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10 Best Benches With A View On The Isle of Wight
Welcome to our guide to the Isle of Wight's best viewpoints with a bench, which combines two of my favourite things - sea views and sitting down.
My criteria for a great bench is one that is publicly accessible and which offers an excellent sea view. Bonus points are awarded for comfort and if it is a safe distance from wasp-infested bins,
We've tried to cover a range of locations, rather than suggesting 10 benches looking at Freshwater Bay from different angles (although I would have no issue with that).
Take a seat and let's begin.
My criteria for a great bench is one that is publicly accessible and which offers an excellent sea view. Bonus points are awarded for comfort and if it is a safe distance from wasp-infested bins,
We've tried to cover a range of locations, rather than suggesting 10 benches looking at Freshwater Bay from different angles (although I would have no issue with that).
Take a seat and let's begin.
This bench in Shanklin is not in our top 10
1. Half Way Up Tennyson Down, near Freshwater Bay
The choice of pleasant benches overlooking Freshwater Bay is - quite frankly - ludicrous. Some would call it an embarrassment of benches.
The headline grabbers are those at the top of Tennyson Down. A whole herd of benches (Ed: pretty sure that's not the name for a group of benches) surround the monument like a protective layer. And yes, the view from the top is glorious (see location).
However, there is an excellent bench about a third of the way up the hill for those of us who get part way and then say "actually this will do, it's a bit blowy today".
My children can reach this bench with only minimal whinging whereas a trip to the top of Tennyson Down is a proper whinge-fest. From the bench you still get a terrific view towards Freshwater Bay right down to Compton Bay and Blackgang beach.
The bench itself offers a good back rest but is a little sharp around the back of the upper leg. It comes complete with an inspiring quote about resting your weary legs, which is exactly what I did before giving up on my walk to the top.
The headline grabbers are those at the top of Tennyson Down. A whole herd of benches (Ed: pretty sure that's not the name for a group of benches) surround the monument like a protective layer. And yes, the view from the top is glorious (see location).
However, there is an excellent bench about a third of the way up the hill for those of us who get part way and then say "actually this will do, it's a bit blowy today".
My children can reach this bench with only minimal whinging whereas a trip to the top of Tennyson Down is a proper whinge-fest. From the bench you still get a terrific view towards Freshwater Bay right down to Compton Bay and Blackgang beach.
The bench itself offers a good back rest but is a little sharp around the back of the upper leg. It comes complete with an inspiring quote about resting your weary legs, which is exactly what I did before giving up on my walk to the top.
This bench on Tennyson Down is less showy than those at the top of the hill...
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...and it delivers the views without the extra effort
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To avoid upsetting the Freshwater Bay Bench Loving Community (FBBLC+), I should also give a mention to this absolute belter of a bench.
This is another cracker of a bench near Freshwater Bay, although it could do with a lick of paint
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The view overlooks the Albion Hotel and is much sparklier on a sunny day
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You can reach this one via the steps on the beach at Freshwater Bay. It's a popular bench so you might find yourself queueing.
Visitors from abroad may like to know that it is NOT acceptable to share a bench with a stranger, unless a) you are verbally invited or b) if they see you and shuffle to the very end of the bench.
Sitting down next to someone without permission is seen as an outrageous invasion of personal space, even if one person is using up a four-seater.
Visitors from abroad may like to know that it is NOT acceptable to share a bench with a stranger, unless a) you are verbally invited or b) if they see you and shuffle to the very end of the bench.
Sitting down next to someone without permission is seen as an outrageous invasion of personal space, even if one person is using up a four-seater.
2. Between Cowes and Gurnard
These two benches in Cowes offer constant action on the water
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The curved frame provides enough comfort to watch a slow sunset
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Cowes is a great place for watching the world go by. As well as yachts and ferries, you can enjoy a steady supply of container ships that have just dropped off plastic junk in Southampton and cruise ships heaving folks around the world in windowless cabins.
There's hot competition for the prize of being named the best bench in Cowes and Gurnard. I like this one on the coastal road as it juts out into the sea wall, like someone has deliberately built an extra section just to make space for two benches.
It's also a diplomatic choice. You'll notice from the picture that one of the two benches is on the Gurnard side of the Cowes sign and the other is on the Cowes side. As a result, these benches would make an excellent meeting spot for two undercover FBI agents, including one from the Gurnard branch and another from the Cowes branch.
Anyone who suggests that the FBI don't have secret offices on the Isle of Wight has been reading too much MSM (that's mainstream media, Mother).
I also considered one of the rather grand green shelters overlooking Cowes beach. They are an excellent choice for parents who insist on a walk and a picnic on a windy or wet day. Just sit back and enjoy the view in freezing temperatures whilst trying to eat a pasta salad with a folding fork.
Of course, there are much better things to be doing in the rain.
