Isle of Wight Guru
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Which Isle of Wight Town Should I Stay In? Pros + cons of Shanklin, Cowes, Ryde, Ventnor, Sandown
Which is the best Isle of Wight town to stay in whilst on holiday?
We've split the options into five.
The five options are NOT in order of preference. We've covered the whole island and given pros and cons of each place, so you can pick what is right for you. Some people will prefer the rural isolation of the West Wight, others will want to buy a stick of rock on Shanklin seafront.
Here are the links we refer to in the video:
******
00:00 - INTRO
The full version of this guide can be found here: www.isleofwightguru.co.uk/which-isle-of-wight-town-should-i-stay-in.html
00:25
OPTION 1: SANDOWN & SHANKLIN - buckets and spades, chips on the beach, busy beaches - but not for everyone
Here's our pick of Sandown's best accommodation: www.isleofwightguru.co.uk/10-best-places-to-stay-in-sandown.html
And here's our selection in Shanklin: www.isleofwightguru.co.uk/10-of-the-best-places-to-stay-in-shanklin.html
As I said in the video, I personally prefer Shanklin to Sandown but the latter does have its plus points so let's not fall out over it.
******
02:02
OPTION 2: SOUTH WIGHT - isolated rocky bays and a Victorian town with character
Ventnor: www.isleofwightguru.co.uk/5-ventnor-hotels-and-guest-houses.html
******
03:41
OPTION 3: WEST WIGHT - unspoilt coastline and great walking but fewer attractions
As mentioned, we have a holiday let in Freshwater Bay: www.isleofwightguru.co.uk/bayclose-freshwater-bay-holiday-home.html
There are also several other good West Wight options in this guide to National Trust properties: www.isleofwightguru.co.uk/best-national-trust-isle-of-wight-holiday-cottages.html
******
05:44
OPTION 4: COWES, NEWPORT AND RYDE - convenient towns but less pretty and rural
As I suggested, my favourite of these three towns is Cowes. Here are some of the best places to stay in Cowes: www.isleofwightguru.co.uk/things-to-do-in-cowes-and-east-cowes.html
However, Ryde is much more convenient if you are planning a short break via Portsmouth and it also has a better beach than Cowes. Our pick of Ryde's hotels: www.isleofwightguru.co.uk/5-best-ryde-hotels.html
Newport is central and is great for bus travel, so it's good if you want to see the whole Island without driving too much. It's also near to the Isle of Wight Festival. Our guide to places to stay in Newport is here: www.isleofwightguru.co.uk/10-of-the-best-places-to-stay-in-newport.html
******
08:35
OPTION 5: BEMBRIDGE, ST HELEN'S, SEAVIEW
Finally, there are these coastal village in the East Wight.
The hotel in the video is the adults only Warner Leisure Bembridge Coast Hotel: www.isleofwightguru.co.uk/warners-bembridge-coast-norton-grange-hotels.html
There are several other properties in these villages on this guide: www.isleofwightguru.co.uk/holiday-cottages-self-catering-apartments-with-sea-views-isle-of-wight.html
Enjoy your holiday, you can find us on Facebook etc or visit www.isleofwightguru.co.uk to plan your travel and days out.
Переглядів: 13 700

