What's On
KEEPING YOU UP TO DATE WITH THE LATEST AT CHARACTER INNS
Here you'll find our forthcoming events, live music and promotions…
Hilarious Comedy
Dining Nights
Coming up at The Buddle Inn, The Bugle Coaching Inn and The Crab & Lobster Inn.
Fawlty Towers Comedy Dining Nights
An evening of hilarity, fun and frivolity with Basil, Sybil, Polly and Manuel hosted by Red Tie Theatre Productions.
Includes Fabulous 3 Course Meal
"A Right Christmas Carry On"
Comedy Dining Nights
expect outrageous antics, witty banter, and plenty of festive cheer as Kenneth Williams, Sid James, Hatti Jacques and more bring the classic humour to your table.
Includes Fabulous 3 Course Meal
Click below for more details and booking:
Winter Escapes
on The Isle of Wight
When the summer crowds fade and the Island slows to a gentler pace, the Isle of Wight becomes a truly magical place to visit. Think bracing coastal walks, stunning sea views, cosy evenings by the log fire, and hearty food in welcoming surroundings.
With Character Inns, you can enjoy a boutique winter stay at one of our much-loved venues:
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The Buddle Inn, Niton – steeped in history, with roaring fires and breathtaking coastal walks right on the doorstep.
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The Bugle, Yarmouth – perfect for exploring the West Wight, with its harbour views and charming seaside setting.
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The Crab & Lobster, Bembridge – a coastal escape on the eastern tip of the island, with sea views and award-winning food.
Our rooms are the perfect base for your autumn and winter getaway – whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat, a romantic escape, or simply a chance to recharge.
Your Winter Escape Package
Stay in one of our charming pub hotels and enjoy:
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Overnight stay in a boutique room
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Full breakfast each morning
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£30pp dining allowance (1st night only)
Prices
1 Night Stay
Sunday – Thursday: £150
Friday – Saturday: £175
2 Night Stay
Sunday – Thursday: £225
Friday – Saturday: £250
Booking Information
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Offer valid for stays between 3rd November 2025 – 8th March 2026
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Excludes 20th December – 2nd January
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Use code: WINTERESCAPE25
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Available only on direct bookings via our website or by phone
Book your Winter Escape today and make the Isle of Wight your cosy seasonal retreat.!
Congratulations to…
Marcus Dorrow | Helen Mawson | John Russell
Ben Taylor | Jack Lees | Jason Hewison | Damien Hedges
Renata Hedges | Bruce Simmonds | Hayley Moore
– and the shy other six!
Celebrating Our Certified First Aiders – Safety First
at Character Inns
We’re incredibly proud to share some fantastic news from across the Character Inns family! Sixteen members of our brilliant team have recently completed and passed their First Aid certification – covering The Buddle Inn, The Crab & Lobster, The Bugle, and The King’s Head.
This is more than just a certificate. It’s our ongoing promise to you – our guests – that your wellbeing is always at the heart of what we do. Whether you're popping in for a pint, staying the night, or enjoying a family meal, you can rest assured that trained first aiders are on hand, should they ever be needed.
Our team stepped up to the challenge with enthusiasm and professionalism, learning essential skills including CPR, dealing with choking incidents, burns, allergic reactions, and more. Their commitment reflects the strong culture of care and responsibility that runs through all our pubs.
So next time you visit us, know you’re in safe hands – not just for delicious food and great company, but for peace of mind too.
Here’s to our super sixteen – thank you for keeping our pubs safer for everyone!
We’d Hate to Miss You – Book Your Table in Advance!
We’re so lucky to be welcoming so many of you through our doors this summer – thank you! With all the sunshine, seafood and great company, we’re busier than ever and our tables are filling up fast.
To make sure we can give you the best possible experience (and save you from any disappointment), we highly recommend booking your table in advance. Whether you’re planning a casual lunch, a special evening meal or drinks with friends, reserving ahead means we’ll have everything ready for you when you arrive.
It’s super easy to book – just choose the way that suits you best:
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Online via our website
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Through our booking app
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Or simply give us a call
We’ll always do our best to accommodate walk-ins, but with how busy things are, a reservation really is the safest way to guarantee your spot.
We can’t wait to see you soon!
Christmas
with Character
The fires are crackling, the lights are twinkling, and the scent of mulled wine is in the air… it must be Christmas!
From 24th November through to 23rd December, we’re serving up festive cheer with our special pre-Christmas menus, perfect for family get-togethers, friendly catch-ups, and office parties alike.
