Site of Cooks Castle

Little remains of this medieval fortress beyond some earthwork traces and foundation stones scattered across a grassy hilltop overlooking Ventnor. Cook's Castle once commanded impressive views across the English Channel, though today you'll need a proper imagination to picture its former glory. The site sits on private farmland, so access depends entirely on the landowner's goodwill - there's no official footpath or interpretation boards to guide you.

History buffs with a taste for detective work will appreciate the challenge of identifying what's left. Fragments of dressed stone hint at a substantial structure that likely dated from the 13th or 14th century. The defensive position makes perfect sense when you see how it overlooks the approaches to the island's southern coast.

Families might find it a bit of a disappointment - there's precious little to actually see beyond some bumps in the field. Keen walkers could combine it with a longer ramble along the downs, though you'll want to check access before setting off. The views toward Ventnor and the sea remain lovely on a clear day.

If you're staying at one of the nearby holiday parks like Appuldurcombe Gardens or Landguard, it's worth a quick detour if you're already exploring the area's medieval heritage. Just don't expect castle walls or gift shops.