Fairytale Villages in England – Thatched Cottage Villages Isle of Wight England

Fairytale Villages in England – Thatched Cottage Villages Isle of Wight England

This time we’ll stroll through fairytale villages 
and explore historic sites like the remarkable   thousand-year-old Calbourne watermill and the 
“pepper pot”, the oldest medieval lighthouse   in England. We’ll admire the charming thatched 
cottages and pretty stone houses that crown this landscape   and end our day in Shanklin old village 
for a quaint nighttime walk amongst the twinkling   lights of the village and the coloured spotlights 
of the island’s oldest attraction, Shanklin Chine.    Join us for another magical adventure in 
this captivating corner of the Isle of Wight. Welcome to Calbourne, nestled in the heart 
of the Isle of Wight’s western countryside  regarded as one of the most unspoiled villages 
on the island. Life here revolves around the   gentle Calbourne stream, the very waterway 
that gave the village its ancient name.   I’m just arriving at the village’s 
oldest and once most important buildings,   the thousand-year-old Calbourne Watermill. 
You can get here from Newport bus station,   stand B, using the “Summerlinks” 
service. There is a bus stop at   the gates of the attraction. Check 
the bus website for all the details. The site features 20 acres of scenic landscape, a 
shop, a tearoom, a small war museum and adventure   golf course for children. Additionally, visitors 
can learn about the mill’s history and even   have the opportunity to see it in operation. The 
attraction faced potential closure in 2024 due to   storm damage and a costly wheel repair. Although 
it wasn’t operational during my visit, I’ve been   informed that the wheel is now functioning 
again. The water mill is first mentioned in   the Doomsday Book of 1086 when it was known as 
Mylplace, a large mill with two sets of grinding   stones and a malthouse. The stream flows from 
natural springs at Westover and passes through   the village beside the pretty Winkle Street that 
we’ll visit later. It once powered five mills,   including a fulling mill to process wool and 
cloth, two corn mills, a paper mill and this flour   and grain mill. For much of its early history, it 
was owned by the lords of the manor of Westover,   used solely by the tenants of the manor who 
ran the farms in the area, grinding barley,   oats and wheat. Obviously, the structure of 
the mill has changed over a thousand years,   and most of what we see today was installed around 
1664 under the ownership of Sir Robert Dillington. In March 1878, George Weekes purchased the 
mill, marking a significant turning point in its history.  This acquisition coincided with 
a period of technological advancement in the   British milling industry where traditional stone 
grinding were being replaced by innovative roller mill systems.   These new systems produced a finer, 
whiter flour that was increasingly preferred by consumers.    The adoption of this new technology had 
an immediate and substantial impact on the mill’s   production capabilities. The output capacity 
increased threefold from roughly 0.5 sacks   of flour per hour with the old mill grinding 
methods to 1.5 sacks per hour using the roller   mill system. This rate was quickly surpassed, 
reaching almost two sacks per hour.   Although the mill’s primary power source initially remained 
the impressive 20 foot diameter iron overshot   waterwheel, the demands of the new machinery 
required additional power sources An oil engine   was installed early on, followed by a steam engine 
and finally a more cost-effective gas suction   engine in 1920. You can still buy flour and 
rolled oats here, milled by this waterwheel when in operation.   Before we leave the mill, let’s 
just have a quick look in the small war museum and   browse the interesting collection of artefacts, 
some relating to the Isle of Wight during wartime. Like the mill, the village boasts ancient origins   and is just a 15-minute walk from the 
mill or two stops on the bus. I drove,   but parking is very limited as it’s 
not designed as a tourist attraction. The parish church of All Saints, with its 
structure largely dating from the mid-13th century,    dominates the sloping village 
green. The church features remarkable   early English windows, especially 
the elegant lancets in the chancel. The church’s interior reflects 
local history.. The octagon   font likely originated as a square Norman piece. Between 1838 and 42, architect A F 
Livy oversaw significant restoration,   including the addition of a Neo Norman north 
porch and the Simeon Chapel and Crypt, built   at the behest of Sir Richard Simeon of Swainston 
Manor. Calbourne’s history is deeply intertwined   with the neighbouring estates of Swainston and 
Westover. Their influence shaped land ownership,   the social structure and even the physical layout 
of the village and its church. The north aisle was   reserved for Swainston Manor tenants, whilst the 
south aisle served those from the Westover estate,   illustrating the memorial systems’ influence 
on land tenure, community life and worship. Winkle Street, arguably one of the most 
picturesque lanes on the Isle of Wight,   is a truly idyllic location. The row of cottages 
lining the lane with the Calbourne gently flowing   nearby evokes a timeless charm and has made it 
a popular subject for photographs and paintings. Originally named Barrington Row after the 
Barrington family, who lived and owned the nearby   Swainston estate, the street was likely built in 
the 1780s. The name Barrington Row remained in use   well into the 20th century, but the origin of the 
name Winkle Street remains shrouded in local lore. The stream running alongside the 
cottages was once the site of the   sheep wash with a dedicated stone 
structure documented as early as 1640. It continues all the way 
from here towards the watermill. The cottages on Winkle Street were once tied to 
the local farms and housed agricultural workers   and their families. In the 1930s, the rent for 