On Christmas Day, join us for a truly memorable festive lunch, where all the magic (and trimmings) are taken care of, so you can simply relax and enjoy.
Looking to make your celebration extra special?
Our Dine & Stay Christmas Packages let you enjoy the full festive experience—delicious food, a cosy night’s stay, and a morning to wake up to Christmas joy without the stress.
Let the celebrations begin and make this Christmas one to remember.
Book your table (or your getaway) directly at your chosen Character Inn by clicking the links below:
A Night Full of
Intrigue & Mystery
at The Buddle Inn
The Buddle Inn are teaming up with Red Tie Theatre productions to present another fabulous night of comedy and dining!
Help solve the crime and enjoy a… Fabulous 3 Course Meal with Prosecco on Arrival!
Click below for more details and booking:
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Describe your image
Valentine's Meals & Dine Stay
January 11th 2025
At The Buddle Inn, The Bugle Coaching Inn and The Crab & Lobster Inn.
A Special 3 Course Meal lovingly prepared by our chefs. With a Glass of Fizz on arrival for £35pp.
Make The Night Even More Special!
Dine & Stay available in our Boutique
Rooms for only £85 per person
Click below for more details and booking:
Real Ale Festival
at The Bugle Inn
Head to Yarmouth on the last weekend of March for a fantastic free festival weekend.
Brought to you by The Bugle Coaching Inn, The Wheatsheaf and The Kings Head, enjoy three Days of Superb Real Ales, Live Music and of course Great Food!
Click below for more details and booking:
BETHAN JOHN
Live Music – June
The Kings Head
Friday 6th, 9-11pm – THAT’S LIFE
Saturday 7th, 9-11pm – CHELSEA ROSE
Friday 13th, 9-11pm – ELLIE GEE
Saturday 14th, 9-11pm – CHRIS BROWN
Friday 20th, 9-11pm – JULES NELSON
Saturday 21st, 9-11pm – TBC
Friday 27th, 9-11pm – GREG BARNES
Saturday 28th, 9-11pm – BETHAN JOHN
Live Music – June
The Buddle Inn
Sunday 1st, 1-3pm – POWDERCOAT
Saturday 7th, 6-8pm – CHRIS BROWN
Sunday 8th, 1-3pm – USUAL SUSPECTS
Saturday 14th, 6-8pm – ED & ROSE
Sunday 15th, 1-3pm – LISA & ANDY
Saturday 21st, 7-9pm – SAM
Sunday 22nd, 1-3pm – THAT’S LIFE
Saturday 28th, 6-8pm – BEN STUBBS
Sunday 29th, 1-3pm – BETHAN JOHN
Round The Island Race
June 7th
Breakfast is Served
This year's annual Round the Island Race takes place on Saturday 7th June. With competitors setting sail from Cowes early in the morning; the day always proves to be a spectacular event.
The Crab & Lobster Inn and The Buddle Inn will be serving breakfasts from 9am–11.30am in their gardens. The Bugle Coaching Inn will also be serving breakfast in the heart of Yarmouth at the same times.
Be sure to get some of the best views of race day at our pubs!
Yarmouth Real Ale Festival
11th – 14th September 2025
Get ready to savour the best of British brewing! The Yarmouth Real Ale Festival returns this September and promises to be bigger, better, and bolder than ever before.
Spread across three iconic pubs—The Bugle Inn, The King’s Head, and The Wheatsheaf—this four-day festival is a celebration of Real Ale, Live Music, great food, and community spirit in one of the Isle of Wight’s most picturesque harbour towns.
🍺 What to Expect:
✅ Over 30 Real Ales
From hoppy pale ales to rich stouts and everything in between, we’ve handpicked a wide selection from top local and regional breweries. Whether you're a seasoned CAMRA enthusiast or just discovering real ale, there’s something to suit every taste bud.
🎶 Live Music Every Day
Enjoy a vibrant lineup of live bands and acoustic sets across all three pubs. From blues and folk to upbeat covers and local talent, the festival soundtrack is as refreshing as the beer.
🍽️ Food Served All Day
Tuck into classic pub favourites, local seafood, and festival specials. Grab a table or go alfresco and soak up the late summer vibes with a pint in hand.
🏰 A True Yarmouth Experience
With its cobbled streets, historic buildings, and waterfront charm, Yarmouth makes the perfect backdrop for a real ale adventure. Come for the beer—stay for the
atmosphere!
📍 Venue Details:
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The Bugle Inn – Cosy, characterful, and full of local charm with a large garden
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The King’s Head – Low ceilings, beams and open fires
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The Wheatsheaf – Recently restored, full of heritage and heart
Each venue will host different ales and music acts, so be sure to visit all three!
