Newport is the capital town of the island and is full of character. It’s also easy to get to, with frequent buses from all over the island. And with Newport bus station right in the middle of town, it couldn’t be easier.
Newport has two elegant squares, and many of its fine town houses date from Georgian and early Victorian times. The colonnaded Guildhall was designed by John Nash and now houses the Museum of Island History and the Tourist Information Centre. Need sustenance? - you’ll find plenty of places to eat, whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a great restaurant meal.
As it’s the main shopping centre of the island, there are a number of big name stores like Marks & Spencer, H&M, Next, Topshop, to mention just some.
Wander off down some of the side streets, like Watchbell Lane and Scarrots Lane, and you’ll chance upon some charming local speciality shops. If arts and crafts are your thing, take a look over the four galleries of the Quay Arts Centre, converted from old riverside warehouses.
Whatever your age, nightlife in Newport can be lively, stimulating, or simply relaxing, depending on your interests. Try the multiplex cinema and fast food diners at Coppins Bridge, join a guided Ghost Walk, enjoy the buzz of any of the several nightclubs, or choose from a whole host of interesting pubs and restaurants offering a range of mouth-watering culinary delights.
Carisbrooke Castle is a fine Norman structure high on a hill, built on the site of an 8th century Saxon fort. It’s now owned by English Heritage. The imposing gatehouse dates from the 14th century. Edward I bought the castle from the Redvers, who had ruled the island until 1293, and it was from here that Charles I was taken to London to be beheaded!
The castle has 2 medieval wells. One has been in constant use since the 12th century, and it’s thought that prisoners were used to tread the waterwheel. In the 17th century, donkeys were introduced, and they still give demonstrations today of how this fascinating piece of early engineering drew up the water.
These buses call at Carisbrooke Castle. Click on a route number for full details.
stops outside castle entrance
stop near castle entrance
These buses will get you to Newport.
Click on a route number for full details.
Click on a route number for full details.
