Your Local Guide to Food and Drink on the Isle of Wight
When the sun is shining, there is little better than grabbing a few chums, some drinks and setting up a sizzling barbecue. The Isle of Wight has some stunning barbecue locations in which to enjoy a bit of al fresco dining.
With the Spring Bank Holiday approaching on 26th May, coinciding with the start of National Barbecue Week 2025 (26th May – 1st June). We’ve put together a guide to some of the top places to have an amazing barbecue on the Isle of Wight.
Be sure to check the rules and regulations before you set up – and please take all your litter away with you.
Red Cliff at Yaverland is the only Isle of Wight Council run beach that allows people to barbecue. It’s one of the Island’s best beaches, providing a long stretch of sand and great swimming waters for children and families, so why not make a whole day of it?
Compton Beach is a perfect spot for a barbecue on the Isle of Wight. After a day spent having fun in the water, set up your fire (away from others) and pop some bits on the barbie. Try local butchers and farm shops such as Harvey Browns, Briddlesford Farm and Cheverton Farm Shop for some of the tastiest sausages and burgers around. They also do a great range of locally grown vegetables, perfect for adding some colour to your grill.
We live on an island, so why not invite some fish to the barbecue? Especially with the amount of great locally caught fish the Isle of Wight has to offer, which you can find sold at places such as Captain Stan’s Bembridge Fish Store, Ventnor Haven Fishery and J&B Fisheries located in Freshwater and Cowes.
Hire one of the purpose-built barbecues at Fort Victoria Country Park. The fort, built in 1855, provides a dramatic backdrop to your event. Groups of 12 or fewer can turn up and use one if they are free, but if you are planning a big get-together, you will need to book in advance by calling the Park Ranger on 01983 760860.
Craving the delicious flavour of barbecue but don’t feel like grilling yourself? Head over to Island Bistro at Sandown Airport! During the Summer months, they’ve got a huge BBQ setup and a popular wood-fired oven. Their menu is packed with options like burgers, jackets, and a variety of specials, including their signature Sunday roast.
No matter where you choose to eat al fresco, please make sure to take all rubbish away with you and recycle everything that you can. There is a great initiative of filling a carrier bag with rubbish each time you visit an Island beach, and some of the local cafés will give you a discount if you hand over your bag of rubbish you have collected.
Get involved in regular beach cleans with Surfers Against Sewage.
