A visitor to the Isle of Wight may be surprised at its varied countryside, made up as it is of many different landscapes, so much so that it is sometimes called 'England in miniature'. Perhaps the most distinctive of these is the undulating chalk downland and cliffs. Downlands are great places to visit, with their spectacular views, unique wildlife, soft grassy surface and strenuous, but not lung-busting, inclines.

On a delightful evening in April, Matt and Cat drove to Culver Down, parked their car in the capacious car park by the Culver Haven and licked their lips in eager anticipation of a nice pub meal after their previous attempt failed. It was too early for the pub to be open so, rather than trail around the Island for an alternative venue, M and C decided to work up an appetite by having a pleasant wander around the down in the setting sun. In fact, a walk up to Culver from Yaverland car park (a picture of the route is shown above) is an ideal way to reach the Culver Haven if you are seeking a good stroll with a pub at the end - with the benefit of it being downhill all the way back.

Having pointed at lots of rabbits, a buzzard and some people playing on the beach far below, Matt and Cat strode back up the hill to the now-open pub. The rear garden certainly looked inviting and they sat there whilst perusing the menu and supping their drinks. The view from the garden is stunning; a great panorama of Bembridge, Ryde and, on a clear day, the mainland beyond.

The Solent and Portsmouth from the Culver Haven

By now Matt and Cat were pretty hungry and were made their choices from the comprehensive menu, which included many chicken dishes and a good selection of vegetarian food. Additionally, there were a few treats on the specials board, such as the seafood platter - which caught Matt's eye. Cat chose garlic butterfly chicken and the friendly staff obligingly allowed her to swap the salad for vegetables. The food ordered, your reviewers left their garden seats for a table inside the cosy pub.

There are many places to sit indoors, although the prime spot has to be the corner table in the conservatory with its impressive views across the English Channel. Alas, this popular seat was already taken but there were plenty of others to choose from.

Soon the meals arrived. In keeping with the fishy theme, Matt's seafood platter was served on a big fish-shaped dish. The interesting-looking breaded lumps contained plaice, cod, and scampi, and were accompanied by chips and a side salad.

Cat's butterfly garlic chicken breast was perfectly shaped, with a dollop of garlic sauce. The chips were lovely and the vegetables (cauliflower, carrots and broccoli) were plentiful and not too mushy. However, Cat's dish did seem a little dry - perhaps it needed more sauce? Matt, however, had no complaints about his and soon both plates were empty. The food was good, if simple - perhaps less pub grub and more styled towards good cafe fare, as maybe is suitable for a location that caters pretty largely for tourists, walkers and cyclists.

This pub is located in a fabulous spot and is a great place to stop and take a breather from down-walking activities. It might not be worth going to for the food alone but, along with the views and, for the non-walker, the ease of parking, it all adds up to a good experience.