The historic Ryde Castle has reopened today (Friday) following an 18 month project to rebuild the listed building after the hotel was severely damaged by fire back in March of last year.
Owners of the iconic building, pub retailer and brewer Greene King, have been working closely with the Isle of Wight Council Conservation Team to restore Ryde Castle to its former glory – and some say it is better than ever. A lift has now been installed, as well as a side entrance directly to the bar to encourage locals through the door.
Manager David Edwards said:
“The team is very excited about re-opening. It was always a beautiful building and the work that has been done to restore original features and retain the character of the building has been extraordinary.”
Planning permission was obtained to tweak the layout internally, improving accessibility and comfort of guests, particularly within the reception and bar area. Ryde Castle now has 18 bedrooms, each with modern standards, and is part of the Old English Inn group.
Unfortunately, very little could be salvaged from the blaze, which saw the main section of the castle fall down through the reception area and out through the front doors.
The hotel was gutted by fire after fireworks were set off from the roof of the building during a wedding reception. Over 50 firefighters tackled the huge fire at the seafront hotel on 17th March 2012, as many local residents looked on in disbelief.
The news spread far and wide, with Island Echo syndicating with the likes of The Sun, which ran a full page story in the aftermath.
Business unit director for Old English Inns, Peter Hebblethwaite said:
“Ryde Castle really has been restored to its former glory and beyond. It is a very fine hotel that I hope everyone in Ryde will be proud of.”
The Castle Function Suite has its own stage, dance floor and bar, suitable for wedding and private functions for up to 120 guests. A new rear entrance has also been installed. The restaurant at the hotel has stunning views of the seafront and will offer a wide selection of tasty pub food and a great choice of Greene King cask ales at the bar.
