Beach on UK island slammed as 'sad-looking dump' that 'turns brain to sludge'

16 May 2024 , 08:04

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Sandown Beach was once a traditional 'bucket and spade' destination – but some claim this has now changed (stock) (Image: UIG via Getty Images)

A beach on a British island has been slammed by visitors as a "dump" which has been on the decline for decades.

Sandown Beach on the Isle of Wight was once the island's most recognisable beach, according to tourist sites like Visit The Isle of Wight, but after years of neglect it is now a very different story, according to visitors. Holiday-makers in the area claim it is full of derelict shops and has a rundown aesthetic.

TripAdvisor reviews claim the former tourist hotspot is in desperate need of an overhaul even though trips to and from the island remain "extortionate". A guide to the area claimed Sandown is a "traditional 'bucket and spade' beach holiday," but visitors say there is little to do – even residents left "before their brains turn to sludge."

The Isle of Wight's 'traditional' beach has been slammed by TripAdvisor reviewers (stock) (Prisma by Dukas/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

One review read: "Shops boarded up, pot holes everywhere, buildings in disrepair, entry prices have shot up, camp sites no longer accepting touring caravans. Its very sad to look at. Just one visit your whole life would do you, no need to come back again. People are moving off before their brains turn to sludge."

Another review had heaps of praise for the views which were "amazing" but were put off by the alleged "raw sewerage" being dumped into the idyllic waters. They claimed their "lovely weekend" was spoilt by the dumped waste and said while they would return to the beach, they would not be "touching the sea." A separate two-star review of the beach described Sandown as a "dump like most of the island".

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Even some five-star reviews mentioned lacklustre buildings and a lack of things to do. One described the place as a "wonderful walk", but the TripAdvisor contributor was left wanting more. They wrote: "Sadly so many rundown buildings we didn't choose to explore the town. Lovely area for walking to Shanklin." Positive reviews of the area remain, with praise written up in August 2021 for the "lovely sandy beach".

Sandown Beach remains 16th out of 26 things to do in the area. One positive review read: "Super beach for a swim. Not too busy & plenty of eateries opposite for food & drinks afterwards. We loved our mini break here!" Another added: "What a really lovely beach, the views are amazing. things to do are plenty and not too expensive either. loved it."

The Mirror has contacted Isle of Wight Council for comment.

Ewan Gleadow