Holy Cross Church, Binstead

The church sits quietly on the edge of Binstead, a village just outside Ryde that most visitors zip past on their way to somewhere else. Holy Cross is one of those proper medieval surprises - the sort of place that makes you realise how old this corner of the Isle of Wight actually is. The building dates back to Norman times, which means it's been standing here for getting on for a thousand years.

What strikes you first is the simplicity of it. No fussy Victorian additions, no over-restoration - just solid stone walls and that particular kind of stillness you only get inside very old churches. The interior is intimate rather than grand, which works perfectly. You'll spot the usual medieval markers: round arches, a decent font, and the kind of light that comes through small windows and makes everything feel rather timeless.

It's worth a stop if you're into church architecture or local history, but don't expect to spend more than half an hour here. This isn't a destination in itself - it's the sort of thing you'd combine with a walk around the village or a broader exploration of the Ryde area. The nearby parks like Woodside Bay Lodge Retreat and Whitefield Forest Touring Park are all within easy striking distance, so it fits neatly into a park holiday on the island.

Bring a camera if you're into that sort of thing. The churchyard itself is pleasant enough for a wander. Opening arrangements can be a bit variable, so check locally before you plan an afternoon around it.