Cowes, a small yachting town, is steeped in nautical history. There are still many buildings of historical interest in the vicinity. Two castles were built in Cowes in 1815 using stone from Quarr Abbey in Ryde, after the monastery was dissolved by Henry VIII. The castle in West Cowes is now home to the Royal Yacht Squadron.

The castle in East Cowes still stands to this day, overlooking the Solent. Southampton Airport is some 31 km from the hotel, while Bristol International Airport is about 159 km away and London Gatwick Airport is 153 km away. Today, the hotel, a traditional period inn in the heart of Cowes, is still doing brisk business, and is an ideal haven for yachting enthusiasts, business people and holidaymakers alike. The hotel comprises a total of 20 guest rooms and is non-smoking throughout. Facilities on offer include a 24-hour check-out service, a bar, a restaurant and Internet access. The comfortable en-suite bedrooms each include a telephone, daily housekeeping, a television and tea and coffee facilities.

A shower, a bathtub, a double bed, a radio, Internet access and an iron and ironing board also come as standard. The traditionally appointed bar offers a food menu at selected times. The restaurant menu changes each day, comprising of fresh local produce, as well as serving a range of cask-conditioned ales and an extensive wine list.