Sunday 19th June marks Father’s Day and we all want to spoil the dads in our lives. Whether it’s your dad, stepdad, grandfather or just a great father figure, the man or men in our life need spoiling. We have a few ideas of what you can do over the Father’s Day weekend.
This year Father’s Day coincides with the Isle of Wight Festival – so if you’re heading there with dad, head to the beer tent and treat him to a pint alongside great live music and entertainment.
Brewery and Beer
Beer has got to be a winner with most dads. Amp up the experience with a trip to a micro brewery and sample the latest local brews right from the pump. Boojum & Snark in Sandown is a taproom, brewery and gallery. As everything is brewed on site and in small batches the offering changes regularly so it’s a great opportunity to try something new. The brewery is usually open Fridays and Saturdays but keep an eye on their socials for any up to date info.
Be the best kid and buy dad some frothy, local beer at home. Many local farm shops and also some of the major supermarkets have a great selection of local beers. Choose from Goddards Planet Larger (which is also vegan friendly), Yates‘ extremely popular Islander, a tasty, full rounded ruby bitter or Island Brewery’s Wight Gold, a refreshing amber ale.
Eating out
Now what dad doesn’t love a pub lunch and the Isle of Wight is known for its wonderful traditional inns.
Newport is going to be busy with Festival Revellers and The Bargeman’s Rest alongside the river Medina is a hugely popular spot. Real ales, homecooked, great pub grub, and a relaxing proper pub atmosphere.
Cowes is lined with great places for a bite to eat, The Anchor Inn and Pier View are wonderful pubs which have both great menus as well as cracking special boards. Once you’re done with lunch take a stroll along the esplanade toward Gurnard where you’ll find a Plaza Ice Cream Van… the Biscoff Sundaes are a must try!
Young families will love a day in Shanklin and/or Sandown, amusement arcade games, crazy golf and so much more. Pubs lining the way include The Fisherman’s Cottage and The Steamer Inn along Shanklin Esplanade. If it’s a nice sunny day a picnic on the beach sounds like a winner and a perfect special (but low cost) family lunch.
Ventnor has the iconic Spyglass Inn, with plenty of seating (and no bookings taken) you’ll enjoy home cooked dishes and views across the bay. Maybe your kids are grown up and away, treat the man in your life to a drink and tapas at the newly reopened Met coffee, wine and tapas bar.
History and Heritage
For a more relaxed Father’s Day experience and to enjoy some of the Island’s rich and varied heritage head to the Isle of Wight Steam Railway. Board the train at Havenstreet for a 10 mile round trip through unspoiled countryside… look out the window at ancient woodland and acres of rolling countryside. Hop back off and wander to their interactive museum Train Story all before grabbing a bite to eat at the onsite restaurant.
The Island has always seemed to have a royal connection. From Carisbrooke Castle being a prison for King Charles I to the palatial holiday home at Osborne for Queen Victoria, there is so much to see and do for the history buff dad in your life, he might actually learn something he didn’t know before.
