Just over a quarter of a mile off the main route between Newport and Ryde, you’ll find an idyllic riverside development of waterfront homes spaced along the Marina which is the only harbour on the Island to use Lock-gates to maintain the water level at low tide. Island Harbour remains a quiet and peaceful area which many Island Visitors have never explored.

The Harbour is located about half way down the River Medina, which is a tidal estuary, popular with pleasure boats and visiting yachts. The banks of the Medina are teeming with wildlife, including dozens of species of birds.

From the harbour, there are public footpaths (suitable for bikes) heading north and south. The path to the south will take you along the old ‘tow-path’ towards Newport Quay, passing Seaclose park which is the site of the Isle of Wight Festival . When the festival isn’t taking place (mid-June), the park is perfect for a family walk and has football pitches, tennis Courts, a skate park and a large children’s play area.

Heading north along the river, you’ll find a popular dog walking spot, which finishes at the famous Folly Inn, a popular waterside pub which serves great food all day. If you explore a little further, you can continue towards Whippingham and end up at Osborne House, the former home of Queen Victoria.

You don’t have to take a walk out of the harbour to find somewhere to enjoy an evening meal and a drink with views. The Breeze Restaurant & Bar on the edge of the boatyard has great views of the surrounding countryside and has a large outside eating area.

Whilst exploring the area, you may come across some interesting manmade additions to the landscape. The Ryde Queen is a 1930’s Paddle Steamer which has been moored on the riverside since the 1970’s. The ship was used a nightclub in the 70’s and 80’s. It is now possibly beyond repair but does make quite a statement on the landscape and is a great spot for budding photographers.