The town of Shanklin on the Isle of Wight is a traditional seaside resort, sitting in a sheltered, sunny bay on the south-east coast of the island. Shanklin and Sandown offer all the right ingredients for a great summer holiday, with long, safe, sandy beaches and loads of family attractions, such as a zoo, pier and fairground, plus shops, restaurants, pubs and clubs. The older part of Shanklin, known as Shanklin Old Village, is set slightly lower than the town, where the road winds between traditional thatched cottages, tea shops and charming gardens and parks. Explore Shanklin Chine, a dramatic gorge with a waterfall tumbling through lush plants and mossy boulders. At the top of the cliff is the bustling High Street of shops and the grand Victorian theatre, at the bottom there are cafes, shops and amusements along the suntrap esplanade and sandy beach. Shanklin is great starting point for numerous coastal and inland walks (with the option to return using the local bus network). The rest of the island, including Sandown, Godshill, Blackgang Chine and The Needles, is all easily accessible.
