Detour #42: Military Road, Isle of Wight, UK
It’s often said that stepping onto the Isle of Wight is like stepping back in time. If you like uncrowded roads and seaside attractions, that’s no bad thing.
At one end of the Military Road, which runs much of the length of the west coast of the island, you’ll find Blackgang Chine, one of the oldest amusement parks in the UK. It’s where children are encouraged to let their imagination run wild as they explore all manner of make-believe sets that would look at home in Pinewood Studios.
However, for drivers, there’s just as much fun to be had along the Military Road. Built during World War II, mostly by German prisoners of war, it offers unrivalled views across the English Channel. And if you rise early, long before any holiday makers have started on breakfast, the only passing traffic is likely to be the milkman doing the rounds.
Fast and undulating, you can soon find your car straying above the speed limit. Yet with such good visibility, such forays can be considerately explored. When you need to catch you breath, pull over at Compton Beach, slip off your shoes and socks and feel the sand between your toes as you look out across the bay, taking in the cliffs that the Military Road clings to.
For a truly authentic experience, the road has to be driven in a roofless roadster, ideally one with British heritage. But if you don’t have one, the island has its fair share of hire companies with classic cars to suit different budgets and tastes.
Words: James Mills Twitter | Instagram
Photography: Roger Roberts