A fresh new look, a newly refurbished balcony (with enviable views of the English Channel), decorated rooms, and an upgraded kitchen and reception.

That is what will greet Islanders and hotel guests when Shanklin's Gracellie Hotel reopens its restaurant, this weekend.

One of the largest hotels on the Isle of Wight, with up to 50 rooms, its enthusiastic owners have spent the last three months hard at work, revamping in time for the summer season.

Kelly Vincent has been running the Gracellie since 2019 and she is keen to underline its new family-friendly and dog-friendly vibe.

Isle of Wight County Press:

"We have been very busy. Come and say hello!" 

"We've been here for a while, but we're back in the game full-time," Kelly told the Isle of Wight County Press.

"We're big believers in community. We're a family-friendly place now."

When the Gracellie's restaurant opens, on May 1, everyone is welcome.

Enjoying a spot on the Isle of Wight's popular coastal path walking route, there are plans to serve up breakfast, brunch, snacks, afternoon tea and events, including a steak night.

Kelly wants it to feel like a "home away from home and you don't have to wash up!" 

Isle of Wight County Press:

Hotel residents and Islanders are welcome to sit and enjoy the view, towards Culver Cliff and across The Bay.

"We're very lucky we've got such a big area where you can eat outside and we're here for tea, snacks, afternoon tea - everything," said Kelly.

Originally from tiny Whiddy Island (just 3.5 miles by 1.5 miles), off Cork, Ireland, Kelly's dad has owned the Gracellie for around 12 years.

Philip Wagstaff said: "We're here for the long term. The Isle of Wight is stunning.

"No matter where you go there are some beautiful things to see and there are some beautiful people. We want to be part of it.

"We're hoping to get much busier. We want to give good value to our clients and we want people to think, 'That's a family hotel. That's a nice hotel.'"

The Gracellie is named after Philip's granddaughters, Ellie and Gracie.

Kelly and Philip are working with their general manager, Charlotte Corbett and the trio are keen to extend a warm welcome to their neighbours, Isle of Wight residents and to people crossing the Solent for a well-deserved break.

Isle of Wight County Press: