A new heritage trail has been produced for West Wight thanks to funding from the Isle of Wight Council’s Active Travel Innovation Grant.
The guide covers important historical figures from West Wight with extra focus on Freshwater Bay which has been an important cultural hub, especially during the Victorian period.
In addition to well-known Island residents Tennyson, Cameron and Hooke, the guide lists numerous notable visitors from many varied fields who took great inspiration from the area.
Cameron: A fabulous culturally-important area
The heritage trail has been put together by The Bay Boutique Bed and Breakfast in Freshwater Bay, using historical research compiled by local artist Becca Cameron from Freshwater Bay Residents’ Association.
Becca said,
“I’ve spent years researching the history of the area. As an artist myself, I’ve been intrigued by all the artists, writers, explorers, intellectuals and geniuses who have come here.
“I’m glad that my work has been used in this new guide so people can see what a fabulous culturally-important area this is.”
Mocroft: Full of celebrities during the Victorian era
Paul Mocroft, owner of The Bay Boutique Bed and Breakfast, said,
“Putting this guide together has been fascinating. I learned so much about past visitors to the area.
“Freshwater Bay has a great energy during the summer months, but it’s extraordinary to think what this must have been like during the Victorian era when it was full of celebrities!
“You can almost feel what it must have been like by exploring the trail yourself.”
The Heritage Trail will be promoted via social media to inspire visitors and capture the imagination of those interested in historical and cultural travel.
Bacon: Hope it will encourage locals to get out and gain a new perspective
Cllr Jonathan Bacon, Isle of Wight Council cabinet member for Environment and Heritage, said,
“The aim of the grant is to get people to leave their cars at home and instead use a bike or walk.
“This new guide will not just give tourists something new to see, but I hope it will also encourage locals to get out and gain a new perspective on familiar places and our rich social history that many do not realise exists.
“I’d encourage everyone to get out and see West Wight in a new light!”
Prize draw for users of the Trail
People who complete all or part of the heritage trail can enter a prize draw to win items donated from Island businesses, by giving feedback on a short online form.
Prizes include:
- A £25 voucher for The Red Lion Freshwater
- A cream tea for two at Jireh House, Yarmouth
- A weekend’s electric bike hire for two from Wight Cycle Hire, Yarmouth
- A weekend’s electric bike hire for two from The Bay Boutique Bed and Breakfast
- A £25 voucher for Adrian’s Bike Shop, Freshwater
- A limited edition print of a Freshwater Bay scene from Island artist Maria Ward
Mocroft: Providing stimulating experiences in cultural tourism
Paul concludes,
“We know what a beautiful part of the world we live in and are keen to share it with others.
“With many more people looking for a UK holiday this year, we want to play our part in opening up the Isle of Wight to more visitors by providing stimulating experiences in cultural tourism.”
See the guide
The guide is available online at where the prize draw can also be entered. Physical copies are available from West Wight Tourist Information Points.
News shared by Paul, in his own words. Ed