📅 Save the Date:
Thursday 11th – Sunday 14th September 2025
No tickets required – just turn up, grab a glass, and enjoy!
📲 Stay Connected
Follow our festival journey on social media:
#IsleOfWightRealAle #YarmouthAleFestival #IOWBeerLovers
Whether you’re a local or hopping over from the mainland, join us this September and discover what makes the Yarmouth Real Ale Festival a true island highlight. Cheers to great friends, great music, and even better beer!
Meet Hayley
Our New Holding Manager at The Buddle Inn!
We’re excited to introduce the wonderful Hayley, who’s stepping in as holding manager at The Buddle Inn while Teal is away on maternity leave.
Hayley brings a wealth of experience in hospitality and is already settling in brilliantly. She’s passionate about great pubs, good food, and warm welcomes – everything The Buddle stands for!
A local herself, Hayley lives in
St. Lawrence, so she knows the island well and is always up for a friendly chat. We know you’ll make her feel right at home as she leads the team with care and energy over the coming months. Pop in and say hello!
Raise a Glass at
The Buddle Inn’s Real Ale Festival!
19th – 21st September 2025
Calling all real ale lovers! 🍺
This September, we’re bringing back our famous Real Ale Festival at The Buddle Inn, and it’s set to be a proper celebration of the pint!
We’ll be pouring over 16 handpicked real ales across the weekend – showcasing the very best from local legends Yates Brewers and Goddards Brewery, alongside a carefully curated mix of regional and national favourites. From light and hoppy to dark and malty, there’s something for every palate.
🍺 What to Expect:
✔️ Top-quality real ales
✔️ Delicious pub food
✔️ Live music throughout the weekend
✔️ A buzzing beer garden with sea views
As a pub proud to specialise in real ales, this is one weekend we live for – and we can’t wait to share it with you.
📍 Free entry – no booking required.
🎶 Live music lineup to be announced soon.
See you at the bar!
Cheers from all at The Buddle 🍻
Islander Card Perks
10% Off Food, Drink & Stays – All Year Round!
Live on the Isle of Wight? Then our Islander Card, available via the Character Inns App, is made just for you! We’re proud to be part of the local community – and we love giving something back.
Download the app and you’ll unlock a 10% discount on all food, drink, and rooms – 365 days a year across all our pubs and inns – including The Buddle Inn, The Crab & Lobster, The Bugle, and The King’s Head.
Already signed up? Brilliant! Just show your Islander Card in the app at the bar or when booking your stay to save every time.
Not got the app yet? No worries – downloading is quick, free, and easy HERE. It’s our way of saying thank you for supporting local.
Eat well, drink better, stay local – and save while you’re at it.
The Islander Card – because locals deserve a little extra, every day of the year.
Host Your Event at Smugglers Barn – The Buddle Inn’s Hidden Gem
Planning a special celebration, party, wake or gathering? Discover The Smugglers Barn – our private function space at The Buddle Inn, perfectly tucked away with breathtaking sea views and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Whether you're celebrating a birthday, raising a glass with friends, or gathering for a more reflective occasion, The Smugglers Barn offers everything you need for a memorable event:
🌊 Stunning clifftop location with panoramic views
🍻 Private bar and exclusive washrooms
💸 FREE venue hire – no room charges!
🍽️ Buffet or à la carte menus to suit all tastes and budgets
🎶 DJs and live music can be arranged on request
🎉 Ideal for parties, wakes, celebrations and functions
With flexible food and drink packages and a dedicated team ready to bring your plans to life, The Smugglers Barn is one of the Isle of Wight’s best-kept secrets for private events.
Get in touch today to start planning your event – we’d love to host you.
📞 Call us on 01983 730243
🌐 Visit buddleinn.co.uk
Stay in Style – Discover Our New Boutique Rooms
Save 10% Book Direct with Us
We’re thrilled to unveil our beautiful new boutique bedrooms now available at The Buddle Inn (Niton), The Bugle (Yarmouth), and The Crab & Lobster Inn (Bembridge).
Each room has been thoughtfully designed with stylish decor, luxurious touches, and a cosy coastal charm that reflects the character of each unique location. Whether you're escaping for a romantic break, a weekend by the sea, or a relaxing retreat, you’ll find comfort and charm in every detail.
🌅 Breathtaking island locations
🛏️ Individually styled boutique rooms
✨ Beautiful finishes, luxury bedding and attention to detail
🍳 Delicious breakfast available at each inn.
Even better – book direct and receive 10% off your stay!
