best time to visit isle of wight

Fabulous Isle of Wight Itinerary For First Time Visitors

If you’re planning your first trip to the Isle of Wight and want to see all the most beautiful places to visit and some of the very best attractions, then this Isle of Wight itinerary is for you.

From mornings spent in nature to afternoons on the beach and everything in between, here’s how to see the best of the Isle of Wight in just four days. We hope you’ll feel inspired!

While this Isle of Wight itinerary is jam-packed, it also reserves plenty of time for relaxing beach days and time spent in nature. Please note that your own transport will be helpful for this particular itinerary, which is based on our time spent exploring the Isle of Wight.

Day 1 – Settling In & Relaxing Beach Days

You’ll likely spend your first day getting to the Isle of Wight and settling in, so take your time to do that. 

Come the afternoon, you might like to spend your time on one of the island’s many gorgeous beaches. Our picks would be Ryde Beach or Compton Beach for your first day.

Day 2 – Time Spent in Nature

Ventnor botanic garden.

Today will be a long but relaxing day. Let’s start at Ventnor Botanic Garden . 

This stunning garden is home to hundreds of exotic, rare and sub-tropical plants. You can even see some of the largest Giant Amazonian Waterlilies in the world within the garden’s ‘Tropical House’. 

If you love plants and gardens, then you’ll love exploring this place. It’s a great way to start your day!

You could have lunch here or head straight to the town of Ventnor for lunch instead. 

Ventnor Beach, Pier & Esplanade

Either way, you should definitely spend the afternoon at Ventnor Beach. This sandy shingle beach is small but charming and the pier and esplanade areas are well looked after. 

So whether you want to while away a few hours on the beach or have a wander along the Esplanade, this will be a relaxing afternoon.

Ventnor Town

While you’re here, you should definitely check out The Ventnorian also known as Crave. 

This independent ice cream parlour makes inventive ice cream on its premises. They’re also frequently changing their flavours, so there’s something new to try with each visit.

There’s often a queue, but their ice cream is well worth it!

Scott and I each had a two-scoop cone. My scoops were Vegan Bounty and Malted Teaser. Scott’s were Milky Bar and Kinder Bueno. We loved this ice cream so much!

Crave usually closes at 6 pm, so this will need to be an afternoon treat before dinner. You’re on holiday, though, right?!

Once you’ve had your fill of delicious ice cream, it’s time to head to the town of Shanklin, which is about five miles away.

Just like Ventnor, Shanklin is a charming seaside resort town. 

If you have time to spare, then Shanklin has lots of shops worthy of a mooch. You might also want to grab dinner in Shanklin. You’ve got plenty of choices here.

Shanklin Chine

After dinner, head to Shanklin Chine – a natural coastal ravine complete with waterfalls. 

On summer evenings, your path is lit up along the way with coloured lights. It looks so magical!

Day 3 – Picturesque Views & Famous Landmarks

Isle of wight coastal path.

Why not start today with an exhilarating coastal walk? 

If you follow the Tennyson Trail from the Tennyson Down car park (owned by the National Trust), then you’ll be able to walk for just a couple of miles or so and find yourself at a free (and superb) viewpoint for The Needles.

Once you’ve finished taking in the view from here, you can continue your walk towards The Needles Landmark Attraction “theme park”, where you’ll see stunning views across The Solent and Alum Bay en route.

You’ll also glimpse a fabulous view of Alum Bay’s infamous multi-coloured sand cliffs. They look so bright and colourful and contrast perfectly with the calming blues and greens of the bay and surrounding landscape.

Once you’ve seen Alum Bay and the sandstone cliffs, you can continue your walk until it circles back around to the Tennyson Trail.

Here’s the walking trail we followed during our trip to the Isle of Wight. We saw points 1, 2, 3 and 4, but you have the option to make your walk longer if you want to see more.

You might also want to take a picnic with you for today. We paused for lunch in one of the fields we walked across and we had fabulous views of The Solent from there. It was so romantic.

Carisbrooke Castle

Once you’ve finished your walk and had a spot of lunch, you might like to visit Carisbrooke Castle , which is managed by the English Heritage.

Carisbrooke Castle is a historic motte-and-bailey castle, which once housed Charles I as a prisoner. 

You’ll find it in the approximate centre of the island, so it’s probably on your way back to wherever you’re staying during your trip.

While the castle itself is interesting to visit – it even has an Isle of Wight museum on-site – you can also enjoy stunning panoramic views from the top of the castle’s walls.

The tranquil Princess Beatrice Garden is also lovely to wander through, so a short stopover at Carisbrooke Castle is well worth it.

Psst! You can visit Carisbrooke Castle for free as an English Heritage member. Click this link and use our exclusive discount code: WOWEHM20 to enjoy 20% off gift and annual memberships. Enjoy!

Day 4 – A Right Royal Day Out

Osborne , a Royal residence in East Cowes, is one of the Isle of Wight’s most infamous attractions – and it’s every bit as beautiful as you might imagine. 

It was once owned by Queen Victoria who used the estate as her summer palace. If you happen to visit on a sunny day, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into continental Europe such as Spain or Italy. 

Every inch of this palace is stunning – both inside and out. 

The Osborne estate is also fabulous to explore if you love flora and fauna. There’s even a private beach to see here!

Psst! You can visit Osborne for free as an English Heritage member. Find out more >>

As Osborne is in East Cowes, you can easily catch a ferry back to the mainland after your Royal day out.

The ferry terminal for Southampton is just a five-minute drive away, while the ferry terminal for Portsmouth is roughly 15 minutes away.

RELATED: Incredible Isle of Wight Day Trip – Tips & Itinerary

Where To Stay For Your Isle of Wight Itinerary

While there are lots of fabulous places to stay on the Isle of Wight, we’d recommend staying in Ryde on the northeastern coast.

This charming seaside town is conveniently located for both East Cowes (where the ferry to Southampton goes from) and Ryde itself (where the ferry to Portsmouth goes from).

There are plenty of shops and restaurants in the town and there’s even a golden sandy beach just minutes from the hustle and bustle.

During our trip, we stayed at the Dorset Hotel , which was a comfortable stay for a few nights. The breakfast was included in the price we paid and it was varied and tasty. The shops and beach were just a few minutes’ walk away – very handy.

Alternatively, other bed and breakfasts in Ryde that come highly recommended by other travellers include:

• Stonelands House : 4-star bed and breakfast close to the beach | Check Prices
• Grantham House : 3-star bed and breakfast also close to the beach | Check Prices

Look for more hotels in Ryde via Booking.com >>

I hope you found our Isle of Wight itinerary helpful and full of inspiration for your trip to this pretty little island. What are you most excited to see and do first? Let us know in the comments below…

Did you enjoy this Isle of Wight itinerary? Why not pin or bookmark it now, so you can read it again later.

Justine Jenkins

Justine is one half of the married couple behind the Wanderers of the World travel blog. She lives in Bristol, UK and has travelled extensively within Europe and beyond since 2013. After her trips, she shares detailed travel itineraries, helpful travel guides and inspiring blog posts about the places she's been to. When she's not travelling overseas, you'll find her joining her husband, Scott on various day trips, weekend getaways and walks within the UK, which she also writes about on Wanderers of the World. Aside from travelling and writing, she also loves reading, crafting and learning about nature.

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The Best Time to Visit Isle of Wight: Insider’s Guide

Home » The Best Time to Visit Isle of Wight: Insider’s Guide

If you fancy escaping to an island that combines stunning landscapes, beautiful beaches, and fascinating history, you might want to visit the Isle of Wight. Located just off the south coast of England, this gem is teeming with vibrant culture, natural beauty, and charming seaside resorts.

