Luccombe Chine, Coastal canyon in Shanklin, United Kingdom
Luccombe Chine is a coastal canyon near Shanklin that runs from the clifftop down to Luccombe Bay. The ravine cuts through Cretaceous rock layers and is filled with dense woodland, while ongoing erosion continues to reshape the steep walls.
A small fishing settlement once existed at the canyon's base until 1910, when a massive landslip wiped it away completely. This event fundamentally changed the landscape and left a permanent mark on the area's geography.
The canyon is one of several chines found along this coastline, where you can observe natural drainage patterns and how the coast has taken shape over time. The steep walls and dense woodlands are distinctive features that define this particular environment.
The main path and beach access through the canyon are currently closed due to safety concerns from ongoing erosion and landslips damaging wooden structures. Check conditions before visiting to learn which areas are accessible and what viewing options may be available.
This canyon marks the eastern boundary of the Isle of Wight Undercliff landslip zone, where geological forces actively shape the coast on an ongoing basis. These continuous earth movements make it a place where visitors can actually witness the land changing beneath their feet.
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