these cottages was just three shillings a week,   deducted directly from the farm workers’ 
wages.. Even back then, Winkle Street was   a popular spot for tourists, with coaches 
bringing visitors to admire its beauty. Just a mile or two closer to the coast in the 
Isle of Wight National Landscape is Brighstone,   a village that charms visitors with its timeless 
atmosphere and picturesque thatch cottages.   I’m just taking a very short stop here to 
show you around. Dramatic downland walks,   a forest that is a haven for 
horse riders and mountain bikers,   draws visitors to explore the village. 
At its heart stands St Mary’s Church,   a building that has watched over the village for 
more than 8 centuries, although the parish wasn’t   formally established until 1644. The church itself 
dates back to the Norman times, around 1190. Walking inside, the most striking feature from 
its earliest days is the impressive North Arcade,   where sturdy, rounded pillars and semi-circular 
arches speak of the late 12th-century craftsmanship.    The elegant spire wasn’t added 
until the 17th century, possibly around 1720.   The churchyard holds poignant reminders 
of the community’s connection to the sea,   including the graves of lifeboatmen lost 
in the tragic Sirenia rescue of 1888. North Street, with its row of traditional 
stone and thatched cottages, houses the   village library and museum, offering a glimpse 
into the past. Sadly, it was too late in the   day for me to visit. As you can probably 
tell, the sun is starting to get down low,   and I want to make my way to the ancient 
medieval lighthouse before the light is gone. The approach to this historic beacon begins along 
the scenic A3055 coastal road. You may recall we   drove that in the very first episode, leading 
towards Black Gang Chine viewpoint car park,   nestled between Black Gang Chine and Niton. From 
here, the stage is set by the imposing presence of   St Catherine’s Down, rising to around 240 metres, 
790 feet. It ranks amongst the highest points on   the Isle of Wight, offering commanding views. 
This dramatic landscape forms part of the Isle   of Wight National Landscape, formerly the area 
of outstanding natural beauty and the Tennyson Heritage Coast.   The character of the Downs is 
undeniably wild and windswept; its chalk geology   shapes the rolling hills, which plunge towards 
the sea via steep coastal slopes and dramatic cliffs.    Visitors should be prepared for the 
elements. The paths can become slippery and muddy,   particularly after rain, and the wind often 
sweeps across the exposed headland. Dense fog is   also known to shroud the hill, a factor that has 
played a significant role in the history of the   navigation aids here. This inherent wilderness and 
the sometimes challenging conditions underscore   the very reason a guided light was deemed 
necessary on this perilous coast centuries ago. The origin story of the “Pepper Pot” 
is as peculiar and compelling as the   structure itself. It begins with Walter de 
Godeton, the local lord of the manor at Chale,   in the early 14th century. In 1314, a ship 
named the Santa Marie, laden with wine,   met its end on the treacherous Atherfield 
ledge in Chale Bay. The cargo consisted of   valuable white wine destined for the monastery of 
Livers in Picardy, France. Following the wreck,   much of this wine was salvaged or, perhaps 
more accurately, plundered by locals!   Walter de Godeton came into possession of a significant 
quantity of this illicitly obtained wine. Because the wine belonged to the church, this act was 
considered not just theft but sacrilege.    Word reached the ecclesiastical authorities and de 
Godeton faced severe consequences, including a   hefty fine and the threat of excommunication, a 
dire prospect in medieval society.    His penance was specific and purposeful, to atone for his sin 
de Godeton was ordered to build a lighthouse on   the down overlooking the scene of his crime, to 
warn future mariners of the dangers. Crucially,  he was also required to construct an adjoining 
oratory or chapel. An endowment was established   to fund a priest who would perform a dual 
role, tending the beacon fire that served as   the light and saying mass, praying for the souls 
of those lost at sea, off this hazardous coast.   Although Walter de Godeton reportedly died in 
1327, the lighthouse and oratory were completed   in 1328, and duties were apparently carried 
out until the reformation in the 16th century. Wow, that was quite a climb. Oh, beautiful 
views up here, though. What a wonderful old   lighthouse. Although being where it was, 
I really don’t think it would have stopped   many shipwrecks. But it’s still standing! 
Quite amazing.. What a beautiful sunset. Just down there is Black Gang 
Chine, which is a theme Park. Haven’t been there since I was a kid,   but it wasn’t that good then, 
so I don’t think we’ll go back! See right along the coast, can’t quite see the 
needles, but they are up there somewhere.   Well, that was very blustery! Well, the sun’s setting, 
and I do want to get back to Shanklin and take   you to Shanklin Chine. I’m not sure whether we’re 
going to make it. It closes at 8.30, but it is open.   It’s illuminated at night, so we’ll try and do 
that now, and that will finish the day off nicely. If you’ve been watching the series, then you know 
my base has been Shanklin Old Village, and as the   twilight deepens, the daylight bustle filled with 
visitors exploring gift shops and tea rooms gives   way to a quieter, more intimate atmosphere. Soft 
light spills from the windows and street lamps.   Shanklin is a town with a modern high street with 
shops and restaurants. As you reach the lower end,   it gives way to the pretty thatched 
cottages, which are pubs and quaint   craft shops known as the old village. Shanklin’s 
story stretches back a millennium. For centuries,   it remained a remote and unassuming fishing 
