National Trust Unveils Plans For New Countryside Visitor Experience On The Isle Of Wight

The National Trust has announced exciting plans to create the Mottistone Hub, a transformative new visitor experience on the Isle of Wight, unlocking year-round access to the stunning landscapes of Mottistone, Compton and Dunsbury.

Set to be the island’s first year-round outdoor hub, this innovative project will provide a welcoming base for visitors to explore the surrounding coast and countryside.

The Hub, situated at Mottistone Manor Farm, will feature essential amenities, including accessible parking, toilets (including Changing Places facilities), indoor all-weather space, and a food and drink concession, making the landscape more approachable and enjoyable for everyone.

Within the boundary of the site, all areas will be wheelchair accessible, including a new path that will weave through the meadow with spots to pause, rest and take in the view.

The project supports the National Trust’s charitable ambition to ensure nature and history are accessible to all.

By reusing existing farm buildings and enhancing paths and trails, the Mottistone Hub will open up an underused part of the island’s National Landscape, inviting young families, people with additional needs and new audiences to connect with the beauty and heritage of the area.

Jennie Healey, Project Manager for the National Trust, Isle of Wight, said:

"The Mottistone Hub will offer a warm welcome to visitors at the heart of one of the Island’s most breath-taking landscapes.

"This is about more than just access – it’s about creating opportunities for everyone to feel part of these places, to learn about our conservation work and to experience the benefits of nature all year round.

"As a charity, we are so grateful to our supporters for bringing this project to life."

The Hub will also be a launchpad for green travel and tourism, with connections to walking and cycling routes across the west of the Isle of Wight, encouraging visitors to explore sustainably.

The site will share access points and parking with Mottistone Gardens, creating a cohesive visitor experience in the area.

A flexible indoor space will provide shelter and programming opportunities, ensuring the Trust can host a variety of events and activities throughout the year.

Through informative trails and interpretation, the Hub will also connect visitors with the National Trust’s wider work on conservation, heritage and climate action.

As with the successful Compton project, the Mottistone Hub presents a fantastic opportunity for local businesses.

The National Trust will be seeking a food and drink concession to operate on site and is committed to working with Isle of Wight suppliers, craftspeople and materials wherever possible – keeping the project rooted in the local economy and community.

The project has been made possible thanks to a generous gift from a private donor alongside further funding from gifts in wills and other donations, and forms part of the

National Trust’s strategy to inspire audiences, care for nature and culture and promote climate action.

Pending final approvals, the Mottistone Hub is scheduled to open in summer 2027,

offering a new way for residents and visitors to experience, learn and connect with

this remarkable landscape.

The Mottistone Hub is being delivered by the National Trust as a charity, and the Trust is keen to hear from anyone who might be able to support the project.

Whether through donations, volunteering, or simply helping to spread the word, every contribution plays a part in helping the charity care for nature, heritage and to help

make these places accessible for everyone.

Those interested in being part of this exciting next chapter at Mottistone are encouraged to get in touch:

isleofwight@nationaltrust.org.uk