The Island's geology is made up of many different types of sedimentary rock, which helps give rise to wide variations in the scenery, from rolling chalk downs to marshland and lonely creeks and harbours. These rocks beds exposed as cliffs on the island's coast, yield some of the most spectacular dinosaur remains in Europe, giving rise to the name 'Dinosaur Island'.

The Island's history is typical of the rest of England and it display signs of Celtic settlements right through to Norman and beyond. The Romans called it 'Vectis' which means Isle of Cliffs, the name 'Wight' is Saxon in origin and its meaning is not exactly known. Due to its position it played a large part in the wars with the French and the Spanish, and became heavily fortified during the Napoleonic wars.  The biggest impact in recent times had been the influx of wealthy Victorians, who caused the Island's population to increase many fold. In a short period of time it went from being a quiet place which relied on fishing and agriculture, to a thriving summer holiday destination.

Although tourism still plays a large part of the Island's economy there are numerous light industries and a skilled workforce to man it.  The normal problems associated with being an island are compounded slightly by an ever increasing elderly population which is boosted by a steady stream of mainland settlers.

What makes the Isle of Wight so attractive to the summer visitor and Islander alike is it's wide variety of scenery in such a small area, coupled with a much slower way of life. It also has many tourist attractions for all the family and virtually every outdoor pursuit can be done here - especially if it involves the sea.

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