Reimagining Hospitality on the Isle of Wight

Paying homage to where we grew up SE-VIEW Group was founded by business partners & lifelong friends Will Simonds & Justin Evelegh - who had a shared vision to create bold, beautiful spaces that celebrate the charm and character of the Isle of Wight.

Established in December 2019, SE-VIEW set out with a clear mission - to reimagine coastal hospitality by revitalising tired venues and creating places that feel vibrant, welcoming, and rooted in their surroundings. From the outset, the focus has been on longevity, strong identity, and spaces that work just as well for locals as they do for visitors.

The group’s first site, The Old Fort, Seaview, was acquired in July 2020 during the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic. Through careful investment, considered design, and hands-on leadership, it has been transformed from a quiet seasonal pub into a thriving, all-year-round destination and a recognised flagship for the group.

Alongside operating The Old Fort, SE-VIEW has invested heavily in the planning and development of new coastal concepts. Most notably, The View, Bembridge was conceived as an ambitious seafront restaurant and beach club. Although the project ultimately did not proceed, the process involved extensive planning, design development, investor engagement, and operational modelling. The experience strengthened the group’s capabilities and continues to inform how future opportunities are assessed and shaped.

Today, SE-VIEW Group remains focused on quality over quantity, long-term value, and creating hospitality experiences that genuinely belong where they are built. With a strong foundation and a clear point of view, the group continues to look ahead to what comes next.

Want to be part of the story? The group is actively seeking new sites, welcoming investment and partnership opportunities to help bring the next new destination to life.  If you are interested in working with us, we would love to hear from you.