The first place people see when hopping off the ferry, Yarmouth's pretty harbour, castle, and pier are the pinnacle of a trip to the Isle of Wight. The peaceful setting and rich history ensure any who visit instantly fall in love with the quaint harbour town.
Alongside its vast history, Yarmouth is also home to several excellent places to eat, as well as a secluded beach and a number of quirky attractions, making it a wonderful holiday destination with plenty to see and do.
Here are some of our favourite things to do in Yarmouth to get your holiday itinerary started…
Yarmouth Castle
Yarmouth crams a great deal into a small section of coastline. Within a 100m stretch you'll find the pier, a historic hotel, fine-dining restaurant, ferry port, and the town’s famous castle!
The castle was built under the orders of Henry VIII in the 16th century to protect the Solent from French attack. It worked in tandem with Hurst Castle on the mainland to cover the western entrance of the shipping lane.
Yarmouth Castle was called back into service during the World Wars when an attack by sea became a real threat once again. Today, it is managed by English Heritage with the highlight being its battlements, which make for a perfect spot for a picnic with a view. Inside the castle, you can discover stories of shipwrecks and battles at sea.
Yarmouth Pier
Next door to Yarmouth Castle is England's longest wooden pier, and one of four piers that remain on the Isle of Wight - at one stage there were eleven! It’s a popular location with anglers, who can be found casting their lines off the end, and with those enjoying the evening sunsets after a delicious meal in one of the nearby restaurants. Needless to say, its wooden structure requires constant upkeep so donations are welcome and can be made at the pier.
Beaches
Yarmouth’s small section of beach by the pier is a popular fish and chip spot, with the serene setting and boat-watching opportunities promising a lovely backdrop.
However, if it’s a beach day you’re after, there is a well-hidden bay a short 10-minute walk from the town centre called Sandhard Beach. A hidden gem amongst the Island’s beautiful beaches, you may have seen it providing a backdrop on the TV series The Beast Must Die. Walk west across Yarmouth's swing bridge and you'll soon find the footpath that leads to this small bay. There are even barbecue stands provided for those who want to dine out!
Boat trips
Yarmouth's busy harbour is an excellent spot for some people watching, with large boats coming and going on the shimmering waters, and the RNLI's lifeboat ready to launch at a moment's notice.
If you fancy setting sail yourself, sign up with Black Rock Charters. Running cruises around the West Wight, including a close up view of The Needles, as well as fishing trips, this is one of the best ways to see the Island in all its salt-kissed glory.
Places to eat
In between Yarmouth Pier and the Wightlink ferry is The George, one of the Island's most historic hotels and restaurants. You may have seen it featured on Channel 5's Jewel of the South, where champagne sipping visitors relaxed in its garden backing onto the sea. The more formal option is The Conservatory restaurant, while the casual diners can opt for the Beach Kitchen, where pizzas are served in the garden - perfect!
In an unassuming location above Wightlink's ticket office is one of the Island's finest restaurants for foodies. The Terrace deservedly gets a mention in the Michelin guide thanks to its creative dining. Book one of their quirky pods for some private dining with a sea view unlike any other.
On The Rocks is a good choice for those who want a true dining experience as steaks are served on hot rocks, so you can enjoy it cooked just how you like it, along with bottomless chips and salad.
The town's former railway station is another unusual choice. Off The Rails is thoughtfully themed and is also next door to a bike hire company, perfect for a refuel before touring the former railway line that leads to Freshwater.
For a light bite at lunch, The Gossips Café is the place for a sea view and a baguette. You'll find it wedged between the pier and The George. Or for a picnic, head for family-run Grace's Bakery, whose beloved Yarmouth coffee shop boasts lots of treats to take away.
If traditional pub dining is more your thing try The Wheatsheaf, where craft beers and a beer tasting room will keep the real ale aficionados very happy indeed.
A little further afield
From Sandhard Beach, there is a short coastal walk to Fort Victoria - another sign of Yarmouth's history as a place of military significance. The fort was one of several built under the orders of Lord Palmerston, who feared invasion from the French in the 1850s. Its cannons still watch over the Solent but it now houses a number of small attractions in place of a garrison.
Animal lovers can meet the residents of the Isle of Wight Reptilarium or head into Fort Victoria's woodland, where they will find a trail and possibly spot a red squirrel or two. The fort is also home to the Island Planetarium, which puts on regular displays and celebrates the life of astronomer Robert Hooke, who was born in nearby Freshwater.
Crafty ones should spend a little time at the fort's Imaginarium. It offers pottery painting and other craft activities, as well as selling locally made masterpieces.
Excited to explore this charming corner of the Isle of Wight? Explore our beautiful holiday homes in and around Yarmouth, from dog-friendly cottages to incredible coastal escapes.
