Popular Isle of Wight pub closes after major refurbishment

The Blenheim's licensee, Debbie Cardwell, decided to call it a day on the pub business after seven successful years at the helm.

The Ventnor High Street pub shut it doors after business concluded on Tuesday.

During her time time, Debbie has helped transform the pub — owned by Heineken's Star Pubs and Bars — into one of the best in the town.

This included a £280,000 facelift from top to bottom in 2019. 

"My lease was coming up for renewal and I decided I did not want it for another five years. I just wanted a proper 9-5 job again," said Debbie.

She worked for the Isle of Wight Council for 25 years, serving most of her time doing administrative roles in environmental health and licensing, which gave her an insight into the pub business.

"The Blenheim's a great place and it would be fair to say everyone who's worked there loves it," added Debbie.

"I'm sure it will reopen and I'm sure it will do exceptionally well. I'd love to see it reopen for Christmas. But for me, it's the right time to go."

Debbie took on the historic pub — which dates from at least 1886 — when it had a less than glowing reputation for anti-social behaviour.

"We worked hard to turn it round. When I first decided to take it on, the police warned me against it as there was so much trouble there," she explained.

"But we are leaving it in a much better place now — physically and from a business point of view."