Southern Vectis’ most popular open-top service has been named among the nation’s 7 prettiest routes, by The Times newspaper.
The renowned national broadsheet listed the Needles Breezer second among the nation’s most spectacular summer services – with the list also including the Exmoor Coast in Somerset and the Isle of Bute open-top tour.
Southern Vectis general manager, Richard Tyldsley, has said:
“We’re delighted the Needles Breezer has been recognised in this way. This is an incredibly beautiful part of the country – and we are blessed with the wonderful coast and countryside this route runs through.
“Of course, we’re well aware that we operate within some of the country’s most attractive surroundings, and it seems The Times agrees with us.
“There are of course other beautiful landscapes across the UK – but the Isle of Wight is unique and special. We’re proud to serve here.
“Those who travel on our Needles Breezer service have the opportunity to do so on open-top buses during the warmer months of the year – making the journey even more memorable. And the beautiful weather we’re currently enjoying enhances the experience still further.
“And there is still time to enjoy this popular service, because it runs until Sunday 5th November. We’re looking forward to welcoming many more local people and visitors on-board to enjoy this wonderful route between now and then.”
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The Needles Breezer includes the cliff-hugging, dizzy climb from Alum Bay right up to the National Trust’s Needles Battery and the Needles Landmark attraction – high up to where the vistas out to sea are intoxicating. The service also links Yarmouth to Freshwater Bay, Dimbola Museum and Galleries, and Fort Victoria Country Park.
For information about Southern Vectis services, visit www.islandbuses.org
We went in the summer, and the driver did a valued running commentary. Congratulations. It is pretty, and a little scary in places.
Yes it is scary when going through Freshwater as feral youths are prone to be there, but next year body armour will be available a local lad told us.
Us cork heads always knew the Island is beautiful but for how long
It’s hard to argue with that well deserved accolade. It’s just a shame that the route now by-passes the Highdown Inn and the old road en route to Alum Bay, and no longer visits Fort Victoria, like it did a few years ago.
Living here, I think we sometimes forget what a beautiful island it is.
Yes, there are problems and problem people but it’s still far, far better than most of the mainland. And that, I think, is why people are so vociferous when they see it being slowly ruined by unnecessary house building, undesirables being shipped in here by the Council and services being run-down.
Just a shame that so many toilets are charging 20p, 40p or 50p to use and
24/7 365 days a year parking fees along seafronts.