Nature

Downs, woods, coastal and other natural or nature related attractions on the Isle of Wight.

Coastal Visitors Centre - Ventnor

The centre provides a fascinating insight into the Island's Internationally important coastal and marine environment. A themed display helps visitors to decide where to visit around the 110km coastline and what can be found of interest at each particular location. The Centre shows the Island's coast to be a dynamic, ever changing land and seascape which creates a wealth and diversity of plant & animal life...

Admission free. Find out more.

Isle of Wight Natural History Centre - Godshill

A unique collection gathered from the earth and the sea. Housed in the delightful 17th century Squire's cottage. Opened by the BBC in 1965. The entrance to this exciting world has its own fish pond with Koi carp and display fountains...

Adult tickets £1.50, children £1.00. Find out more.

Tennyson Down and High Down (National Trust)

Outstanding white chalk cliffs reaching their highest point at the summit of Tennyson Down, which is marked by the Tennyson Memorial cross 482ft above sea level. The chalk ridge continues westwards over High Down to the Needles Headland...

Admission free. Find out more.

Ventnor Downs (National Trust)

The Downs rise sharply from the sea and form an impressive backdrop to the town of Ventnor. Rich in wildlife associated with chalk grassland, including flowers and butterflies. There are a range of wonderful walks although many have steep paths...

Admission free. Find out more.

St Catherine's Hill and Oratory (English Heritage)

St Catherine's Oratory, the second oldest lighthouse in Britain, crowns the top of the hill. It was built as a lighthouse by a local landowner, Walter de Godeton, after a notorious wreck in Chale Bay on what was known as Chale Down, now St Catherine's Down, and was maintained by monks who lived in a chapel nearby...

Admission free. Find out more.