5_e6_5957415_3297097219_4

5_E6_5957415_3297097219_4

Pick up a bike from Wight Cycle Hire and explore routes out of Yarmouth, Isle of Wight

Cycle routes from Yarmouth

Isle of Wight

Things to do

Yarmouth

View across to The Needles, Isle of Wight

wildwight-hike-26

The Isle of Wight Coastal Path is an undeniably beautiful hiking route—offering every kind of coastal landscape imaginable

wildwight-hike-13

Newtown Creek, Isle of Wight

Hiking the Isle of Wight Coastal Path from Ryde to The Needles

Ryde

Wightlink ferry, St Clare on the Solent with the Isle of Wight in the background

spy-on-the-solent-blog-header-st-clare-801x533

Spy-on-the-Solent-blog-header-St-Clare-801x533

Whether you travel frequently to and from the Isle of Wight or you’re planning your first Wightlink ‘cruise’ you may be curious about some of the landmarks you can see from the ferry.

Spy on The Solent...

Lymington

Mainland

Portsmouth

Wightlink

Built by Henry VIII in 1547, <a href="https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/yarmouth-castle/">Yarmouth Castle</a> is now a fantastic picnic spot with breathtaking views across the Solent.

Originally built as an artillery fort to protect Yarmouth Harbour from the threat of French attack, the castle was initially equipped with a garrison of 20 men and 15 artillery guns and was completed after King Henry VIII’s death.

These days, it’s the perfect chance to step back in time into the atmospheric room recreations and view the exhibition about the many wrecks which occurred in the stretch of sea that the castle overlooks.

Yarmouth Castle was not only the most sophisticated addition to Henry VIII’s coastal defences, but it was also the last and is located right next to our <a href="https://www.wightlink.co.uk/facilities/ports/yarmouth" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Yarmouth port</a> – the perfect location to stop off and brush up on your history before hopping on the ferry.

<strong>Yarmouth Castle Opening Times</strong>

Yarmouth Castle is open daily from April to November from 11am – 5pm. Please see the <a href="https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/yarmouth-castle/">official website</a> for up to date pricing.

&nbsp;

acf/explorer-poi

Yarmouth Castle

<p>The George Hotel have 17 fabulous, individually-designed en-suite bedrooms, from Cosy Snug Rooms to the more luxurious and spacious Prestige Terrace rooms.</p>
<p>Whatever room you choose, expect supremely comfortable large beds, crisp white linen, plump pillows and a well-equipped bathroom. Many rooms come with sea or harbour views. For guests wishing to avoid the stairs, there’s one ground floor room and for families, you’ll find one family toom offering a double bed with an adjoining room with bunk beds.</p>


The George Hotel

<ul class="dolist">
<li>Start location: Yarmouth Bridge</li>
<li>Difficulty: Easy</li>
<li>Walking distance: 5 miles</li>
<li>Walk duration: 2 hours</li>
<li>Places to buy food &amp; drink</li>
<li>Viewing &amp; rest stops on route</li>
<li>Family friendly walk</li>
</ul>
<p>This easy walk, mainly on the level, covers the five miles from historic Yarmouth with its waterfront castle to the scenic cliffs at Compton Bay follows the estuary of the River Yar, where the mudflats, reed beds and saltmarshes are a haven for wildlife – you may even spot red squirrels – to Freshwater Causeway and then on to Afton Down. An alternative route on the flat continues to Freshwater Bay avoiding the climb up the chalk downs.</p>


Freshwater Way walking route

The Needles are one of the Isle of Wight’s most iconic sights. These three white chalk stacks leading up to the Needles Lighthouse are the first thing that many people think of when they hear to words ‘Isle of Wight’. The Needles are more than just a beautiful sight, however. There’s plenty to do here, from the world-famous chairlift and the 4D cinema to the Needles Old Battery and much more.
<h3>The Needles Isle of Wight facts</h3>
The name comes from a fourth pillar, which was more needle-shaped than the three stacks we see today. The original ‘Needle’ pillar collapsed in a storm in 1764, but the name lives on. On the cliffs above the stacks, the Needles Battery was an important military site until quite recently. The National Trust now own and curate what’s left of the Needles Old Battery.

