Duver Inn- Does anybody remember this????

tina_h · Joined: 03 Sep 2011 Posts: 5

When I was younger, we used to visit the Isle of Wight every year and I have vague memories or going to the Duver Inn - I think it was a bar or restaurant and there was either a conservatory or big windows. They sold souvenir key rings which may have been a sillouette of a boat/ship - Does any one remember this or have I dreamt the whole thing ?

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Bryn Polyn · Joined: 11 Dec 2010 Posts: 11

Was it Seaview or St Helens Duver....?

tina_h · Joined: 03 Sep 2011 Posts: 5

sorry, I don't know. I have really vague memories but it would have been in the early to mid 1980's.

Bryn Polyn · Joined: 11 Dec 2010 Posts: 11

At Seaview on the Toll Road there was a big 1930's pub cum cafe in 1930's style (painted pink?) that was demolished some time in the 80's. It's still a derelict site, but there's now a sign saying something about superior beach huts about to be built.(They must be very superior as the price is higher than I'd get for my house!). Could it be that one? I think it was trading as the Fort Tavern or some such at one stage? Anyway, the same name is now used by the place on Seaview sea front, with an information board about the history of the business at the two sites....

tina_h · Joined: 03 Sep 2011 Posts: 5

thanks for the information, you have given me something to go on but unfortunately if it is the same place then a nostalgic return trip is out of the question.

Bryn Polyn · Joined: 11 Dec 2010 Posts: 11

Looks like it may be - although the Old Fort in Seaview (if it is the same place) retains its former name and is a kind of successor. Another possibility could be a pub that existed on the Duver at St Helens, looking across to Bembridge at the mouth of the harbour. This was more like an Edwardian family house, but did have consevatories built on at the front. It was approached along the narrow road across the former golf course. No longer a pub, but still standing I believe...

tina_h · Joined: 03 Sep 2011 Posts: 5

That does sound really familiar. I think that could be it.

Bryn Polyn · Joined: 11 Dec 2010 Posts: 11

There would have been a small sandy beach directly in front of the forecourt, no road. The two wings with the large windows were actually more like sunlounges than conservatories. The name Duver Inn doesn't ring a bell - but then I can't think of any other name it might have had!!

tina_h · Joined: 03 Sep 2011 Posts: 5

The name St Helens does ring a bell and their key ring was a boat/ship silhouette on a pink background. I remember sitting in a conservatory type room, I think the windowframes were white. The building did resemble a large house. My memories are so vague as I was probably no more then 10 years old when I was last there. You have been very helpful though so thank you for your time.