This charming historic town nestles in between two elegant squares with Georgian and Victorian architecture surrounding them; evidence of ancient history within the town can be seen at every corner and makes for some fascinating exploration. There are a range of attractions displaying the golden times of Newport including the Newport Roman Villa, Museum of Island History, the Quay Arts Centre and the imposing Carisbrooke Castle
– a 12th century fort most famous for imprisoning Charles I after his defeat in the English Civil War.
Isle of Wight waterside
The Isle of Wight’s attractions aren’t all based around times gone by - there are a selection of excellent family attractions allowing you to see the best of what the town has to offer today. Monkey Haven and Robin Hill Adventure Park and Gardens are great places to take children for a day out come rain or shine.
Newport is the shopping hub of the Isle of Wight due to the large high street shops and independent boutiques which line the streets, with delis, butchers and craft shops peppered in-between. The town square holds a regular farmers’ market on a Friday where you can find fresh island produce, from meats, pastries and cheese to chutney, salad, fruit and vegetables – this wonderful market is a regular stop on the Queen’s Isle of Wight visit.
For those looking to experience the taste of Isle of Wight, you certainly won’t be disappointed with what Newport has on offer. There are a whole host of great options for eating out in Newport, with a range of world cuisines on offer, a huge selection of places to grab a coffee and a quick bite to eat to feed the hungry shopper, as well as numerous farm cafes to refuel you whatever your taste! Most eateries are located in and around the main squares, but be sure to venture a bit further afield into the winding streets and lanes to discover the smaller independent venues.
For a traditional pub meal head to The Dairyman’s Daughter, where you can enjoy a delicious feast in the heart of the Arreton Downs, beautifully decorated in original village memorabilia. Here you can indulge in a home cooked lunch before browsing the village shops, also in the stunning Arreton Downs.
“An ancient town known as the capital of the Isle of Wight and home to the Isle of Wight Festival”
If you prefer to eat in the comfort of your holiday cottage, why not pick up a lovely meal of fish and chips from Oggie’s and enjoy the golden, crispy batter in surroundings of your choice? For dessert be sure to stop by Bliss Ice Cream Parlour for a 99!
If you are visiting Newport in June, bask in the musical delights of the renowned Isle of Wight Festival , which is hosted in a glorious setting alongside the River Medina.