Shanklin: The UK's Sunniest Town Boasts Golden Beaches and Unmatched Charm
Shanklin, a small town on the Isle of Wight, is consistently named the sunniest place in the UK, according to Met Office records. With 1,976 hours of sunlight per year—compared to the UK average of 1,403 hours—the town offers a Mediterranean-like microclimate, making it a perfect staycation destination.
Located less than three hours from London, Shanklin features golden beaches, traditional pubs, and a charming Old Village with thatched cottages and tea shops. The town benefits from a localised microclimate within Shanklin Chine, a steep sandstone gorge that acts as a natural suntrap, and the Undercliff effect near Ventnor.
Old Village: Thatched Cottages and Tea Shops
Shanklin's Old Village is one of the most photographed corners of the island, with winding lanes, flower-filled gardens, and historic thatched cottages. Visitors can stop for a cold pint at The Village Inn, a traditional pub with a beer garden, and dine on locally caught crab and lobster. The Rock Shop offers handmade rock, fudge, chocolates, and pick 'n' mix favourites, while tea shops provide a spot for coffee and scones.
Shanklin Chine: A Historic Attraction
Shanklin Chine, the island's oldest tourist attraction, sits between the Old Village and Fisherman's Beach. This wooded coastal ravine features waterfalls, trees, and lush vegetation with footpaths and viewpoints. Jane Austen visited in 1813, and John Keats found inspiration for poetry there in 1819, calling it 'wondrous.' Entry for adults is £12.95 per person; for kids, £9.95. The Chine Inn, a 400-year-old pub, was a smugglers' haunt with hidden tunnels, and now has a circular glass window looking down into one of them.
Beaches: Relaxation and Water Sports
Shanklin's beaches offer different experiences. Fisherman's Beach, below The Chine, is quieter with old fishing boats and an imposing cliff face, and is home to Fisherman's Cottage, the island's only pub directly on the beach. Clock Tower Beach provides parasols, sunloungers, and equipment hire: kayaks at £10 per hour and paddleboards at £15 per hour.
How to Get to Shanklin
From London, take the train from Waterloo to Portsmouth Harbour (1 hour 48 minutes, £12–£20). Then take the Wightlink FastCat ferry to Ryde (20 minutes, £23.10 one-way). Finally, take the Island Line train from Ryde Pier Head to Shanklin (under 30 minutes, £4.90 Standard ticket). The total journey takes 3–4 hours depending on connections.
