Local area

With the Isle of Wight being a small island of outstanding beauty, 13 miles by 23 miles and attracting in excess of 2.7 million visitors a year, it still retains its charm and unique character. There is so much to do and see for everyone, especially walkers, artists and those who enjoy the outdoors and wildlife.

The Isle of Wight has more than 500 miles of carefully maintained public rights of way, a network providing access to most of the islands 147 square miles of glorious coast and countryside. This offers an excellent environment for walkers.

Over half of the Island has been designated by the Countryside Commission as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and there are almost 30 miles of ' Heritage Coast ' a designation applied to coastlines of only the highest quality in England and Wales . The diversity of this unspoilt landscape makes walking a delight.

West Wight is a haven for those who also enjoy outdoor sports with good beach swimming at Colwell Bay , fishing and snorkelling at Freshwater Bay . At Compton Bay , a short drive away is some of the best surfing, windsurfing and kite surfing.

Mountain biking and horse riding are all possible using the numerous bridleways on the downs without going on a metalled road.

Boats can be launched from the slipway at Freshwater Bay and the yachting centre of Yarmouth is only a 5 minute drive from Romany

Some interesting ideas