Bembridge

Bembridge is a village located on the easternmost point of the Isle of Wight. It had a population of 3,567 according to the 1991 census of the United Kingdom, leading to claims by residents that Bembridge is the largest village in England.

Related Topics:
Isle of Wight - 1991 - Census - United Kingdom - England

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Bembridge is a local service centre, hosting both a primary and middle school (see Isle of Wight School System for more information), a post office, several shops, a local airport, and Catholic, Methodist and Anglican Churches. It is also the location of a local fire and lifeboat station.

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The RNLI station is particularly important, as extending into the sea to the east of the village lies the notorious "Bembridge ledge", a large rocky outcrop which poses a major threat to passing boats. Although it is private sailing yachts which are most at risk, a wide variety of boats commonly run aground here, especially in the often stormy weather conditions which affect the Solent during winter months.

Related Topics:
RNLI - Yacht - Storm - Solent

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Close to the lifeboat station lies a coastguard outlook and the ever-popular Crab & Lobster pub, both of which offer (due to their high elevation) outstanding views of the Solent meeting the English Channel to the east of the Isle of Wight. Boating enthusiasts can observe a range of shipping - most of it keeping a safe distance from the Bembridge ledge - here, especially during the summer. The Crab & Lobster is also popular for its locally-caught seafood, on which it prides itself.

Related Topics:
Coastguard - Pub - English Channel - Seafood

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The Britten-Norman aircraft factory is located near Bembridge.

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