The Earl Of Yarborough's Monument

The Earl of Yarborough's Monument near Bembridge is a granite obelisk standing high on the chalk downs of the Isle of Wight's east coast. It is visible from a long way off against the sky and is one of the best-known landmarks on the hills above Sandown Bay.

Who is the monument for?

The obelisk honours Charles Anderson Pelham, Earl of Yarborough, who died in 1846. He founded the Royal Yacht Squadron at Cowes and served as its first commodore. Funds were raised by public subscription, and the monument was completed in 1849. It is a slim obelisk of vermiculated granite set on a tall plinth of dressed stone, with the Yarborough coat of arms carved on its north and south faces.

Why is it on this hill?

The monument originally stood a little further west on Bembridge Down. In 1867 it was moved to make room for Bembridge Down Fort, one of the Palmerston forts built to protect the Solent. It now stands on neighbouring Culver Down, which is the address given in the national register. It is a Grade II listed structure, entry number 1034326 in the National Heritage List for England.

How do you get there?

The obelisk stands on open downland with no gate or ticket office, but you reach it on foot. A convenient start is the National Trust car park at Bembridge Fort. From there the Trust's Circumnavigate Culver Down trail covers about 2.8 miles (4.5 km) and takes roughly 1.5 to 1.75 hours. It passes the monument; on the final stretch you turn left through a metal kissing gate just before the Culver Haven Inn. For a longer day out, a circular route from Bembridge of around 9.5 miles also takes in Bembridge Windmill, which the National Trust owns. The monument also lies on the Isle of Wight Coastal Path between Sandown and Ryde.

What will you see?

The obelisk itself is a striking skyline feature, and the surrounding downs offer wide views over the sea and the island's coast. The land is open to walkers, and dogs are welcome under the usual National Trust conditions.

When should you visit?

Pick a clear day, when visibility is good and the paths are dry. The ridge can be breezy, so bring an extra layer even in summer. Access is possible all year because the monument stands in open countryside.

Frequently asked questions

Is there an entry fee? No. You can see the monument freely on open land. Any charge relates to parking.

Can you go inside the obelisk? No. It is a solid stone structure viewed from outside.

How long should you allow? Looking at the monument takes about 15 minutes, while the full National Trust loop takes around an hour and a half.

Is it on Bembridge Down or Culver Down? It first stood on Bembridge Down and has been on Culver Down since 1867. The two hills adjoin each other, and the village of Bembridge lies close by.