Enjoy Isle of Wight pubs
near Cowes and Ryde

Several Isle of Wight pubs around Cowes and Newport we think you'll enjoy visiting.

THE FOLLY INN, near Cowes
The Folly Inn is undoubtedly one of our favourite watering holes. Tucked away down a quiet lane, it sits on the banks of the River Medina a mile or so north of Newport. It is frequented by local and visiting sailors who moor alongside, their activities providing year-round entertainment for pub visitors. The bar area is large and mainly open plan, with additional seating outside, closer to the water.

Isle of Wight pubs: The Folly Inn, Folly Lane, Whippingham
(Tel: 01983 297171)

The Folly is quite difficult to find, but well worth the effort at any time of year. Open all day, every day, and serving good, reasonably priced food all day, every day, it is ideal for lunch, evening meal or whenever the need arises. We have always found the staff to be warm and welcoming - and always keen to ensure that your stay has been an enjoyable one.
Where is it? The Folly Inn lies at the end of Folly Lane, Whippingham. It is signposted off the A3021, by Whippingham School, about one mile south of the main entrance to Osborne House. The full OS map reference is: SZ508928


The FISHBOURNE INN at Fishbourne
The Fishbourne Inn is well worth knowing about. It's in a great spot, right next to the Wightlink ferry terminal, and therefore a good place to waste time if you're early for the ferry, or meeting someone from the mainland. It is also a good base from which to explore Quarr Abbey nearby.

Isle of Wight pubs: Fishbourne Inn, 111 Fishborne Lane, Fishbourne
(Tel: 01983 882823)

Out of season, food is served between 12:00 and 2:30 pm then again between 6:00 and 9:30 pm, but these hours are extended during the summer months when food is served all day. The menu consists of fairly typical pub favourites and prices are reasonable - and the restaurant overlooking a small, but pretty garden, is clean and attractive. Some form of entertainment is offered every Thursday evening.
Where is it? To find the Fishbourne Inn, turn off the main A3054 that runs between Cowes and Ryde where you see the sign for the ferry to Portsmouth. Proceed down Fishbourne Lane, past the entrance to ferry terminal. The pub will be seen almost immediately on the left hand side.


THE SLOOP INN at Wootton Creek
The Sloop is a waterside inn, and it's situated in a glorious spot at the far end of Wootton Creek where numerous boats of all shapes and sizes are moored all year round. From its gardens and terrace, you can look out across the water towards The Solent, or simply watch this year's cygnets exploring the creek with their proud parents.

Isle of Wight pubs: The Sloop Inn, Wootton Bridge, Ryde
(Tel: 01983 882554)

The interior of this old inn has faced several 'facelifts' over the years and is now virtually open plan. We found it a bit gloomy inside (because of the inadequate, new, concealed lighting), but perhaps this was supposed to add character. Nonetheless, there are plenty of tables to choose from, and a spacious garden and terrace outside. Families are welcome.
Where is it? The Sloop is situated on the Cowes side of Wootton Bridge, immediately after the bridge on the main A3054. It has its own, large car park immediately in front of the building. The OS map reference is SZ547919.


THE WOODVALE at Gurnard
The Woodvale is ideally situated overlooking The Solent at Gurnard, near Cowes.

It may look a little 'tired' from the outside (it needed painting when we visited in April 2008), but don't let that put you off. Inside the food is good and very reasonably priced (the cheapest we've seen) and the toilets are nice and clean.

Isle of Wight pubs: The Woodvale, 1 Princes Esplanade, Gurnard
(Tel: 01983 292037)

Outside the pub a terraced garden allows for many more tables in summer months, each with a splendid view of the busy Solent. Never a dull moment!

Directly opposite the pub a grassy bank leads down to the small, but pleasant, Gurnard beach where you will find the Gurnard Sailing Club, a cafe serving teas, coffee and ices etc and public conveniences. It's not exactly Sandown, but nevertheless it's a good spot to have a paddle and to watch boating activities.

Gurnard beach opposite The Woodvale

Where is it? The Woodvale is situated at the end of Woodvale Road where it joins Princes Esplanade, Gurnard. To reach it by road, drive into Cowes town centre, then along the coast road, past Egypt Point, and round Princes Esplanade to Gurnard. The OS map reference is SZ478958.

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