Isle of Wight Heritage

In the sleepy, rural West Wight village of Shorwell, 2 public houses once anchored village life: The Crown Inn and The Five Bells.

One of Britain’s most feared jails opened a stark new fortress for its most dangerous inmates when its Maximum Security Block received its first inmate on 31st January 1966.

Opened in 1973, Sandham Middle School in Sandown became a cherished part of Isle of Wight life – a seaside school remembered for its spirit, staff and friendships.

It was on this day 125 years ago that Queen Victoria passed away at Osborne House, bringing to an end the longest reign in British history at that time.

At the end of the Second World War, Cowes and East Cowes supported around 40 pubs between them, yet only 8 stood on the East bank of the River Medina...

120 years ago today, on 12th January 1906, the General Election campaign descended into violent disorder in rural Isle of Wight.

For nearly 50 years, Forelands Middle School in Bembridge stood high above the sea, shaping generations of Isle of Wight children – a seaside school remembered with real warmth and affection.

A newly expanded edition of 'Ryde Waterworks, Knighton Memories' has been released, offering a deeper, richly illustrated account of one of Ryde’s most significant heritage sites.

A new online platform has been launched to help residents, visitors and history enthusiasts explore more than 1,300 heritage locations across the Isle of Wight.

Once a familiar sight on high streets across the Isle of Wight, Mac Fisheries brought a touch of modern flair to the traditional British fish and chip shop during the 20th century.