Yarmouth

Yarmouth on the Isle of Wight, is a picturesque fishing, ferry and yachting port widely regarded as one of the jewels of the South Coast. The deepwater harbour retains its old world aura while visiting yachtsmen will find a range of amenities which are very much up to date and accepted as being among the best in the South.

Yarmouth is well placed at the western end of the island and for those who like walking, cycling and riding, in easy reach of at least four walks of the West Wight. There are walks, cycleways and bridal paths either side of the River Yar to Freshwater, to Alum Bay and the Needles, or Freshwater Bay and Tennyson Down.

Yarmouth itself is a pretty little town with a plethora of pubs, restaurants and coffee houses which are able to cater for every taste, from the lowly sandwich to a Michelin starred hotel.

It is an ancient town with an interesting history, having a castle built by Henry VIII and town hall, which once returned two Members of Parliament.

Yarmouth town is a picturesque little town with a lovely harbour. The Lymington car ferry alights here and brings many visitors including cyclists to the town before setting off around the Island. The summer sees the harbour full of Yachts and with a boatyard and lifeboat on station it can be a busy place in the summer months but however never loses its peaceful charm.

To the west of the town Fort Victoria Country Park is sign posted off the A3054, Nature Trail, Cafes, Toilets, picnic area, large car park. Maritime museum, marine aquarium and planetarium and splendid views of the shipping. Sea wall promenade leads back to Yarmouth. To the east of Yarmouth a small car park with adjoining picnic area face a stretch of grass that slopes down to the seawall promenade with seating overlooking the sea. The Yarmouth area is unsuitable for swimming due to strong offshore currents.

On the street leading from the ferry you will find the entrance to Yarmouth Castle. Henry VIII ordered it to be built as a coastal defence against the French. It has a Master Gunners Parlour, Great Hall and kitchen and is well worth a visit. Further along the same street is the George Hotel. Charles II was entertained here by Sir Robert Holmes, governer of the Island, and today a plaque marks the bedroom where Charles spent the night. In the square stands the town hall which dates back to 1764. A few shops, pubs and restaurants can also be found there. At the north end is the pier which was renovated with the aid of public subscription and is a popular place to both fish and view the solent.

On the eastern shore of the harbour lies the Yarmouth Tide Mill, built in 1793 it was used to meet the high demand for flour arising from the war with France. In more recent times it was owned by the historian A.J.P.Taylor.

More on Yarmouth Harbour