There’s only one pub on the Island that holds an AA Rosette – and at the time of writing, that’s The White Lion in Niton. Head chef Nick Gerring, sous chef Robert Mclean and chef Adam Hayden were awarded 1 AA Rosette in late April this year – the award being based on the high quality of food and service from front of house.
Head housekeeper, Debby Weaver, keeps the rooms immaculate, earning a 4* rating from AA as well. With six newly-renovated luxury B&B rooms, in a mixture of different configurations, and situated on the South-West side of the Island, an area renowned for its stunning views of countryside and beautiful beaches, The White Lion is a memorable place to stay.
The pub was bought in early 2019 by Mark Holmes and wife Laura and the doors opened to customers in July of that year. The pub went through extensive renovations to create a dining experience somewhere between pub and restaurant, retaining its village pub characteristics, relaxed family-friendly atmosphere, and appealing prices of a pub.
The Holmes family own a handful of establishments on the Isle of Wight, and with all four kitchens overseen by owner Mark Holmes and Executive Chef Steve Harris, the same quality and standard of food and service can be found throughout.
Their venues include The Chequers Inn, Rookley, which is large and family-friendly, with three B&B rooms and an impressive outdoor play area and games room for children.
The Birdham, Bembridge is their spacious seaside pub, with 14 B&B rooms and a licence for civil ceremonies, and Long Island in Newport is a lively cocktail bar, serving Mexican-inspired street food.