A guide to Niton

We’re proud of our accommodation at Niton Barns, but we owe a great deal to the charm of the surrounding area. Niton is the southernmost village on the Isle of Wight, split into two halves by a break in the inner cliff . The Island as a whole is packed with gorgeous scenery- around half of which was designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1963. Upper Niton is the northern part of the village, which is where we are. In a hollow and centred around a crossroads, Upper Niton is home to the village shops and pharmacy. South of the cliff is the aptly named Niton Undercliff, formerly a fishing hamlet. Scattered around are various Victorian buildings left over from its popularity at the time as a health resort.

Right next door to us is the stunning Church of St John the Baptist. Parts of the church date back to the 11th century, with additions being made through to the 17th century, overlapping with the initial constructions of our oldest barns. The church yard boasts a memorial to a co-founder of the British public library system, Edward Edwards.

If you’re looking to whet your whistle, we have two pubs in the village. The Buddle Inn (located down in the Undercliff) which has a rich past, dating back to the 16th century. It was voted in the Top 10 UK Pubs with Gardens in 2011, and offers local and seasonal dining. Nearby is Castle Cove, steeped in tales of smugglers and ghosts. In the heart of Upper Niton, we have The White Lion. Executive chef Adam is renowned for his sizeable steaks and Sunday roasts. It’s well worth having a pint and a local meal during your stay.

In more recent history, many of long range radio pioneer Guglielmo Marconi’s early experiments were carried out in Niton at the turn of the 20th century. There is a memorial stone marking his achievements whilst in the area at Knowles Farm.

There’s a local convenience store if you’re looking to stock up on amenities. Norris Family Grocers has been in the area since 1887, trading for an astounding five family generations. They offer a range of local produce, including eggs from Godshill, Minghella ice cream and local ales.

Also locally, we have St Catherine’s Lighthouse. At the Island’s most southerly point, this beautiful building overlooks the English Channel. There has been a light at that point since 1323, the current tower being built in 1838 following a shipwreck. World War II saw three lighthouse keepers killed in a bombing raid. Becoming automated in 1997, the lighthouse remains a stunning piece of local history. The surrounding area is popular with walkers and birdwatchers, and it’s definitely worth spending an afternoon rambling here.

Of course, there’s a vast amount to see and do all over the Island. But it’s important to remember that there’s a wealth of history and intrigue in walking distance of your holiday home.

start 2014 in the right way with free ferry travel

Looking for a cosy holiday in the countryside to start 2014 in the right way? A rural getaway on the Isle of Wight is the perfect antidote to those early-year blues. If that sounds enticing, we’re providing free ferry travel for our visitors as an extra incentive to get you to come and relax with us.  Starting today, we’ll pay for a return ticket for up to six people who book and stay with us throughout March.

Our barns date back as early as the 16^th century, and have been fully restored and renovated to ally modern comforts with antique charm. With flatscreen TVs and Wi-Fi provided across all barns, we can be your home away from home. We welcome everyone from couples to large groups- our range of accommodation suits all, with our largest barn big enough for fourteen people to stay together. And dogs are welcome too!

Contact us today to book your visit, and we’ll make the ferry costs disappear- leaving you with more money to enjoy the South Wight this winter!