This year, all of our evening entertainment will take place at the elegant Royal Esplande Hotel on Ryde's seafront.
Built in 1867, this Grade II listed Victorian building and makes a very fitting venue indeed for the Isle of Wight Steampunk Festival.
The main function room is a characterful setting featuring exposed wooden ceiling beams and sparkling crystal chandeliers that create a striking Victorian atmosphere. A dance floor sits directly in front of the live band, with seating available on Friday for a more relaxed experience, while Saturday transforms into a standing-room-only event for a livelier, high-energy crowd.
Adjacent to the function room is the coffee lounge, a traditional and inviting space with deep red carpeting, Chesterfield sofas, leather tub chairs, elegant Kentia palms, and a grand stone fireplace as its centrepiece. Offering a more relaxed setting on Saturday night for those who wish to take a break while staying part of the atmosphere, it allows guests to sit and unwind without missing the entertainment, with double doors connecting it directly to the function room so the music can still be enjoyed throughout.
Open on Saturday evening only, the Bottle Bar is located in the hotel reception immediately outside the Function Room. Serving a selection of bottled beers and lagers, wine and spirits.
Open all weekend, Harry’s Bar is located across reception and through the dining room. The décor is classically styled – reminiscent of the golden age of Bogarde and Casablanca – complete with Kensian Palms. The lounge offers a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere to sit and enjoy a tipple from the well-stocked bar featuring draught craft ales and lagers, fine wines, cocktails and a wide selection of spirits, including Island-based gins, rums and whiskys.
Harry's Bar also has a separate 'snug' with sofas and table. There is also access to a decked garden courtyard - a hidden gem with a serene atmosphere.
With the evening entertainment taking place within the hotel, it makes sense to stay the weekend too.
The Royal Esplanade Hotel has 70 charming bedrooms. Located at the foot of Ryde’s iconic Victorian pier it is perfectly positioned for guests arriving by hovercraft, catamaran, train, or bus and moments from the vibrant town centre full of cafés and eateries.
The hotel has tailored a package for steampunk guests with B&B Classic Rooms for just £85 per night and packages available to include your ferry crossing.
