Solent and Isle of Wight

Top 25 Anchorages > Solent and Isle of Wight

Whether you want to cruise across to Cowes or head inland, the Isle of Wight , the Solent and its surrounds offer unbeatable boating and enviable anchorages.

'Summer Loving' appeared in our August 2009 issue. Buy the full article here .

Newton Creek, Isle of Wight Top 25 Anchorages > Solent and Isle of Wight > Newton Creek

Remember when you were young and carefree, with no stresses in life? Anchoring at Newtown Creek will bring all those memories flooding (hopefully not literally) back.

There are no facilities so it's just a case of dropping anchor and getting back to basics - of course this works even better if you resist the temptation to use the generator.

This natural harbour, owned by the National Trust , is renowned for its bird-life, especially in winter. And although it can get busy during the summer, if you choose your timing carefully (i.e. midweek), you should be able to escape the masses. Watch out for This is a yachtie haven so motorboats will probably be outnumbered

Great for Escaping the rat race

Local tip Landing at Fishhouse Point is not allowed for three months between April and June as it is a nature reserve. Instead dock at Shalfleet Quay, Newtown Quay (both dry) or lower Hamstead on the west side of entrance

Top photo: Kieran Flatt

'Summer Loving' appeared in our August 2009 issue. Buy the full article here .

Beaulieu River, Hampshire Top 25 Anchorages > Solent and Isle of Wight > Beaulieu River

The Beaulieu River winds itself through wooded countryside past the 18th century shipbuilding village of Buckler's Hard, before joining the West Solent at Lepe.

It was at Buckler's Hard that wooden ships for the English Fleet were built, including Nelson 's favourite, the 64-gun Agamemnon .

Anchoring is permitted in the first reach up to Needs Oar Point but stay clear of the fairway and beware the strong stream. The river is navigable two miles above Buckler's Hard but it's best explored by dinghy.