The Isle of Wight is often called the jewel of the South Coast – and it more than lives up to the title, especially when it comes to one of Britain’s greatest traditions: the Sunday roast.
From cosy inland pubs to seaside spots serving up locally sourced plates (sometimes with a twist of seafood), the Isle of Wight’s Sunday offerings are well worth the ferry ride.
Whether you’ve spent your morning hiking the Isle of Wight Coastal Path, exploring botanical gardens, or paddling on one of the Island’s best beaches, you’ll find plenty of places to tuck into roast potatoes, Yorkshire puds, and lashings of gravy.
England’s largest island, the Isle of Wight is just 3 miles from the Hampshire coast, valued for its natural beauty since Roman times and a much-loved holiday destination of Queen Victoria. Surrounded by the English Channel, visitors are never more than an hour’s drive from the sea, making it the perfect place to work up an appetite while exploring the coastal scenery.
So, whether you’re soaking up the maritime heritage of the northern towns, basking on the golden beaches of the eastern shoreline, enjoying the southern microclimate, or escaping to the wild beauty of the western tip, rest assured – a cracking Isle of Wight Sunday roast is never far away…
The Cow, Yarmouth
For quality meat and seasonal veg, look no further than The Cow at Tapnell Farm. Serving up award-winning burgers throughout the week, come Sunday, you can tuck into perfectly pink, medium rare sirloin (between September and March). Served with our favourite selection of veg, including chantenay carrots, honey-roasted parsnips, and braised red carrots with tenderstem broccoli and cauliflower cheese, there’s also a tantalising mushroom and brie wellington available for veggies.
Just a 15-minute drive from Newport, it’s also a great opportunity to soak up the beauty of the Island’s interior, with panoramic views over the countryside from the mezzanine level. Book an evening table for sunset views over Tennyson Down, The Solent, and The New Forest. The farm is also one of the Isle of Wight’s top family-friendly attractions, making it a wonderful place to explore before or after your Sunday feastings.
The Duke of York, Cowes
Famed for their roast dinners, the Duke of York is a must-visit after a day spent exploring the maritime town of Cowes. Found near the marina and embellished in maritime memorabilia, this traditional street-corner pub invites you to indulge in a classic roast with a cosy atmosphere.
With honest, home-cooked food and quality ingredients, tuck into traditional roast beef, pork, lamb or chicken. Or, opt for the nut roast – all served with plenty of veggies, Yorkshire puds, roast potatoes and oodles of gravy. If you’re tempted by dessert, you can expect British classics like apple pie and custard, bread and butter pudding, creamy rice pudding or sticky toffee. Plus, a range of draught beers including local ales, real cider, and refreshing lagers. Book in advance to guarantee a table.
Bargeman’s Rest, Newport
A nautical-themed pub overlooking the River Medina and Newport Harbour, Bargeman’s Rest is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, excellent selection of Isle of Wight ales and big portions. Despite being inland, it’s still a waterside location and, throughout the year, you can watch the boats sail lazily up and down the river.
In the summer, dine alfresco, soaking up the views from the terrace, while winter invites you to hunker down next to a blazing fire, or in the cosy family room. Sunday roasts bring traditional dinners in line with the aura of the pub, often with local musicians playing jazz in the background.
The Royal Hotel, Ventnor
Once a humble coaching inn, The Royal Hotel in Ventnor gained its regal title after becoming a favourite of Queen Victoria – who is even credited to have popularised afternoon tea there. For a Sunday roast with a touch of grandeur, book a table at their elegant 2AA Rosette restaurant.
With top-notch service and immaculately presented dishes, this is a roast worth looking forward to. Choose from hand-carved sirloin of beef, lamb wellington, lemon sole or nut roast – all served with fresh seasonal vegetables, a rich jus, and towering Yorkshire puddings. Round things off with a coffee in the conservatory, a sweet plate or a cheese board.
