The Veteran, Ryde

Peter Forster left this review about The Veteran

This was formally the Marine which as long as I remember had a slightly troubled history. From the 90s it was often closed and when open seemed to be frequented by an interesting clientele. Rebranded the Veteran and given a make over, it is much better these days. It caters for ex-military but is welcoming to everyone. The bar is a large area with high ceilings and large windows looking across to the Esplanade and Solent. As a result the pub can feel a little too spacious and barn like. Perhaps realising this the lights are usually kept quite low and various sofas are scattered around. The walls are extensively covered with pictures of aircraft and other military illustrations. There is plenty for the solo drinker to walk around and examine. Two cask beers from Bowman’s Ales were on offer. I think one was Wallops Wood (£4.50). Either way it wasn’t great, not terrible (NBSS 2) but looking at what others were drinking, perhaps not enough real ale is sold. The only real downside of the pub is the music which always seems too loud to my taste. It makes it hard to maintain pub conversations. Overall a reasonable and friendly pub and given the decidedly average state of the Ryde drinking scene I will usually pop into the Veteran’s when spending an evening in town. (Visit: Mon 15 Dec 2025)

On 28^th January 2026 - rating: 5
[User has posted 3 recommendations about 3 pubs]