On the 25th April 2018 I went back over to the Isle of Wight on a coach trip around the island. The Isle of Wight is a county and the largest and second-most populated island in England. It is in the English Channel, about 2 miles ( 3.2 km ) off the coast of Hampshire, separated by the busy Solent. The island has been a holiday destination since Victorian times, and is known for its climate, its coastal scenery and chines. Above Alum Bay beach stands The Needles Park where you will find a range of attractions, cafes, a fully licensed tea room, retail shops and not to forget the Sand shop where you can fill your own shape with a choice of the Alum Bay Sands! Alum bay beach can be reached on foot using the steps taking you through the chine or ride the chairlift from The Needles Park. They were closed the day I attended because of the gale force winds sweeping across this part of the island. It was very difficult to even stand up the wind was so fierce. The No 7 bus runs every 30 minutes from Newport or hop on the Island Breezer. Guglielmo Marconi moved to Alum Bay in 1897 to experiment with radio. He installed a 40-metre radio antenna outside the Needles Hotel in Alum Bay. Initially establishing communication with ships offshore, by early 1898 he had successfully communicated with stations at Madeira House in Bournemouth and the Haven Hotel in Poole some 20 miles away. A plaque can be seen on this site now to mark his...
Read moreAlum Bay Pebble Beach is a hidden gem on the Isle of Wight that offers a unique and picturesque coastal experience. The beach is renowned for its multi-colored sand cliffs, which create a stunning backdrop for the clear blue waters. T
The chairlift ride down to the beach provides breathtaking views and is a fun way to start your visit. Once on the beach, you can enjoy a peaceful stroll, collect beautiful pebbles, or simply relax and take in the serene surroundings.
The boat trips from the beach to The Needles are a must-do, offering spectacular views of the iconic rock formations and lighthouse. There are also various family-friendly activities and attractions nearby, making it an ideal spot for a day out.
The facilities are well-kept, with clean restrooms and a nice selection of cafes and shops nearby. The staff are friendly and helpful, enhancing the overall experience. Alum Bay Pebble Beach is a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility of the Isle of Wight. Highly...
Read moreStunning cliffs with sharp pinnacles and bright coloured rock make Alum Bay one of the Isle of Wight's most impressive landscape features. The beach itself can get very busy, but it's worth braving the crowds to see this unique stretch of coastline. The boat trip from the pier gives a great view back to Alum Bay, and gets up close to The Needles. I'd recommend taking the steps unless you really want to ride the chairlift, as the latter isn't cheap and there can be quite a queue for the lift. The Needles Landmark Attraction offers gift shops, cafés and family friendly amusements - very commercialised, but it seemed well run as these places go. Parking was £6 for the day when I visited in August 2024. There's enough to see at Alum Bay and the nearby National Trust - Needles Battery to fill a...
Read more