There's hot competition for the prize of being named the best bench in Cowes and Gurnard. I like this one on the coastal road as it juts out into the sea wall, like someone has deliberately built an extra section just to make space for two benches.
It's also a diplomatic choice. You'll notice from the picture that one of the two benches is on the Gurnard side of the Cowes sign and the other is on the Cowes side. As a result, these benches would make an excellent meeting spot for two undercover FBI agents, including one from the Gurnard branch and another from the Cowes branch.
Anyone who suggests that the FBI don't have secret offices on the Isle of Wight has been reading too much MSM (that's mainstream media, Mother).
I also considered one of the rather grand green shelters overlooking Cowes beach. They are an excellent choice for parents who insist on a walk and a picnic on a windy or wet day. Just sit back and enjoy the view in freezing temperatures whilst trying to eat a pasta salad with a folding fork.
Of course, there are much better things to be doing in the rain.
On a windy day, these benches on Cowes seafront are a good spot for a picnic
3. Overlooking Alum Bay and The Needles
I've picked two of my favourite benches for this one. Is that cheating? Probably. Does anyone care enough to complain? Definitely not.
My favourite view of Alum Bay is provided by this cracker, on the road leading to the Needles Old Battery. From here you get a great view of the famous multicoloured sands that can be purchased and stuffed into a miniature plastic bear.
My favourite view of Alum Bay is provided by this cracker, on the road leading to the Needles Old Battery. From here you get a great view of the famous multicoloured sands that can be purchased and stuffed into a miniature plastic bear.
An unfussy bench that lets the view do the work, overlooking Alum Bay
I can tell you've got a few concerns at my choice, but hear me out and hopefully we can keep this civil.
No, this bench does not have a back to it but this is a bench that doesn't like to make a fuss. It has a quiet dignity that knows it can't compete with the view, so it chooses not to bother.
And what about the fact that you don't really get a good view of The Needles? Surely that's essential?
The problem as I see it is that many of the places where you can see the Needles don't provide seating. The viewing platform at The Needles Landmark Attraction (near the carousel and the tea towels for grandma), doesn't have a bench. Neither does the cracking viewpoint at the Needles Old Battery. What are you supposed to do - just look at a view without a seat? There are some good benches with views at The Old Battery but I can't allow them, as you have to pay to get in.
For a view of the Needles, I vote for a bench on Headon Warren. It's a little bit distant and it requires a lot of climbing, but if you were a lazy sort you'd be looking at our guide to car park viewpoints wouldn't you?
No, this bench does not have a back to it but this is a bench that doesn't like to make a fuss. It has a quiet dignity that knows it can't compete with the view, so it chooses not to bother.
And what about the fact that you don't really get a good view of The Needles? Surely that's essential?
The problem as I see it is that many of the places where you can see the Needles don't provide seating. The viewing platform at The Needles Landmark Attraction (near the carousel and the tea towels for grandma), doesn't have a bench. Neither does the cracking viewpoint at the Needles Old Battery. What are you supposed to do - just look at a view without a seat? There are some good benches with views at The Old Battery but I can't allow them, as you have to pay to get in.
For a view of the Needles, I vote for a bench on Headon Warren. It's a little bit distant and it requires a lot of climbing, but if you were a lazy sort you'd be looking at our guide to car park viewpoints wouldn't you?
This Headon Warren bench has a view of the Needles - and a good back support
4. Overlooking Bembridge Lifeboat Station
A flock of benches (Ed: nope, that's still not right) compete for your bottom on this nice grassy patch overlooking Bembridge lifeboat station. My favourite is the one closest to the slipway.
I attempted to take a photo of it but there was someone sat on it who looked to be settled in for the afternoon.
From here you get a busy scene of activity in the Solent and there's usually a mobile van selling coffees. I had a decaf cappuccino.
I attempted to take a photo of it but there was someone sat on it who looked to be settled in for the afternoon.
From here you get a busy scene of activity in the Solent and there's usually a mobile van selling coffees. I had a decaf cappuccino.
I failed to get an actual photo of this bench, as someone was sitting on it
5. Fishbourne Beach
Here's a real curveball in at number five.
This bench is at a hidden away spot in Fishbourne, which can be reached by driving towards the Fishbourne ferry and then carrying on as if you've refused to go home.
This bench is at a hidden away spot in Fishbourne, which can be reached by driving towards the Fishbourne ferry and then carrying on as if you've refused to go home.
Why is it a curveball?
Firstly, the bench is facing the wrong way. If I was in charge, it would have been turned 90 degrees so that it faces the sea.
However, I like it as it provided a welcome shelter for a picnic when we were in the area.
It also has a grandeur that suggests a backstory. Was it bequeathed to the village by royalty? Did it float along from someone's garden in Ryde during the storm of 1987? I'm not saying either of those things are true, but let's dare to dream.