But you’re probably thinking, when is the ideal season to visit this delightful island? Well, in this guide, we’ll dive deep and explore the best moments to experience the Isle of Wight at its finest.

Stepping onto the shores of the Isle of Wight, you might feel as if you’ve stumbled into a storybook. Picture-postcard villages fuse with dramatic cliffs, rolling farmland meets a serene blanket of sea, and all the while, history exhales from every corner of a landscape that has been centuries in the crafting. Situated just a stone’s throw away from England’s southern coast, the Isle of Wight is an island touched with magic, full of great views, colourful festivals, and tranquil seaside resorts that seem snatched from time itself.

But, for the would-be visitor, there’s a question that pops up: when is the best time to visit the Isle of Wight? This island reshapes its appeal with the shifting seasons, evolving into a unique spectacle each time. To truly appreciate its charm, one must know which seasonal aspect of the Isle of Wight aligns best with their travel goals. This guide is here to help you figure that out, going through the details of the island’s climate and the highlights of each season to unveil the best time for your visit. So, grab a cuppa, get comfy, and join us as we time-travel through a typical year on the Isle of Wight.

Table of Contents

The Climate of the Isle of Wight

The climate at the Isle of Wight is undoubtedly one of the many attractions that give the island its charm. Distinct seasons each present their own delightful views and experiences, making the island a year-round haven for leisure seekers, nature enthusiasts, and history buffs.

Maritime Climate Impact

Being an island, the Isle of Wight is significantly influenced by the maritime climate. In simple terms, the surrounding sea moderates the weather, reducing extreme temperatures and resulting in a generally milder climate than that of the mainland.

Seasonal Temperature Ranges

• In winter, the atmosphere is cool, but not unbearably cold, with the average temperature ranging from 3°C to 8°C
• The summers are comfortably warm instead of being scorchingly hot, with temperatures averaging between 10°C and 22°C

Seasonal Charm and Activities

Whether it’s the crisp winter chill, the rejuvenating air of spring, the warm summer sun, or the calm and cool autumn ambience, each season on the Isle of Wight has its unique weather patterns. These conditions directly shape diverse activities and attractions available on the island.

Spring on the Isle of Wight: Vibrant Colours

There’s something awe-inspiring about the spring season on the Isle of Wight, something that whispers the promise of beauty awakening from a long winter slumber. Come March, the entire island seems to breathe a drawn-out sigh of gratitude as it trembles on the brink of full bloom.

The Burst of Colours

This vibrant blossoming transforms the island into a sea of colours. Notable changes include:

• Fields bursting into radiant blankets of daffodils and bluebells
• Magnolia and cherry trees standing with pink and white flowers, their petals floating on spring breezes like natural confetti
• The mild climate and frequent rainfall create an artist’s palette of green hues across the landscapes

This creates a picturesque scenery ideal for strolling or admiring from afar.

The Stirring Wildlife

One might argue that the best part of visiting the Isle of Wight in spring is not just the flora, though. It’s also a prime time to experience the island’s wildlife.

• Bird lovers will appreciate the return of migrant species like swallow, willow warbler, and chiffchaff
• Playful red squirrels chase each other through awakening woodland
• With patience and luck, you may see a timid hare or a roe deer grazing at dawn

Spring Activities

Many activities entice the spring traveller too. For example:

• Walking and cycling trails become a delightful exploration through the island’s heartland, taking you past quaint cottage gardens and sprawling farmland
• Orchards offer blossom walks
• The warm days are perfect for your first picnic or beach visit of the year

Spring on the Isle of Wight definitely has its charms. This season is more than just a precursor to the buzz of summer, it’s a celebration of life returning, a natural ballet of colours and movement that unfolds right in front of you. That’s why spring might be the best time to visit the Isle of Wight, especially for die-hard nature enthusiasts. It’s nature in motion, a spectacle every traveller should experience.

Summer: Festival Season and Bustling Beaches

There’s something electric about the Isle of Wight during the summer. The island radiates an infectious energy that captures the spirit of the historic British summer – a season of celebration, adventure, and sunlight. Summer brings the much-awaited Isle of Wight Festival, a highlight of the island’s vibrant event calendar. Over its five-decade history, the festival has hosted rock, pop, and dance mega-icons—think Jimi Hendrix, and The Rolling Stones, to name a few. This four-day bonanza packs in a buoyant blend of music, comedy, and arts, injecting an unmistakable buzz into the summer air. For more festivals, check out our article here .

Let’s move to climate. Thanks to the maritime influence, the Isle of Wight summer is milder than mainland UK, with July sunshine averaging 200 hours, so you’ll encounter many perfect beach days. The island boasts a beautiful array of beaches , from sandy stretches like Sandown and Shanklin Beach to pebbly alcoves like Bembridge Beach. Water sports enthusiasts will revel in the windsurfing and paddleboarding opportunities, while families can build sandcastles and enjoy ice cream cones under the idyllic sun.

Given the mix of fantastic weather, fun-filled festivals, and bustling beaches, it’s easy to understand why many consider summer as the optimal time to embark on their Isle of Wight adventure. Yet, it isn’t the island’s definitive ‘best’. As this guide reveals, the Isle of Wight’s calendar is diverse, offering seasonal surprises and pleasures for different mindsets and interests. So there: summer isn’t the stronghold ‘best’, but rather one fantastic option among many.

Autumn on the Isle of Wight: A Peaceful Getaway with Mild Weather

If you’re looking for a tranquil escape, autumn may just be the right time for you to visit the Isle of Wight.

Off-Peak Tranquility

From September to November, the summer holiday frenzy fades away, and the island settles into a gentle lull. The reduced crowds offer a more peaceful holiday experience, letting you explore the island at your own pace.

Mild Weather and Vibrant Colors

Autumn weather is mild, with temperatures hovering around a comfortable 10-15°C range. This season brings with it a range of colours as the leaves turn from lush green to a stunning array of gold, red, and brown.

Outdoor Pursuits

• For walking enthusiasts, autumn unveils new aspects of the island’s landscape. Numerous walking trails become even more striking in this season
• Activities such as cycling, horse riding, or paragliding are made more enjoyable by the cool weather
• Places like Ventnor Park, St. Boniface Down, and the Shanklin Chine transform into must-visit spots to witness the mesmerizing change in foliage

Less-Crowded Explorations

Autumn’s tranquillity means less crowd, even at famous landmarks like:

• The historic Osborne House
• The iconic Needles
• The serene Ventnor Botanic Gardens

Autumnal Harvest

As the leaves change colour, the Isle of Wight also greets the season’s harvest. Visitors get the chance to savour the island’s produce with local food festivals popping up across the region.

Autumn in the Isle of Wight presents a blend of calm and vibrancy, with its temperate climate, exquisite scenery, and a range of activities. If tranquillity with a hint of adventure is what you desire, then this season is the ideal time for your visit.

Winter: Rustic Charm and Serenity

If you’re someone who finds comfort in the silence of winter and the calmness of an idyllic countryside, then a winter visit to the Isle of Wight might tick all the right boxes. Though the island slips into a dormant phase during these months, it radiates a peaceful and dreamy charm. Snow-dusted hills, panoramic views of frosted countryside and stunning chalk cliffs against a dramatic winter sky – the landscape forms a postcard-perfect picture that’s both soothing and picturesque.

The weather during winter, as expected, drifts towards the cold side with temperatures hovering around 3-8°C, but much milder compared to the mainland due to the maritime influences. You’ll want to pack a warm coat and comfortable boots, not forgetting a hat and gloves for those chillier days.

