WITHIN a relatively small area of the Isle of Wight, the little town of Brading is a hidden gem which offers so much to the visitor.

In a part of the Island rich in history, Brading town has plenty of old charm and character with its quirky buildings, shops, pubs and pretty 12th century church — nestled in a picturesque, stunning rural area boasting, from so many points, incredible views.

Brading has more than its fair share of attractions.

Here are just some...

Isle of Wight County Press: One of the impressive mosaics at Brading Roman Villa.One of the impressive mosaics at Brading Roman Villa. (Image: Brading Roman Villa)

Brading Roman Villa

Spend a day out with a difference at one of the finest Roman sites in the UK. The award-winning visitor centre and museum offers a unique insight into Roman life in Britain, from beautifully preserved mosaic floors to an extensive collection of Roman archaeology.

There are also things to do, as well as see. Bring history to life with mosaic making and shield decorating in the popular family craft area. 

You can also relax Roman-style and borrow games, such as quoits, to play in the grounds. 

If you're in need of refreshment, the attraction has a popular on-site cafe — or why not enjoy a picnic in its relaxing grounds.

Isle of Wight County Press: The historic and iconic Bull Ring in Brading town centre.The historic and iconic Bull Ring in Brading town centre. (Image: Brading Community Archive)

The Bull Ring

Set outside the 'new' Town Hall, built in 1903, there is an iron bullring, once used to secure a bull while it was being baited by dogs.

According to the diaries of Sir John Oglander, a past Governor of the Isle of Wight, he would donate five guineas for the purchase of a bull to be baited, with the meat, afterwards, donated to the poor of the town.

The mayor would attend this ceremony in full regalia, with a dog, known as The Mayor's Dog, which would be decked with coloured ribbons and set on the bull after the proclamation had been made. 

Thankfully, such practices are consigned to history.

Beside the bullring is an imposing wooden carving of a black bull, by local sculptor, Paul Sivell. 

Have we missed YOUR favourite thing about Brading?

  • Send us a photo or video, or tell us what you like about the town
  • Email editor@iwcp.co.uk

Isle of Wight County Press: Brading Old Town Hall and gaol stocks.Brading Old Town Hall and gaol stocks. (Image: Alistair Park)

The Old Town Hall

Stood in the shadow of pretty St Mary's Church, the restored town hall was built in 1730 and included the Market House, which controlled local weights and measures, and a prison, with its stocks still on view to passers-by, imagining a time when townsfolk would hurl rotten vegetables at the condemned. 

Brading Marshes

Down Quay Lane, it is the first RSPB nature reserve on the Isle of Wight. A mix of lagoons and ditches, reed beds and meadows, with a fringe of ancient woodland, the reserve is free and open to visitors all year round. 

The bird reserve is home to rare species, wading birds and even unusual avian visitors to UK shores. The reserve has several walks to access the marshes.

Brading Down

For some of the Island's most spectacular views, be it north across The Solent towards Portsmouth, or south, with Sandown Bay dominating the vista, Brading Down is a must.

Brading town itself can also be seen nestled beside the downs. A popular spot for locals and tourists, why not enjoy an ice cream as you take it all in?

Human activity in Brading dates back to the Neolithic period, but Bronze Age burial mounds and trackways can still be located on the downs around Brading.

Isle of Wight County Press: Brading Marshes.Brading Marshes. (Image: RSPB)

Isle of Wight County Press: Brading Down looking towards Sandown.Brading Down looking towards Sandown. (Image: Isle of Wight Council)

 

Isle of Wight County Press: An exhibit at the Lilliput Doll and Toy Museum in Brading.An exhibit at the Lilliput Doll and Toy Museum in Brading. (Image: Lilliput Doll and Toy Museum)

Brading Railway Station

During the halcyon days of steam, through to the present day on the Isle of Wight, Brading Station has always been an important part of the town.

It's Victorian Grade II-listed buildings and signal box bring many rail enthusiasts to Brading each year.

Lilliput Doll and Toy Museum

The unique museum in Brading High Street, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, was established several years after the-then Soviet president, Nikita Khrushchev, sent a wooden nesting doll to a young collector and her mother, Margaret Munday.

From that point, the Munday family collected antique dolls and toys and, in 1974, started the museum.

The Lilliput Doll and Toy Museum now holds more than 2,000 items, dating from 2000BC to 1950, which includes a number of unique and rare exhibits, and well-known cartoon characters.

What are YOUR special Brading highlights and memories? Comment below, or send us a letter for publication, perhaps with a photo, to editor@iwcp.co.uk