It’s our way of saying thank you for choosing local.
📍 Book HERE and make your next island getaway one to remember.
Character Inns – sleep, eat, and drink in true island style.
Something (Delicious) is Coming to
The Crab & Lobster...
We’ve got something exciting cooking at The Crab & Lobster – and trust us, you’re going to want a seat at the table.
On 18th July, we’ll be unveiling our brand new summer menu, crafted by none other than our new Head Chef – a name well-known and highly respected across the island’s food scene. With a passion for bold flavours and beautifully presented dishes, they bring an island-wide reputation and a flair for creating signature plates you won’t forget.
We won’t spoil the surprise just yet… but let’s just say, a few famous favourites are making a return – along with some exciting new seasonal creations.
This summer, prepare for a menu that celebrates the very best of local produce, seaside flavours, and culinary creativity – right here in Bembridge.
Save the date: 18th July.
New chef. New menu. Same Crab & Lobster soul.
Stay hungry – and keep your eyes peeled.
Check Out Stuart Above
New Executive Chef
Joins The Crab & Lobster Inn
The Crab & Lobster is thrilled to announce the appointment of Stuart Downes, aka “The Bear,” as our new Executive Chef.
Well-known across the Isle of Wight, Stuart was the owner of the popular Hungry Bear and brings years of culinary experience along with a passion for fresh, seasonal produce.
With a strong background in hospitality training and assessment, as well as specialising in seafood and crustations for many years, Stuart is perfectly placed to lead our kitchen brigade and nurture talent.
This summer, diners can look forward to an elevated celebration of the island’s outstanding seafood — from expertly grilled fish to vibrant shellfish plates and bold coastal flavours that truly capture the spirit of the sea.
Building on his strong relationship with the owners of Character Inns, Stuart will, as the seasons change, introduce his signature Hungry Bear Roast — widely regarded as one of the best roasts on the Island and beyond — at The Crab & Lobster
“I’m really excited to have joined The Crab & Lobster,” said Stuart. “It’s a fantastic location with so much potential to re-establish itself and regain the trust of our valued local community. Over the past four weeks, I’ve been leading the team, ensuring the kitchen makes the necessary changes ahead of re-inspection, as well as retraining everyone to meet the high standards our guests deserve. We’ll be sure to keep you updated on our progress in due course.”
Join us this summer and experience the new wave of flavour from Stuart’s kitchen — where quality, creativity, and island produce are always at the heart of every dish.
Fancy A Getaway With A Little Extra Savings?
Sail Over and Save – Ferry & Room Discounts When You Book Direct!
There’s never been a better time to plan your island escape! When you book a stay in one of our beautiful boutique rooms, you’ll enjoy:
🚢 15% off your ferry travel – making getting here a breeze.
🛏️ An extra 10% off our room rates – exclusively when you book direct via our website.
Whether you’re heading to Bembridge, Yarmouth or Niton, our charming pubs with rooms offer the perfect base for exploring the Isle of Wight. From coastal walks and historic towns to hearty pub meals and sea views – we’ve got it all waiting for you.
Skip the third-party fees and book with us directly to unlock the full value of your visit. Your island getaway just got even better.
👉 BOOK your stay now and let the relaxing begin!
Mother's Day
Set Menus
Show Mum just how much she’s loved …Treat her to a lovingly prepared Special Set Menu this Mother’s Day
Click below for more details and booking:
Fawlty Towers
Comedy Dining Nights
At The Buddle Inn, The Bugle Coaching Inn and The Crab & Lobster Inn.
3 evenings of hilarity, fun and frivolity with Basil, Sybil, Polly and Manuel hosted by Red Tie Theatre Productions, including:
Fabulous 3 Course Meal with Prosecco on Arrival
Click below for more details and booking:
Good Moaning…
August 13th 2024
We've excited to announce that we've teamed up with Red Tie Theatre productions to present 2 fabulous nights of comedy and dining!
Join us for fun and frivolity where you will meet René and friends and enjoy a… Fabulous 3 Course Meal with Prosecco on Arrival!
Shows starts at 7:30pm. Dining starts at 8pm. Priced at £39.50per person with a £10 non refundable deposit required. Shared tables may be allocated subject to bookings.
Describe your image
Describe your image
Describe your image
Describe your image
Describe your image
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Party Time This Bank Holiday Weekend
August 1st 2024
It's all about the party vibes this August Bank Holiday at The Bugle Coaching Inn!
They've lined up some exceptional Live Music and Entertainment for the whole weekend and we're super excited!
Prepare to get down at The Bugle Inn this summer!