Ventnor

The mini Mediterranean, Ventnor, boasts more hours of sunshine than anywhere else in the UK. Ventnor was once the height of fashion as a health resort during Queen Victoria’s reign. Here you will find a quirky town that rises up the cliffs. Expect to find many artisan cafes, independent eateries and boutique shops that all add to the distinctly arty vibe.

The beach at Ventnor Bay offers some of the best views across the English Channel.

Ventnor Harbour and the bandstand development are very prominent on the seafront and offer a great viewing platform to look out to sea. You'll also find Ventnor Haven Fishery selling the best local crab and lobster.

The beach at Ventnor is sought out all year round and benefits from its secluded position. Due to the beach nestling under St Martin’s Down, one of the Island’s highest hills. This creates its famous micro-climate. A wonderful natural suntrap, which appealed to the Victorian visitors who flocked to Ventnor as a health resort. Ventnor Botanic Garden stands on the site of an old Victorian TB hospital, which was built there for this very reason (now the home of many a ghost story). It's 22 acres of sub-tropical gardens are the perfect place to relax and while away a couple of hours.

The beach, which is a mix of sand and shingle, is perfect for swimming and sunbathing. At the bottom of Shore Hill, as it joins with the esplanade, you will find Ventnor Haven Fishery. The fishermen work the waters and small harbour and land their catch. These catches support many local restaurants, including their fishery, which also serves the most delicious crab on chips (which has quickly become the Isle of Wight’s local dish).

Pubs such as the famous Spyglass Inn at the end of the esplanade or more recent additions like The Smoking Lobster are a perfect place to while away a few hours. With plenty of other cafes and bars dotted along the seafront, you will feel like you are dining in the Med.

Heading away from the esplanade and up into the main town, which is built on a series of winding zig-zag terraces. Here you will see more charming Victorian architecture as well as numerous independent shops. These include some very popular antique and bric-a-brac emporiums.