lies Freshwater Bay, a beautiful
curved beach of sand and shingle
just400 metres long. It's perfect
for those looking for somewhere
more peaceful and a secluded.
Enjoy an ice cream on the beach
or, if it's low tide, walk around
the coast to see spectacular
caves and coves, and rockpools
full of sealife.
but the greater rewards are found a short walk away.
a splendid cottage garden, a wildflower meadow, and an
orchard with 150 Bramley and Cox apple trees. You can also enjoy delicious home-made food at the Apple Tree Café.
Nearer the coast is Farringford House Hotel,
once the home of Alfred, Lord Tennyson (see right).
The house has castellated walls and gothic style windows, and there are stunning views from the extensive grounds.
The Dimbola Lodge Museum of Victorian photographer
Julia Margaret Cameron is also within walking distance of the village. If you reached the area on our open-top
Needles tour you can get reduced entry to the exhibitions when you show your ticket.
Click on a route number for full details.
Cambridge University for one of
his early works.
greatest works, including perhaps his most famous poem
"The Charge of the Light Brigade". He also wrote the following lines praising the virtues of Farringford to his friend Reverend Maurice -
words that still ring true today.
"...Take it and come to the Isle of Wight:
Where, far from the noise of
smoke and town,
I watch the twilight falling brown
All around a careless ordered
garden,
Close to the ridge of a noble down.
You'll have no scandal while you
dine,
But honest talk and wholesome
wine."