Smoking Lobster, Cowes
Voted best Isle of Wight restaurant for two years in a row, Smoking Lobster in Cowes Marina pairs knockout views with an Asian-inspired twist on the traditional roast. For starters, treat yourself to the likes of cod cheek bao sliders, slow-roasted partridge or katsu oysters. Mains include braised beef rib, roast pork belly or katsu pumpkin, served with the proper trimmings – enjoyed plated or as part of a sharing platter.
If you can squeeze in a little more, treat yourself to a rich chocolate mousse or pineapple carpaccio. Or skip pudding and settle in with one of their excellent cocktails while the sun goes down over the boats.
The George Hotel & Beach Club, Yarmouth
For a Sunday roast with a stunning backdrop, The George Hotel steals the show. Once home to the Island’s governor, Sir Robert Holmes, and a regular stop-off point for King Charles II, this 17th-century townhouse is steeped in history. The interior includes original wood panelling, a sweeping staircase, and stone-flagged floors, all updated with stylish modern touches that result in an oozing elegance that retains much of its heritage.
But it’s the garden that makes The George stand apart, with an Italian-inspired beachfront garden embellished with olive trees right on the water’s edge. Set beside Yarmouth Castle and looking out to the pier and harbour, it’s the perfect spot to linger over lunch and soak up the sea air. On Sundays, expect a relaxed roast where top-quality ingredients shine through, complemented by a decadently delicious jus.
White Hart Inn, Ryde
Another option for fans of traditional pub grub, the White Hart Inn is just 3 miles from the golden sands of Ryde. Found in the pretty village of Havenstreet, it’s also near the Isle of Wight Steam Railway – one of the Island’s most popular family attractions.
The pub itself is made from red brick, and boasts a welcoming country atmosphere. There’s a large outdoor seating area and a regularly changing specials menu. Expect hearty, no-nonsense roasts with local beef, lamb, and pork.
Crab & Lobster, Bembridge
Perfectly positioned on the Isle of Wight Coastal Path with sweeping sea views, the Crab & Lobster is a hidden gem and local favourite. Whether you’re visiting after a sunny coastal hike or seeking solace from wintery weather next to the log fire, the views here are always phenomenal.
Specialising in top-quality seafood and known as one of the best dog-friendly pubs on the Island, this family-run establishment (now in its fourth generation) is also a top spot for a Sunday roast. Known for their fair prices and focus on local, quality ingredients, expect succulent meats or a well-seasoned veggie wellington. Don’t forget to check out the dessert menu, as they often have discounts to sweeten the deal.
The Sun Inn, Calbourne
For vegans and veggies (and four-legged friends), The Sun Inn is a real gem. Tucked in the picturesque village of Calbourne – in between Newport and Freshwater Bay – they serve hearty meat-free roasts and nut roasts every Sunday. Tie your visit in with a walk along the coast, preferably with canine companions in tow, because they’ve also got a doggy menu. Plus, two regularly rotating draught ales to keep things interesting.
The Sun Inn enjoys uninterrupted views over Brighstone and Westover forests. The pub is also near Winkle Street, worth a quick visit to delight in the beauty of the idyllic 18th-century stone cottages overlooking the gently trickling river water. It’s so beautiful that artists have been painting the scene since the 1800s, and today it’s still a favourite with photographers.
The Bistro, Ventnor
For casual dining with a contemporary twist, The Bistro near Ventnor will tickle your tastebuds – especially after a breezy stroll along the waterfront or through the nearby botanical gardens. The light-filled spot doubles as a gallery, featuring artwork for sale by local artists, and an open kitchen means there’s always something to look at.
Roast dinners are served during the winter months and are a local favourite, served with seasonal veg (some grown in their garden). There’s always roast beef on the menu, a second meat, nut roast, fish and a weekly dessert. Don’t miss the delicious, velvety ‘bistro gravy’ – known as the best on the Island.
Looking for somewhere to stay? Our self-catered holiday cottages are the perfect base for exploring the Isle of Wight. Work up an appetite while exploring the sea-salted landscapes and fill yourself to the brim with a proper Sunday roast, before making your way back to your relaxing Island bolthole.
