels, The Royal in Ventnor, has been sold after being in the Bailey family for nearly 30 years.
The 51-bedroom hotel, which was built in 1832, has been bought by London Choice Apartments. Director, Mohamed Bathich, will be aided by Matthew Brooks, director of marketing, in taking the reins.
Mohamed has worked in hospitality for 20 years, also working for the Saudi royal family, before setting up his own company, and says he wants to expand the appeal of the venue. He said: “The Royal Hotel presented a rare opportunity to acquire a hotel which is such an icon on the Island and is so much loved by its customers and staff alike.
“We are determined to maintain the high level of service for which the hotel is known, whilst expanding its appeal to those on the Island who have not used its services before.
“Whether it is for a short stay, a Sunday lunch, afternoon tea or as a wedding venue, we will maintain and enhance the reputation for quality that William Bailey has built over the years.”
It will be an end of an era for William, who has owned it since 1994, who added: “Whilst it is of course sad to have sold a business with which we have been involved with for almost 30 years, now is the right time to step back.
“We wish the new owners every success during their ownership of this great and profitable hotel in a picturesque location on the Isle of Wight.
“Most importantly we would like to thank the staff, with whom we have shared this memorable journey, for their hard work and dedication over the years.”
The award-winning four-star hotel, with two AA Rosettes, has built a renowned reputation on the Island for a high quality of service, accommodation, food and beverages, with an extensive bar and restaurant with panoramic sea views over the English Channel.
London Choice Apartments is a serviced apartment company in London. Matthew has 40 years’ experience in marketing, as a general manager in hotels in London and across the Southeast.
Isle of Wight Observer