Category: Outdoor Life
March 20, 2012
Tennyson Down just south of Totland provides exhilarating walks over beautiful open downland 482 feet up with sheer chalk cliffs and dramatic sea views. Once a favourite haunt of Alfred Lord Tennyson, these stunning downs are named in his memory and are home to flower-rich grassland, butterflies and cliffs teaming with sea birds.
This National Trust owned land was named after the famous Poet Laureate who lived at the nearby Farringford for 40 years. Whilst scaling the heights you must visit Tennyson's monument erected in 1897 in his memory.
Discover the last 150 years of the headland's military history at the Needles Old Battery and New Battery, and take in the spectacular rock pinnacles after which the headland was named.
This spectacularly sited cliff top fort, built in 1862 due to the threat of a French invasion, contains military history exhibitions spanning both World Wars.
In the 1950s and 60s the famous Black Knight and Black Arrow rockets were secretly tested here before being launched from Australia. The Needles New Battery now contains an exhibition about the part the site played in Britain's race for space.
Headon Warren is the largest area of heathland on the island, with impressive limestone cliffs which tumble into the sea at Totland Bay. From the summit, you can really appreciate the stunning panoramic views of the West Wight and the Dorset coastline and explore the distinctive Bronze Age burial mound on the top of the hill.
Wight Locations has an increasing number of quality self catering accommodation on the west of the Island if you want to base yourself in this beautiful area.
This National Trust owned land was named after the famous Poet Laureate who lived at the nearby Farringford for 40 years. Whilst scaling the heights you must visit Tennyson's monument erected in 1897 in his memory. Discover the last 150 years of the headland's military history at the Needles Old Battery and New Battery, and take in the spectacular rock pinnacles after which the headland was named.
This spectacularly sited cliff top fort, built in 1862 due to the threat of a French invasion, contains military history exhibitions spanning both World Wars.
In the 1950s and 60s the famous Black Knight and Black Arrow rockets were secretly tested here before being launched from Australia. The Needles New Battery now contains an exhibition about the part the site played in Britain's race for space. Headon Warren is the largest area of heathland on the island, with impressive limestone cliffs which tumble into the sea at Totland Bay. From the summit, you can really appreciate the stunning panoramic views of the West Wight and the Dorset coastline and explore the distinctive Bronze Age burial mound on the top of the hill.
Wight Locations has an increasing number of quality self catering accommodation on the west of the Island if you want to base yourself in this beautiful area.
Things to do, Outdoor Life
March 3, 2012
Wight Locations is a big fan of Robin Hill Country Park which has 8 acres of beautiful landscaped woodland gardens to explore. You can learn about red squirrels and nature or find out about our rich Roman history.
The park has a huge variety of play areas and four main ride experiences for the little ones including an exhilarating toboggan ride, and why not catch a Free Ride with the Big Green Tractor Train.
There are daily falconry displays where you can learn more about our feathered friends and experience them flying right over your head!
White Falconry has over 5 years of experience and prides itself on the quality of its birds, having just enough birds for the demonstrations.
White Falconry also commit a large part of its resources into rehabilitation of wild birds of prey.
A 7 day ticket allows you unlimited access to Robin Hill and Blackgang Chine.
Robin Hill Country Park
White Falconry
The park has a huge variety of play areas and four main ride experiences for the little ones including an exhilarating toboggan ride, and why not catch a Free Ride with the Big Green Tractor Train. There are daily falconry displays where you can learn more about our feathered friends and experience them flying right over your head!
White Falconry has over 5 years of experience and prides itself on the quality of its birds, having just enough birds for the demonstrations.
White Falconry also commit a large part of its resources into rehabilitation of wild birds of prey.
A 7 day ticket allows you unlimited access to Robin Hill and Blackgang Chine.
Robin Hill Country Park
White Falconry
We Love!, Things to do, Outdoor Life
February 23, 2012
At only 23 by 13 miles the size of the Island means you are never far from a beach here on the Isle of Wight.
We have 14 award winning beaches, all managed to meet the highest of standards and a number which allow dogs at certain times of the year (see Man's Best Friend for pet friendly beaches)
Many of our self catering holiday cottages are either on the beach or close to the water.