Today, the Needles are a major draw, bringing thousands every year to the Isle of Wight. The Needles and their surrounds have managed to maintain their natural beauty and grandeur despite also playing host to a number of fantastic family attractions. If you only have the chance to visit one place on the Isle of Wight, make it the Needles.
<h3>The Needles Old Battery</h3>
The Needles Old Battery, owned and operated by the National Trust, is a fascinating piece of the Island’s history. In Victorian times, the Old Battery provided coastal defence. Modern visitors can walk the stone fortifications, taking in the incredible views over The Needles Alum Bay as they do so. In the 20th century, the site was used for secret rocket testing, making it an absolute must for anyone with an interest in military history – as well as for anyone who appreciates a wonderful view.
<h3>The Needles Chairlift</h3>
Running from the top of Alum Bay to the brightly-coloured sands of the beach below, few Isle of Wight attractions are as much-loved as this chairlift. The Needles and Alum Bay appear in all their glory during the journey up or down – there is no better way to drink in the beauty of this place. The chairlift is very reasonably priced, as well, enabling whole families to enjoy this great experience without feeling the sting in your wallets.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-38029" src="https://cms.wightlink.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/needles-alum-bay-chairlift-801x533-1.jpg" alt="Chairlift at Alum Bay, Isle of Wight" width="100%" />
<h3>The Needles Landmark Attraction</h3>
The Needles Landmark Attraction has something for everyone:
<ul class="dolist">
 	<li>For cinema fans, there’s the 4D cinema – which shows films in 3D, with immersive surround-sound, and touch-technology. A 4D cinema experience makes you feel as though you’re truly inside the film you’re watching – great fun, but (depending on the film) not for the faint-hearted.</li>
 	<li>The IW Sweet Manufactory makes delicious and unique sweets to tempt your tastebuds. Watch the sweet-makers at their craft, learn about how sweets are made, and sample the lovely-tasting produce.</li>
 	<li>Alum Bay Glass gives visitors the opportunity to watch the ancient and intriguing process of glass-blowing. Intricate and beautiful glass creations take shape before the very eyes of visitors.</li>
 	<li>Children can enjoy a number of fun rides and attractions, including a traditional Victorian carousel, the Spins and Needles IOW teacup ride, and a games kiosk with plenty of fun fairground-style games and tests of skill.</li>
 	<li>At the Sand Shop and the Pier Head Shopping Emporium, people can buy souvenirs from their visit. There are also plenty of facts about the Needles on display all around, making this an educational as well as an enjoyable experience.</li>
 	<li>Water Walkerz give people the opportunity to enjoy themselves on the water – encased in giant bubbles! It’s great fun, and very popular with kids!</li>
 	<li>For the dinosaur fans, there’s a 11 hole ‘Jurassic Golf’ course, where people can play golf and learn about dinosaurs all at the same time. The course is peppered with beautiful water features, and boards offering information on nine different species of dinosaur.</li>
</ul>

<h3>Marconi’s Licensed Tea Room</h3>
The world’s first long-distance radio signal was sent from the Isle of Wight, at the Needles. Italian inventor Guglielmo Marconi, who introduced the world to radio, sent the historic transmission from his base at the Needles IOW in 1897. Today, the Needles Landmark Attraction’s tea room is named after the great man. At Marconi’s Tea Room, you can enjoy a range of delicious refreshments, including local beers, lovely wines, and scrumptious cakes and pastries.
<h3>Getting to The Needles IOW</h3>
Getting to the Needles is easy with Wightlink. Our ferry to Yarmouth will drop you within easy reach of the Landmark Attraction. Our ferries are quick and comfortable, with plenty of on-board facilities. <a href="https://book.wightlink.co.uk/">Book your ferry tickets today</a>, and start planning your visit to the Isle of Wight and its world-famous Needles.
<h3>Opening Times:</h3>
Daily 10:00 - 16:00 during the peak seasons, typically between April and October.

Opening times will vary throughout the season with longer opening hours through high summer.

Site is open to the public all year round, but not all outlets are operational through the winter.

