Why Brading?
Standing on the western bank of the River Yar in the east of the island, this ancient little town is pleasantly built on a hillside below Brading Down within the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Brading Old Town Hall (image (c) James Turner 2007)
One of the oldest towns on the island, reputedly founded by King Alfred in the seventh century, Brading’s history goes back thousands of years to before the Iron age and Brading's 3rd Century Roman Villa, still survives and is one of the best preserved with some magnificent mosaics on show. Despite being only valued at 20 shillings in the Domesday book, Brading today offers a wealth of attractions including the Roman villa, the Brading Experience Waxworks, the Dolls Museum, Morton Manor, and Adgestone Vineyard.
The Bull Ring (image (c) James Turner 2007)
However the surrounding landscape is as much a highlight, with rolling green hills dropping down towards the sea, breathtaking views from Brading Down,numerous footpaths and bridleways and a variety of special wildlife, including the birds at the Brading Marshes RSPB Reserve.
This mix of heritage and environment in a vibrant community, and some great local food helps make Brading one of the undiscovered jewels of the Island.
Activities in and around Brading
Brading is situated in the shadow of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Brading Down. These chalk downs provide an excellent habitat for a range of flowers and insects and offer breathtaking views across the Solent and the south of the Island. This fantastic countryside also offers a wide range of activities, please click on the links below for more information.
Brading Down (image (c) James Turner 2007)
Planning your stay
Whether you come to Brading for the day or stay for a longer visit, click on the links below to find all you need to know about where to stay, where to eat and drink and other activities on offer in the area.
Mosaic at Brading Roman Villa (image (c) Brading Roman Villa 2007)
Further Information
For more information visit www.visitbrading.co.uk.
For a copy of the Brading visitor guide click here to download (Please note this file is 3.5mb)
Visitor information is also available at the Brading Station visitors centre open 10am - 4pm daily.
Much of the visitor interpretation in Brading has been produced locally as part of the Hidden Britain project here in the South East.
Click here to find out more about Hidden Britain.
Hidden Britain South East