Why not take a look at our Waterfront Self Catering holiday homes and see how close you can get to the sand?
Isle of Wight Beach Guide
We have 14 award winning beaches, all managed to meet the highest of standards and a number which allow dogs at certain times of the year (see Man's Best Friend for pet friendly beaches)
Many of our self catering holiday cottages are either on the beach or close to the water. Why not take a look at our Waterfront Self Catering holiday homes and see how close you can get to the sand?
Isle of Wight Beach Guide
Outdoor Life
February 13, 2012
The Island has plenty of golf courses for visitors to enjoy, without the need to be a member.
Whether you want to practice your swing, putting or get straight to the 19th hole there will be a course on the Island for you.
For the real professionals, Sandown & Shanklin course and Freshwater Bay have 18 holes, while others have 9 or 12.
Some offer training sessions with the Explanar training system, such as Westridge Golf Centre which is a 9 hole 'Pay as you Play' course.
Map with Contact Info of Golf Courses on the Isle of Wight
Whether you want to practice your swing, putting or get straight to the 19th hole there will be a course on the Island for you.
For the real professionals, Sandown & Shanklin course and Freshwater Bay have 18 holes, while others have 9 or 12.
Some offer training sessions with the Explanar training system, such as Westridge Golf Centre which is a 9 hole 'Pay as you Play' course.
Map with Contact Info of Golf Courses on the Isle of Wight
Things to do, Outdoor Life
January 5, 2012
Rib Charter is a fantastic and exhilarating way to enjoy the sea and view the spectacular coastline of the Isle of Wight.
Like a big dinghy with a massive engine on the back, the Rib is very safe and stable. Described as the 4x4 of the sea, as used by the Coastguard, Army, etc.
The boats are lightweight and powerful, so they can reach very high speeds on the water and tend to bounce across waves giving a thrilling ride at sea.
Available for 1/2 hour, 1 hour and 1/2 day or 1 day charter.
If you do not fancy the rib why not try the 42ft Gentlemens motor yacht for a more leisurely, smoother and more comfortable ride.
First Contact Boat Charters
Top tip - Enjoy your lunch and refreshments after your thrilling ride! The Bugle Coaching Inn in Yarmouth is a member of the Good Pub Guide and a great place to get your breath back.
Like a big dinghy with a massive engine on the back, the Rib is very safe and stable. Described as the 4x4 of the sea, as used by the Coastguard, Army, etc.
The boats are lightweight and powerful, so they can reach very high speeds on the water and tend to bounce across waves giving a thrilling ride at sea.
Available for 1/2 hour, 1 hour and 1/2 day or 1 day charter.
If you do not fancy the rib why not try the 42ft Gentlemens motor yacht for a more leisurely, smoother and more comfortable ride.
High speed rib trips from Yarmouth Harbour to the Needles start from £15 per person.
First Contact Boat Charters
Top tip - Enjoy your lunch and refreshments after your thrilling ride! The Bugle Coaching Inn in Yarmouth is a member of the Good Pub Guide and a great place to get your breath back.
Things to do, Outdoor Life
December 15, 2011
Over 750 feet above sea level on St Catherine's Down above Chale, is the 35ft tall octagonal tower St Catherine's Oratory, locally known as the Pepper Pot. This medieval light-house was built in 1312 and is believed to be one of oldest in Britain.
The Oratory was named after St Catherine of Alexandria who lived here from about 287 to 305 AD. Further along St Catherine's Down is the Hoy Monument, built by Michael Hoy in 1814 to commemorate the visit of the Tsar of Russia to Great Britain.
There is a second light-house on the coast at St Catherine's Point built in 1836 and later another one that it is still in use.
Because it is so far above sea level and built on a mound in the middle of the downs, this National Trust area around the Pepperpot is a bird watchers paradise as the birds are all at eye level.
After a bracing walk on the downs, refresh and refuel with a lovely meal at the Wight Mouse Inn in Chale. They have an extensive quality menu and huge dining area. This family friendly pub restaurant has a very large garden out the back and plenty of parking.
