Top 20 Natural Monuments around Shorwell
Best natural monuments around Shorwell include a variety of geological formations and significant natural areas. The region features striking white chalk cliffs, tidal estuaries, and ancient landscapes. These natural features offer diverse environments for exploration, from coastal paths to historical sites. The area provides opportunities to experience the Isle of Wight's natural grandeur.
Best natural monuments around Shorwell
- The most popular natural monuments is Devil's Chimney, a gorge that features a picturesque rock cleft with steps carved into the cliff face. This narrow gap between two sheer cliffs once provided a link between Upper Bonchurch and the Landslip.
- Another must-see spot is The Longstone (Isle of Wight), a natural monument and historical site. This large stone marks the entrance to a 6000-year-old Neolithic communal long barrow for burying the dead.
- Visitors also love Military Road Coastal Cliffs View, a natural monument and viewpoint. This location offers extensive views of the dramatic coastal cliffs and the sea along the Isle of Wight's south coast.
- Shorwell is known for its coastal cliffs, ancient burial sites, and scenic viewpoints. The area offers a variety of natural monuments to see and explore, from geological formations to historical landscapes.
- The natural monuments around Shorwell are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 80 upvotes and over 30 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
Military Road (A3055), Isle of Wight
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Devil's Chimney
Highlight (Segment) • Gorge
islandecho.co.uk/devils-chimney-could-be-closed-for-up-to-6-more-months
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The Longstone (Isle of Wight)
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Military Road Coastal Cliffs View
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Five Barrows Trig Point and Ancient Burial Site
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Tips from the Community
This is a great, fast ride for competent road cyclists. However, it does conclude with two strong climbs and a steep descent into Freshwater Bay.Note, that there is a good descent between the climbs, it is fast and short but does swing around to the right and is on the main road. The danger here is being caught by sudden gusts of cross wind when travelling g at speed on the descent. So just keep your wits about you and don't go hell for leather.
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I regularly ride around the Isle of Wight once a year, and can recommend both the Military Road and the inland route taken by the "blue and white flags". In the warmer months of the year (April to October), I would suggest going on a weekday, when there is less holiday traffic.
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Devil's Chimney will never open again. There has been a massive landslip and even the road to it is closed. A sad loss.
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absolutely gorgeous road to ride on, spectacular views. Just make sure to pick a day with as less wind as possible :-)
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After a big land slip in the area, it is believed that the Devil’s Chimney has been destroyed and lost for ever. A very sad loss due to the power of nature!
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The Long Stone is a neolithic burial chamber, but legend has it that St Catherine threw the larger, tall stone from St Catherine's Down and this is where it landed. It is thought that the stone was used as a meeting place in Saxon times.
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There are superb views of the south coast of the Isle of Wight from high up here at the Trig Point known as Five Barrows. Look carefully around and you will see remnants of its name sake. It is an ancient burial site and remains of the burial chambers, or barrows, are still visible.
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nice long flat road to the needles and our camp site
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most popular natural monuments to visit around Shorwell?
Among the most popular natural monuments, you'll find Devil's Chimney, a picturesque rock cleft with steps carved into the cliff face. Another highly regarded site is The Longstone (Isle of Wight), an ancient Neolithic communal long barrow. Visitors also appreciate the extensive views from Military Road Coastal Cliffs View, offering dramatic coastal scenery.
Are there any family-friendly natural monuments near Shorwell?
Yes, The Longstone (Isle of Wight) is categorized as family-friendly, offering an interesting historical site that can spark curiosity. Additionally, nearby Freshwater Bay, with its beach and accessible smugglers' caves at low tide (with a local guide), provides a great family outing.
What kind of geological features can I expect to see in the natural monuments around Shorwell?
The area boasts diverse geological features. You can explore the striking white chalk cliffs at Freshwater Bay, the unique rock cleft of Devil's Chimney, and the ancient burial mounds at Five Barrows Trig Point and Ancient Burial Site. The coastline along the Military Road also showcases dramatic cliff formations.
Are there historical natural monuments or ancient sites in the Shorwell area?
Absolutely. The Longstone (Isle of Wight) is a significant historical site, marking a 6000-year-old Neolithic communal long barrow. Another ancient burial site is Five Barrows Trig Point and Ancient Burial Site, where remnants of burial chambers are still visible.
What outdoor activities can I do near these natural monuments?
The area around Shorwell is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous cycling routes, including those around Shorwell, and mountain biking trails like those listed in MTB Trails around Shorwell. Hiking is also very popular, with many trails available, such as those detailed in Hiking around Shorwell.
Are there good viewpoints to take in the scenery around Shorwell's natural monuments?
Yes, the region offers several excellent viewpoints. Military Road Coastal Cliffs View provides extensive vistas of the dramatic coastline. Additionally, Five Barrows Trig Point and Ancient Burial Site offers superb views of the south coast of the Isle of Wight from its elevated position.
What is the best time of year to visit the natural monuments around Shorwell?
The natural monuments around Shorwell can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and summer offer the most pleasant weather for exploring coastal paths and trails. Autumn brings beautiful colors to the landscape, while winter can offer dramatic, rugged scenery, though some paths might be muddy or exposed to strong winds, especially along the coast.
Are there any significant wildlife areas or nature reserves near Shorwell?
Yes, the Western Yar Estuary, located a short distance north of Shorwell, is a vital natural monument and a biological Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). It features diverse habitats like saltmarshes, reedbeds, and mud flats, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching, particularly for overwintering wild birds and waders. You can learn more about it on Wikipedia.
Can I find long-distance walking trails that connect to these natural monuments?
The Tennyson Trail, a 14-mile long-distance footpath, is accessible from the Shorwell area and traverses some of the most scenic natural landscapes on the Isle of Wight. It offers panoramic views and connects areas like Freshwater Bay and Tennyson Down, providing a challenging yet rewarding experience. More information can be found on Wikipedia.
What do visitors enjoy most about the natural monuments in this region?
Visitors frequently praise the breathtaking coastal views, the sense of history at ancient sites like The Longstone, and the unique geological formations such as Devil's Chimney. The opportunity for challenging walks with rewarding scenery and the chance to connect with the island's natural grandeur are also highly valued.
Are there any permits needed for walking or visiting natural monuments in the Shorwell area?
Generally, no specific permits are needed for accessing public footpaths and natural monuments around Shorwell. However, if you plan to explore specific areas like the smugglers' caves at Freshwater Bay, it's advisable to go with a local guide due to tidal risks and potential access restrictions.
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