Why choose winter, you may ask? Well, it offers the luxury of solitude and a break from summer crowds. It’s a serene retreat, ideal for leisurely walks, visiting charming, cosy tea rooms, and exploring the island’s rich history without the crowd. Winter allows you to enjoy the Isle of Wight in its most intimate state, giving you a bit of peace and quiet as you unlock the rustic charm of this beautiful island. The lower volume of visitors often means reduced prices in accommodations, making this period a delight for those budget-conscious travellers. Undoubtedly, for some, winter is indeed the best time to unlock the authentic essence of the Isle of Wight.

Considering Isle of Wight Weather Forecasts and Travel Costs

If you’re the type of traveller who likes to plan ahead (which let’s face it, we all should be), weather forecasts play a crucial role in planning any itinerary. Keeping an eye on detailed forecasts such as the ones provided by the MetOffice can help you avoid the odd rainy day or unexpectedly chilly evening. These forecasts can offer specific information about weather conditions up to several weeks in advance, including temperature, likelihood of rain, and wind speed, all of which can be quite useful in planning your outdoor adventures on the Isle of Wight.

Now, nobody likes to mention the dreaded “B” word, but let’s address it anyway – Budget. Your travel costs can depend significantly on the season. Typically, accommodation, transportation, and ticket prices for attractions can be higher during the peak summer season when tourism traffic is at an all-time high. This is the Isle of Wight at its busiest, with radiant sunshine, bustling beaches, and vibrant festivals. But this can also mean crowded attractions and longer queues.

Conversely, in the quieter autumn and winter months, you may land some discounted deals on accommodations. The catch, however, could be reduced operating hours for certain attractions or services, and less predictable weather.

Springs are usually a good middle ground – the island’s flora and fauna are in full bloom, wildlife is abundant, and you can avoid the larger summer crowds while still enjoying plenty of sunshine. The costs during spring can be moderate compared to the peak summer prices, creating a budget-friendly balance.

Like so much in life, it’s all about weighing up the pros and cons. Ideal weather versus crowd size, balancing relaxation versus excitement, and of course, costs – it’s all part of the grand Isle of Wight equation you’ll have to solve as a visitor. Don’t worry, whatever the season, the island never fails to mesmerize its guests.

After studying each season in detail, we can safely say that there’s no bad time to visit the Isle of Wight; each comes with its own unique beauty and activities.

Spring on the island is a treat for nature lovers, with the island bursting into life with vibrant flowers and wildlife, perfect for hikes and soft adventures. Meanwhile, summer offers an energetic buzz with music festivals and a host of beach activities, all under the bright, warm sun.

Autumn showcases a calm getaway opportunity with milder weather and captivating landscapes that allow for quieter exploration. Then, there’s the cosy winter, with its rustic charm and serene atmosphere where you can enjoy peaceful walks and the beauty of a quieter, sleepy seaside.

While keeping an eye on weather forecasts and considering travel costs are practical steps in finalising your plans, your preferences for weather, activities, and crowd levels will ultimately lead you to your answer. After all, whether you want an action-packed festival season visit, a serene retreat in the mild autumn, or a tranquil winter getaway, the Isle of Wight caters to all tastes and preferences year-round.

Remember, the Isle of Wight is a charming destination filled with natural beauty, vibrant culture, and fascinating history, and it’s waiting for you to discover its treasures. So now that you’re armed with all this information, the only question remaining is – when will you embark on your Isle of Wight adventure? The choice, dear traveller, is entirely yours.

Ed Simpson is a recent University graduate who is now specialising in SEO and Digital Marketing with Minty Digital

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The Isle of Wight Travel Guide for a Remarkable Island Getaway

Travel to the Isle of Wight, and be guided by a kind of magic that is unique to this island. The island, bathed in a kind of light and warmth that I’d not experienced before. A green paradise, quite different to the one from the mainland. Woodland of hundreds of years old, miles and miles of clifftops to explore , waterfalls and a remarkable gorge. The island sings of its soul so brightly, of flora, of fauna, of wild birds and fowls, white cliffs and chalk ridges, coloured sands and fossils…and then there is the rugged coastline. The grey meeting the blue, welcoming both the sea and the sky. The rocks so in love with the rhythm of the ocean.

Once home to the famous Queen of England , great poets and innovators, the island also stood ready to defend the country’s nation.

People say they fall in love with the Isle of Wight England’s best haven and I understand why. I invite you to explore this little gem and hope you’d think so too.

The Isle of Wight, England

The Isle of Wight, an enchanting island off the southern coast of England , is a perfect travel destination for a memorable holiday with a guide or independently. The island is one of my favourite destinations in the United Kingdom and have had many happy memories with my family.

Often regarded as one of England’s best havens, the history of the island dates back millions of years. There are evidence of ancient settlements and structures discovered through archaeology. Some of the ancient structures go back to the Iron Age, much represented by the earthworks at Castle Hill . The oldest monument on the island, the Long Stone at Mottistone Common dates back to Neolithic times.

What to do on the Isle of Wight

The Isle of Wight is one of the few places in the world where members of the public can experience finding their own fossilised dinosaur remains . Digging for bones is a favourite among families as it is an activity that will keep your little ones occupied for a few hours. The 68-mile coastal walk with dramatic white cliffs as a backdrop is a journey that offers unique unforgettable experiences.

There are so many adventures on the island that one can explore, some not covered in the usual travel guide books to the Isle of Wight. From birdwatching, horseback riding to scenic coastal walks and sailing along with beautiful sandy beaches, white cliffs and secluded coves for rock-pooling . The island has a lush countryside and is a hiker’s paradise. More popular these days are the music festivals held annually and the Round the Island Yacht Race at Cowes . All of these experiences come together making Isle of Wight a perfect destination for solo travellers, families, couples and slow-travellers .

This comprehensive guide about the Isle of Wight will take you through the island’s top attractions , activities , beaches, accommodation options , and much more.

A Popular Getaway from Mainland England

Popular for visitors from the south-coast of England as a day destination , England’s best haven is ideal for a short break or longer visits. Whether you’re planning a family trip, a romantic getaway, or an adventure-filled vacation, the Isle of Wight has something to offer for everyone. So, pack your bags, hop on a ferry, and get ready to explore this picturesque island with its stunning landscapes, friendly locals, and a wealth of exciting experiences. This is the only travel guide you need for all things Isle of Wight.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit the Isle of Wight, England’s best haven, is during the summer when the island is at its peak and bustling with activities. However, it’s also the most expensive and crowded period due to music festivals and boat races. For a more tranquil experience, consider visiting in spring or autumn when the weather is still pleasant, and attractions are less crowded. The end of October is particularly vibrant with Halloween celebrations as the island is known for its one or two spooky tales . Keep in mind that most venues are closed during the winter months, so plan accordingly if you prefer a livelier atmosphere.

Getting to the Isle of Wight

Ferry: The most common way to reach the Isle of Wight is by ferry from the mainland via ferries operated by Wight Link or Red Funnel. Ferries operate from Portsmouth, Southampton, and Lymington. Depending on your starting point, the journey usually takes between 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Hovercraft: For a unique experience, you can take the hovercraft from Southsea, Portsmouth, to Ryde on the Isle of Wight. It’s the only commercial hovercraft service in the UK.

Private Yacht/Boat: If you have access to a private yacht or boat, you can sail across the Solent and dock at one of the island’s marinas.

Getting Around the Island

Car: Driving is the best way to get around the island. Renting a car is an excellent option for exploring the island at your own pace.

Bus: The Isle of Wight has an extensive bus network that connects major towns and attractions. It’s an eco-friendly way to get around.

Bicycle: With its relatively flat terrain and scenic routes, cycling is a popular way to explore the Isle of Wight. You can rent bicycles from various locations.

Walking: The island offers many picturesque walking trails, including the famous coastal path. 

