Bembridge Ledge / Forelands Beach

About

Bembridge Ledge through to Forelands is a stony beach which is the most Eastern on the Isle of Wight and a real hidden gem. The “Ledge” is a rocky platform that is revealed at low tide, but there are pockets of sand for paddling when the tide is out. Rock pools are revealed at low tide and are ideal for prawning and rock pooling, and hobby fisherfolk line angle from the Ledge at low tide.

The Beach is accessed down a little winding single track lane off Forelands Field Road, near the Crab & Lobster Inn. It has a gated, gravelled car park at the top of the cement stepped pathway down to the beach. Jewel coloured beach huts are perched along the crumbling sandstone cliffs – those built towards the tip of the Island are larger and more stable with the others precariously perching along the edge of the beach.

There are two great eateries along this stretch of coast with a seaside bistro style restaurant/cafe off of the path down to the beach specialising in seafood and also supplying ice-creams, teas, coffees and cream teas to beach visitors. There is also a traditional pub with car park and garden overlooking the sea, which was once the focal point of fisherman and smugglers. It has specialised in seafood for many years although they now have a varied international menu and homely atmosphere.

The only toilets immediately local to this area are in the pub and you have to be a customer. Other than this the nearest public conveniences are at Lane End beach a short walk or drive away.

TOP TIP:
Families remember to bring prawning nets and buckets for the kids and don't forget to check the tide tables before setting out.

GETTING THERE:
The Southern Vectis bus service will take you to Bembridge and then you walk down to Lane End road. Turn right just past the shops and walk more or less straight to the beach, which is signposted from there. For bus information please visit the Southern Vectis website - www.islandbuses.info/