Pubs in Sandown

“Review of the Yarbridge Inn, Yarbridge Cross, Brading, Isle of Wight Six years since we had dined in the Yarbridge Inn - the last time that we were on the island. Check out the earlier review (28June17) with all those references to the cherished memories that (typical of families) cover all those places much loved and appreciated from the time that we were all kids on those long summer holidays in Brading and the surrounding country with Mum (and sometimes Dad too). There are not many early family times that are remembered better. In June 2023 we’d shared a table at the Yarbridge Inn with the same couple from earlier – a much treasured brother (and his wife) – with whom we had once shared those early summer months - on the Downs above Brading, on the beaches at Sandown and on the steam trains that once serviced the Ryde to Ventnor line. None of your ex-London Central Line tube trains in those days. (Who would have believed it – if you’d have suggested as such – the tube trains followed the electrification of the line in 1967 – that’s almost 60 years ago!) Our previous review had been highly complimentary and the restaurant, table, food, etc. was exactly the same this time too; comfortable dining room in which to eat, prompt/friendly services, high quality presentation/foods and great eating. We’d chosen to share lunch – a couple of easy hours relaxing in the corner with a relatively empty dining room around us and the bar to one side. There was time to reflect upon those earlier times – well, the original two of us – and to appreciate the changes from the perspective of lives subsequently led in different parts of the world. The one who had become a resident of the island and the other who had moved away permanently – and then chosen to shift countries on a fairly regular basis – as life/employment opportunities changed. As kids the Yarbridge Inn had always been there at the end of the village where the cross-roads lead to Brading Downs in one direction and to the long route up-and-over the Culver Downs through Yaverland to Sandown in the other. We’d sometimes walk this route in preference to the easier direct (and much shorter) route Brading-Sandown. Earlier in the week three of us had visited the Roman Villa south of Brading – a first time for us. The museum features a map of the Isle of Wight (called ‘Vectis’ by the Romans). It shows Brading Haven with access to marine shipping – sea route that effectively isolated Culver Downs and the surrounding country as a separate island that was called ‘Bembridge Isle’ through to the medieval period. In the 16th C. the seaways became unusable. Then a causeway was built and, in the late 19 C. the estuary/marshland was drained for access to the land/soil. Lean out over the bridges of the railway or the Yar river next to the Yarbridge Inn and reflect upon the sea inlets that once dominated the country. Choose from a menu of options – whether those that determine life, location, routines or, in the case of the restaurant, the meals provided. There were four menus available – two chalk boards for the day and two formal printed cards. On offer were light/smaller meals (for a set £10.50) and also larger plates with more varied choice of lunch meals (in the range £10-£20). There were also starter and dolce options for those who enjoyed their food (and could space the dishes with time in between to thoroughly enjoy the food/table/company/time.) Our approach came with age/experience – following the mood of the table. It was a pleasant place to be and, crucially, we didn’t know when we’d be back. Go for the moment then. We talked and ate, and talked more. Eat regularly at a place and, typically, you get to know mine host and those in the team that front the public interface – taking orders, serving, covering the cash desk, etc. Twice in six years doesn’t provide that kind of opportunity, but there’s a public ‘Welcome’ note available that introduces Family Fox and the key people running the restaurant/bar. Check out the photo attached … and, of course, complimenti to management and those wh”

“Comfy, relaxing restaurant/pub with a fab menu and great service. The quality and presentation of the food was amazing for the price.We loved it here and will definitely be back very soon.”

“First time here.Very helpful and friendly staff.My husband and I enjoyed a delicious roast.We are only here for a week stay,but we would certainly go back.”

“Lovely place. Friendly and welcoming staff (including Humphrey!) Food was excellent. The views are stunning. We arrived at dusk and left after dark and either way the views are to die for.

Dietary restrictions: Gluten free on the kids menu (fish goujons) as standard which was amazing!!

Kid-friendliness: Humphrey!! My daughter loves playing with him. She knocked over her drink and the staff were great, coming over to help clear up. I was very apologetic but the staff were so great about it.”

“The service was fantastic and so friendly. Happy to accept babies which many of the pubs in this area are not!!!!
Delicious range of beers and ciders on tap! Around £4-5 a pint”

“Classic pub , live music on a crunchy p.a .
Served by a rightly suspicious tattooed landlady . Loved it .”

“Great place for adults & children. Outside child friendly & safe zone. Our Grankids fav place. Food is good & great menu selection.”

“What a delightful experience it was this evening , food wonderfull staff exceptional couldn't of been better , will be back very soon”

“Absolutely fantastic Christmas meal, great food, attentive staff and everyone loved it. we were a group of 46, so well done. 10 out of 10 x”

“Had a couple of lagers / mini cheddars and watched the football ⚽️?
Lovely friendly pub in Sandown.”