Postscript: since writing this guide, I appeared on BBC South Today to discuss my love of benches (no, really). A viewer informed me that this bench sits on a turntable and previously span round. The concept of a 'spinny bench' that can chase the sunshine excites me greatly.
Firstly, the bench is facing the wrong way. If I was in charge, it would have been turned 90 degrees so that it faces the sea.
However, I like it as it provided a welcome shelter for a picnic when we were in the area.
It also has a grandeur that suggests a backstory. Was it bequeathed to the village by royalty? Did it float along from someone's garden in Ryde during the storm of 1987? I'm not saying either of those things are true, but let's dare to dream.
Postscript: since writing this guide, I appeared on BBC South Today to discuss my love of benches (no, really). A viewer informed me that this bench sits on a turntable and previously span round. The concept of a 'spinny bench' that can chase the sunshine excites me greatly.
6. Mottistone Down
Here's a West Wight curiosity for you, to show that I'm not just picking out the more obvious benches. I wouldn't want you thinking this is yet another predictable guide to outstanding benches on a small island.
This one is a clever choice. It is a bit like saying 'Bleach' when someone asks for your favourite Nirvana album. They might not agree with you, but they'll respect you more for it.
This bench is along the Tennyson Trail, which is an outstanding mountain biking and (hard going but rewarding) walking route from Carisbrooke to Freshwater. Here's our guide to the Tennyson Trail.
You get views out to sea and can see the Longstone in the distance, which is a couple of ancient rocks (Ed: aren't all rocks ancient?) that we like to call Stonehenge-lite. See our guide to historic attractions for the thrilling story about a battle between St Catherine and the devil. It definitely happened and wasn't just made up for a laugh.
Would I prefer a bench with a back to it? Of course, but it allows it to blend more naturally into an area that was unspoilt...until I raced past on my mountain bike.
This one is a clever choice. It is a bit like saying 'Bleach' when someone asks for your favourite Nirvana album. They might not agree with you, but they'll respect you more for it.
This bench is along the Tennyson Trail, which is an outstanding mountain biking and (hard going but rewarding) walking route from Carisbrooke to Freshwater. Here's our guide to the Tennyson Trail.
You get views out to sea and can see the Longstone in the distance, which is a couple of ancient rocks (Ed: aren't all rocks ancient?) that we like to call Stonehenge-lite. See our guide to historic attractions for the thrilling story about a battle between St Catherine and the devil. It definitely happened and wasn't just made up for a laugh.
Would I prefer a bench with a back to it? Of course, but it allows it to blend more naturally into an area that was unspoilt...until I raced past on my mountain bike.
Mottistone Down is one of several high points in the West Wight
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The bench lacks back support, but it fits in nicely
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7. Shanklin Esplanade
It took me two attempts to get a photo of my favourite bench in Shanklin. On the first occasion, it was being sat on and they wouldn't budge despite my constant circling. On the second occasion, I saw a couple of pensioners slowly strolling towards it so I picked up the pace and plonked myself down before they had a chance. They began saying something about being out of breath, but I waved them away to take the photo (note for idiots - this is a joke and didn't happen).
There are plenty of benches on Shanklin esplanade, including a fleet of benches (Ed: nope) at the point where the esplanade juts out. However, these are mostly pointing the wrong way for my liking. I had a loud disagreement with a relative who said I could sit sideways on the bench with my legs hanging off the end. Honestly, some people.
I much prefer the view towards Luccombe to the view out to sea, as there is very little activity on the water near Shanklin.
The one I've chosen is at the end of the esplanade and is pointed sideways. It is sheltered, moderately comfortable and very pleasant. It has the added bonus of actually being a cluster of four benches with a view in any direction you choose. Keep a wide berth from anyone who chooses the seat staring at the road when a sea view bench is available.
I did spend some time looking for a better view from the clifftops at Shanklin. However, most of them only really give you a good view when you stand up, which removes 50% of the reason why I like seaside benches.
There are plenty of benches on Shanklin esplanade, including a fleet of benches (Ed: nope) at the point where the esplanade juts out. However, these are mostly pointing the wrong way for my liking. I had a loud disagreement with a relative who said I could sit sideways on the bench with my legs hanging off the end. Honestly, some people.
I much prefer the view towards Luccombe to the view out to sea, as there is very little activity on the water near Shanklin.
The one I've chosen is at the end of the esplanade and is pointed sideways. It is sheltered, moderately comfortable and very pleasant. It has the added bonus of actually being a cluster of four benches with a view in any direction you choose. Keep a wide berth from anyone who chooses the seat staring at the road when a sea view bench is available.
I did spend some time looking for a better view from the clifftops at Shanklin. However, most of them only really give you a good view when you stand up, which removes 50% of the reason why I like seaside benches.
This cluster of four benches has a view of Luccombe and Culver Down
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I asked the council to remove the emergency equipment to improve my view but they blathered on about "health and safety". Ridiculous.