and farming village nestled on the coast.   The late 18th and early 19th centuries marked 
a significant turning point when people were   drawn to the dramatic landscapes 
and natural beauty of this area. Many of the quaint cottages huddled 
together are the original dwellings   of the fishermen who formed the village’s 
first community. The Old Thatch Teashop,   believed by some to be Shanklin’s oldest 
building, possibly dating back to 1690.   Its charming pink exterior and traditional 
thatched roof make it instantly recognisable. Around the bend on Church Road, a short distance 
away, lies St Blasius Church. I only managed to   see the miniature version in last week’s video 
when we visited the charming model village   at Godshill. Another incredible thatched house 
village. The church is often called Shanklin Old Church.   It’s well worth a visit, as is watching 
the video if you missed last week’s episode! The Crab Inn, a fixture since the 1830s, when 
Shanklin was merely a cluster of cottages,   famously hosted Henry Wadsworth Longfellow.   Its central location makes it a popular hub 
and I enjoyed a quiet drink here of an evening. Across the road, the Village Inn 
occupies the building that once served   as the community’s sole general store 
providing groceries and baked goods. Leaving the cosy confines of the 
old village, I made my way towards the   main entrance of Shanklin Chine via Chine 
Avenue. You can also walk down another path   beside the Crab Inn but I wanted to catch 
the sea and beach in the fading light. The opening times and prices vary, so do 
check their website. Your ticket is valid  for 7 days,  so you can come back day or night to see it from different perspectives This deep wooded coastal ravine is the result 
of a stream relentlessly carving its way   through the soft sandstone over a thousand 
years. The term chine itself is a local word  of Saxon origin signifying such a geological 
feature: A deep, narrow gorge leading to the sea.  Shanklin Chine is the largest accessible chine 
remaining on the Isle of Wight, covering about   3 acres and dropping 32 metres, 105 feet over 
It’s 400 metre length to reach the sea below. Its history as a visitor attraction 
is remarkably long. Formerly opened to   the public in 1817 by William Colenutt, who 
excavated the first proper path. Shanklin Chine holds the title of the Isle of Wight’s oldest tourist attraction. Its dramatic beauty captivated 
artists and writers including   Keats, Austen, Dickens and Longfellow 
to name but a few seen here on this information board .  Long before that 
it was a known haunt for smugglers,   utilising its hidden recesses and even a tunnel 
connecting to the Chine Inn in the old village. The waterfalls are undoubtedly 
a highlight of the nighttime walk.   The main cascade dropping 45 feet 
13.5 metre is bathed in shifting coloured lights,  transforming the rushing water 
into a vibrant spectacle. The interplay   of lights and water creates mesmerising 
patterns against the dark backdrop of the ravine. The Chine’s strategic potential was 
recognised during World War II its steep wooded   terrain served as an effective training ground 
and assault course for commandos based nearby.   More significantly, it became a crucial top 
secret component of Operation Pluto, pipeline   under the ocean , an ingenious project that 
involved laying pipelines under the English   Channel to supply vital fuel to Allied forces 
in Normandy following the D-Day landings.    Forked pipelines ran from Shanklin Chine and neighbouring 
Sandown carrying petrol across the seabed to Cherbourg. While the focus at night is primarily visual   The Chines’s rich plant life remains 
an essential part of the experience.   The illuminations pick out the forms of towering 
trees like sycamore, elder, alder, and beech and the   textures of ferns, mosses, and other lush 
vegetation that cling to the chasm walls. We’ll leave the chine at the esplanade exit. Ahead 
of us is the town’s original thatched dining pub   on the beach with rich heritage dating back to 1817.  The Fisherman’s Cottage is popular for drinks and dinner   So book in advance if you want a seat at 
this quaint pub. It was constructed by William Colenutt   the same chap that originally created the 
visitor paths in the chine. He was also the first   person to operate bathing machines on Shanklin 
Beach, making the pub a hub for tourists.   In 1845 the cottage was leased to Colenutt’s son-in-law 
James Samson, who offered visitors hot brine baths.   Seawater was pumped to a large tank next to the 
pub and then heated in a copper boiler. During the   Victorian era, these baths were believed to 
be very effective in treating serious health   conditions like tuberculosis and they made the pub 
famous throughout the country. In 1970 the baths   were relocated just inside the lower entrance to 
Shanklin Chine. The family owned the pub right up to 1960   when a terrible winter storm caused huge amounts 
of damage to the building which led to extensive   rebuilding work. Today as I said it’s as popular as 
ever and still retains its character. I’ve made my   way along the seafront and Shanklin Beach. There 
are numerous seaside hotels and a few pubs to   enjoy a drink in as you listen to the sound of the 
sea. It really was a great end to my day exploring! Let’s have a look ahead to next 
week in our Isle of Wight series. Next time we explore the small scenic village 
of Bonurch and the larger seaside town of Ventnor. Each with a unique story etched into its 
landscapes and buildings    Our walkabout begins in the quiet setting of Bonchurch, a place full of history with an 11th century church and once a   haven for literary giants like Charles Dickens.  We then wind our way to the lively Victorian seaside town of Ventnor,   for a stroll along 
the promenade and streets from high above.   I’ll conclude my visit at a historic Smuggler’s 
Inn nearby for dinner and drinks. Subscribe now   so you don’t miss it! See you again on the next 
video in this series! Thanks for watching.

