Dickens House Party at The Royal Hotel

27 February – 1 March 2026
The Royal Hotel, Ventnor

Step into a weekend of Victorian charm as The Royal Hotel launches its first ever Dickens House Party. Celebrating Charles Dickens’ connection to the Island and to The Royal itself, where he stayed in 1838, this relaxed house-party-style break brings his stories to life in a beautiful coastal setting.

In a rare collaboration, Gerald and Ian Dickens, great-great-grandsons of the writer, will host the full weekend together for the first time. Their readings, performances and family insights make this an unmissable treat for Dickens lovers and Island explorers alike.

Friday

• Welcome drink with Gerald and Ian
• Dinner in the 2 AA Rosette Geranium Restaurant with light-hearted readings and family stories

Saturday

• Full English breakfast
• Choice of morning activities: Follow the self-guided Charles Dickens Trail through Ventnor and Bonchurch or join an informal introduction to Dickens on the Isle of Wight at the hotel.
• Afternoon at leisure
• Optional Victorian-themed afternoon tea
• Dinner created by the hotel’s award-winning chefs
• Evening performance of The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby, presented by Gerald Dickens

Sunday

• Breakfast and relaxed farewells with the hosts and hotel team

Prices start from £529 per room for a two-night stay in a Classic King or Twin, including return car ferry and the full programme (excluding optional items).