A day in Shanklin
Mention Shanklin, and the response is usually ‘Shanklin Chine,’ but there is so much more to explore. You can easily spend a full day here.
Shanklin is located on the southeastern coast of the Isle of Wight, nestled between the seaside resorts of Sandown and Ventnor. It is divided into two levels: the esplanade, teeming with restaurants and, of course, the obligatory arcade, and the upper level, the old village, featuring a selection of shops and traditional afternoon tea spots.
Travel between the two levels can be accomplished in three ways: walking through The Chine (more on this below), ascending the very steep coastal path/road, or taking the Cliff Lift, which ascends directly up the cliff face.
Below is an itinerary to help you make the most of your day in Shanklin, suitable for families, both young and old. Feel free to mix and match the options to create a personalized day out.
Deep Rock Pools: This activity requires a bit of planning to ensure you visit during low tide. Facing the beach, head to the right and continue walking until you reach a rock platform that juts out into the sea. Here, you'll find numerous deep rock pools. The area has a high iron content, resulting in many brown-colored rocks, perfect for striking photos.
While crabbing attempts here haven't been very successful, it's a beautiful spot to explore the rock pools. Be cautious of your footing and, more importantly, keep an eye on the changing tides.
Arcades: Located on the esplanade, this arcade offers another fun entertainment option. Win tickets for a variety of prizes. This one is particularly convenient as it has a restroom, providing a place to wash those grubby hands! Fish and chip restaurants and ice cream parlors are located on either side.
The Chine: Shanklin Chine is meticulously maintained, offering visitors a unique experience with its lush vegetation, flowing streams, and illuminated pathways during evening hours. It's a place where history and nature intertwine, with features like its wartime PLUTO pipeline connections still visible. Entrance allows you to walk back and forth through The Chine for seven days, connecting the upper and lower levels of Shanklin. Keep an eye on the event schedule; there are often themed treasure hunts and regular events held throughout the year.
Crazy Golf: Here, you're spoiled for choice. There's an indoor course at Jungle Jim’s (ideal for wet weather) and an outdoor crazy golf course towards the east end of the beach, where you'll also find a selection of fairground rides for younger children. Slightly further away, in Rylstone Gardens, you'll find a more traditional, basic mini-golf course with a café.
Afternoon Tea: Shanklin offers numerous afternoon tea options. Our family favorite is Vernon Cottage, a beautiful thatched cottage in the center of the old town, surrounded by a beautifully maintained garden, perfect for energetic children to stretch their legs. It offers an extensive selection of baguettes and jacket potatoes, as well as many cakes.
Pencil Cottage, located near the entrance to The Chine, is also a good option for children's lunches, including jam and Nutella sandwiches.
The main tea spots are located in the Old Village, where you'll also find a selection of shops, including The Rock Shop, brimming with sweets, and the year-round Christmas shop.
Jurassic Jim’s: No trip to Shanklin is complete without a visit to Jurassic Jim’s, a treasure trove of fossils and gems. Jim himself is a warm and knowledgeable host, ready to share his passion and stories with every visitor. Whether you're a serious collector or simply looking for a unique souvenir, you'll find something to delight you. With affordable prices and a friendly atmosphere, Jurassic Jim's is a must-visit destination that promises a memorable and exciting experience for everyone.
The Cliff Lift: The first thing to note is that the lift's operation is seasonal. Check the opening times here:
Useful Information:
- Parking: On the lower level, there is parking along the seafront or a large car park at the bottom of the Cliff Lift. On the upper level, there is a small car park opposite the sweet shop. It is advisable to arrive early for a guaranteed space.
- Toilets: Public coin-operated toilets can be found on the upper level adjacent to the car park. Alternatively, there is one at the arcades on the esplanade level.
History:
Shanklin was a sleepy village until the 18th century, when the Romantic Age sparked interest in natural beauty. This led to the discovery of the Isle of Wight and Shanklin, particularly The Chine. The village grew into a popular seaside resort, attracting famous visitors like Charles Darwin and Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. The Chine, a natural gorge, became a major tourist attraction.
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