Відео

Bembridge Beach/RNLI Lifeboat Station on the Isle of Wight + Warner Leisure Bembridge Coast Hotel
Переглядів 1619 місяців тому
Another early morning outing to enjoy the beautiful Isle of Wight without many people around! Bembridge is a popular dog-friendly East Wight beach, which is particularly good for rock pooling. It isn't great for swimming as it is very shallow at low tide. The hotel you can see on the video is Warner Leisure's Bembridge Coast Hotel. It is one of two Warner Leisure hotels on the Isle of Wight, wh...
Demolished Carisbrooke High School (previously Priory Boys Secondary Modern, Carisbrooke Grammar)
Переглядів 5309 місяців тому
This video is a change from our usual nice videos of beaches in the sunshine. If you didn't grow up on the Isle of Wight, look away now and return to shots of sunsets and deckchairs. I took a nostalgic flight over my former school, Carisbrooke High School in April 2024. From what I have gathered on Wikipedia, one half of the site was demolished from 2017-2020, whilst the other half was redevelo...
Sandy Lanes Resort, Atherfield, Isle of Wight - April 2024 Update - When Will New Resort Open?
Переглядів 7179 місяців тому
We've visited Sandy Lanes Resort on the cliffs of Atherfield on the Isle of Wight a few times in the last couple of years. We were expecting it to open in 2023, but as of April 2024 it is fenced off. We've done a little bit of digging into what is happening with the site and have added a new blog post with some details: www.isleofwightguru.co.uk/blog/sandy-lanes-resort-atherfield-bay-holiday-ca...
The end for the Isle of Wight's Military Road? The UK's most scenic road is close to the cliff edge
Переглядів 11 тис.10 місяців тому
The Military Road in the South Wight and South West Wight is getting closer to the cliff edge, particularly the section between Brook and Compton Bay. Campaigns and discussions to save it are going on, but we suggest you enjoy it whilst you can as it may end up being moved, partly diverted or closed altogether. We've put together what we think is the Isle of Wight's perfect driving route here, ...
Albion Hotel in Freshwater Bay, Isle of Wight - Redevelopment Part One - May 2022 to August 2023
Переглядів 340Рік тому
We are big fans of Freshwater Bay and thought it would be good to catalogue the redevelopment of the Albion Hotel. It is undergoing a big building project by the same people who did a great job with Sentry Mead in Totland. We plan to film a couple more instalments and upload updated versions in a few months. For things to do in Freshwater and the West Wight, see this guide: www.isleofwightguru....
Princes Esplanade between Gurnard and Cowes on the Isle of Wight
Переглядів 154Рік тому
We love this walk between Gurnard and Cowes, which has a playground at the Gurnard end and plenty to do in Cowes at the other end. See our guide to days out in Cowes for more ideas: www.isleofwightguru.co.uk/things-to-do-in-cowes-and-east-cowes.html
Newtown Creek and National Trust Newtown Old Town Hall on the Isle of Wight
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Newtown Creek and National Trust Newtown Old Town Hall on the Isle of Wight
St Catherine's Lighthouse and Watershoot Bay on the Isle of Wight
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St Catherine's Lighthouse and Watershoot Bay on the Isle of Wight
Priory Bay and Priory Bay Hotel on the Isle of Wight - aerial view in 2023
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Priory Bay and Priory Bay Hotel on the Isle of Wight - aerial view in 2023
The Needles, Isle of Wight + National Trust Needles Old Battery + Scratchell's Bay hidden beach
Переглядів 704Рік тому
The Needles, Isle of Wight National Trust Needles Old Battery Scratchell's Bay hidden beach
Cowes, Isle of Wight summer morning feat. Red Funnel ferries, River Medina, Royal Yacht Squadron
Переглядів 153Рік тому
Cowes, Isle of Wight summer morning feat. Red Funnel ferries, River Medina, Royal Yacht Squadron
Sandy Lanes Resort in Atherfield - updated aerial view from August 2023 from new holiday resort
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Sandy Lanes Resort in Atherfield - updated aerial view from August 2023 from new holiday resort
Shanklin Beach on the Isle of Wight. Early morning in August, plus Shanklin Chine towards Luccombe
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Shanklin Beach on the Isle of Wight. Early morning in August, plus Shanklin Chine towards Luccombe
5 Steps To Cheap Isle of Wight Car Ferry Travel With Wightlink and Red Funnel by Isle of Wight Guru
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5 Steps To Cheap Isle of Wight Car Ferry Travel With Wightlink and Red Funnel by Isle of Wight Guru
Totland Pier August 2023 Update - Rebuilt Isle of Wight Pier due to re-open at Easter 2024
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Totland Pier August 2023 Update - Rebuilt Isle of Wight Pier due to re-open at Easter 2024
English Heritage's Carisbrooke Castle on the Isle of Wight from above in 2023
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English Heritage's Carisbrooke Castle on the Isle of Wight from above in 2023
Is Sandown really a 'Turd Town'? Here's how the Isle of Wight resort looks on a sunny morning!
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Is Sandown really a 'Turd Town'? Here's how the Isle of Wight resort looks on a sunny morning!
Ocean Hotel in Sandown on the Isle of Wight from above in 2023
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Ocean Hotel in Sandown on the Isle of Wight from above in 2023
Early morning at Alum Bay chairlift near The Needles on the Isle of Wight
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Early morning at Alum Bay chairlift near The Needles on the Isle of Wight
Redevelopment of Totland Pier over 12 months - May 2022 to April 2023. Aerial footage of rebuild.
Переглядів 2,4 тис.Рік тому
Redevelopment of Totland Pier over 12 months - May 2022 to April 2023. Aerial footage of rebuild.
Blackgang Chine - Land Of Imagination on the Isle of Wight, from above in 2023 including Extinction
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Blackgang Chine - Land Of Imagination on the Isle of Wight, from above in 2023 including Extinction
Former Harcourt Sands Holiday Park in Ryde on the Isle of Wight, filmed in 2023
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Former Harcourt Sands Holiday Park in Ryde on the Isle of Wight, filmed in 2023
Shepherd's Chine and Atherfield in the West Wight on the Isle of Wight. Two rarely visited beaches!
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Shepherd's Chine and Atherfield in the West Wight on the Isle of Wight. Two rarely visited beaches!
Colwell Bay on the Isle of Wight from above, featuring The Hut restaurant and Fort Albert
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Colwell Bay on the Isle of Wight from above, featuring The Hut restaurant and Fort Albert
Yarmouth and Sandhard Beach on the Isle of Wight from above in 2022.
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Yarmouth and Sandhard Beach on the Isle of Wight from above in 2022.
St Catherine's Down, Blackgang, The Pepperpot/St Catherine's Oratory on the Isle of Wight from above
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St Catherine's Down, Blackgang, The Pepperpot/St Catherine's Oratory on the Isle of Wight from above
Freshwater Bay on the Isle of Wight in Summer 2022, featuring aerial drone footage of the Stag Rock
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Freshwater Bay on the Isle of Wight in Summer 2022, featuring aerial drone footage of the Stag Rock
Bierley Waterfall on the Isle of Wight in winter
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Bierley Waterfall on the Isle of Wight in winter
An Aerial View of Sandy Lanes Resort in Atherfield on the Isle of Wight
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An Aerial View of Sandy Lanes Resort in Atherfield on the Isle of Wight

