The Needles Headland and Tennyson Down (NT)
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Overview
Tennyson Down is probably one of the most popular places to walk on the island. You can walk from Freshwater Bay to the Needles Headland, and drink in the salt-laden air that so inspired Tennyson. The Down is perched above high chalk cliffs and translucent seas. Amongst the gorse bushes are small birds and thousands of minute downland flowers, and cliff nesting birds soar effortlessly along the cliff tops using the updrafts. The National Trust are restoring more of Tennyson Down back to open chalk grassland. Since the 1920s the Downs had fewer grazing animals, which allowed the whole of the sheltered north side of the Down to grow up with young ash woodland, and many of the chalk grassland flowers and butterflies have disappeared. Cattle have been reintroduced to the Down and areas of young ash trees are being removed where the soil is suitably thin to allow the chalk grassland to gradually return and provide more open downland.
About the area
Small and intimate – at just 23 miles by 13 miles, the Isle of Wight is a popular holiday destination; with its mild climate, long hours of sunshine and colourful architecture, it has something of a continental flavour. Visitors can walk along the island’s varied coastline using the well-established Coast Path or step back in time to explore the island’s history at some of the forts and castles.
Places to eat nearby View all
Nearby places to stay
View all (8)
Nearby places to stay
The Hermitage
The Hermitage is an extremely pet- and people-friendly establishment in a stunning, unspoilt location near to the cliff top in Totland Bay. Extensive gardens are well maintained and off...
Sea Haze Cottage
Perfect for walks along the nearby NT-owned coastline, Sea Haze Cottage is a real home-from-home with a large back garden and a sunny conservatory. Nearby you’ll find The Needles, the O...
Sea Haze Cottage
Perfect for walks along the nearby NT-owned coastline, Sea Haze Cottage is a real home-from-home with a large back garden and a sunny conservatory. Nearby you’ll find The Needles, the O...
The Bay Colwell
The Bay is a small, very well presented park offering peace and tranquillity. Well placed for the local community and the nearby coast, also serving as a good base for visiting the many...
Bayside Cottage
Close to the beach and with excellent footpaths right from the doorstep, Bayside Cottage – Colwell Bay is a great base for exploring the Isle of Wight. Swimmers will love easy beach acc...
Bayside Cottage
Close to the beach and with excellent footpaths right from the doorstep, Bayside Cottage – Colwell Bay is a great base for exploring the Isle of Wight. Swimmers will love easy beach acc...
Freshwater Bay House
Perched atop white cliffs overlooking the eponymous bay, Freshwater Bay House sits in extensive gardens leading onto the coastal path and beach. The property offers comfortable, pleasan...
Cliff End 2
No 2 Cliff End is a self-contained, 2 bedroom holiday bungalow. Accommodating six with the use of the lounge sofa bed. Well equipped with everything you need for a self-catering holiday...
