Totland Bay

Totland is a town at the western tip of the Isle of Wight. It lies on the coast at Colwell Bay which is the closest part of the island to the British mainland.

The Totland Bay Estate company was formed in 1870 and whose aim was to establish a new sea-side resort. The fishing hamlet, as it was then, was later to be described by the Jenkinson's Guide to the Isle of Wight as 'beautiful smooth sands suitable for bathing and bathing machines.' And so, to meet the anticipated demand, a new road was built connecting Totland Bay, Colwell and Yarmouth. In 1883 it was declared that ' The air of Totland Bay is peculiarly salubrious, and so health giving as to make it one of the best seaside resorts for invalids seeking the perfect convalescence.’

On the western side of the Isle of Wight is the Totland Bay pier. Constructed of a light girder framework on cast iron piles with a timber deck, it was built first and foremost to encourage tourists to the area by providing a safe and convenient steamer landing stage. Commissioned by the very exclusive Totland Bay Hotel and designed by S.H and S.W Yockney the 450 foot structure was opened in 1880. However, facilities were no more than a small wooden shelter at the head and a small amusement pavilion at the shore-wood end. To begin with Totland Bay Pier only received steamer excursions from Lymington and Yarmouth, although this extended later to include trips around the island and to mainland destinations like Bournemouth, Southampton and Portsmouth. No longer open to the public, the current owner uses the head based shelter as an art studio.

The Totland Bay Hotel built in 1880 was described as a fine and noble brick building of modern construction. It advertised itself as having terraces and windows that commanded full views of the Solent with its yachts and steamers passing by. It boasted a large tennis court and an abundant supply of pure spring water and a climate that was unsurpassed by any in England. Around 1972 it was found that the hotel hadn't complied with Fire Regulations and towards the end of the 70's it was demolished and replaced with a block of luxury apartments.

Totland takes its name from 'tout land' meaning 'look out' making it an obvious site for a lifeboat station. In 1870 local Sunday School children raised the money for a station to be opened at the sound end of the bay and by 1915 the Totland Lifeboat Station was equipped with the Island's first steam lifeboat. The station closed in 1924 although part of the 1884 boathouse still stands today.

As well as the attraction of the excellent beaches it is a popular destination for walkers, birdwatchers and all those who enjoy the peace and quiet of rural surroundings. The village has a chemist, general store, post office and other shops. There are hotels, guest houses and caravan and camping facilities for visitors.

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