Company information
There is nothing better than being on holiday, then having a home from home to stay in. Here at The Island Holiday Company, we offer a wide range of self-catering homes from pet-friendly to beach side, village to a town there’s a home waiting for you to make the perfect holiday.
Let us show you what the Isle of Wight has to offer, with years of knowledge and experience; we are waiting for you. To give you peace of mind all our properties are managed, cleaned and looked after by us. They are inspected by us, with our high standards and quality of service we can assure you, you will receive the comfortable and relaxing holiday you deserve.
We've partnered with Yhangry to bring exceptional dining right to your accommodation. From arrival meals to celebration dinners, enjoy restaurant-quality dining without ever leaving your new home. Start planning your getaway menu, by contacting us for more details.
Property information
The Island Holiday Company welcomes you to The Old Abbey Farmhouse – A Tranquil Retreat Steeped in History
Step back in time and into peace at the Old Abbey Farmhouse, a beautifully restored Grade II listed property nestled within the grounds of Quarr Abbey, a working Benedictine monastery on the serene Isle of Wight.
Surrounded by woodlands, red squirrels in abundance, walking trails, and the ancient ruins of a 12th-century Cistercian abbey, this unique farmhouse offers a rare chance to stay within the spiritual and historical heart of the island. After a day of exploring, head to The Abbeys well known locally, Café serving hot drinks, delicious cakes and lunches, before heading back to the Farmhouse, lighting the fire and enjoying the tranquillity of its unique location.
Whether you're drawn by the beauty of the countryside, the calm of abbey life, or the architectural wonder of Quarr itself, this home is the perfect base for rest, reflection, and exploration.
The farmhouse sits adjacent to the atmospheric ruins of the original Quarr Abbey, founded in 1132 by Baldwin de Redvers, Earl of Devon. The site’s name—Quarreria—comes from the nearby Binstead stone quarry, once used to build grand cathedrals like Winchester and Chichester.
Just steps away is the modern Quarr Abbey, built between 1907–1914. Its red-brick church is open daily (5:00am–8:30pm) and offers beautiful Gregorian chant services sung by the resident monks. A peaceful and contemplative atmosphere fills the grounds year-round.
The Old Abbey Farmhouse is more than just a place to stay—it’s a deeply restful experience. Set in one of the most historic and spiritual locations on the Isle of Wight, guests will find space to unwind, reflect, and reconnect with nature and history. Guests are welcome to explore the grounds.
Neighbourhood information
The setting of the Old Abbey Farmhouse is truly one-of-a-kind—not just for the Isle of Wight, but across the British Isles. While Wales and Ireland are rich in ancient monastic sites and Celtic heritage, few offer what Quarr Abbey does: a living, working Benedictine monastery with daily Gregorian chant services, set among the ruins of a 12th-century abbey and active farmland. Unlike many historical sites in Wales or Ireland, where the ruins stand empty, Quarr is alive with purpose—welcoming visitors into its rhythm of prayer, nature, and simplicity. Staying here is not just a retreat; it’s a rare opportunity to be part of a timeless spiritual and cultural legacy.
Fishbourne is a village between Wootton and Ryde, on the Isle of Wight.The name "Fishbourne" might mean "stream of fish" or "fish spring".
The nearby village of Wootton has a selection of pubs a handful of shops, a fish and chip shop, chemist and a Post Office. The location is a paradise for walkers, country lovers, bird watchers and cyclists. There are local forests in which to enjoy walks and horse riding, and for cyclists, there is a choice of challenging off road bridleways, peaceful byways and level, purpose-made tracks running along former railway lines directly from the property, other attractions within easy reach include Osborne House, Carisbrooke Castle, Robin Hill Adventure Park and the world famous yachting at Cowes.
The Isle of Wight is renowned for having a warm, sunny climate, and there are plenty of tourist attractions you can enjoy in the sun. Discover quaint villages, indulge in cream teas, enjoy local produce, including garlic at The Garlic Farm, adventure parks, museums, zoo, donkey sanctuary, wildlife centres, the Isle of Wight Pearl Factory, The Needles landmark, traditional pottery, vineyards, steam railway, pretty coves and much more,