The Needles and Alum Bay Isle of Wight - 🎞️ Fujifilm Relea (expired)
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The Needles and Alum Bay Isle of Wight

4.3
·15k reviews·Alum Bay, United Kingdom

Iconic chalk stacks and colorful sand cliffs with a thrilling chairlift ride offering stunning coastal views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Beat the crowds

CrowdLow
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The Needles and Alum Bay Isle of Wight - 🎞️ Fujifilm Relea (expired)

The Needles and Alum Bay Isle of Wight

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Beat the crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Iconic chalk stacks and colorful sand cliffs with a thrilling chairlift ride offering stunning coastal views.

4.3
(15k reviews)

"The views are breathtaking, and the chairlift ride is an unforgettable experience. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking Hassles

Parking can be expensive (£6) and roads are narrow. Arrive early or late to avoid congestion. :car:

🚠 Chairlift Queues

Expect queues for the chairlift, especially during peak times. Consider visiting off-season for shorter waits. :ticket:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Needles Chairlift

The Needles Chairlift

Alum Bay

Descend from the cliffs to the beach on a thrilling chairlift with panoramic views of the colorful bay and iconic rock stacks.

Instagram+1
Alum Bay's Coloured Sands

Alum Bay's Coloured Sands

Alum Bay

Marvel at the vibrant, naturally occurring layers of sand in various hues, a unique geological spectacle.

Instagram+1
Boat Trip to The Needles

Boat Trip to The Needles

Alum Bay Beach

Get up close to the famous chalk stacks and lighthouse on a narrated boat tour, learning about their history.

Reddit+1
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Visit during off-peak hours to avoid the biggest crowds, especially on weekends and holidays. The narrow roads leading to the attraction can get congested, so arriving early or later in the day is key for a smoother experience. Reddit

Chairlift & Boat Trip Prep

The iconic chairlift offers stunning views but can have long queues. Consider booking boat trips in advance, as they are highly recommended for a closer look at the Needles rocks and lighthouse. Reddit+1

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Beat the crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour views
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer evenings
Why
Quieter, beautiful light
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Just 90 minutes from Rapid City, South Dakota you’ll find the Needles Highway within Custer State Park. This scenic drive is famous for its towering rock spires, tight tunnels, and epic black hole views. Entry is $20 for 7 day access and RVer’s beware that the clearance on the famous tunnel is just 8 ft wide and 9’9” tall. My van fit but it was tight!! This drive is definitely worth the slow, wi...
@pang__bang
58.5K likes • 796.6K views

🚗 Parking Hassles

Parking can be expensive (£6) and roads are narrow. Arrive early or late to avoid congestion. Reddit :car:

🚠 Chairlift Queues

Expect queues for the chairlift, especially during peak times. Consider visiting off-season for shorter waits. Reddit :ticket:

Don't skip this scenic drive in SD The Needles Highway is a 14 mile scenic drive inside Custer State Park that winds through granite spires known as "The Needles", in South Dakota. The drive features narrow rock tunnels and sharp turns that make the drive an adventure in itself and is a photographer’s dream with endless pull offs for jaw dropping views. 🚗 Highlights Along the Drive 🟢 Needles E...
@thespinningatlas
14.8K likes • 195.4K views
🚡✨The Needles, Isle of Wight! From the breathtaking chair lift over Alum Bay, colourful sand souvenirs, giggles on the teacups, a 4D cinema adventure, mini dino safari , and of course… the BEST whippy ice cream on the island 🍦💛 The perfect mix of fun, views & memories 🐚🌊 Would you dare the chair lift over the cliffs? 👀👇 #TheNeedles #IsleOfWight #FamilyDayOut #UKTravel #FamilyAdventures #Makin...
adventures_of_a_hampshire_fam
226 likes • 1.4K views

🍦 Ice Cream Delight

Grab a classic whippy ice cream with a flake at the top for a quintessential Isle of Wight treat. InstagramReddit :ice_cream:

⏳ Check Closing Times

The attraction closes early (around 5 pm). Plan your visit to avoid disappointment. Reddit :clock:

Day 2 on the Isle of Wight . We started our day with a trip to @theneedleslandmarkattraction and alum bay. The needles is one of the most famous landmarks on the island alongside alum bay, which has the the various different colours of sand. You can also have a glass statue filled with the sand which we did for £10 although we didn’t pick a pattern something I think the people who worked there w...
charlottefilmer
28 likes • 1.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Hassles

Parking can be expensive (£6) and roads are narrow. Arrive early or late to avoid congestion. Reddit :car:

🚠 Chairlift Queues

Expect queues for the chairlift, especially during peak times. Consider visiting off-season for shorter waits. Reddit :ticket:

🍦 Ice Cream Delight

Grab a classic whippy ice cream with a flake at the top for a quintessential Isle of Wight treat. InstagramReddit :ice_cream:

⏳ Check Closing Times

The attraction closes early (around 5 pm). Plan your visit to avoid disappointment. Reddit :clock:

📸 Photo Opportunities

The scenic drive and viewpoints offer endless photo ops. Don't miss the pull-offs for epic shots. TikTok :camera:

What Travellers Say

4.3
(15k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise The Needles and Alum Bay for their breathtaking views and the unique chairlift experience, calling it a highlight of the Isle of Wight. While the natural beauty is undeniable, some find the food options could be better and signage could be clearer. The early closing times and potential for crowds on busy days are also noted drawbacks.

