A programme of investment and improvement is now underway at Appley Manor in Ryde, with new owner Ian Paxton setting out plans to enhance the popular venue while retaining the food, staff and atmosphere that have made it a long-standing favourite.
Work is well underway to enhance the offering at Appley Manor, which has entered a new era following its recent sale after 30 years, as previously reported by Island Echo.
Several hundred thousand pounds is being committed to improvements over the next 12 months or so. But despite the scale of investment, Ian is keen to reassure regulars that the core of Appley Manor will remain unchanged.
The focus is on enhancing the overall experience, improving facilities and broadening the venue’s appeal to new audiences. Plans are in place to introduce a more flexible service style, including the potential return of table service, as well as upgrades to bar areas to better serve both diners and casual visitors.
The kitchen team is staying in place, the menu will remain familiar and the long-serving staff – some of whom have been at the venue for more than 16 years – will continue in their roles.
A key early change is the introduction of a dedicated dog-friendly indoor area, which has been created by removing carpeted sections to allow guests with pets to dine inside – with Appley Manor welcoming man’s best friend inside from this evening.
Further improvements are already planned for the resturant including new tables and chairs, with fresh decor and improved lighting.
Ian Paxton, owner, told Island Echo:
“We’re not looking to change what already works here – the food is good, the staff are fantastic and that’s what people come for.
“What we want to do is enhance the experience, improve the facilities and make sure Appley Manor continues to be somewhere people want to visit.”
On the hotel side of the business, a number of bedrooms have already been refreshed, with upgrades aimed at combining the property’s historic charm with more contemporary touches. Practical additions such as USB charging points and improved bathrooms are being introduced, alongside updated décor and furnishings, with more extensive refurbishment planned for the off-season.
Looking ahead, weddings and functions are set to become a major part of Appley Manor’s future. Plans are in place to create a marquee space capable of hosting up to 120 guests, alongside the use of the venue’s extensive grounds for outdoor ceremonies.
The unique setting – with access to Appley Park, proximity to the beach and views across the Solent – is expected to make the venue particularly attractive for couples seeking a distinctive Isle of Wight wedding location.
A previously little-known path connecting the grounds directly to Appley Park has now been opened up to the public, allowing walkers to move between the beach, park and manor for the first time. This is expected to increase footfall and further integrate the venue into the local community.
Ian, who has successfully developed hospitality venues on the mainland including restored historic pubs in Romsey and Worcester, brings a strong track record of revitalising buildings while respecting their heritage. His wider business portfolio includes construction, design and joinery firms, many of which are already contributing to the works at Appley Manor.
He also has long-standing personal connections to the Isle of Wight, having visited since childhood, which he says influenced the decision to invest in the site.
Former co-owner Paul Brown, who remains involved in the business as Operations Manager, has welcomed the changes, saying:
“It’s very exciting times.
“Investment is going in where it’s needed and it will restore the establishment to a level it deserves to be at.”
While changes will continue to roll out over the coming months and years, the immediate priority is to ensure the venue is ready for the busy Summer season, with further phases of refurbishment planned later in the year.
Sounds great and being dog friendly is a plus.
Dog friendly is definitely the way to go. I’ve never been happy to leave ours in the car, even in the shade of the trees, and now we will be able to visit in the warmer months, too.