Campsites in Isle of Wight

Isle of Wight is a county and the largest island of England located in the English channel off the south coast. In the past it was part of Hampshire. Newport is the county town, which has a quay. The towns suburb of Parkhurst is home to three prisons which make up the largest prison in the UK. They were amongst the first top security prisons in the country. The river Medina runs through Newport. Ryde is the largest town on the island. The resort is noted for its expansive sands. Ryde Pier is one of the oldest and a listed structure. Shanklin is a popular seaside resort located on Sandownn Bay. Shanklin chine is a wooded coastal pathway with trees and waterfalls. There is a heritage centre here explaining the history. The Needles is a row of three stacks of chalk that rise out of the sea. The Needles lighthouse stands at the end of the formation. There used to be a fourth needle shaped pillar called Lot's Wife, but it collapsed in a storm in the 1700's. The rocks and lighthouse have been featured on souvenirs and sold throughout the island. Alun Bay is the westernmost point of the island and within sight of the Needles. The Bay is noted for its multi-coloured sand cliffs. Osborne house in East Cowes was built as a summer home and retreat for Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. Following her death, the house was given to the state and is open to the public. Cowes is a seaport. It has been the home for international yacht racing since the 1800's. The town gives its name to the world's oldest regatta, Cowes week, which is held every year in August. The population of the town increases dramatically during Cowes week and it becomes the busiest time of year for local businesses. Brading Roman villa was a Roman courtyard villa which has been excavated and put on public display.