КОМЕНТАРІ

  • @Trillock-hy1cf
    @Trillock-hy1cf 6 днів тому

    The Military Road was built for the Military to get out to the gun batteries out at Freshwater(?) as the existing road was getting eaten away by the sea fals. Now it looks like a new bit of road will have to be built further inland?

  • @RobertHoward-d8g
    @RobertHoward-d8g 2 місяці тому

    Best place to stay on the island? There isn't one. Save the cost of the ferry and go somewhere else. You'll be better for it. The place has turned into a dump.

  • @WightWanderer
    @WightWanderer 2 місяці тому

    Great stuff! 👍

  • @tonyadams9347
    @tonyadams9347 3 місяці тому

    I've been on the Military Road many times going to Freshwater😊😊

  • @Leggg
    @Leggg 4 місяці тому

    Stunning footage from the host of the best website there is for information about this beautiful island.

  • @owen30798
    @owen30798 4 місяці тому

    Irònic just fpund out i own this place, i was left it in trust 15 plus yesrs ago, im welsh and literally over on island now, trying to find the last smack head the 15th councillors and the clown who left 12 toilets in my garage, ill sue sns own the whole island, i blame Northampton police on my broken windows

  • @tonyadams9347
    @tonyadams9347 4 місяці тому

    Lovely Hotel Spain many holiday there😢😢😢

  • @buckfuddy79
    @buckfuddy79 5 місяців тому

    I always stay in St Helens, I love it there.

  • @jonlen100
    @jonlen100 5 місяців тому

    Going to Nodes point 2 weeks time

    • @isleofwightguru
      @isleofwightguru 5 місяців тому

      @@jonlen100 Enjoy! We stayed there a few weeks ago www.isleofwightguru.co.uk/blog/a-week-at-parkdean-resorts-nodes-point-holiday-park

  • @karenmansbridge
    @karenmansbridge 5 місяців тому

    Love Cowes one of best places imo on IOW

    • @isleofwightguru
      @isleofwightguru 5 місяців тому

      @@karenmansbridge Yes, love a wander round Cowes! Always something to see on the water

  • @stevejones5080
    @stevejones5080 5 місяців тому

    Used to do many trips a year to the IOW, sometimes just a day visit, but the ferry companies are just too expensive now. I am not paying the ridiculous charges.

    • @isleofwightguru
      @isleofwightguru 5 місяців тому

      @@stevejones5080 It certainly can be expensive. This guide might help - there are various tips and tricks to make the ferry much better value www.isleofwightguru.co.uk/discount-isle-of-wight-ferry-travel.html

    • @wish21100
      @wish21100 4 місяці тому

      Pound per mile most expensive in the World ‼️

    • @isleofwightguru
      @isleofwightguru 4 місяці тому

      @@wish21100 That depends how much you pay! If you get a bundle with accommodation then you can get a good price. If you do zero research and travel at peak time then you will pay through the nose! Some good deals - www.isleofwightguru.co.uk/isle-of-wight-holiday-including-ferry.html

  • @stevegeek
    @stevegeek 5 місяців тому

    Nice overview…I cycled around the island 2 weeks ago and for once didn’t have a head wind on the Military Road on the south coast, which made it a lot easier! No mention of Falmouth? I had a great holiday there, just a stone’s throw from the Lymington ferry.

    • @isleofwightguru
      @isleofwightguru 5 місяців тому

      Thanks Steve. I think you mean Yarmouth, which I should have mentioned. Really lovely town and a good point for catching the open top bus. Here's our cycling guide for anyone else planning a cycle on the island. www.isleofwightguru.co.uk/cycling-holidays-isle-of-wight.html Recommend the tennyson trail if you like mountain biking.

    • @stevegeek
      @stevegeek 5 місяців тому

      @@isleofwightguru Haha...sorry yes, Yarmouth, not Falmouth! Having a senior moment there! 😆

  • @zooniethelazoon
    @zooniethelazoon 6 місяців тому

    Don't bother, most boring place in the UK. Billericay high street on a Sunday afternoon in 1974 more interesting. And I live here unfortunately.

