Newtown Old Town Hall

Standing in what looks like an empty field near Yarmouth, you'll find the sparse remains of what was once a proper medieval town. Newtown Old Town Hall is actually just archaeological foundations now - scattered stone footings that mark where this once-important settlement's civic heart stood. The original town was a thriving port until the French raids of the 14th century and silting of the harbour finished it off.

History buffs will appreciate the story more than the physical remains, which are frankly quite modest. You're looking at low stone walls and building outlines in the grass - it takes a fair bit of imagination to picture the bustling medieval borough that once returned two MPs to Parliament. The information boards help piece together the tale of rise and fall.

Families might find it a bit underwhelming unless the kids are particularly keen on archaeology. It's free to wander around (as far as I could tell), and you'll need about twenty minutes to take it all in. Worth combining with a trip to nearby Yarmouth itself, which has proper buildings still standing.

If you're staying at Tapnell Farm or one of the other holiday parks scattered around this western corner of the Isle of Wight, it makes a decent quick stop rather than a destination in itself. The setting is peaceful enough, but don't expect dramatic ruins.