How Many Days Is Ideal for a Holiday in Isle of Wight, England

Although the island is the largest in England, it is quite a small one . Some may suggest that a day trip would suffice, but I’d say otherwise. My family and I spent five days on this beautiful island , waking up to the sounds of the waves against the cliffs and seagulls that created the melodies of the shore. Needless to say it was one of our best staycations. The Isle of Wight was a destination we much loved especially the calmness and the tranquility that surrounded our place of stay which was a complete change to our everyday routine. We felt then and still do that our time on this beautiful island was not nearly enough.

For a vacation at the Isle of Wight, a minimum of three days is highly recommended to truly experience England’s best haven. Spending at least three days allows you to immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings, explore the stunning coastal landscapes, and enjoy the local delicacies and attractions. For a more relaxed and immersive experience, extending your stay to five days or longer will give you ample time to appreciate the unique allure of the Isle of Wight. There’s plenty to do and explore and catch amazing sunsets over the Solent and create cherished memories with your loved ones.

Top Attractions and Activities

Step back to Victorian opulence, passion and style and take a peek into the royal private world . Visit the islands beautiful villages with thatched cottages which is a photographer’s paradise. The inviting sandy beaches and picturesque white cliffs are experiences to indulge in. A walk in the woodlands or a visit to Shanklin Chine will transport you to a whole new world of unspoiled natural beauty. Don’t forget to explore the medieval fortress and battlements which was home to Princess Beatrice, Queen Victoria’s youngest daughter or the three hundred year old windmill, along with the historic Batteries that stood ready to protect the mainland England…and then there is the steam train ride for a little nostalgia.

The Isle of Wight England’s best haven is simply bursting with a bucket list of places to explore and activities to do, leaving you with no moments to be bored. Some unmissable highlights include:

Alum Bay and The Needles

Located on the westernmost part of the Isle of Wight, England, Alum Bay is a captivating bay that serves as both a geological marvel and a popular travel attraction for tourists. Its geological significance lies in the fascinating chalk stacks that feature prominently in most travel guides to the Isle of Wight. Along with the multicolored sand cliffs, with formations dating back millions of years. The bay’s seabed and waters are protected as part of the Needles Marine Conservation Zone, ensuring the preservation of its marine ecosystem. Above the shore, the heath is encompassed within the prestigious Headon Warren and West High Down Site of Special Scientific Interest.

For tourists, Alum Bay offers easy access to awe-inspiring sights, including the renowned Needles rock formations and the iconic Needles Lighthouse. A boat ride from the bay allows visitors to admire the magnificent multi-colored sand cliffs, creating a mesmerising experience. Additionally, the bay provides stunning views across the Solent, enhancing the overall visit. To cater to the diverse interests of visitors, Alum Bay features an amusement park and various other activities, making it an ideal destination for a fulfilling day trip. Whether you’re a geology enthusiast, nature lover, or simply seeking breathtaking views, Alum Bay is a must-visit location on the Isle of Wight.

Osborne House

Step into the world of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert as you explore their former residence, surrounded by lush gardens. Step back to Victorian opulence, passion and style in Osborne House .

Osborne House, is a magnificent and historically significant royal residence featured in many Isle of Wight travel guides. Once the cherished holiday home of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, this grand estate showcases a stunning blend of Italian, Indian, and Swiss architectural styles.

Set amidst lush gardens and overlooking the Solent, Osborne House offers visitors a glimpse into the royal family’s private life during the 19th century. With its opulent interiors, richly decorated rooms, and charming seaside views, a visit to Osborne House provides a captivating journey back in time, offering insights into the lives of British royalty and the enduring legacy of Queen Victoria’s beloved retreat. The gardens are open to the public.

Carisbrooke Castle

Carisbrooke Castle on the Isle of Wight is not only a historically significant fortress but also a highly recommended destination for families and kids in almost all travel guides and travel itineraries. This iconic landmark offers an enriching and entertaining experience for visitors of all ages.

Families can immerse themselves in the castle’s intriguing history, participate in interactive exhibits, and even try dressing up in period costumes. Kids will love exploring the well-preserved ramparts, crossing the drawbridge, and observing the resident donkeys that operate the 16th-century treadwheel. With breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and numerous engaging activities, Carisbrooke Castle guarantees a memorable and enjoyable day out for the entire family.

Entry to Carisbrook Castle is free for members of English Heritage . If you are an overseas visitor, you can purchase your visitor pass here .

Isle of Wight Festival

If your visit coincides with the festival, it’s a must-attend event featuring top music acts.

The Isle of Wight Festival is a world-renowned music festival that draws in crowds from across the globe. Dance to the rhythm of top music acts and soak in the festival atmosphere. The festival is a highlight in any summer activity Isle of Wight travel guide.

This annual event attracts music enthusiasts and festival-goers from around the globe to revel in a diverse lineup of top music acts, creating an electrifying atmosphere of live performances and unforgettable experiences. Set against the backdrop of the island’s stunning natural beauty and coastal charm, the festival’s location adds to the overall allure, making it a must-attend summer activity for music lovers and those seeking an exhilarating time on the Isle of Wight.

Shanklin Chine

Shanklin Chine is a captivating ravine located in the charming seaside town of Shanklin on the Isle of Wight and is one of the best places to visit on the island .

This natural wonder has been enticing visitors for centuries with its lush vegetation, cascading waterfalls, and unique rock formations. A stroll through the chine takes you on a magical journey, surrounded by rare plants and the soothing sound of running water. It offers a tranquil escape from the bustling world, providing a serene and peaceful experience for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a slice of paradise on the Isle of Wight.

Beautiful Beaches and Waterfronts

The Isle of Wight is dotted with pristine beaches, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and building sandcastles.

Compton Bay

Compton Bay is a picturesque sandy beach located on the Isle of Wight, England, renowned for its natural beauty and ideal conditions for both surfing and sunbathing. With its wide stretch of golden sand and stunning coastal vistas, it’s a favourite destination for beachgoers and water sports enthusiasts. The rolling waves and consistent swell make it an excellent spot for surfers of all levels to catch some waves, while the soft sands provide a perfect place to relax and soak up the sun. Whether you’re looking to ride the waves or simply unwind by the sea, Compton Bay offers a delightful beach experience on the Isle of Wight.

Freshwater Bay

Freshwater Bay is a breathtakingly picturesque bay nestled on the Isle of Wight. One of the main recommendations in most travel guides to the Isle of Wight, the bay offers secluded bays, stunning coastal views and exciting opportunities for rock-pooling and water sports. With its dramatic cliffs, clear blue waters, and sandy shores, it’s a haven for nature lovers and beachgoers alike. Adventurers can indulge in exhilarating water sports such as surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, while those seeking relaxation can bask in the beauty of the surrounding landscapes. Freshwater Bay is a must-visit destination that combines natural splendour with thrilling activities, making it an unforgettable experience for all who visit the Isle of Wight.

Cowes, Isle of Wight

Cowes, located on the Isle of Wight, is renowned for its rich sailing heritage, drawing sailors and sailing enthusiasts from all over. This bustling town boasts a vibrant waterfront, adorned with an array of restaurants, cafes, and charming boutique shops. Visitors can indulge in delectable dining experiences while admiring the picturesque views of the Solent. The town’s maritime legacy is celebrated through various sailing events and regattas held throughout the year. Cowes exudes a charming nautical ambiance, making it a delightful destination for both sailors and travellers seeking a taste of the Isle of Wight’s maritime culture.

Outdoor Activities

This enchanting Isle of wight island, featured prominently in travel guides to England offers a plethora of thrilling adventures amidst its stunning natural landscapes. From exploring the coastal trails and serene woodlands to engaging in water sports off the pristine beaches, there’s something for every outdoor enthusiast with these key ways to explore guide . Discover hidden gems, observe diverse wildlife, and soak in the island’s breathtaking vistas. Whether you seek hiking, surfing, cycling, or simply a tranquil escape into nature, the Isle of Wight promises an unforgettable outdoor experience, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

Water Sports: Enjoy sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and windsurfing in the clear waters.

