Shanklin, a small town on the Isle of Wight, is consistently named the sunniest place in the UK, according to Met Office records. It enjoys 1,976 hours of sunlight annually, compared to the UK average of 1,403 hours. This microclimate is enhanced by Shanklin Chine, a sandstone gorge that acts as a natural suntrap, and the nearby Undercliff area near Ventnor, which has a Mediterranean-like climate.
Beaches and Water Activities
The town's beaches offer varied experiences. Fisherman's Beach, below The Chine, provides a quieter setting with old fishing boats and a cliff face. Clock Tower Beach, a family-run business, offers parasols and sunloungers. Water sports enthusiasts can hire kayaks for £10 per hour and paddleboards for £15 per hour.
Fisherman's Cottage, the island's only pub directly on the beach, serves lunch after swimming and sunbathing. The beachside restaurants overlook the sea, and the esplanade provides access to the sandy shoreline.
Old Village and Attractions
Shanklin's Old Village features thatched cottages, winding lanes, and flower-filled gardens. The Village Inn offers a beer garden and locally caught crab and lobster. The Rock Shop sells handmade rock, fudge, chocolates, and pick 'n' mix sweets. Tea shops provide coffee and scones.
Shanklin Chine, the island's oldest tourist attraction, is a wooded coastal ravine with waterfalls, trees, and lush vegetation. It includes footpaths, walkways, and viewpoints. Jane Austen visited in 1813, and John Keats found inspiration there in 1819, calling it 'wondrous.' Entry costs £12.95 for adults and £9.95 for children. The Chine Inn, a 400-year-old pub perched above the gorge, was a smugglers' haunt with hidden tunnels; a new circular glass window looks into one tunnel.
Travel Information
From London, take a train from Waterloo to Portsmouth Harbour (about 1 hour 48 minutes, costing £12–£20). Then take the Wightlink FastCat ferry to Ryde (20 minutes, £23.10 one-way). From Ryde Pier Head, take the Island Line train to Shanklin (under 30 minutes, £4.90 standard ticket).
