Mason's Guide (1876) - Carisbrooke

Carisbrooke is connected with Newport by a favourite walk called the Mall, and is distant from Newport about a mile. The first object of interest which attracts attention of visitors on entering the village is the Church, an ancient structure first founded in 1064. It is of the Norman period, but much changed by innovations effected at different times. The most interesting portion of the church is the tower, which in point of style and execution is said to be the finest in the island. In the church are two monuments worthy of notice: one to the memory of the lady of Sir Nicholas Wadham, governor of the island in the reign of Henry VIII.; and the quaint and curious inscription, highly characteristic of by-gone times. The Rev. E.B. James, M.A., vicar. The remains of a Roman Villa, lie near the new vicarage, being discovered when digging the foundations of the vicar's new stables, in 1859. It appears to have covered a space of about 120 feet by 50; and some rich mosaic pavement may be seen. Visitors may inspect the villa by the payment of a small gratuity, which is applied to the support of the village schools. On the north side of the church formerly stood a Priory for Benedictine monks, but nearly every remnant of this disappeared. Attached thereto was"a chapel for lepers" dedicated to St. Augustus, but no traces are left. THE CEMETERY lies near the castle, a good view of which may be obtained from the keep. Near to the Castle, and recently erected, stands a Convent, dedicated to Our Lady of Reparation, and belonging to the Order of St. Dominic. The Red Lion, Eight Bells, The Castle, and The Bugle, are the principal inns. The great attraction of Carisbrooke is the Castle.

[Description(s) from Mason's Guide to the Isle of Wight (1876)]