Easily reached by ferry from mainland UK, the Isle of Wight feels like a much more exotic destination. Packed full of attractions and boasting a coastline which is as varied as it is long, there’s no risk of boredom here.
The island’s beaches are perhaps its greatest asset. Stretching a total of more than 60 miles around the coast, there’s something for everyone. Sandown is a favourite among families, with soft sand gently sloping into clean water, it’s great for splashing around, playing on the pier and enjoying the numerous attractions including crazy golf, outdoor play area and skate park. Also set around Sandown Bay, Shanklin is an equally good option, with cafés, restaurants and pubs, as well as water sports on offer.
The town of Ventnor is set right on the beach, making it great for a day out, with rocks at one end perfect for crabbing and boats bobbing at the other end.
At the westernmost tip of the Isle of Wight are the famous Needles which you can admire from the chair lift on your way down to Alum Bay below. Take a boat trip, fill up an ornament with coloured local sand, watch glass blowers, visit the Sweet Manufactory, experience 4D cinema and have a go on some of the family friendly rides: there’s something for everyone.
Other attractions on the island include Dinosaur Isle, Bembridge Windmill, Brading Roman Villa, Osborne House, Quarr Abbey, Calbourne Watermill, Shanklin Chine, Blackgang Chine and the Isle of Wight Steam Railway. There are also numerous art and craft centres, gardens and opportunities for shopping.
Animal lovers aren’t left out either; Isle of Wight Zoo, Amazon World and Monkey Haven among other attractions are sure to satisfy those with a passion for nature.
When you’re not visiting attractions, the towns and villages on the island offer more than enough to keep you amused, including the sailing capital of Cowes, seaside town of Ryde, historic port of Yarmouth and the county town of Newport. Numerous pretty villages complete the list for your itinerary; chocolate-box Godshill, Bembridge, home of the island’s last lighthouse, and the walker’sparadise of Totland Bay, to name but a few.
The Isle of Wight is a year-round destination, with an action packed programme of festivals including the Summer of Love, Garlic Festival, Rhythmtree and Cowes Week.
Why not plan a family getaway or reunion of friends and explore the island together? Our large holiday cottages on the Isle of Wight are the perfect base for your adventures.