Brading – known as ‘Ye Kynge’s
Towne’ after its first charter was granted by
Edward I in 1280 – is an ancient town whose
origins date back to the Stone Age. Although it
was once the main port of the Isle of Wight, it
now stands a mile from the sea (the old sea walls
lie behind the 12th century church of St Mary the
Virgin).
A notable attraction is the
well-preserved remains of a Roman villa that was
once the home of the island’s all-powerful Roman
Governor. The town was also the first part of the
island to be introduced to Christianity by St
Wilfred at the end of the 7th century.
Outside the new town hall is a
bull baiting ring which shows marks of wear made
by terrified bulls as they tried to charge at
wild-eyed dogs.
Close by is 16th
century Nunwell House and its glorious garden
which contains a fountain from the Crystal Palace.
