Whippingham

Newchurch Moors Nature Reserve

Newchurch · 5.6 miles

The rich tapestry of habitats, from floodplain meadow to grazed pasture, marshland, fen, river and woodland, creates a home for species such as barn owl, buzzard and dormice.

Newtown Old Town Hall

Newtown · 6.2 miles

It was built in 1699 & fell into disrepair in 1832, when Newtown lost its right to elect MPs with only 39 voters. The Ferguson Gang, a group with false names & disguises, saved it in 1930s & donated to the National Trust to restore threatened buildings

Fort James

Priddy's Hard · 8.1 miles

Site of Fort James

Bembridge Fort

Brading · 8.1 miles

Built in the 1860s on the highest point of Bembridge Down (the Yarborough Monument had to be moved) on the orders of Lord Palmerston (Prime Minister), as part of a chain of defences designed to protect the naval docksyard at Portsmouth from Napoleon III

Culver Millenium Beacon

Hillway · 8.7 miles

Beacons were part of medieval early warning systems designed to respond to French invasion. They were updated prior to the Spanish Armada & used to pass messages by flame. It was lit on 2/6/2022 as part of the celebrations for the Queen's Platinum Jubilee

Culver Down Battery

Bembridge · 8.7 miles

Built in 1906 as part of a series of batteries guarding the solent from naval attack during the world wars. Two 9.2inch guns could fire as far as Spithead. It was closed in 1956 and the gun emplacements are all that remains.