Alum Bay near Freshwater

Alum Bay is well known for its multi-coloured sand cliffs and stunning views across the Solent. Many homes around the world have a glass object filled with sand as a memento of a visit to Alum Bay and The Needles, but perhaps less well known is the recent history of Alum Bay. Approximately 70 million years ago, the sea bed rose, was eroded and then sank beneath the sea again. The new sea was shallow and it laid down a series of sands and clays. Some 10 million years later, movement in the bedrock caused these sediments to be pushed nearly vertically to form the multi-coloured cliffs that are visible today.

coast cliffs Freshwater Isle of Wight

This image is available to purchase and is part of our Freshwater Stock Photos Collection.