The Fountain, Cowes

A fairly-average large Greene King town pub, with a nice old interior rather spoilt by all panelling and woodwork being painted grey. Overwhelmed by the usual dead corporate feel, but at least they were serving a drinkable Fuggle-de-dum alongside the usual IPA and Abbot. Outdoor area at rear.

Originally The Golden Fleece, this town hotel is currently owned by GK. The large bar has a mix of slate and laminate flooring which only really serves to make it look a bit cheap and nasty – which it isn’t. There is a yard at the back used primarily as a smoking area, a shame as the prevailing wind brings the smoke into the bar. The food was unimaginative and formulaic, while the chef seemed to spend more time in the smoking yard than the kitchen. The staff were of the bearded-troll variety, the customers mainly tourists. There was a gaming machine which looked a bit out of place. Three ales on, all from GK. I had a pint of Ferryman, an unremarkable bitter labelled, apparently, just for this hotel, though the staff couldn’t really explain why. The ambiance was peaceful, though, so it made for a good escape from the other noisy pubs in the vicinity. Given the presence of other, better pubs within a few minutes’ walk, I don’t see my coming back too often although I might include on a crawl.

Built in 1771 (as the Golden Fleece) the Fountain Hotel is ideally situated close to the quayside where the Red Funnel passenger terminal is situated and is thus one of the first (and last) ports of call for anyone wanting a pint on the island. One early visitor was Thomas Jefferson who stayed here in 1789 following a state visit. The interior consists of a large knocked through main bar and to the rear a separate dining room. The pub has undergone a modern refurbishment and felt rather bland, featureless and lacking any character. Furnishings include the now pre-requisite high tables and sofa areas. There was a sole TV with both Sky & ESPN sports available. Being under Greene King ownership you shouldn’t expect a great variety of beers although the 2 GK ales (IPA and Old Speckled Hen) were joined by Goddards Fuggle De Dum. Quality was fine (theyv are Cask Marque accredited) and prices reasonable enough for the area. I didn’t get a good look at a menu but there were 2 for £9.95 offers advertisd and they also open at 7.30am for breakfast which, given the lack of a local Wetherspoons is probably a decent option. The place is harmless enough but you feel it could and should be a bit better given its location and history. Beyond killing 20 minutes before the catamaran departs (which was the main purpose of our visit), I wouldn’t particularly consider the Fountain as an essential pub stop whilst in town.