Our Lady and St Wilfrid's Church

The church sits on a quiet corner in Shanklin, a solid Victorian structure that doesn't immediately scream 'visit me' from the street. But step inside and you'll find something genuinely worth ten minutes of your time - the interior is far more interesting than the exterior suggests, with decent stained glass and the kind of peaceful atmosphere you only get in older churches when there's nobody else about.

It's mainly for people with a genuine interest in Victorian ecclesiastical architecture or those after a bit of quiet contemplation between seaside activities. If you're staying at Isle of Wight Coastal Park just down the road, it's an easy diversion on a wet afternoon or as part of a gentle wander around Shanklin itself. The town has enough going on - shops, cafes, the pier - that you won't feel like you've come out of your way.

Free to enter, as most parish churches are, though opening hours can be variable so ring ahead or check the door. Plan on twenty minutes maximum unless you're really into Victorian church design. It's not the sort of place that justifies a special trip from elsewhere on the island, but if you're already in Shanklin it deserves a quick look. The real draw here is atmosphere rather than must-see artwork, and that's actually quite rare these days.