One of the Isle of Wight’s prettiest postcodes, the picturesque sailing village of Seaview has a close-knit, friendly community and fabulous year-round holiday vibe.

Wander along the esplanade and you’ll find Muddy Awards 2021 Best Destination Pub winner, The Old Fort. Under new ownership since July 2020, lifelong friends Justin and Will gave the local landmark a fantastic new look for 2021, completely updating the pub and restaurant layout downstairs and adding a new, open-plan bar and restaurant space upstairs.

Always super-relaxed and friendly, with light, spacious, airy interiors and indoor tables enjoying the same sweeping panoramic views as those outdoors, the following here has grown considerably. In their first year, as well as taking the coveted Muddy Awards Best Destination Pub crown, Old Fort also scooped a TripAdvisor Travellers Choice Award and drew in an estimated 42,000 people. Wowsers.

The Isle of Wight is renowned for producing some of Britain’s best produce. Making the most of it, The Old Fort appointed a new Executive Chef in 2022. A mix of pub classics and restaurant-style gastro fare, the menu features delicious daily specials that make the absolute most of the fresh, local, seasonal produce wherever possible.

In winter, Sunday roast classics like Roast Sirloin of Beef with Yorkshire puds, slow-cooked pork belly with apple sauce, chicken supreme or walnut and parsnip nut roast are a huge draw. Come summer, there’s plenty of fresh fish like Isle of Wight crab and lobster (look out for the legendary Crab Ramekin). Food is served daily from 12 – 3pm and 5.30 – 9pm, with a children’s menu for the nippers and a bar snacks menu if you’re just popping in for a cheeky sunset cocktail or Mermaid G&T (recommended) and a quick bite to go with.

Speaking of drinks, whatever your poison, there’s loads of local smashers at The Old Fort to pick from, like award-winning Goddard’s Ale of Wight, Wight Knuckle Pale Ale, a fantastic wine list featuring a few sparklers from Hampshire’s Exton Park Vineyard. And while you’re in holiday mode, how about signature cocktails like the East Wight Martini, Seaview Spritz or Party Starter? Sounds good to us…

Pretty much as idyllic as it sounds, Seaview is surrounded by gorgeous, Insta-worthy beach and coastal walks the whole family will love. Well-behaved pooches are always welcome downstairs inside and on the patio, and the team keep a ready supply of treats, dog bowls, water and blankets, (for clean paws!). The upstairs restaurant is reserved doggie-free diners. See you at the bar!