The Old Fort, Seaview

The Old Fort is a seaside pub and restaurant on the Esplanade in Seaview, set directly beside the water with views across the Solent. The setting brings a strong coastal character to meals, drinks and coffee, while the interior provides a relaxed place to eat when the weather is less suited to sitting outside. Seaview is an Edwardian sailing village on the north-east coast of the Isle of Wight.

The kitchen focuses on fresh local produce and seasonal cooking. The menu combines pub and restaurant favourites with pizzas, sandwiches and light bites, giving the venue a flexible feel across the day. The food suits a casual lunch, an evening meal or a family tea, with vegan choices included among the available options. A roast dinner is also part of the restaurant’s appeal.

A self-service Hatch serves teas, coffees and fresh pastries, while the bar offers a full selection of drinks. The atmosphere is informal enough for a drink by the sea, but the dining spaces also suit a more settled meal. An open-plan upstairs restaurant and bar has seating that looks towards the water, with the downstairs area offering a more family-friendly setting.

Outdoor tables, benches and seating along the sea wall make use of the waterside position. These areas work well for drinks, coffee, a light meal or a longer lunch with changing views across the Solent. Outdoor seating is not reserved, so it has a more spontaneous feel than the indoor dining areas. Indoor tables can be booked for guests who prefer a planned visit.

The Old Fort suits couples, families, groups and solo visitors looking for straightforward seaside dining in a pub setting. Children and well-behaved dogs are welcome downstairs, while dogs are not permitted in the upstairs restaurant and bar. With local produce, seasonal dishes, pizzas, drinks and coastal views all in one setting, it offers a practical choice for both meals and informal stops in Seaview.