    • @isleofwightguru
      @isleofwightguru 6 місяців тому

      @@zooniethelazoon Thanks for your comment. The Isle of Wight certainly isn't for everyone. The weather has been beautiful this week and in the last few days I've fallen off my paddleboard at Compton Bay whilst watching the sun set, walked to Priory Bay on the most beautiful sunny morning at 6am when all I could hear was the sounds of birds and the lapping waves, watched live music for free with half a cider at The Anchor during Cowes Week, rode a horse along Seagrove Bay, jumped off a big tower at the Isle of Wight Aqua Park, had a stunning early morning walk through St Helens and Bembridge harbour, clung on to an inflatable llama at a kids' pool party at Nodes Point Holiday Park, raced a go kart and slid down a zip wire at Tapnell Farm Park, swapped 677 yellow tokens for four bouncy balls and a handful of lollies at Shanklin arcade, eaten a cookie dough ice cream at Dunroamin Beach, paddled at Colwell Bay, admired the view from Culver Down and been shopping for shorts in M&S. If that all sounds terrible, I would steer well clear of the Isle of Wight this summer. If not, please see our guides to days out for children: www.isleofwightguru.co.uk/activities-for-children-and-families-on-the-isle-of-wight.html Or our guide to days out for adults www.isleofwightguru.co.uk/activities-for-adults-on-the-isle-of-wight.html We also have similar figures for teenagers, toddlers, dog owners etc.

  • @531c
    @531c 6 місяців тому

    Iive always felt sick driving along that srtetch of the military road

  • @blowduke
    @blowduke 6 місяців тому

    Rode this road in the fog and rain last November when everything was flooded didn’t know I was that close to the edge

    • @isleofwightguru
      @isleofwightguru 6 місяців тому

      @@blowduke Best to just keep your head down and keep going!

  • @teresamorrish3132
    @teresamorrish3132 6 місяців тому

    WHAT IS A TURD TOWN ?????

    • @isleofwightguru
      @isleofwightguru 6 місяців тому

      @@teresamorrish3132 It's a UA-cam channel that goes round each county and picks out the worst town. They picked Sandown on their Isle of Wight tour!

  • @darrenboynton2039
    @darrenboynton2039 6 місяців тому

    This is some well curated, terrible advice 🤦‍♂️

  • @PeterSimmonds-z8i
    @PeterSimmonds-z8i 7 місяців тому

    National Trust are out to ruin the west Wight with their crazy ideas on “re- wilding” and want the Military Road closed. Strange when they have just spent a fortune in in enlarging a car park and installing a new toilet block between two other major land slips further east. What drives these people?

  • @jonwoodhousea.k.a.pistolcr3943
    @jonwoodhousea.k.a.pistolcr3943 7 місяців тому

    61 years old, born and bred on the Isle of Wight- this is one of the most unrealistic reviews I've ever seen! 🤣🤣

    • @camperp195
      @camperp195 5 місяців тому

      Totally agree,sandown is a dump,with shanklin not far behind! Not a good review at all.

    • @ianrichards4907
      @ianrichards4907 Місяць тому

      @@camperp195 last time i went the whole place was a dump ,couldn't get back to the ferry quick enough !

  • @aswclassicsiow8588
    @aswclassicsiow8588 7 місяців тому

    All the old bit was Priory Boys and the old bus stop area, went to Priory boys from 1967 to 70 it was a really good school school and good teachers and had a lot of great friends there, sad to see it all knocked down like that

    • @isleofwightguru
      @isleofwightguru 7 місяців тому

      Thanks for your comment, yes, sad to see it all gone

  • @cannyexplorer5357
    @cannyexplorer5357 7 місяців тому

    Your link in the description does not work. Error 404.

    • @isleofwightguru
      @isleofwightguru 7 місяців тому

      Thanks, it should be www.isleofwightguru.co.uk/blog/sandy-lanes-resort-atherfield-bay-holiday-camp-update-2024

  • @McGrathPete
    @McGrathPete 7 місяців тому

    Another I would add is that a day return is a bit cheaper. We booked a day return to come out, and just didn’t use the ticket back to the mainland that night, and a day return on the day we went home, and didn’t use the ticket back to the island that night. Two day returns was cheaper than one standard return. This was with a car too.

  • @geoffreyhattersley9186
    @geoffreyhattersley9186 7 місяців тому

    Botanical gardens have lost their charm

    • @isleofwightguru
      @isleofwightguru 7 місяців тому

      Not been in a while but some recent reviews are very positive, some less so! Here's our guide to gardens and parks: www.isleofwightguru.co.uk/isle-of-wight-gardens-parks.html

    • @stevegeek
      @stevegeek 5 місяців тому

      I remember when it was free to visit the botanical gardens….it’s now £11.50 per adult!😮

    • @isleofwightguru
      @isleofwightguru 5 місяців тому

      ​@@stevegeekYes it was sold off in 2012 along with some other publicly owned assets as part of the coalition government's austerity policy. There are some other free parks and gardens though! www.isleofwightguru.co.uk/isle-of-wight-gardens-parks.html

