Alfresco Dinning on the Isle of Wight

Indulge in some classic British flavours this summer at one of the sunniest spots in the UK! Next weekend you can enjoy unbroken views of one of the best sailing events of the year, accompanied by a feast of canapes and Bucks Fizz! On Saturday July 2 a fleet of yachts will race around the Isle of Wight in the annual Round the Island Race. The island's Royal Hotel commands unrivaled views of the course from its Riviera Terrace, and is offering a special menu of canapes and Bucks Fizz for just £12.50 per person. And, once you've raised a glass to the competing boats, make sure you spend some time exploring this beautiful south coast hotel. We can recommend the dinner menu! Even when the boats aren't racing, one of the most popular spots in the hotel is the Riviera Terrace. Overlooking Ventnor Bay on the Isle of Wight, the terrace at the Royal Hotel boasts superlative views across the unspoilt English Channel. The unique micro-climate of the garden isle allows sub-tropical plants to flourish in abundance imparting a distinctly Mediterranean flavour. The Royal Hotel received its name when Queen Victoria enjoyed taking afternoon tea at the hotel, whilst visiting her friend Sir John Hambrough, at nearby Steephill Castle. This fine tradition of a mid-afternoon spread costs £23, consisting of a dainty assortment of sandwiches with fillings such as egg mayonnaise and spring onion, ham and mustard and smoked salmon and chive creme fraiche. To follow, an exquisite selection of cakes, patisseries and freshly baked scones and cream, all lovingly prepared by our talented patisserie chef. For a special occasion splash out on the Champagne Tea at £30 features, which comes with a glass of finest Champagne. Visit royalhoteliow.co.uk/dining for more details and to book.