Hiking: Explore the island’s numerous walking trails, including the Tennyson Trail and the Coastal Path.

Family-Friendly Outdoor Activities: Visit Robin Hill Country Park and Blackgang Chine, two popular theme parks offering a range of attractions and entertainment for the whole family. Don’t miss a trip to the Isle of Wight Zoo, where you can observe rare animals and participate in various educational activities.

The Woodlands of the Isle of Wight

The woodlands of the Isle of Wight hold a special allure for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike, making them a prominent feature in any Isle of Wight travel guide. Covering approximately 4% of England’s best haven land surface, these woodlands offer a haven for rare and endangered species, including the red squirrel, hazel dormouse, Bechstein bat, and barbastelle bat. A visit to the woodlands of Isle of Wight is a unique opportunity to witness the exclusive environment of these creatures, undisturbed by deer or grey squirrels.

With about eight distinct woodland areas on the island, three highly recommended locations to explore are Briddlesford Woods, designated as both a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Special Area for Conservation, Borthwood Copse, managed by the National Trust England, and Firestone Copse, accessible all-year-round and managed by the Woodland Trust.

Indulge in serene walks into these enchanting woodlands, where ancient trees, rare wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes await, making it a must-visit experience for all seeking to connect with nature’s wonders on the Isle of Wight.

Notable Towns on the Isle of Wight

The Isle of Wight is home to several notable towns, each offering its own unique charm and attractions. Some of the notable towns on the island include:

Newport: The county town of the Isle of Wight, Newport is a bustling hub with a mix of historic architecture, shopping centers, and cultural attractions.

Ryde: Known as the “Gateway to the Isle of Wight,” Ryde boasts a long sandy beach, a Victorian pier, and a lively seafront promenade.

Cowes: Famous for its sailing heritage, Cowes attracts sailors and visitors alike with its vibrant waterfront, restaurants, and boutique shops.

Shanklin: A popular seaside resort, Shanklin offers a picturesque esplanade, sandy beach, and the charming Shanklin Chine, a natural ravine.

Ventnor: Nestled in a sheltered bay, Ventnor is a tranquil town known for its microclimate, Victorian architecture, and beautiful gardens.

Sandown: With a long sandy beach and traditional seafront attractions, Sandown is a family-friendly town offering a mix of entertainment options.

Yarmouth: Located on the western side of the island, Yarmouth is a historic town with a quaint harbour, castle, and scenic walks along the River Yar.

Bembridge: A picturesque village with a lovely harbour, Bembridge is perfect for water sports enthusiasts and offers stunning coastal views. Each of these towns has its own unique character and attractions, making the Isle of Wight a diverse and fascinating destination to explore

Accommodation Options on the Isle of Wight, England

From charming bed-and-breakfasts to luxurious hotels, cosy cottages, and family-friendly holiday parks, this guide to best places to stay for every travel enthusiast to the Isle of Wight offers a variety of lodging options to suit every preference and budget. Whether you seek a seaside retreat, a countryside escape, or a bustling town center experience, the island’s accommodations ensure a comfortable and convenient base for exploring its stunning landscapes, historical sites, and vibrant culture. So, rest assured that your stay on the Isle of Wight will be a delightful one, with accommodations that cater to all your needs.

Isle of Wight Holiday Parks: Choose from a variety of holiday parks that offer comfortable lodges, caravans, and camping facilities amidst natural surroundings.

Hotels and Resorts: There are several hotels and resorts catering to different budgets and preferences, providing a comfortable stay during your vacation.

Local Delicacies

When visiting the Isle of Wight, indulge in the island’s delicious local delicacies. Start by savouring freshly caught seafood, such as succulent crab, juicy prawns, and mouthwatering lobster, sourced from the island’s pristine waters. Don’t miss the chance to taste the renowned Isle of Wight garlic, known for its unique sweetness and flavour, adding a special touch to any dish.

For a delightful treat on a warm day, head to the local ice cream parlours offering a delightful array of flavours. Try the creamy and refreshing ice creams made from the island’s high-quality milk and cream. From classic flavours like vanilla and chocolate to inventive combinations like strawberry and balsamic or lavender honey, the Isle of Wight’s ice cream will leave you wanting more.

Indulge your taste buds in these local delights and experience the true culinary essence of the island.

Recommended Read About the Isle of Wight:

• The Perfect 5 Day Isle of Wight Itinerary.
• Where to go for the Very Best Views of the Needles.
• The Isle of Wight Bucket List: Epic 35 Things to do on IOW.
• The Unmissable Needles Rocks and Trinity Lighthouse.
• Best Group Tours to the Isle of Wight.
• 26 Very Best Places to Stay on the Isle of Wight.
• The Historic Needles Batteries: The Old Batteries and New Batteries on the Isle of Wight.
• 4 Key Ways to Explore the Isle of Wight.
• Unmissable 9 Fun Things to do at Carisbrook Castle, IOW.
• Queen Victoria’s Favourite Places on IOW.
• Top 9 Super Spooky and Haunted Places on the Isle of Wight.

Additional Information About the Isle of Wight, England

The Isle of Wight population is 140,000, making it the second most populous island in northern Europe. The island has a strong tradition of promoting environmental awareness, healthier lifestyle and measures for climate change mitigation and adaptation. Recognised as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve , Isle of Wight is a centre for geological study, promoting numerous projects on the environment and eco-tourism while attracting new investments to foster environmental innovation.

Tourism is an important contributor to the island’s economy and is much encouraged by Visit Isle of Wight (official tourism board for Isle of Wight) and Visit England (official tourism board for England).

Isle of Wight is England’s largest island and it cannot be any closer to the mainland!

The island can be accessed in 45 minutes via a short sea crossing from southern England, from Portsmouth, Southampton or Lymington across the Solent .

Recommendations and Tips for the Isle of Wight, England

Here are some tips and recommendations for a memorable visit to the Isle of Wight:

Plan Ahead: Research and plan your trip in advance, especially during peak seasons. Book accommodations, ferry tickets, and popular attractions beforehand to avoid disappointment.

Explore the Coastline: The Isle of Wight boasts stunning coastal views. Don’t miss walking along the famous Tennyson Down or exploring the iconic Needles rock formations.

Sample Local Cuisine: Try the island’s fresh seafood, especially the famous Isle of Wight garlic. Visit local markets and eateries for an authentic culinary experience.

Outdoor Activities: Embrace the island’s natural beauty with hiking, cycling, and water sports. The island offers a range of activities suitable for all ages and skill levels.

Visit Historical Sites: Discover the Isle of Wight’s rich history by exploring castles, historic homes like Osborne House, and museums that showcase the island’s heritage.

Attend Festivals: If possible, time your visit with one of the island’s festivals, like the Isle of Wight Festival or Cowes Week, for an unforgettable cultural experience.

Experience the Charming Towns: Explore quaint towns like Ryde, Shanklin, and Ventnor, each with its unique character, shops, and attractions.

Red Squirrel Spotting: Keep an eye out for the island’s adorable red squirrels. Visit woodlands like Briddlesford Woods for a chance to see these rare creatures.

Pack for the Weather: The weather can be changeable, so pack layers and rain gear to be prepared for any conditions.

Support Local Businesses: Support the local community by shopping at small businesses, farmer’s markets, and craft shops, contributing to the island’s vibrant economy.

Join a Tour Group from London; Sit back and relax as your guide does all the driving. Choose from a day tour departing London ; a 3-day experience of the South Coast and Isle of Wight from London ; or for a day trip to Isle of Wight from Brighton, go here.