  • @ElfTifa
    @ElfTifa 7 місяців тому

    I go to isle every few months as live opposite in the beautiful new forest... have done for 30:years. Ryde is the place to stay it has more to do and less run down, yet shanklin traditional love the Isle

    • @isleofwightguru
      @isleofwightguru 7 місяців тому

      Thanks for your comment. Yes, there's quite a bit to do in Ryde (great beach, cinema, bowling, arts centre, games arcade, swimming pool, shops, playgrounds, coastal walk etc) and it's also nice and easy for travelling from Portsmouth and then exploring via public transport. Personally I prefer less developed places but each to their own! Here's my guide to Ryde Hotels: www.isleofwightguru.co.uk/5-best-ryde-hotels.html

  • @davidfalconer8913
    @davidfalconer8913 7 місяців тому

    There are some ( excellent ) secure hotels , near Newport .. HMP Parkhurst ? ... Ha - Ha ... DAVE™🛑

    • @isleofwightguru
      @isleofwightguru 7 місяців тому

      Yes, I hear it's lovely in the summer! Lots of organised activities for the guests and fully catered.

  • @Cardifftoyboy1
    @Cardifftoyboy1 8 місяців тому

    Take your own food if you cannot survive the journey without . The cafe was a bun fight.

    • @isleofwightguru
      @isleofwightguru 8 місяців тому

      Yes, that's good advice. £2.50 for a bottle of water and £4.50 for a sandwich last week!

  • @cwork5485
    @cwork5485 8 місяців тому

    Love the Isle Of Wight, first time I went was only 6 years ago, but have been back a few times since. I come over on my bicycle, loaded with camping gear as you only pay foot passenger fee then. Get off at Cowes then cycle the Red Squirell trail to a campsite between Sandown and Shanklin. Ive also stayed over near Totland and explored that side of the Island, Tennyeson down is great for astro photography, although the roads are not great for cycling there with a fully loaded bike. The area around Shanklkin, Sandown and Ryde has great traffic free cycling routes. Its a great way to see the island, although unlike many cyclists, I have no interest in doing the round the island route. I just like leisurely exploring different places.

    • @isleofwightguru
      @isleofwightguru 8 місяців тому

      Thanks for your comment. Yes, the Isle of Wight by bike is very good. There are a good number of cycle tracks thanks to all the former railway lines. Here's our cycling guide for anyone who is interested: www.isleofwightguru.co.uk/cycling-holidays-isle-of-wight.html

  • @theacrossell
    @theacrossell 8 місяців тому

    Well, this is bollocks isnt it. A sunny day doest fix buildings.

  • @Harecat
    @Harecat 8 місяців тому

    I never think I'm that close to the edge when regularly driving along my favourite road......

    • @isleofwightguru
      @isleofwightguru 8 місяців тому

      Best not to think about it! I never feel like I'm that close as the nearest bits are slightly sunk down

    • @Harecat
      @Harecat 8 місяців тому

      @@isleofwightguru I don't - too sensational to think about that especially listening to my Pink Floyd whilst speeding along........

  • @paulmckenzie6039
    @paulmckenzie6039 8 місяців тому

    Where are great dog friendly beaches,summer months?

    • @isleofwightguru
      @isleofwightguru 8 місяців тому

      Hi Paul. This is the guide you need! Scroll down about a third of the way: www.isleofwightguru.co.uk/dog-friendly-isle-of-wight-holidays-beaches-attractions-pubs-accommodation.html

  • @Nigel-y8t
    @Nigel-y8t 8 місяців тому

    NATIONAL DISGRACE BOTH RIP OFF FERRY CO'S. GOVERNMENT SHOULD NATIONALISE THEM. MOST EXPENSIVE WATER CROSSING IN THE WORLD PLUS APPALLING SERVICE !

    • @isleofwightguru
      @isleofwightguru 6 місяців тому

      For anyone interested, we did a study a couple of years ago about the claim that the Solent is the most expensive crossing in the world - www.isleofwightguru.co.uk/blog/is-the-solent-the-most-expensive-ferry-crossing-in-the-world

  • @surreygoldprospector576
    @surreygoldprospector576 8 місяців тому

    Thanks. I've been to the Isle of Wight many times over the last 50 years, and agree all these places are nice and you can't go too wrong. As someone reliant on public transport, the East coast is a winner with really easy train-ferry-train connections at Portsmouth and Ryde. Ventnor is good but the hotels are more limited and expensive than Shanklin and Sandown.

    • @isleofwightguru
      @isleofwightguru 8 місяців тому

      Thanks for your comment. Such a shame the railway doesn't extend as far as Ventnor (as it did originally). Here's our public transport guide for anyone looking at that option: www.isleofwightguru.co.uk/public-transport.html

  • @GorillaTagguy-89
    @GorillaTagguy-89 8 місяців тому

    I go to that school now and sometimes in lessons i look out the window and think that all that land could be used when the new building was built they really could of used all that land for a whole refit of the old school and not take it all down and let someone else use the land for well flats bc thats what most people do these days

  • @johnbailey2824
    @johnbailey2824 8 місяців тому

    Great vid. I really like the IOW, but the ferry cost to take a car needs a mortgage... Just ridiculous prices. Let us know if that ever changes.

