'Olde Worlde Wight': Ryde, Shanklin & Godshill
Ryde - The largest town on the island, Ryde has fine Georgian and Victorian buildings, boutique shops, tea-rooms, pubs, restaurants, museums, galleries and a marina. The sea-wall promenade provides a popular walk, passing the Victorian watchtower on the way to Puckpool Park. You can also see the hovercraft coming over the water from Portsmouth.
Shanklin has everything you need for a great holiday. From the long wide sandy beach, perfect for bucket and spade days to the wooded ravine which is Shanklin Chine and the Old Village with its independent shops, restaurants and pubs, you won’t be short of something to do. Shanklin has all the charm of a proper seaside town and set against the dramatic sandstone cliffs, the beach is one of the most stunning walks to take on the island. You could rent a beach hut and watch the world go by or try your hand at the water sports on offer or have a paddle.
Godshill is the quintessential English village and boasts some of the oldest architecture on the Isle of Wight. With its delightful medieval church, charming thatched-roofed cottages and a winding main-street lined with traditional tearooms, Godshill is as picturesque as it is popular. It is also known for being the site of the first ever Isle of Wight Festival, which took place at Ford Farm in 1968. Whatever your interests there are plenty of things to do in here. Along with its collection of traditional tearooms, the village contains an interesting range of shops offering local crafts and produce, such as ciders, pickles, mustards and biscuits. There is also a very popular and highly detailed model village. The medieval All Saints Church (which gave the village its name!) overlooks the village from the hill and is a short but steep climb up either the steps or Church Hollow road.
West Wight Scenic Tour & Arreton Barns
Join us on a scenic tour of the West of the island, taking in famous sights such Alum Bay, The Needles, glorious sandy beaches and some of the Isle of Wight’s ancient old churches. This is a great way to see as much of the island on a short break to the island. Arreton Barns, is the Isle of Wight’s largest arts and crafts centre. There are a vast array of studios showcasing the best work from local artisans and craftspeople. Browse the shops to find interesting and unique gifts to take home for yourself or loved ones, pop into the farm shop or stroll around the stunning grounds.