The Griffin in Godshill is to close its doors early next month as the current management team bids farewell after more than 3 years at the helm of the historic Isle of Wight pub, it has been announced this afternoon (Wednesday).
The popular 200-year-old coaching inn, which is owned by Stonegate Group under its Heritage Pubs brand, will call last orders under its existing management on Friday (6th November), before temporarily closing ahead of a changeover to a new team.
The announcement was made on The Griffin’s social media page this afternoon, with the current team inviting customers to join them for a final drink before they depart.
In a statement, The Griffin team has said:
“After some incredible years, we’re closing our doors for a short while.
“The Griffin has been more than just a pub – it’s been a place where we’ve celebrated the small moments and the big occasions together. From birthdays, after-work drinks and unforgettable nights, we’ve shared so many special memories, and we want to say a heartfelt thank you to our guests and the local community for your loyalty and support.
“We’d love you to join the team on Friday 6th November for a final ‘cheers’. Bar open till 23:00.
“While it’s farewell from our current team, this is only the end of one chapter. After a brief closure, the venue will be reopening under new management and will continue serving the community for many more years to come. The new team look forward to welcoming you all back very soon.”
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The announcement marks another change of management for the historic village pub, which underwent an extensive refurbishment in early 2023.
As previously reported by Island Echo, The Griffin closed in January 23 to allow for a complete renovation and change of operator, before reopening in April following a significant investment by Stonegate Group.
Experienced hospitality operator Paul Mulcrone, who had worked in the industry for more than 30 years, took over the running of the pub at that time, returning to the Isle of Wight where he has family connections.
The refurbishment saw the coaching inn extensively redecorated and redesigned, while retaining many of its original features and historic character.
Improvements were also made to the outside areas, including the pub’s popular hedge maze and children’s play facilities.
At the time of reopening, it was announced that most of the existing team had been retained and 20 new jobs created.
The Griffin has long been a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, with its traditional pub food, Sunday roasts and spacious gardens making it a familiar stopping point in the centre of Godshill.
The pub is also known for its resident ghost, Jack, who is said to have haunted the building for more than 150 years.
The forthcoming closure bears similarities to the management change in 2023, when the pub temporarily shut its doors before reopening under new stewardship.
It has not yet been announced who will be taking over the running of The Griffin, or exactly when the pub will reopen.
