Godshill - ISLE OF WIGHT
What's around Godshill?
Located in the south eastern part of the Isle of Wight, Godshill is a medium sized village consisting of just under 1,500 people, and is one of the most gorgeous civil parishes on the island. Featuring quaint and charming thatched cottages dotted down quiet lanes, but conveniently located between two of the Isle of Wight’s most popular towns and resorts – Ventnor and Newport – Godshill is perfect to stay in when on holiday here or to just simply visit on a day trip from one of these larger towns.
The name ‘Godshill’ dates back to the 14th century All Saints’ Church in the village which, when construction began, was located at the bottom of a hill. During the assembling of this medieval church, the building gradually moved further and further up the hill to sit on the very top of it, and therefore village dwellers believe it to be a sign from God that the church should be built up high overlooking the town, hence the name. Today, this church is a lovely structure to visit and features stained glass windows by famous designer William Morris and a painting of a Lily Crucifix – one of only two in Europe.
A large free car park with public toilets serves visitors to the town. There is a wide selection of eateries and a good number of shops to make a visit worthwhile for a variety of purposes. It's not a bad place to visit on a wet day on holiday if you don't mind browsing the goods for sale or relaxing in a pub or tea shop.
In and around Godshill
One of the most popular attractions to visit on the Isle of Wight, let alone Godshill, is the incredible model village. Having opened in 1952, this model village features both the Shanklin old village and Godshill at a scale of 1:10 and is highly intricate and detailed. It is fascinating to stroll around and explore and if you have children, they will love feeling like giants!
There is a circular country walk that takes in some of the pretty rural scenery around the village. The walk starts from the main car park and is oulined on the town noticeboard.
Godshill is about 5 miles from the warm and beautiful seaside resort of Ventnor. One place to visit, other than the sandy beach of course, is the Ventnor Botanic Gardens. With exotic and subtropical plants, and a wonderful Garden Café, lovers of nature and flowers will be in their element on a day trip here.
Just 6 miles north from Godshill is the county town of Newport, which is one of the most highly populated areas on the Isle of Wight. There is plenty to do here for lovers of history and museums, with the Museum of Island History, the Classic Boat Museum and the Newport Roman Villa all housing interesting exhibitions and artefacts and providing an insight into the dinosaur, Roman and maritime history of the island.
Best of Isle of Wight
Send us your views of GodshillGodshill oozes character and has a 'touristy' feel because of the number of visitors.
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