Cottage holidays Isle of Wight

What's around Culver Down?

Culver Down is a striking area of open chalk cliffs to the north of the popular seaside resort of Sandown on the Isle of Wight. The area features some private residences, beautiful cottages and a little pub, the Culver Haven, and with the stunning views looking out to the sea, is definitely worth the visit. With seabirds and a range of flora from Harebell to Lady’s Bedstraw, seeing these incredible cliffs is highly inspirational and whether you are staying near the area or just visiting the Isle of Wight in general, it is highly recommended to see the beautiful Culver Down.

Horseshoe Bay and Whitecliff Bay are both a short drive away from Culver Down. Horseshoe Bay sounds lovely but is not a leisure beach. The unstable chalk cliffs leading to a pebble and flint beach make it dangerous tio visit. It is however a breeding spot for birds and may be of interest to birdwatchers.

Whitecliff bay, on the other hand, is a small sand and shingle beach set in the bay. There are some limited facilities here, including cafés. The beach can become fairly crowded at the height of summer because of the holiday park nearby.

The public areas of Culver Down are owned by the National Trust and provide great views over the English Channel. For a long time, the site was a military zone, closed to the public, but now, the Palmerston Fort which was built in the 1860s is periodically open to the public. The fort is quite large and imposing and is great to visit if in the area, and there is also an anti-aircraft battery from World War II that is interesting to visit, especially for those with a curiosity for war history.

Places to visit near Culver Down

In the Culver Down area is the impressive Yarborough Monument which is a memorial to the 2nd Baron Yarborough, Charles Anderson-Pelham. Anderson-Pelham was the founder of the Royal Yacht Squadron which takes place in Cowes and is one of the most prominent yacht clubs in the world. Erected in 1849 a little further west, the current monument has been in place at Culver Down since the 1860s and is a lovely memorial to see if in the area.

Culver Down can be seen from places a little further afield, such as from the nearby beach town of Sandown. Sandown is one of the most popular places on the Isle of Wight for tourists as the beaches are stunning and there is a lot to do here. Attractions include Dinosaur Isle – the first purpose-built dinosaur museum in the United Kingdom – and very appropriate due to the island’s rich fossil collection. With life-sized dinosaur models and educational displays, it is a really fun day out for the whole family.

Also in Sandown, along with the assortment of shops, cafes and restaurants, visitors can try the Sandown Rocks Climbing Wall, which is great fun and good for the sporty types! All ages and abilities are welcome to participate.