Mottistone Manor

Elizabethan stonework rises from the Downs in one of the island's most atmospheric settings. Mottistone Manor sits in a sheltered valley southwest of Newport, its weathered walls and terraced gardens creating an almost theatrical backdrop against the rolling chalk hills.

What strikes you first isn't the building itself - though the Tudor manor house is handsome enough - but the extraordinary walled garden that surrounds it. These terraces have been lovingly restored, with herbaceous borders that put on a proper show from spring through autumn. The Mediterranean garden, sheltered by those ancient walls, feels surprisingly exotic for the English Channel.

History buffs will appreciate the manor's connections to the Seely family, who transformed both house and grounds in the early 20th century. Architecture enthusiasts might find the building itself less compelling than some of the island's grander houses, but the setting more than compensates.

Families staying at nearby parks like Tapnell Farm or The Orchards will find it makes for a gentle afternoon out, though very young children might grow restless after an hour or so. The gardens are at their peak in summer, when the sheltered position creates an almost Continental feel. It's a lovely spot for a quiet wander, particularly if you're exploring the island's western reaches and fancy something more refined than the usual seaside attractions.