Room With A Brew — Yarmouth Pub Plans Boutique B&B

Five new high-quality, boutique-style en-suite bed and breakfast rooms could soon be created at a well-known Isle of Wight pub.

Character Inns IOW has applied for a change of use for the first and second floors of The Kings Head in Yarmouth, along with permission for associated works, to transform the upper levels into guest accommodation.

According to a planning statement from Andrew White Planning Consultancy, the project would provide a major boost for the venue, helping it “continue and thrive” in the years ahead.

It follows listed building consent granted in December last year for internal alterations needed to create the five rooms.

The consultancy says diversification is increasingly important in the hospitality sector, especially given rising running costs and seasonal pressures.

The management team behind The Kings Head already offer guest accommodation at other Island sites and believe the Yarmouth pub presents a strong opportunity.

Previously used as occasional staff accommodation, the upstairs space at the historic pub would house five en-suite rooms, including a larger family suite.

Its location close to ferry connections to Lymington is also highlighted as a key advantage.

The Kings Head is currently closed for the winter.

A notice on its website says the team are “working hard behind the scenes to create stunning new boutique rooms above the pub”, with plans to reopen in spring 2026.

The Isle of Wight Council is inviting comments on the application (25/01474/FUL) until 30 December, with a decision expected on 22 January.