Top Isle of Wight Pubs for Summer

Warmer days and the promise of sunshine mean it’s the perfect time to get outside and enjoy a cold beer in a pub garden, a summer cocktail or some alfresco dining.

Perhaps I’m biased, but I don’t know of any area of the country with a better selection of pubs to make the most of the summer weather – whether you fancy relaxing in a country garden or taking in spectacular views out to sea.

So here’s a selection of some of my favourites, to help you plan your island trip!

One place that was made for the summer is The Woodvale, located in the peaceful village of Gurnard with its shingle beach. It’s a pleasant 30-minute stroll from the centre of Cowes along the promenade and the pub takes full advantage of its setting, with a vast garden and stepped terrace looking down to the Solent. There’s a good range of drinks at the bar, an extensive menu of high quality food, and it’s a perfect location to catch an island sunset!

In Cowes itself, it’s hard to beat the summer vibe at The Globe. My top tip is to head up to the cool rooftop terrace with your drink and pick a deck chair overlooking the busy waterfront. If you’re dining on the first floor, you’ll also have great views whether you’re sitting inside or out. Look out for the early bird steak and wine deal, and the sizzling dishes served on a volcanic hot rock.

Moving east, I took my mate to The Folly Inn (main header picture) recently for his first time, and he says it’s now one of his favourite pubs on the island. Located on the banks of the Medina, it’s got to be the Isle of Wight’s best-located riverside pub thanks to a spacious garden and terrace – perfect for chilling and soaking up the rays.

The Blacksmiths is a pub which ticks just about every box for me. It’s an attractive 400-year-old country inn near Carisbrooke with one of the most tranquil locations on the island. Thanks to its elevated position and garden, you can sip while taking in sweeping views all the way down to the Solent – with little else than cows in your way! It has a classy feel and a great food menu too.

On Carisbrooke’s High Street, The Eight Bells comes into its own in the summer thanks to its outdoor patio and garden leading down to the waters of Lukley Brook. There are indoor and outdoor children’s play areas and decent pub grub with a dedicated kids’ menu.

Several of Newport’s pubs have pleasant outside spaces, but one of my favourites is The Bargeman’s Rest. Located on the quayside, it’s also perfect for combining with a visit to the island’s leading art gallery nearby, Quay Arts. It has a quirky interior and a pleasant waterside outdoor terrace, a good selection of beers, and plenty of home-cooked classic pub dishes.

There’s something particularly magical about the headland location of the Culver Haven Inn, next to the striking Earl Yarborough’s Monument on Culver Down. From the outdoor terrace you’re treated to stunning sea views in several directions, and it makes the perfect start or finish for a beautiful clifftop walk to Sandown. There’s homemade pub grub on the menu too, including a cracking fish and chips.

Seaview is a charming village with an upscale feel and a charm all of its own. There’s nowhere better to absorb its unique atmosphere than The Old Fort, where you can watch the flotilla of sailing boats bobbing out at sea. There are outdoor tables perched on the water’s edge, while the interior is decorated with a stylish nautical theme and also enjoys great views. There’s a nice menu too.

Bembridge is another lovely coastal village, and The Old Village Inn makes a great summertime stop thanks its spacious beer garden, with both covered and uncovered areas. It’s a proper village pub popular with locals, and its food menu includes pizza, burgers and homemade curries.

In Shanklin, the Fisherman’s Cottage is just what you’d hope for from an Isle of Wight Pub – think thatched roof, old flagstone floors, and an unspoilt location at the quiet end of the beach.  It’s a fantastic place at any time of year, but nothing beats a summer afternoon sipping a cold drink outside on the beachside patio. The food – which includes pub classics and seafood dishes – is pretty good too.

The Steamer Inn is one of a handful of pubs on Shanklin’s central promenade which is perfect for people watching. Its outdoor terrace has lovely sea views and plenty of seating. There’s also an extensive menu of tasty food, including its trademark seafood chowder.

In Ventnor, The Spyglass Inn is right on the water’s edge, with uninterrupted views over the red and golden beach. There’s plenty of outdoor seating and a good range of beers, while the food is very popular and ranges from sandwiches to pub classics and local seafood.

The island’s most southerly pub, The Buddle Smuggler’s Inn dates from the 16^th century and has huge character and charm. It’s peaceful location makes you feel like you’ve reached the end of the world and the garden terrace is an attractive place to unwind. There’s a decent food menu too.

The Chequers Inn in Rookley (pictured above) is set among lovely countryside. But what really makes this pub stand out is its children’s adventure playground, which is one of the best on the island. Indeed, if it’s a family-friendly pub you’re after, this one is hard to beat overall.

The thatched village of Godshill is better known for its tea rooms, but it also has two fine pubs. Of these, The Griffin has one of the best beer gardens on the island with tables spread across a terrace and lovely lawns. The jewel in its crown is a unique and impressive maze which is great fun to explore whatever your age!

If you’re looking for somewhere peaceful on the water’s edge, then head for The Waterfront Inn. Set on the beachside promenade in quiet Totland Bay, it’s a wonderful place to unwind and get your fill of sea air. I enjoyed my recent lunch here a lit, but you’re also welcome to stop by for drinks only which you can enjoy at one of the nicely-positioned outside tables.

In Yarmouth, The Bugle Inn is a rambling historic pub with plenty of atmosphere. It enjoys a large outside space and courtyard with both covered and uncovered tables. If you fancy some food, why not create your own platter from its very own Seafood Shack?

Finally, The Wight Mouse Inn in Chale enjoys sweeping views of West Wight and is ideally placed for the coastal path. It’s a historic pub with an extensive south-facing garden and a playground, perfect for a summer visit. The tasty home-made food, with a separate children’s menu, is also highly rated.

Well, it’s been something of a challenge to compile this shortlist from so many great options on the island, but I hope it gives you some inspiration for your summertime visit. Cheers!

Please note: some pubs close on certain days of the week, while opening hours and food service times can vary. So please check the venue’s website or socials before setting out.