Isle of Wight Part One
Isle of Wight: Island Adventures, Stunning Views, and Seafood Delights
We stayed in the south of the Isle of Wight. This was our second mini-break to the island. Last time, we were charmed by the majesty of Osborne House. This time, we based ourselves in the town of Shanklin to visit the attractions nearby.
You can drive from one end to the other in about 45 minutes on the ‘A’ roads although this can sometimes involve playing ‘dodge the tractor’.
Shanklin Chine is the Isle of Wight’s oldest tourist attraction.
This narrow, wooded gorge cuts its way dramatically down from Shanklin Old Village right to the sea.
As a natural wonder, the Chine is stunning to walk through. The lush vegetation and precipitous cliffs create this almost otherworldly, unique effect. We went in the autumn, so it had gone full ‘Halloween’ with its seasonal theming. When the illuminations are turned on in the evening, they add a truly magical feel.
The Chine was used by Royal Marine commandos preparing for the Dieppe landings in World War Two. They practiced their night-time cliff-climbing and landing drills here.
The waterfall feels a shadow of its former self and it felt like a rather short walk for the price tag, especially in the late autumn when much of the notable flora is dying back. However, the ticket does allow you to pop up to the delightful Old Village at the top for a little look around the old houses.
Highlights: evening walk in the illuminations
Nestled near the northern coast, Quarr Abbey is a truly unusual and calming find. It’s home to a working community of Catholic Benedictine monks, but what really catches the eye is the architecture.
The Abbey Church is a Grade I listed building. Built from red brick, it’s not huge, but its peculiar blend of Gothic, Byzantine, and Moorish styles really makes it stand out against the blue sky. We were lucky enough to sit quietly in the church while the monks performed one of their prayers—an imposing, moving call to God.
We stayed for a coffee in the quaint tea shop afterwards. Service is rather slow as befits the abbey.
Highlight: a tranquil moment.
