BUSINESS partners and lifelong friends, Justin Evelegh and William Simonds grew up only a stone's throw away from The Old Fort in Seaview.

They spent many an evening propping up the bar and putting the world to rights, so when they heard that the previous landlord, Peter Hall, was going to retire and sell their beloved local pub, it seemed only right that they jump at the chance to take it on.

Despite some obstacles, not least taking over a hospitality business in the midst of a global pandemic, the new owners haven’t looked back since.

They signed in July 2020 and opened the next day. The forthcoming lockdowns were used to strategise and bring a vision to life — creating a new, purpose built, open-plan restaurant and bar space upstairs with uninterrupted panoramic views of The Solent and beyond.

Downstairs also had a complete overhaul.

They ran it themselves for the first year and then hired a new manager in May 2021 - Charlotte Butler - who came to The Old Fort after 13 years at Sea View Yacht Club. She is assisted by Bee Evelegh, Justin’s younger sister.

Hiring a new executive chef, Bam Smith, saw the food offering redeveloped too.

Isle of Wight County Press: Executive chef Bam Smith.Executive chef Bam Smith.

The Old Fort was named Best Destination Pub across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight in the Muddy Stiletto Awards.

The Old Fort has also been awarded a TripAdvisor Travellers' Choice award, Restaurant Guru's 'Best Atmosphere’ and ‘Best Burgers’ awards and a Level 5 food hygiene rating.

Isle of Wight County Press: The Old Fort in Seaview.

The venue has been nominated for three awards in the Red Funnel Isle of Wight Awards including Best Pub, Best Restaurant and Best Fish and Chips. 

Further ideas include approved plans to extend the upstairs restaurant space and add a new underground cellar and store.

The team is expanding for the upcoming summer season via jobs@theoldfortseaview.co.uk