"The Needles Landmark Attraction is absolutely worth visiting – a true highlight of the Isle of Wight! The views are breathtaking, and the chairlift ride is an unforgettable experience, offering stunning sights of the cliffs, sea, and the famous Needles. It’s something everyone should try at least once.

There are a couple of small areas that could be improved. The food section could offer a bit more variety and quality, and clearer signage for the beach path (especially placed above the queue area) would make things easier for visitors. That said, the chairlifts themselves were excellent – smooth, safe, and such a unique way to take in the scenery.

Overall, a fantastic attraction that I would highly recommend to anyone visiting the Isle of Wight. Don’t miss it!"

Mohammad khan

"We went in a bank holiday. Narrow roads leading to the site along with many coaches and cars. We paid £6 for the car park and disabled were allowed to park at the bottom on the field but it was still a mobility navigation issue getting down to the main road. It was very busy. We walked through there gates and had an ice cream with flake. There were many tables with seating but these were mainly full with people eating the various foods (curry was in the air) and picnics. As we walked through the site along- the chair lifts were on the right and the queue to get in was vast. We stood on the platform at the end overlooking the needles . We don’t use the telescope but the pictures bought it closer. For us it was hot and crowded and we stayed about 1.5hrs. Makes the parking expensive . Didn’t know about the boat trip."

Janet Smith

"Everyone should see this point at least once if you are in England. It's a good place. Very good vibe. The beach is beautiful. The landmark is unique. Weekends are too crowded though. The boat ride is much recommended. They tell the history and geography of the place very nicely. You get good views."

Ashi Mittal

What People Like

Breathtaking views
Iconic chairlift ride
Colorful sand cliffs

What People Dislike

Food variety/quality
Early closing times
Crowded on weekends

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can reach The Needles and Alum Bay by car, with parking available on-site (£6). The roads can be narrow and busy, especially on bank holidays. Alternatively, the Island Breezer open-top bus service offers a scenic route to the attraction. InstagramReddit

No, The Needles Highway is a scenic drive in Custer State Park, South Dakota, USA, famous for its rock spires. The Needles on the Isle of Wight are a distinct geological landmark in the UK. TikTok+1

For a day trip, driving offers flexibility, but be prepared for parking fees and potential traffic. Public transport via the Island Breezer bus is a good option for enjoying the scenery without driving stress. Instagram

While disabled parking is available at the bottom of a field, navigating down to the main road can be a mobility challenge. The chairlift offers access to the beach, but consider the terrain. Reddit

Yes, the Island Breezer bus service is a popular way to visit The Needles and Alum Bay without a car, offering a relaxed journey with scenic views. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

A round trip on The Needles Chairlift costs around £10. It's a popular attraction, so expect queues during busy periods. InstagramReddit

While not always mandatory, booking tickets for the chairlift or boat trips in advance is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and potentially save time. Instagram

The attraction typically closes early, around 5 pm, so it's important to plan your visit accordingly to make the most of your time there. Reddit

Information on specific discounts isn't widely available, but checking their official website or local tourism sites closer to your visit might reveal any special offers. Instagram

Entry to the general area is free, but attractions like the chairlift, boat trips, and rides have separate charges. The £6 parking fee is also separate. InstagramReddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can ride the chairlift, take a boat trip around the Needles, create sand souvenirs at Alum Bay Glass, enjoy the 4D cinema, and explore the colorful sand cliffs. InstagramReddit

Yes, the boat trip is highly recommended for its historical and geographical commentary, offering excellent views of the Needles rocks and lighthouse. Reddit+1

The viewpoint offers breathtaking vistas of the iconic Needles rock formations, the lighthouse, and the turquoise waters of the English Channel. Telescopes are available to get a closer look. InstagramReddit

Yes, there are family-friendly attractions like a mini dino safari, teacups, and a small adventure playground, making it a good spot for families. Instagram

Yes, you can walk down to the beach via the chairlift or a path. The chairlift provides a more scenic and easier descent. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are cafes and food stalls offering various options, including ice cream, snacks, and meals. Marconi's cafe and the Pier Head Gift Shop are usually open. InstagramReddit

Reviews suggest that while there are food options, the variety and quality could be improved. Some visitors found the food section lacking. Reddit

