One-time capital of the Island, until its 'new port', Newport, eventually made Carisbrooke, into little more than a suburb. It is, however, still an identifiable and attractive village. Turn down Castle Street opposite the church to find the old part of the village with its ancient fords fed by the eponymous brook.

The castle, a well-preserved Norman ruin, dominates the surrounding area. Charles I was incarcerated here, and there is a unique, donkey-operated well.