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Fancy staying near the Isle of Wight Festival? See our guide to rooms in Newport.
8. VEntnor to Steephill Cove Coastal Path
There are many contenders for the best bench in hilly Ventnor.
Many will plump for one of the benches near to Ventnor Winter Gardens. These give you a triumphant view towards The Spyglass and Steephill Cove. I certainly wouldn't think any less of you if you fall into that camp.
My personal favourite is this beauty on the coastal path that leads to Steephill Cove. It's a terrific walk of about a mile and this bench is well located to provide a half way break.
And just look at the style of the bench. It's a real no-nonsense piece of work that sits on a slab of concrete like a Staffordshire Bull Terrier guarding a nightclub. No one's going to mess with this fella.
Little does he know that the cliff will probably give way in the next storm and send him crashing down onto the beach below. In many ways, it's a metaphor for the fragility of life.
Many will plump for one of the benches near to Ventnor Winter Gardens. These give you a triumphant view towards The Spyglass and Steephill Cove. I certainly wouldn't think any less of you if you fall into that camp.
My personal favourite is this beauty on the coastal path that leads to Steephill Cove. It's a terrific walk of about a mile and this bench is well located to provide a half way break.
And just look at the style of the bench. It's a real no-nonsense piece of work that sits on a slab of concrete like a Staffordshire Bull Terrier guarding a nightclub. No one's going to mess with this fella.
Little does he know that the cliff will probably give way in the next storm and send him crashing down onto the beach below. In many ways, it's a metaphor for the fragility of life.
Please note that the beer bottle under this bench was not mine
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The bench looks towards Ventnor and provides a stopping point for Steephill Cove
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9. Compton Down
Ah, Compton Bay - a favourite beach for many Islanders (and many visitors too I'm sure).
I love this beach so much that I proposed to Mrs Guru here with a message scrawled in the sand.
The choice of benches to see the beach is not great, but this one is the clear winner in my book.
You can reach it by walking from Freshwater Bay and following the clifftop coastal path. Bits of are often closed off due to crumbly cliffs, but you'll eventually be rewarded with a terrific view.
The bench itself lacks back support but this helps avoid a queue building up. It also allows it to fit nicely into the area rather than trying to steal the limelight.
I love this beach so much that I proposed to Mrs Guru here with a message scrawled in the sand.
The choice of benches to see the beach is not great, but this one is the clear winner in my book.
You can reach it by walking from Freshwater Bay and following the clifftop coastal path. Bits of are often closed off due to crumbly cliffs, but you'll eventually be rewarded with a terrific view.
The bench itself lacks back support but this helps avoid a queue building up. It also allows it to fit nicely into the area rather than trying to steal the limelight.
This unpretentious bench is a welcome bottom holder and delivers one of my favourite views
It was a little grey when I visited, so you'll need to use your imagination
10. St Helen's Beach
And finally, a trip to St Helens in the East Wight.
I fell head over heels for this bench during our stay at Nodes Point Holiday Park. Personally, I would have angled it a further 60 degrees counter-clockwise but it's still a gorgeous view.
The beach here is interesting as it looks wildly different throughout the day. The water is shallow and at low tide it's a huge beach that is good for paddling and a bit of rockpooling. At high tide, it's better for swimming and paddleboarding. I imagine that some old gents have fallen asleep on the beach and awoken in a confused state, convinced that they are on a different bench.
The overflowing bin nearby wasn't ideal, but I'd rather that than rubbish all over the beach.
I fell head over heels for this bench during our stay at Nodes Point Holiday Park. Personally, I would have angled it a further 60 degrees counter-clockwise but it's still a gorgeous view.
The beach here is interesting as it looks wildly different throughout the day. The water is shallow and at low tide it's a huge beach that is good for paddling and a bit of rockpooling. At high tide, it's better for swimming and paddleboarding. I imagine that some old gents have fallen asleep on the beach and awoken in a confused state, convinced that they are on a different bench.
The overflowing bin nearby wasn't ideal, but I'd rather that than rubbish all over the beach.
This bench at St Helens Beach isn't at the optimum angle, and the bin ponged a bit...
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...but the view of St Helens beach is a good one
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The-Isle-of-Wight-Guru-Don't-Blame-Us-Disclaimer™ All the information on this website is correct, as far as we know, but please do check details directly - and please contact us if you find anything inaccurate. Here's our full disclaimer.
Related guides from Isle of WIght Guru:
Isle of Wight Coastal PathWhere to stay and how to split the days if you're walking round the Isle of Wight
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Isle of Wight Short Walks (1 Mile)Easy walks that even whinging children can manage, covering Ventnor, Shanklin, West Wight and Cowes
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Isle of Wight Themed WalksA selection of walks with a theme, including arty trails and royal routes
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