Calbourne, Brighstone, the enchanting Shanklin Old Village, what a delightful collection of locations that truly embody the fairytale villages charm of the Isle of Wight.

Journey with us as we explore the timeless beauty of the Isle of Wight’s fairytale villages, with a special focus on the picturesque gems of Calbourne, Brighstone, the historic Shanklin Old Village, and the breathtaking Shanklin Chine. Winding lanes whisper tales of bygone eras and natural wonders unfold at every turn.
Let’s begin our adventure in Calbourne, a village that exudes tranquility with its thatched cottages and the iconic Calbourne Water Mill. The surrounding countryside, with its rolling hills and verdant fields, adds to Calbourne’s idyllic charm, making it a perfect escape for those seeking serenity and a glimpse into a gentler pace of life.
Next, we venture to Brighstone, a village steeped in history and surrounded by stunning landscapes. Its charming village centre, with its traditional stone buildings and welcoming atmosphere, invites exploration.
As the sun starts to set, we take a hike to St Catherine’s Oratory, “The Pepperpot” to visit the oldest medieval lighthouse in England.

Our fairytale journey continues in Shanklin Old Village, a place where time seems to have stood still. With its thatched roofs, quaint shops, and traditional tea rooms, it’s like stepping onto a vintage postcard. Wander through its charming streets, soak in the atmosphere at night. The Old Village offers a nostalgic glimpse into the Isle of Wight’s past, a place where the hustle and bustle of modern life fades away, replaced by a sense of peaceful enchantment.

Finally, we descend into the magical Shanklin Chine, a deep and picturesque gorge carved by a stream over millennia. Lush vegetation clings to its steep sides, creating a microclimate of ferns, mosses, and vibrant flora. Walking through the Chine, with its cascading waterfalls and tranquil pools, feels like entering a secret world. Historically, it has captivated visitors for centuries, including famous figures like Charles Dickens and Alfred Tennyson, who were inspired by its natural beauty. Today, it remains a captivating natural wonder, offering a unique and unforgettable experience for all who venture within its verdant embrace.
Don’t just dream about fairytale escapes; come and experience the reality of Calbourne, Brighstone, Shanklin Old Village, and Shanklin Chine.

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00:00 Introduction
00:48 Calbourne Mill
05:36 Calbourne Village
13:32 Brigstone Village
16:35 Oldest Medieval Lighthouse in England
22:49 Shanklin Old Village at Night
25:20 Shanklin Chine
33:27 Next Time….

#fairytalevillages #isleofwight #englishvillage