The Needles Headland and Tennyson Down

Important notice -

This countryside space is now open. Please continue to follow social distancing measures at all times. The Needles Old Battery and New Battery will remain closed until further notice.

Beautiful open downland,sheer chalk cliffs and dramatic sea views

Family walking dogs

Which places are open and what you need to know before you visit 

We're starting to open some gardens and parklands in England and Northern Ireland at reduced capacity, through advance bookings every week. Most places up to 8 June have now reached capacity. New tickets are released every Friday and we'll continue to add new places over the coming weeks. More than 200 coast and countryside car parks are now open. All houses remain closed for now and all places in Wales remain closed following Welsh Government advice. Read this article to find out what's open and what to expect from your visit.​

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The Needles Headland and Tennyson Down

Things to see and do 

The Needles Headland and Tennyson Down

A poet's corner of the Isle of Wight 

Enjoy one of the best picnic spots in Britain as you gaze over white chalk cliffs - just wrap up warm if you've visiting in the winter. Follow our walking trails and spot wildlife along the way.

An unusually quiet time at Tennyson Monument with all seats unoccupied

Follow in Tennyson's footsteps 

The monument on top of the white cliffs of Tennyson Down on the Isle of Wight can be seen for miles. You’ll find it’s a fairly steep climb on firm springy grass, but well worth the effort for the magnificent views.

View from Freshwater Bay of Tennyson Down, Isle of Wight

More about visiting the Isle of Wight 

Whether its walking, cycling, family fun, wildlife or history that interests you, you can find it all on the Isle of Wight.

Inspirational walks with views

Always an exciting moment when the Needles come into view

See the mainland 

Head on up Headon Warren for a breathtaking walk with splendid views of the mainland and a Bronze Age burial mound.

Two walkers setting out along the Needles headland

Energetic downland walk 

An invigorating downland walk, with a splendid view of the iconic Needles plus a 19th-century fort, Cold War rocket test site and a monument to a Victorian poet laureate. And along the way, you can re-fuel with a bite to eat in the Needles Old Battery tea-room.

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