The Needles Landmark Attraction

The Needles on the Isle of Wight is one of the most photographed groups of rocks in the world. This row of three distinctive Chalk stacks features in all the classic views of the island, a truly unforgettable image.

This needle-shaped rock, about 120ft high and known as ‘Lot’s Wife’ collapsed into the sea in 1764 with a crash which was said to have been heard many miles away. The stump of this pinnacle can still be seen at low water where it forms a dangerous reef.

The Needles from the western tip of a band of chalk that crosses the centre of the Isle of Wight, stretching to Culver Cliff in the east. This chalk ridge continues west under the sea to Dorset’s Isle of Purbeck and is believed to have been connected at one time to Old Harry Rocks, about 20 miles away. In 5,000BC this ridge was breached by the Solent River, creating the Isle of Wight with its jagged white rocks at the western tip. These unusually vertical rocks are a result of the heavy folding of chalk and the remaining stacks of hard chalk are extremely resistant to erosion.

Chairlift

Always a firm favourite with our visitors, the iconic Needles Chairlift is the best way to see the Isle of Wight’s most famous landmark.

Start your day with a delightful trip from the top of the Alum Bay cliffs down to the beach below and experience spectacular views of the picturesque Needles Rocks and Lighthouse, as well as the multi-coloured sand cliffs of Alum Bay and the stunning turquoise waters beyond.

The chairlift takes you back to the top but before taking your return journey you can enjoy Alum Bay beach and a trip on the Pleasure Boat.

Boat Trips

For a close-up view of the dramatic Needles Rocks and Lighthouse, take one of the pleasure boats* from the jetty for a dramatic trip around the rocks and lighthouse and panoramic views of the Alum Bay sand cliffs.

Choose between a 20-minute slow cruise to view the Needles Rocks and Lighthouse, coloured sands of Alum Bay, dramatic chalk cliff face and the surrounding coastal features or a 15 minute fast trip on the High-Speed Rib. Whichever option you choose, you’re guaranteed a breath-taking Isle of Wight experience.

The boat trips themselves are independently operated by Needles Pleasure Cruises Ltd, so for more information please click here.

* Boat trips operate from Easter till late October from 10.30 daily. Boat Trips are weather permitting.

Alum Bay Glass

Established in 1972, Alum Bay Glass produces beautiful and unique glassware and offers live demonstrations from our skilled local craftsmen (please note that live demonstrations are not currently taking place due to social distancing measures).

From perfume bottles and vases to bowls, ornaments and doorknobs, our glassmakers create a wide range of unique handcrafted glassware.

Our well-stocked showroom showcases all the items and everyone will be able to find that special Alum Bay Glass item to take home – handcrafted quality glass pieces at great value prices. Our British made glass products are all produced on the island, so each piece is completely unique.

Isle of Wight Sweet Manufactory

During the 19th Century, many new sweets were invented including some of today’s much-loved favourites such as candy floss, liquorice allsorts, jelly babies, wine gums and marshmallows.

We make hard-boiled sweets in every imaginable flavour, from rhubarb and custard to our very own special Wight Mints. An irresistible selection of sweets is available to purchase from the adjoining shop with something to suit everyone’s taste and budget. A vast array of old favourites, including Rhubarb & Custard, Strawberries & Cream, Mint humbugs and Pear Drops can be found in our Isle of Wight Sweet Shop.

Sand Shop

Filling a glass shape or plastic with layers of different coloured sand from Alum Bay is a long-held tradition and fond childhood memory to many. In order to protect the cliff for future generations, guests are no longer able to collect their own sands, but you can still create your own unique sand ornaments in the Sand Shop.

In 1860, gifts made from the sands were presented to Queen Victoria which began the special souvenir tradition that visitors can still enjoy today.

Why not come and take part in this age-old tradition? Choose from a variety of shapes to fill yourself with the 21 shades of Alum Bay Sand or buy a ready filled item with handcrafted designs created by our very own sand expert. These unique objects are a wonderful reminder of your holiday on the Isle of Wight or make fantastic gifts for that special someone.

Why not take part in this age-old tradition in the comfort of your own home? Choose from a selection of shapes to fill yourself with a pack of Alum Bay Sand or buy a ready filled item with handcrafted designs created by our very own sand expert. These unique objects are a wonderful reminder of your holiday on the Isle of Wight and make fantastic gifts for someone special. During the winter months, our Sand Shapes have taken up residence in our Taste of the Wight shop where you can also obtain a wide range of Island made products.

Due to our environmental policy of only collecting sand from natural cliff falls there may not always be 21 shades of sand available.

4D Cinema Experience

You’ve seen 3D, and now at The Needles, you can take another step into the immersive magic of cinema with our incredible 4D sensory experience. Imagine being drawn into an exciting world where everything you see is in 4D and everything you hear is in powerful cinema surround sound ─ with the added fun of ‘feeling’ the action too!

*Rides and attractions operate from April – October *Weather permitting

Rides

With a wide range of thrilling rides, nostalgic games and awe-inspiring adventures on-site, there is something for all the family – old and young, brave and cautious. From walking on water to adventure golf, our rides and games ensure you’ll have a fun-filled visit.

*Rides and attractions operate from April – October *Weather permitting