Newport’s roots stretch back to medieval times, and its layout still reflects its historic market-town origins. Many of the Georgian and Victorian buildings that line the High Street and Quay are now home to cafés, shops, and galleries, adding character to every stroll. Within Newport itself, you’ll find the Museum of Island History, showcasing local artefacts and stories that bring the Isle of Wight’s past to life.
Located in the centre of the Isle of Wight, Newport is the Island’s bustling county town and cultural hub. If you’re arriving by ferry, Newport is just a short drive from both Cowes and East Cowes terminals. For avid walkers and cyclists, the National Cycle Network Route 23 passes through Newport, linking it to both the coast and countryside.
The River Medina runs through Newport, adding a riverside charm. Several footpaths and cycle routes connect the riverfront to nearby countryside. The Quay area offers cafés, art spaces, and seating areas where visitors can relax by the water. For green space, Seaclose Park is a popular spot for picnics, and home to the annual Isle of Wight Festival held every June.
Just a mile from Newport town centre is Carisbrooke Castle. This impressive Norman fortress is famous for being the location of King Charles I’s imprisonment, where he stayed for 14 months until his execution in 1649. It offers panoramic views from its walls, and maybe less expectedly, lots of cute resident donkeys to meet too!
Another place to meet cute animals is Monkey Haven - an award-winning animal rescue sanctuary just outside Newport. As you’d probably guess by the name it is home to monkeys, but also to other creatures too including owls, meerkats, and reptiles. With interactive talks, it’s a fun and educational experience for all ages.
Another attraction along the same road as Monkey Haven is Butterfly World. Here you can enjoy seeing some of the world’s most beautiful butterflies and moths flying freely around you.
For eating, drinking, and shopping, Newport High Street is the place to go. As the main hub on the Island there’s plenty of places to eat out but there’s also a number of supermarkets if you want to cook in your holiday home. The weekly Farmers’ Market on a Friday is great for sampling local produce, crafts, and baked goods.
Newport is the transport crossroads of the Isle of Wight, making it easy to reach from anywhere on the Island. Regular Southern Vectis bus services connect Newport to Cowes, Ryde, Sandown, Ventnor, and Yarmouth, making it an ideal base if you’re relying on public transport.
If you’re bringing a car or hiring one, the town has several car parks. Newport is well-connected by scenic roads that make exploring the Island a pleasure.
The Guildhall in Newport was designed by architect John Nash, who also designed Buckingham Palace'.
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