Sandown & Brading

Sandown and Brading are neighbouring settlements on the Isle of Wight's eastern coast, separated by agricultural land and the course of the River Yar. Sandown is a coastal resort centred around its long, sandy bay and a pier, with a seafront lined with hotels and amenities. Inland, the town extends into residential streets. The nearby Brading is a much older, inland market town, with a historic high street and a notable Norman church.

The area's geology is prominently displayed at Sandown's Dinosaur Isle museum, built on the site of significant fossil discoveries. Just north of Brading, the restored Brading Roman Villa features well-preserved mosaic floors, indicating early settlement. The landscape between the two includes the wetland reserve of Brading Marshes, an important habitat for birdlife.