Whilst there are many well-known establishments on the Island, there may also be a few that have escaped the attention of some but still offer top quality.
There are several which have achieved a high score on Google Reviews from relatively few ratings in comparison to some of the more popular places.
Here are some examples of these ‘under-the-radar’ pubs that you can try out.
7 under-the-radar pubs to find on the Isle of Wight
The Crown Inn
Address: Walkers Lane, Shorwell, PO30 3JZ
Rating: 4.5/5 (from 609 ratings on Google Reviews)
The Crown Inn in Shorwell describes itself as a family-friendly pub with a large beer garden, a children’s play area and a freshwater trout stream among its features.
One reviewer wrote: “My favourite IOW pub.
The Crown Inn in Shorwell (Image: IWCP)
“Picturesque village location with a trout stream running through the garden, lovely olde-worlde feel, delicious food (food hygiene rating of 5), good selection of beers, excellent playlist (but not too loud) and welcoming service.”
The Castle Inn
Address: 91 High Street, Newport PO30 1BQ
Rating: 4.5/5 (from 856 ratings on Google Reviews)
The Castle Inn is the oldest pub in Newport, dating back to 1550, but it has fewer reviews than many pubs in the surrounding areas.
Visit Isle of Wight shares: “The pub provides a friendly, warm and traditional place to enjoy a selection of ales and locally sourced food.”
One reviewer wrote: “Absolutely loved it!
The Castle Inn (Image: Contributed)
“Such a lovely pub great food and the staff and locals really friendly.”
The Sportsman’s Rest
Address: Main Road, Porchfield, PO30 4LP
Rating: 4.6/5 (from 476 ratings on Google Reviews)
David Pratt and Nicola Price outside The Sportsman’s Rest. (Image: The Sportsman’s Rest)
The Sportsman’s Rest dates back to 1857, which is said to be the “perfect stopping point to enjoy a bite to eat and a pint”.
Its website adds: “Serving delicious homemade meals and with local ales on tap, this really is a traditional ‘old school’ country pub!”
One reviewer wrote: “What a lovely pub. First time visiting and what a treat to be greeted with such a lovely atmosphere and great food.”
The Highdown Inn
Address: Moons Hill, Totland Bay PO39 0HY
Rating: 4.4/5 (from 634 ratings on Google Reviews)
The Highdown Inn describes itself as a traditional country pub known for its “charm, charisma and idyllic positioning”.
Seasonal local game and seafood are some of the options on the menu, and the establishment also operates a B&B.
One reviewer wrote: “This was my third visit and it won’t be my last. Outstanding location, food and service.
“Really friendly staff and the best fish I have ever eaten (whole Sea Bream).
“Lovely beer garden, good selection of beers, plenty of parking and an awesome location for exploring this neck of the island.”
Freshwater Bay WI enjoys a lunch at the Highdown Inn in Totland. (Image: Contributed)
The Chine Inn
Address: 1 Chine Avenue, Shanklin PO37 6BW
Rating: 4.7/5 (from 346 ratings on Google Reviews)
The Chine Inn reopened at the end of 2025 after shutting in 2024, and it has already been earning rave reviews from visitors.
The cliff-top pub in Shanklin is only serving drinks at the moment and has live music on Fridays and Sundays.
Veteran Alec Penstone cutting the ribbon to officially open the Chine Inn (Image: IWCP)
One reviewer wrote: “The perfect antidote to the end of a busy week!
“Great atmosphere and selection of drinks and not stupid prices either.”
The Chine Inn, Shanklin (Image: IWCP)
The Plough & Barleycorn
Address: 4 North Road, Shanklin PO37 6DB
Rating: 4.4/5 (from 258 ratings on Google Reviews)
The Plough & Barleycorn has a range of traditional real ales, wines and an extensive selection of spirits and many exclusive shots on its drinks menu.
Its website adds: “Whether you prefer a jug of foaming real ale or an ice cold, crisp lager, we have you covered.”
One reviewer wrote: “Simply splendid.
“Great beers (Pride, St Austell) served really well, very friendly landlord, good location.”
Recommended reading:
The Bonchurch Inn
Address: Bonchurch Shute, Ventnor PO38 1NU
Rating: 4.7/5 (from 473 ratings on Google Reviews)
The Bonchurch Inn is a pub that’s well-regarded for its drinks as well as its Italian cuisine options.
Adrian has been at the helm of the Bonchurch Inn for over 20 years (Image: IWCP)
One reviewer wrote: “Love the old world charm of the Bonchurch Inn – welcoming and full of atmosphere.
“The food here once again has been superb – fresh, home-cooked and full of flavour.”
What’s your favourite pub on the Isle of Wight? Let us know in the comments.