Hidden Gems, Things to do, Outdoor Life
November 26, 2011
Once the Islands capital, Newtown is in the north west of the Isle of Wight. It is on a spider shaped inlet on the River estuary, Newtown Creek, and the area is a National Trust Nature Reserve.
The 17th century quay began life with boats delivering coal and taking corn and developed into a major seaport trading local salt and oysters. It is now popular with yachts and sailing dinghies.
Today, Newtown is a tranquil place where you can wander along the footpaths through the old streets and visit the beautifully restored Victorian church, and the town hall.
The combination of salt marshes and mudflats, woodland, hedgerow and meadow means that it supports an abundance of rare wildlife and it is a paradise for both birds and birdwatchers.
After soaking up the views and wildlife relax and refresh in the nearby UK Good Pub Guide Award winning dining pub, the New Inn at Shalfleet.
The 17th century quay began life with boats delivering coal and taking corn and developed into a major seaport trading local salt and oysters. It is now popular with yachts and sailing dinghies.
Today, Newtown is a tranquil place where you can wander along the footpaths through the old streets and visit the beautifully restored Victorian church, and the town hall.
The combination of salt marshes and mudflats, woodland, hedgerow and meadow means that it supports an abundance of rare wildlife and it is a paradise for both birds and birdwatchers.
After soaking up the views and wildlife relax and refresh in the nearby UK Good Pub Guide Award winning dining pub, the New Inn at Shalfleet.
Things to do, Outdoor Life
November 15, 2011
Godshill Park Farm in Godshill is situated in an area of outstanding natural beauty.
Enjoy a 2 hour trek with these beautiful creatures through the 270 acres of undulating farmland and unspoiled woodland and ponds. Enjoy the peace and fresh air, and being at one with nature for while...!
After your leisurely trek enjoy the best cream tea in Godshill at The Hollies Tea Garden, served warm and complete with fresh strawberries.
Walking with Llamas & Alpacas
Enjoy a 2 hour trek with these beautiful creatures through the 270 acres of undulating farmland and unspoiled woodland and ponds. Enjoy the peace and fresh air, and being at one with nature for while...!
After your leisurely trek enjoy the best cream tea in Godshill at The Hollies Tea Garden, served warm and complete with fresh strawberries.
Walking with Llamas & Alpacas
Things to do, Outdoor Life
September 12, 2011
Wight Locations has a fair percentage of pet friendly self catering properties here on the island and so guests often ask us which beaches they are permitted to walk their dogs on and when.
Between 1st October 30th April each year, dogs are permitted on the Island beaches. During the summer period, dogs (with the exception of guide dogs) are banned from a number of Island beaches that are owned by the Isle of Wight Council. But there are still plenty of beaches that will allow your beloved pet! Check out the link below.
Dog Friendly Beaches
Between 1st October 30th April each year, dogs are permitted on the Island beaches. During the summer period, dogs (with the exception of guide dogs) are banned from a number of Island beaches that are owned by the Isle of Wight Council. But there are still plenty of beaches that will allow your beloved pet! Check out the link below.
Dog Friendly Beaches
Planning your Escape, Outdoor Life
September 8, 2011
As part of the lead up to the Isle of Wight Cycling Festival on the 17th-25th September, Wight Locations are publishing a few of their favourite cycle routes around the Island. Here's our first!
Newport to Cowes
The off-road Medina cycleway between Cowes and Newport is ideal for a short there-and-back ride. Part of National Route 23, this picturesque cycle track is a great way to enjoy the spirit of the Isle of Wight life. Starting at a super little pub in Newport called The Bargemans Rest and bringing you into Cowes to finish at a similarly fine establishment in the heart of Cowes - The Pier View Hotel.
Newport to Cowes with WightLocations
Newport to Cowes
The off-road Medina cycleway between Cowes and Newport is ideal for a short there-and-back ride. Part of National Route 23, this picturesque cycle track is a great way to enjoy the spirit of the Isle of Wight life. Starting at a super little pub in Newport called The Bargemans Rest and bringing you into Cowes to finish at a similarly fine establishment in the heart of Cowes - The Pier View Hotel.
Newport to Cowes with WightLocations
Things to do, Outdoor Life