Dog-Friendly Dining on the Isle of Wight

Want a taste of the Island without having to leave your four-legged friend behind? On the Island we understand that dogs are part of the family and that there’s nothing better than a long walk and a pit-stop for lunch with a view., so you’ll find many local pubs, cafes and restaurants welcome dogs - some even offering a menu just for pups! With so many options to choose from, we’ve put together a short list to help you decide. 

A must visit for owners and their pooch, Off the Rails takes canine cuisine to the next level. Housed within a charming former railway station, this restaurant boasts a bespoke doggie menu curated by OSCAR pet foods, featuring nutritious main meals and delightful treats. Enjoy pretty views of Yarmouth Marshes and Mill Copse while both you and your dog relax and dine. Situated just off the Yarmouth to Freshwater cycle track, there are plenty of trails to explore with your dog – we recommend the River Yar circular route. Find this and more walks here.

For relaxed dog-friendly dining in a character setting, head for The Buddle Inn on the most southerly point of the Island. Nestled in Niton Undercliff, The Buddle is just a stone’s throw from St Catherine’s Lighthouse and stunning coastal walks for you and your dog. The original smugglers inn and one of the oldest pubs on the Island, expect flag stone floors, low beams, and a roaring fire in winter, while you tuck into hearty dishes and local ales and spirits in a cosy corner of the pub. The Buddle is the perfect pitstop as you explore this unique area of the Island’s landscape. Muddy boots and paws are most definitely welcome. 

The Buddle is part of a family of dog-friendly character pubs, including The Sun Inn at Hulverstone, The Bugle at Yarmouth and The Crab and Lobster at Bembridge, each serving great pub grub in a historic and picturesque location, connecting with local footpaths.

A favourite with visitors and locals, The Lifeboat pub and restaurant overlooks East Cowes Marina and the River Medina, offering one of the best waterfront dining experiences on the Island. Situated just a short 5-minute drive or 20-minute walk from our East Cowes ferry terminal, The Lifeboat is a great option for a meal on arrival, or before you say goodbye. The sun terrace overlooking the river is a spectacular place to be in summer, with a great family menu on offer and Rex’s Range doggie ice cream available to keep your pooch a cool customer. Inside, you’ll find a relaxed dining space, sofa area for relaxing with coffee and cake, and a fully stocked bar.

For a unique dining experience with unrivalled sea views, venture to The Hideaway atop Shanklin’s cliffside. The nautical interior of this popular cafe and large cliffside garden offer a comfortable seaside dining experience, situated on the coastal path down to Shanklin beach. Dogs are permitted on the beach below between 1st October and 30th April, and during Summer you can make use of the esplanade running the length of the beach or discover walks on the cliff through Luccombe towards Ventnor or to Sandown. The Hideaway welcomes dogs year-round in their fully licensed café and restaurant, and even has dog meals on the menu - the perfect pitstop with your pooch!

A favourite with dog walkers and cyclists, Pedallers Café is situated along the cycle path in Newchurch – part of the Red Squirrel trail. In full, the cycle path runs from Blackwater to Merstone and on to Sandown with lots of opportunities to leave the track to explore trails through the countryside. Serving up a selection of hot and cold drinks, sandwiches, scones and cake, this little café is a popular spot with a lovely outdoor seating area. 

You’ll find Pedallers at the very end of the track coming from Merstone, crossing the road at Newchurch to carry on to Sandown. The café is also just a short distance from the Garlic Farm, a popular attraction and farm shop offering a lovely rural walk through the grounds of the farm.