Isle of Wight pubs with a walk along the way

You're never too far from an excellent pub on the Isle of Wight. Whether you fancy a gastro-pub for a full meal or want to enjoy a pint while taking in the view, you'll have plenty of opportunities on the Isle of Wight. Here are just a few walks that could end with a pint of the cold stuff.

The Buddle Inn, Niton

The Buddle Inn is a 16th-century clifftop pub and restaurant set amongst a stunning Isle of Wight National Landscape (formerly known as Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty). With spectacular views across the English Channel, it’s the perfect place to grab a quick bite to eat after a stroll along Castlehaven Lane down to the beach. If you’re after a longer walk, head towards St Catherine’s Lighthouse – a stunning lighthouse on the southern most tip of the Isle of Wight.

The Folly Inn, Whippingham

If you’re after a relaxing stroll before a hearty Sunday Roast, you won’t find a better spot than The Folly Inn in Whippingham. There’s a footpath you can follow right next to the pub that takes you on a gentle walk past great views, local wildlife and mature oak trees. After following the route, you’ll end up at Island Harbour, where you can take a quick break before meandering back up the path you came from.

The Folly Inn is perched on the banks of the River Medina, where you can relax and watch the harbour come to life over a couple of drinks and a mouth-watering selection of home-cooked food. There’s no better spot on a warm summer’s day.

The Fishbourne, Fishbourne

Nestled among trees along the shore at Fishbourne, Quarr Abbey offers visitors the chance to wander around the grounds and experience the tranquil atmosphere. It’s home to a small group of working Benedictine monks and features a gallery, bookshop and Visitor Centre for you to explore.

After spending time at the abbey, take a 15-minute stroll to The Fishbourne to sample their superb selection of fine wines and smooth ales. Situated close to the sea on the banks of Wootton Creek, this charming 1900s country pub is packed with character and guarantees a warm and friendly welcome.

The Highdown Inn, Totland

If you’re a keen rambler up for a challenge, the Tennyson Down Walk takes you on a journey from the National Trust car park at Totland Bay to Alum Bay, The Needles, West High Down and the spectacular Tennyson Down. Along the 7-mile route, you’ll experience some of the most wonderful Island views across Headon Warren to the Solent and beyond.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite at the end of this challenging circular trail, head to the traditional country pub, The Highdown Inn, and choose from a selection of blackboard specials alongside a cold beer or real ale. This beautiful country pub is prized for its local produce, seafood and shellfish, making your visit one to remember.

The Sun Inn, Hulverstone

Set in beautiful countryside near Compton Beach, The Sun Inn is one of the cosiest pubs in the UK and is perfect for stopping off after a walk to see the spectacular Longstone monument. There are several routes you can take up to Mottistone depending on how far you want to walk, including a 4-mile circular route from the Mottistone Gardens Trust car park. The Sun Inn is only 1.6 miles from The Longstone, making it ideally located to enjoy tasty comfort food in a relaxed setting after your trek.

The Wight Mouse Inn, Ventnor

If you’d like to discover more about the Island’s rich history, take a wander up to one of the highest points of the Island to see St Catherine’s Oratory. Affectionately known as the Pepperpot, this tall, octagonal tower is all that survives of the 14th-century medieval oratory. Not only can you see this spectacular tower up close, but you’ll experience far-reaching sea views all around you too.

Once you’ve clocked up the steps, rest your tired legs at the family-owned Wight Mouse Inn. With unbeatable ocean views, this quaint pub serves home-cooked food and local ales all day, every day. Kick back, relax and stay for as long as you’d like!

Fisherman's Cottage, Shanklin

You don’t have to travel far to enjoy a relaxing stroll. If you’re after a more slow-paced day out, take a wander around the charming Shanklin Old Village. Explore its traditional thatched cottages, boutique gift shops and the impressive Shanklin Theatre before heading down to the beach with your bucket and spade.

A visit to Shanklin wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Fisherman’s Cottage. Boasting an enviable beachfront location at the end of Shanklin Esplanade, this famous early 1800s pub offers a traditional mix of pub classics, delicious seafood dishes and, of course, the most scrumptious fish and chips!

The Culver Haven Inn, Culver Down

Serving freshly ground coffee, regional beers and excellent wines, The Culver Haven Inn is a comfortable pub next to the monument on top of Culver Downs. This family-run free house offers free parking alongside fantastic views all the way across Sandown Bay. It’s also conveniently positioned close to the most beautiful walks along the cliff tops down to the beaches.

Make the most of this fantastic location at the end of a challenging hike with a light bite, full meal or delicious slice of cake. In the summer, you may even get to watch the wild sheep or cattle grazing nearby.

The Red Lion, Freshwater

Suitable for walkers of all abilities, try the easy 1.5-hour route from Yarmouth to Freshwater. It starts at the 16th-century Bugle Coaching Inn at Yarmouth before leading through tranquil forests along the beautiful estuary.

The path slowly winds towards Freshwater and eventually ends up in the grounds of the Parish Church of All Saints. The route ends at The Red Lion, (a Michelin Guide recognised pub!) where you’ll find a selection of freshly-prepared local produce and a specials board serving up daily delights.

The Taverners, Godshill

Enjoy the natural beauty of Godshill by taking a stroll to Appuldurcombe House. The route to the large 18th-century ruins offers fantastic countryside views, with plenty of wildlife and flora to take in along the way. You’ll also get to see Freemantle Gate – the spectacular entrance to the house.

After your walk, be sure to drop in at The Taverners in Godshill for some refreshments. This cosy pub serves delicious food and drinks made from locally sourced ingredients and home-grown produce, including fish and chips, shepherd's pie and triple-cooked chips. There are plenty of vegan and vegetarian options, too, as well as a great selection of local ales and ciders, making it the perfect place to relax and unwind after a busy day of exploring.

The Boathouse, Seaview

If you’re after a seaside walk with a view, head down to Appley Beach in Ryde. Only 25 minutes from the Pier, this beautiful beach boasts a vast expanse of golden sand, a lush green park and the impressive Appley Tower – a gothic folly built in the 1870s. The walk is flat, making it perfect for families of all ages.

From Appley Beach, continue on for another mile or so until you reach The Boathouse in Seaview. Located a stone's throw from the beach, this stylish pub offers unobstructed sea views and a delicious menu focused on locally sourced ingredients.

The Crab & Lobster Inn, Bembridge

Bembridge Beach is another fantastic beachside walk. The main beach runs down the coast from the spit at the edge of Bembridge Harbour and is perfect for exploring everything the area has to offer. The beach is mainly comprised of stones, pebbles and shells, but there’s also a large sandbank that extends into the Solent at low tide.

When you’re ready for a rest, head to The Crab & Lobster Inn. Tucked away on Bembridge Ledge, this pub is a wonderful hidden gem serving locally sourced seafood and hand-reared meats. The garden overlooks the sea, offering the perfect place to relax and unwind with a glass of something cold in the warmer months.

The Cedars, Wootton Bridge

With many paths running through the woodland, take a walk around Firestone Copse and enjoy a breath of fresh Island air surrounded by spectacular views. Home to an array of tree species, this rich woodland is the perfect year-round destination if getting closer to nature is on your walking wish-list.

After you’ve tirelessly explored the copse, enjoy a freshly-prepared home-cooked meal at the nearby The Cedars in Wootton Bridge. Known to have some of the best cask-conditioned beers on the Isle of Wight, there’s a lovely outdoor space for the kids to enjoy while the adults relax.