The Needles Landmark Attraction

<p>Perched atop the<span> </span><a href="https://www.wightlink.co.uk/top-attractions/the-needles-landmark-attraction/">famous Needles rocks</a> is the <span><a href="https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/the-needles-old-battery-and-new-battery">The Needles Old and New Battery</a>, a Victorian fortification and subsequent top secret rocket testing location built back in 1862.</span></p>
<p>On the grounds sit two Armstrong 9-inch muzzle-loading guns, impressive original artefacts that date back to 1873. Underneath the Parade Ground you&#8217;ll find an underground tunnel leading down to stunning views of the rock formation and over to Dorset and beyond.</p>
<p>While you&#8217;re there, take a step into the Tearoom and be transported back to the 1940s. With a delicious menu and food freshly made using Island produce whenever possible, it&#8217;s the ideal place to recharge your batteries, in a Battery.</p>
<p>Further along, you&#8217;ll find the New Battery, once the site of secret Cold War rocket tests. Inside, you&#8217;ll get a feel of what it was like for the scientists working there, telling the fascinating story of British space rockets which were discreetly tested between the 50s and 70s. From here, miles of footpaths spread out across Tennyson Downs and the kiosk serves drinks and snacks for re-fuelling before heading onward.<br />
</p>

The Needles Old and New Battery

<p>Norton Grange Coastal Village is a chalet village on the west side of the Isle of Wight, only minutes from our Yarmouth port.</p>
<p>It’s the perfect base from which to explore the beautiful beaches, charming coastal towns and tranquil village of the Island.</p>
<p>On site, you can relax and soak up the stunning views across the Solent from the sunny seafront terrace or Waterfront Coffee Lounge, or try pitch and putt, bowls and a variety of indoor games.<br />
You’ll also find an indoor swimming pool and coastal path.</p>


Warner Leisure Hotels – Norton Grange Coastal Village

<ul>
 	<li><strong>Over 100 beautiful self-catering cottages</strong></li>
 	<li><strong>5 minutes walk to the beach</strong></li>
 	<li><strong>The perfect base to explore the Island</strong></li>
 	<li><strong>Set in an area of outstanding natural beauty</strong></li>
</ul>
With beautiful beaches on one side and spectacular countryside on the other, West Bay Cottages offers the perfect coastal escape.

Our stylish properties are inspired by the beautiful wooden-clad, beach-front homes of New England. The interiors are designed with comfort and relaxation in mind with everything you need for the perfect family-friendly self-catering break – the ultimate holiday home-from-home.

The cottages are set in 17 acres of landscaped grounds and pathways, which are gated and child-safe creating a friendly village atmosphere. Toddlers can run around freely and play games on the grass and older children can ride their bikes and scooters on the open pathways.

West Bay is conveniently located only minutes away from the <a href="https://www.wightlink.co.uk/facilities/ports/yarmouth">Yarmouth port</a> and the historic harbour town of Yarmouth which is full of charm and character. The unspoiled, rugged landscape of the West Wight is right on our doorstep and is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). Discover secluded beaches; ancient woodlands; marshlands rich in wildlife; and mile after mile of footpaths, bridleways and cycle paths that are just waiting to be explored. Let your adventures begin.

Whether you’re looking for blissful relaxation to unwind and restore a sense of well-being or for a family holiday packed with fun and activities – a break at West Bay is the perfect coastal getaway. Ideal for weekend escapes to retreat from busy lives, a midweek dash from the city, or a fuss-free family holiday, reaching us couldn’t be easier.

West Bay Cottages

<p>Found on the north-western coast of the Isle of Wight, Yarmouth beach is a short stretch of mixed sand and shingle which all but disappears at high tide.</p>
<p>Yarmouth’s little beach is somewhat dominated by the grade II listed pier, which is said to be the last remaining pier made entirely out of wood (apart from the nuts and bolts holding it together!) in the British Isles.</p>


Yarmouth

Things to do in Yarmouth

Things to do

Discover the real Yarmouth

Cycling from Yarmouth

Hiking the Isle of Wight Coastal Path from Ryde to The Needles

Spy on The Solent…