Remember to respect the environment and wildlife during your visit, and most importantly, enjoy the tranquility and beauty that the Isle of Wight has to offer!

Some Questions You May Have About the Isle of Wight

The name “Isle of Wight” has historical origins from the Roman occupation of Britain, where the Romans called it Vectis or Insula Vecta. Even after the Romans left, the name Vectis continued to be used, as seen in places like the bus operator Southern Vectis. The most popular theory suggests that “Wight” originally meant ‘to split or divide,’ possibly referring to the island dividing the waters off Portsmouth and Southampton. Other theories link the name to Celtic roots, Welsh word “gwaith” meaning work, or the proto-Germanic word “wextiz” meaning ‘something small.’ Ultimately, the Isle of Wight’s name originates from its geographical features, with “Isle” indicating its island status and “Wight” derived from the Old English word “wiht,” signifying a creature or living being. The name’s evolution over time has contributed to the Isle of Wight becoming a renowned destination celebrated for its natural beauty and historical significance.

The Isle of Wight is often affectionately referred to as the “Diamond Isle.” The nickname reflects the island’s sparkling beauty and natural allure, stunning landscapes, picturesque coastlines, and diverse scenery, which are often likened to the brilliance and radiance of a precious diamond. The name emphasises the island’s charm and appeal as a gem among the British Isles, making it a popular destination for travellers. 

“Wet Leg” is a fond term used by Isle of Wight residents for mainland daytrippers and holidaymakers. It likely stems from visitors arriving via ferry with potentially wet legs. Embracing the friendly colloquialism, locals welcome those exploring the island’s attractions, beaches, and landscapes with open arms.

The affectionate term “caulkheads” for Isle of Wight people stems from the island’s shipbuilding legacy. Caulk, used to seal gaps between wooden planks on ships, was applied by shipbuilders known as “caulkers.” Over time, this term evolved to describe the island’s inhabitants, highlighting their maritime heritage. Today, it remains a cherished part of the local identity and culture.

The most beautiful village on the Isle of Wight is often considered to be Godshill. With its charming thatched cottages, picturesque streets, and traditional tea rooms, Godshill exudes a quintessential English village charm. Surrounded by lush countryside and offering stunning views, it captivates visitors with its idyllic and timeless appeal.

Fishbourne is often considered the ‘poshest’ place on the Isle of Wight. With its upscale properties, scenic views, and tranquil ambiance, Fishbourne attracts discerning visitors seeking an exclusive and sophisticated experience on the island.

Driving around the entire perimeter of the Isle of Wight, from east to west, takes about 2 to 2.5 hours. depending on traffic and stops along the way. The island is relatively small, with a circumference of around 60 miles, making it easy to explore in a short amount of time. However, its scenic routes and attractions may tempt you to extend your journey and enjoy all that the Isle of Wight has to offer.

The Isle of Wight is a haven of natural beauty, thrilling activities, and rich history, making it an ideal holiday destination. Whether you’re seeking relaxation on sandy beaches, exploring historical landmarks, or enjoying lively festivals, the Isle of Wight will leave you with lasting memories of a truly remarkable vacation.

Happy and Safe Travels, Wherever Travel Takes You.

Introducing Georgina, the insightful Content Creator behind Timeless Travel Steps. A champion of off-season journeys and cultural immersion for the mature traveller, Georgina has explored 4 continents and over 30 countries. Her blog offers practical tips and personal insights into responsible, comfort-oriented travel along with slow travel destinations. Accompanied by classical, country, and jazz tunes, Georgina's solo adventures and time with her adult children, A & M, enrich her unique travel narrative. Join her for inspiring, immersive global explorations.

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Travel Guide To Isle Of Wight

The classic seaside holiday has been perfected on the Isle of Wight, alongside beach huts and ice-cream stalls you'll find stylish hotels and top-class restaurants. This healthy competition at the top end of the food chain is just one sign that the island is undergoing something of a renaissance. For decades the entire coastline smelt of chip-vinegar and every holidaymaker was equipped with a plastic bucket and spade. Now, without anyone noticing how it has happened, the island is attracting hip people looking for cool things to do - and not only during the annual rock festival. Surfers, gourmands, culture vultures, honeymooners and style gurus are all heading across the Solent for a good time. Wight is nearer than Cornwall to London, after all, and it is easier to get to than Europe.

Where to stay in Isle of Wight

St Lawrence, near Ventnor (0870 4584422; www.nationaltrustcottages.co.uk ). A National Trust house, this is a jolly time warp of 1970s chic - from the orange Formica bathroom to the Harry Bertoia chairs. Sleeps four. £

SEAVIEW HOTEL & RESTAURANT

High Street, Seaview (01983 612 711; www.seaviewhotel.co.uk ). A friendly place with a fine pub at its heart. Seaview is a lovely village and a good base for exploring the island. £

THE HAMBROUGH HOTEL

Hambrough Road, Ventnor (01983 856333; www.the hambrough.com ). This new boutique hotel serves great food. The room at the top has sea views from the bathtub. £

THE ROYAL HOTEL

Belgrave Road, Ventnor (01983 852 186; www.royalhoteliow.co.uk ). The only AA four star hotel on the Isle of Wight, the Royal Hotel has 55 bedrooms and is set in the coastal Victorian town of Ventnor. The restaurant was awarded two AA Rosettes in 2007 for the 10th year running.

THE WELLINGTON HOTEL

Belgrave Road, Ventnor (01983 856600; www.thewellingtonhotel.net ). Has super-de-luxe rooms with private terraces. It's a good spot to sit with a croissant and watch the round-the-island yacht race. £

VINTAGE VACATIONS

07802 758113; www.vintagevacations.co.uk . This offers accommodation in three beautifully restored US Airstream trailers in a field near Newport. It's a kind of ironic camping. £

Where to eat out in Isle of Wight

BAYWATCH ON THE BEACH

Duver Road, St Helens (01983 873259). A beautifully-located restaurant situated at the water's edge with a sandy beach and views of the Solent and English Channel from both the sun terrace and restaurant. Baywatch specialises in fresh seafood - local crab, lobster, plaice, sea bass and fresh mussels. A daily specials board is also available with a selection of steak, meat, pasta and vegetarian dishes. Early and late season opening times may vary depending on weather. Book for dinner.

THE BOATHOUSE

Steephill Cove, Ventnor (01983 852747). The Boathouse has a little cubby hole at the front, open to the sea, that's only big enough for a single table. Rain or shine, it's the perfect spot for a romantic lunch.

THE GEORGE HOTEL

Quay Street, Yarmouth (01983 760331; www.thegeorge.co.uk ). This is the island's only Michelin-starred restaurant.

THE NEW INN

Shalfleet (01983 531314; www.the new-inn.co.uk ). The New Inn has the best pub food on the island. It's cosy indoors and breezy outdoors on the high deck, and there is plenty of variety on the changeable menu: crab-and-prawn cocktail with crusty bread, tuna with lime and chives, lamb shank with garlic mash.

The Hambrough Hotel. (See Where to stay). Three-course menu for two. This new restaurant is located in a splendid boutique hotel, The Hambrough, (see Where to stay) which opened down the road in Ventnor last year. Mackenzie runs both establishments with the Hambrough's French manager, Frédéric Sol. Sol came to the island from the UK's best restaurant outside London according to this year's Tatler Restaurant Awards.

