Best natural monuments around Shanklin include a variety of coastal features and historical landmarks. This seaside town on the Isle of Wight is characterized by its unique chines, sandy beaches, and dramatic cliffs. The area offers diverse natural landscapes, from picturesque gorges to expansive stretches of coastline. These natural monuments provide opportunities for exploration and offer scenic views of the English Channel.
Last updated: May 17, 2026
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I regularly ride around the Isle of Wight once a year, and can recommend both the Military Road and the inland route taken by the "blue and white flags". In the warmer months of the year (April to October), I would suggest going on a weekday, when there is less holiday traffic.
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I could see as far as Golden Cap to the west, and very far to the east. The obelisk gives good protection from the sun while you admire the view.
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Devil's Chimney will never open again. There has been a massive landslip and even the road to it is closed. A sad loss.
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The Grade II listed Yarborough monument was erected in 1849 by public subscription in memory of Charles Anderson Pelham, 2nd Earl of Yarborough. After his sudden death in 1846, the committee of the Squadron proposed a ‘Nautical Monument’ or ‘Sea Mark’ in his memory and contributed £200 towards the cost – the Yarborough Monument was the result. This was originally been erected further to the west on top of the Bembridge Down but was moved to its current position in 1867 to make way for the Bembridge Down Fort There's a cafe across the road with seating - hot and cold drinks, cakes and snacks plus The Culver Haven Inn
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After a big land slip in the area, it is believed that the Devil’s Chimney has been destroyed and lost for ever. A very sad loss due to the power of nature!
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The Yarborough Monument is a huge memorial to Charles Anderson Pelham. He was the 2nd Earl of Yarborough and said to be very popular among islanders, indeed the obelisk was paid for by public donations. It can be seen for miles around.
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Overwhelmingly large and a point you can see from Sandown and even Shanklin
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Beyond the well-known Shanklin Chine and Shanklin Beach, visitors frequently enjoy the Yarborough Monument, which offers spectacular 360° views of Sandown and Bembridge. Another popular spot for scenic drives or cycles is the Military Road (A3055), Isle of Wight, known for its extensive coastal and inland vistas.
Yes, Shanklin Beach is an excellent family-friendly option with its expansive golden sands, safe swimming waters, and traditional seaside attractions along the Esplanade. Yarborough Monument is also considered family-friendly, offering impressive views that can be enjoyed by all ages.
Shanklin is renowned for its 'chines' – deep, wooded coastal ravines. Shanklin Chine is a prime example, featuring lush vegetation, a 45-foot waterfall, and a unique micro-climate. Luccombe Chine, though currently difficult to access directly, offers a wilder, untouched experience with secluded sands and hidden caves.
Absolutely. Shanklin Chine itself is considered the Isle of Wight's oldest tourist attraction, with a history dating back to 1817. It also holds historical significance from World War II, featuring a monument to the 40 Royal Marine Commando and a section of the PLUTO pipeline. The Yarborough Monument and Hoy Monument are also significant historical landmarks offering great views.
The area around Shanklin offers diverse outdoor activities. You can enjoy scenic hikes along the coastal path, explore cycling routes like those mentioned in the Cycling around Shanklin guide, or try mountain biking on trails found in the MTB Trails around Shanklin guide. For hikers, the Hiking around Shanklin guide features routes like the Isle of Wight Coastal Path.
Yes, several natural monuments provide stunning views. The Yarborough Monument offers 360° views of Sandown and Bembridge. The Military Road (A3055), Isle of Wight is famed for its extensive coastal and inland vistas, and the Worsley Obelisk provides views covering much of the Island and across the Solent to Portsmouth and Southampton on a clear day.
The summer months are popular, especially for Shanklin Beach, when lifeguards are present and the 'Chine Lumierè' illuminates Shanklin Chine in the evenings. However, spring and autumn offer pleasant weather for exploring the chines and coastal paths, with fewer crowds. Winter can also be beautiful for dramatic coastal scenery, though some paths might be muddy.
Unfortunately, Devil's Chimney, a picturesque rock cleft, has been affected by landslips and is currently inaccessible. Similarly, the direct path down to Luccombe Chine and its beach is closed due to landslips, though access to the beach might be possible from Shanklin at low tide, requiring careful tide time consultation.
For a tranquil experience, Rylstone Gardens, located near Shanklin's Old Village, offers a lovely spot for quiet walks and picnics. It features well-maintained flowerbeds and views of the sea, providing a peaceful escape from the busier areas.
Visitors frequently praise the stunning views, especially from spots like the Yarborough Monument and along the Military Road (A3055), Isle of Wight. The unique charm and historical significance of Shanklin Chine, along with the family-friendly atmosphere of Shanklin Beach, are also highly appreciated.
Yes, the Hiking around Shanklin guide features routes such as the 'Shanklin and Ventnor Downs Circular', which allows you to experience various natural landscapes and viewpoints in the area.
Yes, you'll find several options. Shanklin Chine has a Victorian-style tea room and gift shop. At the foot of Shanklin Chine, accessible from Shanklin Beach, is the thatched Fisherman's Cottage pub. The Esplanade along Shanklin Beach also offers various cafes and shops.


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