/ Isle of Wight Trip Activities / A Miniature World of Wonder
Located in the heart of the island’s most picturesque village, The Model Village, Godshill offers school groups a truly unique, bird's-eye perspective on British heritage. This meticulously crafted 1/10th scale replica of Godshill and Shanklin Old Village allows students to feel like giants as they wander through a miniature world. For visitors, the experience provides a fascinating gateway to local history, showcasing the traditional thatched cottages and the iconic All Saints Church in a way that is both accessible and immensely engaging.
The site is a masterclass in horticulture and gardens, featuring thousands of expertly manicured conifers and shrubs maintained to RHS standards. Students can study the art of topiary and learn how specific plant species are chosen to create a realistic miniature landscape. This outdoor classroom encourages quiet observation and attention to detail, making it an excellent stimulus for literature and creative writing projects where students can imagine the lives of the tiny inhabitants residing within the village’s intricate streets.
Beyond the greenery, the village provides a perfect opportunity to discuss changes within living memory and Victorian architecture. By comparing the miniature 1930s shopfronts and ornate 19th-century villas with their modern-day counterparts, pupils can see how social life and commerce have evolved over the decades. The inclusion of a working model railway further enhances the experience, allowing students to investigate the historical transport links that once connected these island communities and how technology has shaped our movement through the landscape.
A visit to The Model Village is a peaceful and reflective highlight of any residential itinerary, offering a blend of artistic craftsmanship and historical discovery. Whether students are identifying the materials used in the precision engineering of the models or simply enjoying the whimsical atmosphere, they are guaranteed to leave with a renewed appreciation for the island’s architectural beauty. It is an inspiring destination that proves that sometimes, the biggest lessons can be found in the smallest of details.
Here's some of the most frequently-asked questions about school visits to The Model Village, Godshill, posed by teachers and other group leaders
Hand sanitiser available at the entrance, toilets and gift shop
There are some picnic tables and lawns available for use
Toilet block is close to the exit and gift shop
Small cafe / snack bar is open during the main season
The Model Village is almost exclusively outdoors, apart from toilets and the gift shop, so suitable clothing and precautions need to be taken
The following The Model Village, Godshill educational resources are FREE to use when you book your trip with Education Destination. Some include pre or post-visit classroom work, others are on-site activities. All are accompanied by detailed Teacher Notes and some even have sample lesson plans!
Prepared by our expert team of teachers with local Island knowledge, each resource addresses a specific National Curriculum topic. Click on any image for full details.
