I really found a gem when booking an isle of wight trip. These manor houses with a ballroom, dining room, billiard room etc i thought was now only for TV drama but its exactly how you would expect an important house from 1800s to look.
The rooms are spacious and felt really at home, using the lounge area too felt like I had definitely needed a break like this from London. There are gardens outside you would see on a national trust venue. The gardener works very hard. Sitting to observe the country scenery was really needed. I'll plan another break here.
Booking the breakfast buffet was a good idea with walks planned during the day. The food is gorgeous well worth getting up before 9.30. The room service and staff approachability was appraciated. They prioritise the customer. What they do isn't an easy job so do be respectful.
Sandown has few flat roads but i enjoyed the short walks to the town, keats gallery, the rock shop, Flanagans bar with seaview, Glory art Glass making and the gorgeous sandy beach and the Cardamom Indian restaurant/takaway recommended also.
The steam train is a must too.
But you'll miss the sea air and these great shops if stuck in a car getting frustrated trying to find parking.
Finally, I can see why people drive but i enjoyed the train, ferry, local train and short walk from London. Portsmouth en route is worth spending a couple of hours before hopping on the ferry.
You will enjoy the Broadway park hotel, my job was clearly to relax.