Situated in the heart of the Island is the largest of these towns, the capital town of Newport, which originally expanded out from the Quay area on the River Medina.

A couple of miles up the river from Newport Quay is the Marina development of Island Harbour surrounded by beautiful countryside, popular walking routes, wildlife and a couple of great pubs on the river.

The ‘old towpath’ footpath runs from the Folly Inn Pub, down the river, past Island Harbour and the wreck of 1930’s paddle steamer, the Ryde Queen and then through Seaclose Park, the site of the annual Isle of Wight Festival and eventually ending up at Newport Quay.

Newport is steeped in History, and has some incredible old buildings, including a 16th century pub, which is said to have been frequented by Charles I, under armed guard when he was held at Carisbrooke Castle in 1649. Carisbrooke Castle is located just outside Newport, and is a popular attraction for visitors of all ages.

North of Newport town centre is Parkhurst Forest, which is full of well-maintained trails and footpaths, popular with dog walkers, mountain bikers and nature enthusiasts. If you keep your eyes peeled, you may even spot one of the Island's famous red squirrels.

There are some lovely rural villages just outside of Newport, including the small village of Merstone. Merstone is home to Merston Manor, which was first mentioned in the Domesday Book, and the present structure is arguably the oldest brick house on the Island. You’ll see plenty of walkers and cyclists passing through Merstone as it sits on a very popular cycle route from Newport to Sandown, which runs along the route of an old railway line. 

The popular village of Godshill is within easy walking distance of Merstone and has a plethora of Tea rooms, gift shops, and picturesque thatched cottages.

The central region of the Island makes a great base from which to explore everything the Island has to offer. View our cottages in Central Wight.