    • @isleofwightguru
      @isleofwightguru 8 місяців тому

      Thanks, glad you liked it. Yes, ferry prices can be very high at peak times. There are various ways round it but one option for visitors is to stay at one of the accommodation providers that gets a big trade discount, such as these: www.isleofwightguru.co.uk/isle-of-wight-holiday-including-ferry.html

    • @johnbailey2824
      @johnbailey2824 8 місяців тому

      @@isleofwightguru Hi, again... You were quite correct in that the accommodation places you suggested can assist with the cost. I've booked one of your recommended places, as we have stayed there before and got a 35% reduction (both ways) on the ferry cost. Your code for 10% didn't work, but no problem. So thanks for that! Good man. I started booking places to visit and my fave place, Robin Hill, is no more! Scandal! But the island is littered with fine attractions, as you have pointed out. Thanks, again.

    • @isleofwightguru
      @isleofwightguru 8 місяців тому

      @@johnbailey2824 Glad to hear you saved some money. Will have to investigate the ferry offer. Yes, Robin Hill is closed, we are gutted! Although I still hope it will rise again. We recently wrote a long history of Robin Hill, which is only suitable for serious fans though as it goes into a lot of detail! www.isleofwightguru.co.uk/blog/robin-hill-a-not-very-brief-history We also wrote a blog when they closure was announced: www.isleofwightguru.co.uk/blog/is-this-farewell-or-a-new-beginning-for-robin-hill-country-park

    • @johnbailey2824
      @johnbailey2824 8 місяців тому

      @@isleofwightguru Crikey, that was a tome! But I enjoyed reading both of your articles on Robin Hill, as we visited first about 25 years ago, so when we went last year, it had changed a lot, but was still really great. As George said, "All things must pass". I liked your free parking section, too... Keep up the good work with your Vids and blogs, etc. Much appreciated.

    • @isleofwightguru
      @isleofwightguru 8 місяців тому

      @@johnbailey2824 Yes, it sure is! I got a bit carried away.. Perhaps I need to do a 100 word summary as well!

  • @andyg1957
    @andyg1957 8 місяців тому

    In Shanklin, I'd also recommend St Georges House Hotel, which has been our 'base' for many years. It changed hands a few years ago and the new owners managed to strike a good balance between the 'old school' feel it had and the modernisations they carried out. B&B only, and the breakfasts are great. In Sandown, we've stopped at The Wight. Their 'Jurassic Breakfast' is amazing - providing you're not watching the calories! The ballroom has a unique Hammond organ, that I occasionally play for them!

    • @isleofwightguru
      @isleofwightguru 8 місяців тому

      Thanks for the suggestions! Sandown and Shanklin both have an abundance of good places to stay (as well as some less good ones). The Wight features on our Sandown guide: www.isleofwightguru.co.uk/10-best-places-to-stay-in-sandown.html

  • @Leggg
    @Leggg 8 місяців тому

    Fantastic photography and very informative as all your website content always is. I completely agree with your characterisation of the various different areas of the island. There really is something for everyone. My wife and I really love visiting and hope to make it our home in the near future. It is just so sad that the recent land slips have made life difficult for those living in the Ventnor area.

    • @isleofwightguru
      @isleofwightguru 8 місяців тому

      Thanks for your kind comment. Yes, I think the Island's variety in a small area is its biggest selling point. Several other English counties are beautiful but you tend to focus on one area or do a lot of driving. On the Isle of Wight you can see a real mix of beaches without going far. Good luck with your plans. Here's a further explanation of why I love the Isle of Wight, for anyone who is interested! www.isleofwightguru.co.uk/why-choose-isle-of-wight.html

    • @Leggg
      @Leggg 8 місяців тому

      Thank you very much!

  • @steveh6373
    @steveh6373 9 місяців тому

    Years ago did the fence posts used to have little German helmets on. The road was b 0:34 uilt by German POWs. Was it this road? Can anyone confirm this. Thanks

    • @isleofwightguru
      @isleofwightguru 9 місяців тому

      I'm not sure, but I would be keen to find out so hopefully someone will know! There's a good Isle of Wight heritage group on Facebook that you could post on

    • @isleofwightguru
      @isleofwightguru 9 місяців тому

      For anyone interested in history, we've written this round up of Isle of Wight historic attractions and sites: www.isleofwightguru.co.uk/historic-attractions-on-the-isle-of-wight.html And another guide to 100 years of disasters, controversies and weird news stories: www.isleofwightguru.co.uk/100-years-isle-of-wight-disasters-discoveries-weird-news.html

    • @paulpetarson1724
      @paulpetarson1724 8 місяців тому

      Yes it does . How many are left now I don't know, but every fence post had a helmet on top. I believe the road was actually built by Roman's thou.

