Small historic UK village so well preserved it feels like stepping into the 1700s
- UK Hidden Gems
- Aug 4
- 2 min read
If you're after a quiet, interesting day out in the warm weather, this place isn’t too far and ticks all the right boxes.
Shanklin on the Isle of Wight is a lovely old village in one of the sunniest towns in the UK. It’s full of classic English charm and even has links to D-Day.
A small part of Shanklin feels like it’s frozen in time, with its thatched roofs and cosy cottages that look like they belong in the 1700s.
The peaceful streets are dotted with cute shops, tearooms and cosy pubs, all set to the sound of waves in the distance.
You can stop by the Tourist Information Point inside Vernon Cottage Gift Shop for leaflets and guides to help during your visit. Smaller and quieter than other busy spots on the island, Shanklin Old Village is perfect for a gentle stroll through peaceful streets.
It’s this calm and charming feeling that really wins over visitors.
Many people have mentioned how well the village has stayed the same, with one saying, “How well they've preserved it... all the monuments and landmarks.”
On the All About Great Britain Facebook page, one person wrote: “It proves how much Brits love their old buildings!” Another added: “Such a lovely scene! I wish I could sit quietly in a corner with a hot coffee and two Huntley & Palmers biscuits!”
But Shanklin isn’t just about looks. It was once home to the English Romantic poet John Keats and also played a big role in World War 2.
Because it faces the English Channel, the village was ready in case of an invasion. It was also part of a huge wartime project called PLUTO, which sent fuel to allied troops in France through a pipe under the sea.
You can still visit Shanklin Chine today. During the war, Royal Marines used this steep woodland valley for training before D-Day.
Remember - LeaveNoTrace!
As with anywhere outdoors, kindly keep these areas pristine and wild by taking all trash with you. The amount of complaints we have seen since the pandemic is crazy. It's really not that hard to take your rubbish with you!
Litter tends to spread, so if you see any and are able to pick it up and dispose of it outside the hidden gem, it will help keep the area tidy.
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