Planning your stay at Camp Wight? You’re in the perfect spot to explore the burgeoning culinary scene of the Island. While we might be a little biased toward the West Wight (after all, it is our home!), we’ve scoured every corner of the Island to find the very best flavours, so you know where to eat when you stay at Camp Wight!
Whether you are looking for a fancy night of eating out on the Isle of Wight, a dog-friendly brunch spot, or a quick takeaway to enjoy back at your campfire, our home-cooked guide has you covered. Here are our tried-and-tested recommendations for the best food on the Island.
Local Legends: Eating Out in the West Wight.
These are a stone’s throw (or a short cycle) from Camp Wight.
The Horse & Groom, Ningwood
Best for: Family-friendly pub grub and ultimate convenience.
If you’ve spent a long day hiking the Tennyson Trail, over the Downs, or if you’ve driven some distance to get to the Wightlink, or Red Funnel ferry and just pitched camp, the Horse & Groom is your sanctuary. Located just a 3-minute stroll from the entrance of Camp Wight, this is the definition of a local gem. They deliver rock-solid pub grub: generous portions, local ingredients, and a warm atmosphere.
Top Tip: always check the specials board!
Off The Rails, Yarmouth
Best for: Quirky atmosphere, dog-lovers, and epic brunches.
Set inside the beautifully restored old Yarmouth Railway Station, Off The Rails offers a dining experience like no other. Only two miles from our campsite, it’s an easy cycle away. If you want to drive, there’s normally on-street parking nearby, too. The menu is “railway-themed” and features everything from the amazing gourmet Luggage Burger to inventive sandwiches with incredible seasoning.
Dog-Friendly: They don’t just allow dogs; they welcome them with a dedicated dog menu!
Takeaway: Grab a coffee and a slice of their famous homemade cake to go if you’re walking the Yarmouth to Freshwater cycle path, or going birdwatching around the internationally renowned River Yar Estuary.
The Red Lion, Freshwater
Best for: A high-end gastro-pub experience.
For those looking for a more refined evening of eating out in Freshwater, The Red Lion is a must-visit. Widely considered one of the best gastro-pubs on the Isle of Wight, the quality of the cooking here is exceptional. In addition to our recommendation, one of our guests said it was the best meal they’d had in over a decade!
The Must-Order: Our team are obsessed with their Cheese Soufflé—it is light, decadent, and worth the trip alone.
Vibe: Traditional pub aesthetics meet modern culinary excellence. Great selection of local ales.
Coastal Classics: Ventnor & Beyond
Worth the drive for some of the best seafood and artisan bakes on the Island.
Food further afield on the Isle of Wight
Smoking Lobster, Ventnor & Cowes
Best for: Fresh local seafood with a Pan-Asian twist.
If you want to experience the best of the Island’s coastline, head to the Ventnor Esplanade. The Smoking Lobster takes locally sourced Isle of Wight seafood and elevates it with vibrant Asian flavours. The presentation is art-like, and the views out to sea are unbeatable.
New Location: They have also opened a handy spot on Cowes High Street, perfect if you are exploring the North of the Island.
Cantina, Ventnor
Best for: Artisan sourdough and “hidden gem” vibes.
Located on Ventnor High Street, Cantina is a small, bustling kitchen/bakery/restaurant that punches way above its weight. They are famous for their homemade sourdough bread, which is a staple for any Isle of Wight foodie.
Eating In or Takeaway: Their menu changes regularly to reflect the best seasonal produce, including Moroccan influence
Why trust our recommendations for where to eat when you stay at Camp Wight?
At Camp Wight, we are a family-owned and run business. We don’t just list these places because they are nearby; we list them because we eat there ourselves! Our recommendations come from years of family birthdays, quick lunches, and celebration meals out.
Ready to taste the best of the Island? Book your stay at Camp Wight today and start your culinary journey!