Yes, visitors often bring picnics, and there are seating areas available, though they can be full during busy times. Reddit

Specific dietary options are not detailed in reviews, but typical seaside attractions often have some basic choices. It's best to inquire directly upon arrival. Reddit

Prices are typical for tourist attractions. A simple ice cream with a flake is a popular and relatively affordable treat. InstagramReddit

📸 📸 Photography

The top of the cliffs, the chairlift ride, and the beach offer stunning perspectives. The scenic drive itself has numerous pull-offs perfect for capturing the landscape. TikTokInstagram

Yes, the boat trips offer excellent close-up views of the lighthouse, and from the clifftop viewpoints, you can capture it in the context of the Needles. InstagramReddit

Late afternoon or early morning can provide beautiful lighting for the colored sands and sea. Midday sun can be harsh but still highlights the vibrant colors. TikTok

Generally, photography is allowed and encouraged. However, be mindful of other visitors and any specific signage regarding drone usage or commercial photography. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal scenery. A telephoto lens can be useful for zooming in on the lighthouse or distant views. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Needles and Alum Bay is a fantastic destination for families. The chairlift ride is an exciting adventure for children, offering spectacular views. Instagram There are also family-friendly attractions like a mini dino safari, teacups, and a playground to keep younger visitors entertained. Instagram Creating sand souvenirs at Alum Bay Glass is a fun, hands-on activity that kids often love. Remember to check the closing times, as the attraction can shut early, so plan your day accordingly. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

While some attractions like the chairlift and boat trips have costs (around £10 for the chairlift), simply visiting Alum Bay to see the colored sands and The Needles from the clifftop viewpoints is free. Parking is £6. Reddit Bringing a picnic can save money on food, as dining options can be pricey. Reddit Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons for potentially lower prices on accommodation if staying overnight. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The Needles and Alum Bay offer incredible photographic opportunities. The vibrant colored sands of Alum Bay, the dramatic chalk stacks of The Needles, and the lighthouse provide stunning subjects. TikTokInstagram The chairlift ride itself offers unique angles for shots. For the best light, aim for early mornings or late afternoons. TikTok Remember to bring a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive coastal scenery. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Iconic Chairlift Experience

The Needles Chairlift is a must-do for many visitors, offering a unique perspective of Alum Bay. This single-chair lift transports you from the clifftop down to the beach below, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the multi-colored sand cliffs and the iconic Needles rock formations. The journey itself is an experience, with the wind in your hair and the vast expanse of the English Channel stretching out before you. Instagram+1

While the ride is relatively short, it's a memorable way to access the beach and get closer to the natural beauty of the area. Be prepared for potential queues, especially during peak season, as it's a very popular attraction. The cost for a round trip is around £10, which many find to be well worth the stunning views and unique experience. InstagramReddit

For those with mobility concerns, the chairlift offers a more accessible way to reach the beach compared to walking down the steep path. However, it's always wise to check current operational status, as attractions can close due to adverse weather conditions like strong winds. Instagram

Exploring Alum Bay's Natural Wonders

Alum Bay is renowned for its striking, naturally colored sand cliffs, a testament to the island's geological history. These vibrant layers of sand, ranging from deep reds and oranges to yellows and whites, create a visually stunning spectacle. Visitors can purchase small glass ornaments and have them filled with these colored sands, creating a personalized souvenir of their visit. Instagram+1

Down on the beach, you can get a closer look at the cliffs and enjoy the seaside atmosphere. The chairlift provides easy access to this area, making it a convenient stop for families and individuals alike. The beach itself is a great place to relax, take photos, and appreciate the unique landscape. Instagram+1

Beyond the sands, Alum Bay is also the starting point for boat trips that circumnavigate the famous Needles rocks. These tours offer a different perspective on the coastline and provide fascinating insights into the area's history and geology, making Alum Bay a multifaceted destination for nature lovers and sightseers. Reddit+1

The Needles: A Coastal Icon

The Needles are three distinctive white chalk stacks rising majestically from the sea, located off the western tip of the Isle of Wight. These iconic formations, along with the lighthouse perched precariously on the furthest stack, are a symbol of the island's dramatic coastline. The name 'Needles' is thought to derive from the former appearance of a fourth, much taller stack that was lost to the sea in a storm. Instagram

Visitors can admire The Needles from various vantage points, including the clifftop viewpoints at Alum Bay and from the sea during boat tours. The boat trips are particularly popular as they allow you to get up close to the stacks and the lighthouse, often accompanied by informative commentary about their formation and history. Reddit+1

These natural landmarks are not only a significant tourist attraction but also a vital part of the island's identity and heritage. Their striking appearance against the backdrop of the sea makes them a photographer's dream and a memorable sight for anyone visiting the Isle of Wight. Instagram

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