Popular Whippingham pub, The Folly Inn, will close later this month for an extensive refurbishment set to totally transform the well-known establishment.
Although work on the exterior of the pub is now underway, the pub is still open until 25th September, when it will close for 6 weeks – reopening in early November.
Popular with sailing clubs both on the Island and across the South Coast, the Folly Inn has its own jetty connected to the site, which is also being refurbished. A new water taxi office and new shower facilities are being built to further enhance the experience for guests arriving by boat.
Next to the jetty, the waterside patio along the shoreline is being extended over the water and upgraded as part of the investment. A new heated pergola is being built over the existing patio area to ensure the space can be used throughout the year.
Externally, the main garden area will benefit from increased seating capacity, a feature fireplace, and a new pergola. A new outdoor kitchen and bar, opening in Spring, will allow guests to enjoy a true al fresco dining experience all year round.
Whilst the traditional character and heritage features of the building will be thoughtfully maintained, the pub will benefit from new furniture, a new indoor/outdoor fireplace, as well as bi-fold doors along 2 elevations, offering diners views over the water.
On the inside of the pub, the entire premises is being completely refurbished.
Saoirse Doolan, General Manager of The Folly Inn, said:
“The planned refurbishment at the Folly Inn is going to completely transform the site, providing a massively upgraded outdoor area for guests to enjoy in all weathers.
“The pub has always been popular with both islanders and sailing clubs on the mainland, so we can’t wait to show off the planned new features to both new customers and old.
“Although work on the exterior of the pub has started, don’t worry – the pub is still open until late September so come on in for a drink or a bite to eat!”
Looking at the picture, it seems like they could do with more parking.
What needs urgent replacement is the dreadful road to get to the Folly Inn.
Yes, could you please include the road in the upgrade ?
Absolutely. A 10Million investment wouldn’t get me driving ( well, trying to drive) down that road.
My wife and i were regular visitors to this pub, however due to the ever increasing deterioration of the road, we haven’t been there for at least 18 months, and have no plans to do so. I appreciate that the road repairs should be shared with other businesses on the route, but still no effort being made
Bring back the Folly Regatta! can’t beat a good cork scramble, tug of war or pram dinghy rowing races! proper local event back in the day!
used to be good now crap food and the road..whats the point going there..
What about improving customer service, not very welcoming staff on my last visit.
Everything needs upgrading at that place management , staff stop the filthy feet on the tables where your supposed to eat these are just something’s oh yes and the road
Put lipstick on a pig… its still a pig
As long as the food improves and Greene King aren’t having anything to do with it…just waiting to see the prices and how they compare with the area