  • @dannyboywhaa3146
    @dannyboywhaa3146 9 місяців тому

    Excellent video 👍 holidayed there as a child, grandparents on Hayling... been back a few times as an adult and now moving there with wife and baby boy! I’d agree with everything you said... So many little gems on the island - one of our favourites was the nature reserve at Newtown... we saw seals, grey mullet and experienced the most wonderful old gentlemen volunteer guide - he was full of knowledge and just lovely! We saw people paddling canoes and kayaks around the lakes etc... beautiful spot, lovely walks! 👍

    • @isleofwightguru
      @isleofwightguru 9 місяців тому

      Thanks, yes Newtown Creek is a lovely little spot. Read recently that it was earmarked for a nuclear power station in the 1950s but it didn't happen thankfully. Good luck with the move!

    • @dannyboywhaa3146
      @dannyboywhaa3146 9 місяців тому

      @@isleofwightguru yes lol thank god they didn’t! Getting really excited about the move so binge watching videos when I really ought to be packing instead 😳👍

    • @isleofwightguru
      @isleofwightguru 9 місяців тому

      @@dannyboywhaa3146 Good luck with it. Bit late for you but here's our guide to moving to the Isle of Wight for anyone who's interested: www.isleofwightguru.co.uk/should-i-move-to-the-isle-of-wight.html

    • @dannyboywhaa3146
      @dannyboywhaa3146 9 місяців тому

      @@isleofwightguru that was most useful thank you... we’re moving from a very nice South Manchester area, loved it and it has some of the best grammar schools in the country however, now we have a baby boy we wanted to leave city life. Even the negative points about the island are positives to us lol... the only real negatives would be health care, we feel that’s offset by the healthy island lifestyle and we’re very fit and healthy people, and education however, I don’t like the way education is going anyway so I’m much happier with either the private schools or home-schooling if necessary! We don’t drink so nightlife not a concern... we prefer pub culture anyway... maybe one concern I have is that organised sports here in Manchester is of a very high level - slightly worried the standard of rugby won’t be as good lol I’d like my son to enjoy playing a high standard like his father etc etc... as you say there’s no going back now but your site only reaffirmed our decision. Thanks again 👍

    • @isleofwightguru
      @isleofwightguru 9 місяців тому

      @@dannyboywhaa3146 Glad you found it useful. A while ago the various rugby clubs on the island got together to make a bigger club so they could have junior teams. Not sure if that's still the case. Drop us an email via the website when you've moved if you want to say hi. Good luck!

  • @philipbonner6486
    @philipbonner6486 9 місяців тому

    Avoid Newport and Sandown full of drunks and crack heads .

  • @TheForrestHare
    @TheForrestHare 9 місяців тому

    Just found your channel,and I live on the Island too.I've recently purchased the DJI mini 3,as I wanted to take lovely film like this, castles etc...for my UA-cam channel.I've just subscribed today to your channel 👍

    • @isleofwightguru
      @isleofwightguru 9 місяців тому

      There are plenty of great spots for droning on the Island! Good luck!

  • @user-ko3tv7jl2r
    @user-ko3tv7jl2r 9 місяців тому

    Sandown, really?

    • @isleofwightguru
      @isleofwightguru 9 місяців тому

      I certainly prefer Shanklin to Sandown at the moment (as mentioned in the video) but Sandown does have some good points. The seafront Premier Inn is appealing if you like a brand name hotel. There are also a couple of other good value hotels and the Yaverland end has had investment in recent years. Plus, the beach has won awards, as mentioned in the video. Here's our full comparison of Sandown v Shanklin in case anyone is struggling to sleep - www.isleofwightguru.co.uk/blog/which-is-best-sandown-or-shanklin

    • @isleofwightguru
      @isleofwightguru 9 місяців тому

      I should also point out that the five options aren't ranked in order of preference. I've tried to cover every option on the Isle of Wight with pros and cons of each one.

    • @nunyabizniz1983
      @nunyabizniz1983 9 місяців тому

      @@isleofwightguruSandown isn’t that bad… it used to be lovely years ago. I’m moving to Ryde in August. People say that’s a bit of a dump but it’s not as bad as where I currently live. Lovely video. Thank you 🙏🏼

    • @isleofwightguru
      @isleofwightguru 9 місяців тому

      I agree. Sandown isn't perfect and the empty hotels are an eyesore but it still has money being invested. It has some good restaurants, some good hotels, a railway station, a beautiful beach and some good attractions. That's a lot more than some mainland towns!

    • @nunyabizniz1983
      @nunyabizniz1983 9 місяців тому

      @@isleofwightguru completely agree. The island is beautiful even the not so polished parts. Everything takes time, I hope Sandown is restored to how I remember it as a kid from the late 80’s early 90’s. I went through there last time I visited in February just gone and it was a shame to see some of the decaying parts. I have lots of happy memories visiting as a child.

