Winkle Street in Calbourne
South East
Calbourne

Winkle Street, Calbourne - A Timeless Isle of Wight Village

Often described as a hidden gem of West Wight, Calbourne is widely regarded as one of the prettiest villages on the Isle of Wight, and nowhere captures its charm better than Winkle Street.

This enchanting street is lined with a beautifully preserved terrace of 18th-century stone cottages, creating one of the most photographed scenes on the island. Access to Winkle Street is marked by a striking octagonal flint gatehouse, which guards the entrance to an elegant Georgian mansion beyond. Heavy iron gates hang from small octagonal stone piers, perfectly echoing the design of the gatehouse and setting the tone for what lies ahead.

Each cottage is fronted by a tiny, meticulously kept garden, bursting with colour in the summer months. These gardens overlook the gently flowing waters of the Caul Bourne, whose reflections add to the street’s postcard-perfect appeal. The scene is so idyllic that it has inspired artists for generations, including the renowned landscape painter A. Heaton-Cooper (1864–1929).

Beyond Winkle Street, the village’s main road winds steeply uphill past a sloping green towards the 13th-century parish church. Inside are several historic treasures, most notably a commemorative brass dating back to 1383, offering a fascinating glimpse into Calbourne’s long and rich past.

Quiet, unspoilt and steeped in history, Winkle Street is a must-see destination for anyone exploring the rural heart of the Isle of Wight.