THE POND CAFÉ

Bonchurch Village Road, Bonchurch (01983 855666; www.thepondcafe.com ). This is a fabulous place for a sandwich or an evening out. The Pond Café in Bonchurch is tiny, but it has the gravitational pull of a dwarf star. Visitors and locals come from all over the island to eat there, but on any given summer evening far more are turned away than manage to get their feet under one of its beautifully crisp tablecloths. The food alone justifies the short hop across the Solent: crispy confit of pork belly with apple-and-ginger purée, seafood risotto with soft herbs and Parmesan, gratin of poached pear with Amaretto and crème Chantilly. Until last year, The Pond was run by Andrew Thomson, a 28-year-old Scot who learned his trade in France and Andorra. 'Some parts of the island are still about candyfloss and ice cream,' he says. 'But there are plenty of people around who will pay to eat at a really good restaurant, so long as the prices are not outrageous.' Thomson's successor as head chef is Simon Mackenzie, who is going to be keeping up the Pond's informal 'fine brasserie' tradition while also attending to the Pond's slightly roomier and more sophisticated sister, The Ocean.

THE PRIORY BAY OYSTER BAR & GRILL

Priory Drive, Seaview (01983 613146; www.priorybay.co.uk ). Little more than a large shack in the woods, is a great place for a summer evening. You can see and hear the waves through the trees, and eat barbecued fish under the stars. The restaurant belongs to the distinctly posh Priory Bay Hotel, which is through the woods and up the hill.

What to see in Isle of Wight

Bonchurch is a good place to begin a tour of the island. It is a lovely, hushed village that zigzags in a series of switchbacks up the side of St Boniface Down. The overhanging cliff means that part of the village is permanently enveloped in green shade, while other parts are awash with southern sunshine. Here, on the sheltered side of the island, the weather is almost tropical. So while the stolid Victorian architecture is typically English, the exotic gardens look like they belong in Mallorca. Bonchurch village lives in the arty afterglow of its 19th-century heyday. It was here that Dickens got down to work on David Copperfield. He called it 'the prettiest place I ever saw in my life, at home or abroad', and spent his afternoons playing rounders with the locals in Monk's Bay - which, thanks to erosion, is now barely broad enough to swing a bat. The south of the island is full of literary associations dating from the Victorian era, the last time it was a really fashionable place to be.

Lauren Burvill , CN Traveller

Olivia Morelli

CNT Editors

CNT Editors , CN Traveller

STEEPHILL COVE

Steephill Cove is as secluded and lovely a beach as any in Europe. It seems to have captured and distilled all that is best about the traditional English seaside. When the tide is out it is a sunny little playground. The expanse of sand is big enough for a game of beach cricket, and at the boundaries there are boulders to clamber on, rock pools to go crabbing in, and little rivulets that wind down to the sea and fill the moats of sandcastles along the way. The salty smell of drying seaweed is bound to bring on a hankering for a sandwich at the superlative café, or for a crab pasty hot from the oven, bought at the kitchen door of the Wheelers' house; the family have been fishermen here since medieval times. The dozen or so houses around Steephill Cove are a kind of outdoor museum of English seaside architecture: there is a proud but shabby Edwardian mansion, a beach hut or two, a thatched cottage, a couple of 1970s boxes with vast windows to make the most of the view. There is also the Boathouse restaurant (see Where to eat), which looks like it has been cobbled together from bits of driftwood. Here you can sit on the veranda with a glass of wine and enjoy lunch.

St Helens is a little oval of a bay just down the road from the fishing-and-yachting village of Seaview. At the left-hand extremity stands the last of an old church tower. Its seaward face is painted white, to serve as a mark for shipping. There are two types of sailing boat in use in these parts: Sea View Yacht Club is made up of Mermaids, while the rival Bembridge club favours Redwings. On a fine day you can sit in the Baywatch on the Beach café and watch shoals of pretty Mermaids and flocks of Redwings scoot to and fro in the shallow water. And in the near distance you might even see the elegant form of the QE2 as it makes its stately exit from Southampton and glides out to sea. You can look out at the curious 19th-century forts that stud the Solent like buttons on a bandsman's uniform. They are the last things you see when you leave the island to return to the mainland. The second-to-last, if you are wise, is Quarr Abbey, a working monastery a mile from Ryde. Here you can eat prayerfully wrought scones in the garden and marvel at the brickwork of the new abbey building. It was designed in the 1930s by one of the monks and is a terrifically clever and thoughtful modern take on the Gothic tradition.

TENNYSON'S WALK

The laureate Lord Tennyson brought the crowds to the Isle of Wight. He had a house near Freshwater, where literary fans came to gawp at him. To escape them he would go and walk on the nearby down that is now named after him. You can follow in Tennyson's footsteps, beginning at his monument - a tall, stone Celtic cross. From its base you can look north across the island to the narrow ribbon of the Solent and the mainland beyond; look south and all you will see is the great hazy expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. But your path leads west, where the island dwindles and descends like a green funnel. If you walk for a mile or two, you will come to the sharp western end of the island. Here is an angular mass of concrete walls, steps and bunkers, looking like Alcatraz after a nuclear strike, called Needles Point. This was a secret rocket-testing site during the first chill years of the Cold War - and it is abandoned now but for a small exhibition. The Needles themselves are three flat chunks of chalk that protrude singly from the sea like a baby's first milk teeth.

Things to do in Isle of Wight

GARLIC FARM

(01983 865378; www.thegarlicfarm.co.uk ). Visit the Garlic Farm at Newchurch, where you can buy heads of elephant garlic the size of baseball bats. There is also a range of delicious chutneys with quirky names such as Cheeky Monkey (banana and garlic), Vampire's Revenge (hot and garlicky) and Love Garlic (garlic and Muscat).

Wootton (01983 883 545; www.minghella.co.uk ). The father's cornets deserve to be as feted as the son's films. Sold throughout the island, and at The Minghella Centre.

OSBORNE HOUSE

(01983 200022; http://www.english-heritage.org.uk ). Queen Victoria was the archetypal 'overner' - a mainlander who buys a holiday home on the island. This is the house she loved best, and the place where she died in the arms of her doting grandson, Kaiser Wilhelm II of Germany.

How to get to Isle of Wight

Hovertravel (01983 811000; www.hovertravel.co.uk ) runs a hovercraft service between Southsea and Ryde, with departures every 30 minutes. Red Funnel Ferries (0870 4448898; www.redfunnel.co.uk ) sails between Southampton and East and West Cowes. The crossing takes 55 minutes. The same company's Red Jet Hi-Speed passenger-only service connects Southampton and West Cowes in just 22 minutes. Wightlink Ferries (0870 5827744; www.wightlink.co.uk ) operates a FastCat service for foot passengers only between Portsmouth Harbour Station and Ryde Pier Head (15 minutes), with connecting trains at either end.

When to go to Isle of Wight

The Isle of Wight enjoys its highest temperatures and lowest rainfall in the summer months, the best time for long walks and alfresco lunches. The best month to visit is July.

Tourist information for Isle of Wight

Call Isle of Wight Tourism on 01983 813813 or visit www.islandbreaks.co.uk .

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Isle of Wight

On the Isle of Wight these days there's something groovy in the air. For decades this slab of rock anchored off Portsmouth was a magnet for family holidays, and it still has seaside kitsch by the bucket and spade. But now the proms and amusement arcades are framed by pockets of pure funkiness. A long-running music festival draws party-goers, just-caught seafood is served in kooky fishers' cafes, and cool camping rules – here sites are dotted with yurts and vintage campervans. Yet still the isle's principal appeal remains: a mild climate, myriad outdoorsy activities and a 25-mile shore lined with beaches, dramatic white cliffs and tranquil sand dunes.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Isle of Wight. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Osborne House

Lemon-frosted and Italianate, Osborne House is pure Victorian pomp. Built in the 1840s at the behest of Queen Victoria, the monarch grieved here for many…

Needles Old & New Battery

The Victorian fort complex at Wight's western tip is home to two gun emplacements where engrossing displays reveal how the site was established in 1862,…

Brading Roman Villa

The exquisitely preserved mosaics here (including a famous cockerel-headed man) make this one of the finest Romano-British sites in the UK. Wooden…

St Helens Duver

At this idyllic sand-and-shingle spit bordering the mouth of the River Yar, trails snake past swathes of sea pink, marram grass and rare clovers. It's…

St Catherine's Lighthouse

A crenellated 19th-century navigational aid that marks the island's southernmost point. Tours climb the 90-odd steps up to the lantern room, revealing…

Carisbrooke Castle

Charles I was imprisoned here before his execution in 1649. Today you can clamber the sturdy ramparts and play bowls on the very green the doomed monarch…

St Catherine's Oratory

Known locally as the Pepperpot, this 34ft, octagonal, 14th-century tower constitutes England's only surviving medieval lighthouse.