  • @HelenBridges-tz9cq
    @HelenBridges-tz9cq 9 місяців тому

    I would say most of this is the old Priory Boys site not the Grammar School which is where the new build is.

    • @isleofwightguru
      @isleofwightguru 9 місяців тому

      Thanks, I did wonder if I'd got that bit right. I will amend the name!

  • @chrisharris4740
    @chrisharris4740 9 місяців тому

    UK's most scenic road? You need to get out more.

    • @isleofwightguru
      @isleofwightguru 9 місяців тому

      Other suggestions are welcome!

    • @chrisharris4740
      @chrisharris4740 9 місяців тому

      @@isleofwightguru Well, looking at the shot at 6 sec, for example: On the right you have a chalk/grass bank, and that's it. To the left, a few yards of grass, and then the sea in the distance. I've checked it on streetview & it really is that dull. Consequently, I'd suggest the list of more scenic roads would include a fair percentage of rural Britain.

    • @isleofwightguru
      @isleofwightguru 9 місяців тому

      @@chrisharris4740 Well, I love it and lots of people are trying to save it but alternative opinions are valid for sure! Thanks for your contribution.

    • @jamesbrook16
      @jamesbrook16 9 місяців тому

      @@isleofwightguru, I’d suggest many parts of Scotland, Northumberland, North Yorkshire. Try the Bealach na Ba in Applecross on the NC500. The South West Coast of Scotland and the Galloway Coastal route are beautiful and still largely undiscovered.

    • @isleofwightguru
      @isleofwightguru 9 місяців тому

      @@jamesbrook16 Cheers, good suggestions! I will do some streetview exploring!

  • @cannyexplorer5357
    @cannyexplorer5357 9 місяців тому

    We were staying not far from this awful looking building. Why has the authorities done something about it? Is this yet another forgotten town by the authorities. If you don’t get on top of the problem quickly then it only gets worse then cost 5 times as much the longer you leave it. Short sighted councils are the bane of the residents in this country.

    • @isleofwightguru
      @isleofwightguru 9 місяців тому

      It's a bit of a long story but a recent update is here: onthewight.com/former-owners-of-the-ocean-hotel-lose-appeal-over-clean-up-directive/

    • @LewisRoss-mk1pi
      @LewisRoss-mk1pi 9 місяців тому

      It’s just full of crackhead squatters now

    • @cannyexplorer5357
      @cannyexplorer5357 9 місяців тому

      @@isleofwightguru thanks for the link. Hope it finally gets sorted.

  • @LeeJohn70
    @LeeJohn70 9 місяців тому

    It would be great if Wightlink extended their offers that run out in March 2024. Red Funnel have offers all year round. I have no idea why Wightlink don't. Such a shame. I would travel more often.

    • @isleofwightguru
      @isleofwightguru 9 місяців тому

      There are some ongoing offers worth looking into, such as discounts for carers, volunteers, charity workers, NHS workers as well as members of the AA, English Heritage and so on. All the details are on this page: www.isleofwightguru.co.uk/discount-isle-of-wight-ferry-travel.html

    • @LeeJohn70
      @LeeJohn70 9 місяців тому

      @@isleofwightguru Thank you very much, very helpful

  • @eyesopen7946
    @eyesopen7946 9 місяців тому

    yet Leeson road is way further away from the cliff edge yet it is closed and cutting of many people , It is about time sea defences in the UK became a priority as coastal erosion is happening up and down these islands

    • @bobrussell3602
      @bobrussell3602 9 місяців тому

      We would be on a 'hiding to nothing. The U.K. is moving North West, at about the rate of 1 foot per year. It's called 'Plate tectonics.'

    • @adrianthoroughgood1191
      @adrianthoroughgood1191 8 місяців тому

      The thing is that sea defenses are very expensive and have to be renewed regularly. You have to keep paying for them forever. If you prevent erosion in one spot then it tends to increase erosion outside of the defenses because the material taken off the cliffs protects the neighbouring beaches. Unless there is a town or important historical site it's generally more expensive to protect the coast than the buildings are worth. It's sad for the people who live there but they had the benefit of the sea views and eventually the price for that comes due.

  • @hexualdeviant
    @hexualdeviant 9 місяців тому

    Just discovered your channel, love the videos. I'm curious, do you do this for a job?

  • @cannyexplorer5357
    @cannyexplorer5357 9 місяців тому

    Why can they not take it inland like they did at Blackgang?

    • @isleofwightguru
      @isleofwightguru 9 місяців тому

      I think that's an option being considered but the issues are cost and land ownership.

    • @eyesopen7946
      @eyesopen7946 9 місяців тому

      The National trust will not allow the road to be moved further in

  • @paulabennett4788
    @paulabennett4788 10 місяців тому

    Maybe build a flyover the damage...😂

  • @user-ko3tv7jl2r
    @user-ko3tv7jl2r 10 місяців тому

    But where else will I drive at 60mph?

    • @isleofwightguru
      @isleofwightguru 9 місяців тому

      The dual carriageway is just about long enough to reach 60!