Red Funnel Recommends... Family Friendly Dining on the Isle of Wight

Finding somewhere to eat that suits everyone can be a challenge, so we've put together a list of great family favourites where adults can relax while the kids play. 

For a traditional rural pubwith an impressive kids play area, head to The Chequers Inn in Rookley. The family run pub boasts a huge outdoor play area with far reaching countryside views, as well as a tasty menu for all the family. You'll find a great variety of children's choices from traditional chicken nuggets to delicious fisherman's pie or stop by on a Sunday for a carvery - kids portions included too.

The ultimate family dining experience with younger children in mind, The Caulkheads is a landmark family pub five minutes from Sandown Beach. Open year round this family fave offers an indoor soft play area and a silent cinema, as well as an outdoor play area, bouncy castle and family fun days. The kid’s menu is extensive and as an extra special treat, the unlimited Ice Cream factory is open for pudding! Kids eat for just £2 with an adult meal. 

For fun in the sun head to The Fighting Cocks, an award-winning family friendly pub in Arreton. Alongside a great selection of child and toddler menu options, The Fighting Cocks offers a large outside play area, complete with climbing frames, swings, see-saw and during the summer (weather dependant), there is a huge inflatable go-kart track and bouncy castles too! 

Bronze Best Pub & Best Restaurant – Red Funnel Isle of Wight Awards 2022

The Horse & Groom is especially fun for kids during the summer months with their fun outdoor play area and bouncy castle (select days). ‘The Paddock’ is a gated play area just for the kids, so parents can take 5. With impressive climbing frames to explore, the tasty menu will be the only thing to pull your little monkeys away. Choose from family favourites such as beef burgers, pasta bolognaise and fish fingers. 

The Wight Mouse Inn is not only a great family-friendly place to eat, but the views are incredible – guaranteed to take your breath away. Relax in the large pub garden on warm sunny days (there are plenty of tables to choose from) and let the kids play. Enjoy a meal with a view, overlooking the countryside and out to sea. Serving up pub classics, the children’s menu is loaded with classic choices such as Macaroni cheese, sausages & chips or steak pie! 

This pub is a local favourite, winning multiple awards and it’s easy to see why! Stunning sunsets colour the rolling countryside pink of evening, with an outside seating area offering the best seat in the house. Keep the kids entertained with the Blacksmiths play area, while the grownups enjoy premium pub grub stunning views. The children’s menu has some great options using locally sourced produce, including some seriously mouth-watering dessert options -  double chocolate and Oreo brownie? Uh yes please! 

Silver Best Pub & Bronze Best Burger - Red Funnel Isle of Wight Awards 2022

Close to Carisbrooke Castle and Newport town centre, The Eight Bells is a popular choice for family dining. With an indoor soft play and outdoor play areas, you can relax while the little ones play. There’s tons of outdoor eating space in the summer and the children’s menu caters for toddlers right up to 10yrs. All ages will want a taste of the Sweet Shop Sundae option for afters! 

Heads up … Lukely brook runs adjacent to the bottom of the garden area, so watch out for curious wanderers.

Snacks & Ladders Board Game Cafe, Newport

Woodman's Arms, Wootton

The Griffin, Godshill

The Hare & Hounds, Arreton