Grange Chine and Marsh Chine facts for kids
Grange Chine and Marsh Chine are two special valleys found on the southwest coast of the Isle of Wight, England. They are located just south of the village of Brighstone. These two valleys are known as "chines," which are steep, narrow river valleys that cut through soft cliffs, often leading to the sea.
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What are Chines?
A chine is a type of valley that forms when a stream or river cuts through soft rock, like clay or sand, on its way to the sea. Over many years, the water wears away the land, creating a deep, narrow gorge. The sides of a chine are usually very steep. The Isle of Wight has many chines because of its soft coastal rocks and many small streams.
Grange Chine and Marsh Chine
Grange Chine and Marsh Chine together form the largest chine system on the Isle of Wight. Grange Chine starts near Brighstone village and flows southwest. It goes under the A3055 Military Road at a small place called Marsh Green. From there, it continues for about 500 meters until it reaches the beach at Brighstone Bay.
Marsh Chine begins east of Marsh Green, right next to the A3055 road. It flows west and eventually joins the larger Grange Chine before they both reach the sea.
Unique Features
Unlike many other chines on the Isle of Wight, Grange and Marsh Chines have much gentler slopes. Their sides are covered with tough bushes, small trees, and scrub. This makes them look different from the very steep, bare cliffs you might see at other chines.
The Buddle Brook
These chines help drain water from the southern hills of Brighstone Down. They even collect water from as far away as Shorwell to the east. The stream that forms here is called the Buddle Brook. This stream is quite strong! In the past, it was powerful enough to run two mills: Yafford Mill and Brighstone Mill.
Where the Buddle Brook finally reaches the sea, it is about 4 meters wide. A small wooden footbridge crosses it. However, once the stream reaches the pebble beach, its water soaks into the ground and disappears before it can flow into the sea.
Coastal Path and Local Area
The Isle of Wight Coastal Path is a walking trail that goes all around the island's coast. This path crosses Grange Chine using a wooden footbridge located close to the beach.
Near Grange Chine, there is a holiday park. It has a campsite where people can pitch tents and a few static caravans for rent. The beach in this area is a popular spot for visitors.
