The Island’s most historic visitor attraction, Shanklin Chine, opens its gates to visitors for the 2023 season at the end of this month, but there are a few things to mention to visitors beforehand…
While you can expect the same scenery, stunning waterfalls and delightful walkways the team have been busy over the winter and have some new residents for the new year ahead.
However, in the very early hours of the morning of Friday 10th March, the Chine was subject to a large landslip. Around 50 tonnes of mud, plants and debris slid down the banks and demolished a newly built structure that was to become the new tea room with seating overlooking the Chine.
Operations Manager of Shanklin Chine and the Fisherman’s Cottage Inn, Jo Porter, says:
“The devastation left behind after this land slip has been immense. Unfortunately, the steel has been bent and the concrete cracked so the building is not salvageable at all, it’s just luck that this happened when nobody was on site.
“Many will remember the floods Shanklin Chine and The Fisherman’s Cottage were subjected to last year, it’s just another blow for the attraction. Landslides have been known to happen here during bad weather, it’s one of the reasons we close during the winter.
“We don’t want this to put anyone off visiting Shanklin Chine and we implore Island residents and visitors alike to support The Chine this year, by visiting us, donating items to our antiques centre or just popping in for tea and cake… as the saying goes, every little helps.”
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Landslips aside, Dinosaurs can now be found lurking in the undergrowth of Shanklin Chine alongside nearly a dozen eggs which can be found following a trail around the Chine. Be on the lookout for a 2-metre tall Brontosaurus and a one-and-a-half tall Triceratops and T-Rex.
Jo adds:
“We are looking forward to welcoming people back to The Chine this year and we have added a few exciting extras. Families and their little ones will love exploring Shanklin Chine and following the trails to find a dinosaur or two. The undergrowth is perfect for giving that ‘Jurassic feel’.
“By enhancing the Chine we are planning to host a variety of events tailored to the time of year and trends. So keep an eye on our socials and website.”
Shanklin Chine has events spanning from Easter Egg Hunts from Good Friday – Easter Sunday, live summer music shindigs as well their popular Halloween Spooktacular, aimed at little ones. There are more new events for 2023 including an Adults Only Halloween Party – an after-dark event with DJ, drinks and dancing.
Shanklin Chine opens for the 1st time this season at 10:00 on Thursday 30th March.
How come the chine isn’t a prow?