Business & Work

Maggie Hilton, wife and business partner to Australian Ric Hilton now own another 5 star luxurious Bed and Breakfast on the Isle of Wight called the Enchanted Manor. The luxurious boutique hotel was featured on "Homes under the Hammer" and they have lovingly restored the Manor to the amazing magical retreat it is today.

Every suite features a hand-carved four-poster bed and free-standing slipper bath. There is opulent decor, including crushed velvet wall-coverings and silk swagged curtains. While Maggie has waved her magic wand over each and every detail — right down to the fairy decorated light switches and rose petals scattered across the bed linen — the overall effect is of sumptuous elegance…with a sparkle.

Where did it all begin?

Maggie at 53 is not only a successful business woman, she is also a mother and grandmother. The seed of her entrepreneur-ship began in the 70's. After becoming the youngest manager of Granada TV rentals at the age of 16, she set foot in the business world herself, exploring first floristry and then cake decorating until in 1981 she moved into hospitality.

"My first venture was to buy a run down property on the Isle of Wight and renovate it to start a small hotel" says Maggie. She went on to buy a bankrupt hotel and "turned it into a very romantic venue even with heart shaped tables". It was the first hotel on the Island to get a wedding licence. "I did everything from breakfast, lunch and evening meal then I used to do the bar until gone midnight 7 days a week. I have never been frightened of hard work.

"When Ric and I got together we bought another very run down restaurant and turned it into a beautiful Victorian Ritz style tea room and restaurant and then built the first 5 star luxury boutique B&B on the Island. We loved it so much we ended up buying the nearly bankrupt Wincliffe hotel (now the Enchanted Manor) and have developed it over the past 3 years to the unique award wining retreat for couples looking for somewhere special to stay."

Faced with a challenge Maggie does not give up

Maggie admits to facing many challenges in her business career. But she has never given up no matter what she is faced with. In the 1986 hurricane, the Celebration Hotel roof came off and the hotel was ruined. She and her husband lovingly repaired and redecorated hte hotel and then the tank burst and they had to start the renovations all over again, doing the entire work themselves.

Having just about recovered from the refurbishment traumas Maggie's then husband became seriously ill leaving Maggie to run the hotel on her own for 3 years. He was almost fully recovered when he fell off a ladder and was hospitalised for another 9 months.

Maggie: "When we were building Koala Cottage all the foundations were in wrong and had to be re done, as was the plumbing and the electrics, so really we had to build most of it twice. I was project managing the build whist still working in the restaurant. It must have been a strange sight to see me coming out in my Victorian costume to direct the builders, who I don't quite think believed what they were seeing!"

Maggie does not give up. Even when she had a serious back operation and was advised to take a year off work, she returned to the hotel a week later to cook breakfasts.

"I have a fantastic husband Ric and we work so well together and both think alike. To work with the person you love is a great reward in itself."

A truly remarkable achievement

With the Enchanted Manor, Maggie and Ric knew it was going to be exceptional. Through all the early hassles with builders and the building they kept their determination and vision. The Manor was inspired by the world famous artist Josephine Wall and her fabulous artwork adorns the manor.

The 5 star luxury boutique hotel is without doubt one of the most enchanting and unique retreats. Already voted number 1 on Tripadvisor, the best B & B in South East and numerous awards, it is a paradise for celebrating special occasions, weddings, short breaks and now inviting visitors to enjoy afternoon tea which includes champagne, delicious sandwiches, fresh strawberries, fresh cream, fabulous home made cakes, plus a pot of tea in their Alice in Wonderland Garden.

Maggie: ‘Our aim is to provide absolute luxury breaks on the Island. With magnificent suites and opulent décor, most with ornate four poster beds and separate sumptuous lounge areas and the offer of ‘High Teas’ on arrival. We create a magical experience for all to enjoy, whether just a short break, a celebration or a special wedding day.‘

The Enchanted Manor - a secret hideaway

Set in stunning sylvan woodlands the Manor overlooks the dramatic, rugged coastline of the historic St Catherine’s point with its famous lighthouse. It lis on the most scenic and southerly point of the Island.

As well as the hotel's success, for Maggie it is personal fulfilment: "There are many highlights, but the main one is making people happy. I get great joy when I see how much our guests enjoy their stay with us. It makes it all worthwhile. I enjoy meeting people from all walks of life. Although it is hard work and things do go wrong, it is my vocation. I am passionate about what I do and I love going the extra mile to help people. The rewards are great."

The Enchanted Manor - Isle of Wight

Join Maggie & Ric Hilton for an unforgettable 5 star luxury experience
Info / Reservations: 01983 730215
www.enchantedmanor.co.uk

 
View The Enchanted Manor video on YouTube »

Video by Sharon Bainbridge www.butterflylullaby.co.uk