Ladder Chine facts for kids
Ladder Chine is a special natural place on the southwest coast of the Isle of Wight, England. It is found on the part of the island known as the Back of the Wight, west of the village of Chale.
A chine is like a narrow, sandy valley or gully. It is carved into the cliffs by streams. Ladder Chine is one of many such features on the Isle of Wight. It was formed by a stream wearing away soft rocks. These rocks were laid down during the Cretaceous period, which was a very long time ago. Ladder Chine starts at the top of a 190-foot high cliff. It then goes down towards the beach at Chale Bay.
How Ladder Chine Was Formed
Ladder Chine is the first and largest of three chines in this area. A small stream, which does not have a name, created them. This stream flows down from Chale and collects rainwater from the west side of St. Catherine's Hill.
- The Beginning: The stream first flowed towards the cliff edge. As it went over the edge, it slowly carved out Ladder Chine.
- New Paths: Over time, the cliff face wore away. The stream then found shorter ways to reach the sea. This created two other chines, Walpen Chine and New Chine, which are to the east of Ladder Chine.
- Now Dry: Because the stream found new paths, Ladder Chine no longer has water flowing through it. It is now a dry chine.
Exploring the Area
The Isle of Wight Coastal Path is a walking trail that runs along the top of the cliffs above Ladder Chine. This path offers great views of the coast and the chine below.
Ladder Chine and Local Buses
Many buses on the Isle of Wight are named after coastal features. This is a fun way to connect the buses to the island's natural beauty.
- A bus called Mini Pointer Dart 316 (registered SN03LDU) used to carry the name Ladder Chine.
- Now, a different bus, Coach 590, has the name Ladder Chine. This bus was repainted for the Island Coaster route. This route travels along the Military Road, which is very close to Ladder Chine.