Isle of Wight Steam Railway

Regularly chugs the one-hour journey from Smallbrook Junction to Wootton Common.

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Things To Do on the Isle of Wight

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Towns & villages search, island adventures all year round on the isle of wight.

Visitors have been flocking to the Isle of Wight for hundreds of years - whether as a health resort in Victorian times, a classic bucket and spade holiday in the 1950s or for the music festival era of the 70s, the Island has something for everyone and for every season…

Getting to the Island

Getting across is half the fun, surrounded by water, visitors can travel on one of the regular vehicle ferry services where you can bring the car or take the speedy catamaran and hovercraft services as a foot passenger. Competent sailors can arrive under their own steam (or should that be wind!?) to one of the many marinas located around the island.

Head to Lymington , Southampton , Portsmouth or Southsea to embark on the crossing over.  Gateways to the Isle of Wight include Ryde , which is serviced by Wightlink FastCat foot passenger ferry and the unique Hovertravel’s hovercraft - the fastest way to travel to the island and the only commercial passenger hovercraft service in world. Fishbourne and Yarmouth for Wightlink’s vehicle ferry route and East Cowes or  Cowes for Red Funnel’s vehicle and foot passenger crossings.

Top Things to do on the Isle of Wight

Given its small size, the island certainly packs a punch when it comes to things to do. No matter what your interest, there is something for everyone. For nature enthusiasts, explore the Island's stunning landscapes including the iconic Needles at Alum Bay or the beautiful coves and caves of  Freshwater Bay . The Island's coastline offers a treasure trove of opportunities for water-based activities, including sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. For walkers, enjoy a stroll through enchanting woodlands of Parkhurst Forest, Brighstone Forest and Bouldnor Forest, or head out to the highest point on the Tennyson Downs for spectacular views and a visit to the famous Lord Tennyson memorial.

For history buffs, a visit to Osborne House , Queen Victoria's former residence, Carisbrooke Castle , with its rich medieval heritage or Yarmouth Castle with its great views over the Solent, is a must. The Isle of Wight is also renowned for its vibrant arts and cultural scene, with numerous festivals, galleries, and performances to indulge in including the famous Isle of Wight Festival and a bustling summer carnival calendar. Families can enjoy exciting attractions such as Blackgang Chine, Dinosaur Isle , Tapnell Farm , Isle of Wight Steam Railway and Robin Hill Adventure Park. The Isle of Wight tourist attractions will definantly keep you busy whenever you choose to visit, many are open all year round. For foodies, the Island's local cuisine is not to be missed with delicious seafood, seasonal local produce and some of the best dining spots in the UK. 

Places to visit on the Isle of Wight

The sheltered south-east towns of  Sandown  and  Shanklin  are among the most popular places to visit on the Isle of Wight while further north,  Cowes  and  Newport  are popular for days out and bustling with activity. If you're looking for things to do in  Ryde , there are three great beaches with attractions and refreshments nearby and with direct links from the mainland, it's easy to make the short hop across the Solent for the day and discover what's waiting on the other side. The Isle of Wight map will help discover more about the island's geography and plan your next island adventures.

Whether you are looking for high downs or soaring cliffs, long sandy beaches fringed by farms and forestland, fishing villages or bustling resorts, you will find them on the Isle of Wight. It’s no wonder that this almost fairy-tale like island was the inspiration of Lewis Carroll to write his magical story Alice in Wonderland - what stories will you share from your Isle of Wight visit.

Walking & Cycling

Miles of footpaths, bridleways and cycle routes make the Isle of Wight a top destination for those who like getting around on two feet or two wheels. The Island’s coastal path offers a whopping 68 miles to explore, or there are plenty of inland routes to take, through dappled forests, rolling countryside and pretty villages.

Cycling seems to be a national sport on the Island, largely due to the 200 miles of cycle tracks cutting through stunning scenery and plenty of great little places to stop. For those seeking adventure, the famous Round the Island cycle route offers a challenging 65-mile journey around the coastline, passing through quaint towns and iconic landmarks. Families and leisure cyclists can enjoy more relaxed rides, exploring the scenic countryside and stopping at idyllic spots for picnics. With its fresh sea air, stunning vistas, and well-maintained cycling and footpaths, the Isle of Wight provides an unforgettable experience that perfectly combines fitness, exploration, and immersion in the Island's natural beauty.

Places to Eat

The Isle of Wight is renowned for its food and drink. Award-winning local produce, freshly caught seafood or ‘landlubber’ served in picture-perfect spots equals a winning combination. Whether it's fine dining, laidback restaurants, cosy cafes or stocking up on locally produced items in the farm shops, the Isle of Wight is a true foodies paradise.

Book an Island Getaway

Boutique hotels, B&Bs, quirky yurts and classic campsites all offer visitors a unique Island stay, whatever your budget. Choose from sea views, countryside escapes or town boltholes for the ideal Island getaway .

For ideas and inspiration on where to stay, what's on and things to do on the Isle of Wight visit the official website,  visitIsleofwight.co.uk .

List of things to do & places to visit for days out on the Isle of Wight

For more information about the Isle of Wight, including itinerary ideas for days out, attractions and events, explore the list below.  You'll find information on things to do, towns and villages and beautiful beaches all on the island. Use the 'map view' button to find something near you.

Number of results:

Number of results: 50

, currently showing 1 to 20.

Yarmouth Castle

Castle / Fort

A Tudor Castle in a beautiful seaside town.

Springvale Beach

Springvale Beach stretches from Puckpool to Seaview on the north coast of the Isle of Wight and is made up of a mixture of shingle and sand.

An ancient little Isle of Wight town with a long and colourful history that offers some of the greatest heritage, landscape and wildlife on the island.

The largest town on the Isle of Wight, Ryde has fine Georgian and Victorian buildings, lively pubs and restaurants, a seafront promenade, a marina and great nightlife and entertainment.

Monkey Haven

Swing by the award-winning primate rescue centre making animals happy - and people happy! Meet rescued gibbons, monkeys, meerkats, birds of prey and reptiles. Lots of fun for everyone, including wonderful keeper talks, a fun free App, kid’s trails,…

The beaches at Ryde lie on the north east coast of the Isle of Wight and offer miles and miles of sandy shores.

Colwell Bay

Colwell Bay is one of many picturesque beaches in West Wight, offer spectacular views back across the Solent to mainland England.

Situated just off the south coast of England and only 2 hours from London via ferry or hovercraft - the Isle of Wight is simple to get to and a wonderful holiday destination all year round to explore. 

Shanklin Beach

Shanklin Beach is a one of the Isle of Wight’s best known stretches of golden sands, which backs onto a traditional English seafront promenade.

Cowes Maritime Museum

Cowes Maritime Museum displays a selection of objects and images which help to tell the story of Cowes and its important maritime heritage.

Dinosaur Isle

In a spectacular pterosaur shaped building on Sandown’s blue flag beach walk back through fossilised time and meet life sized replica dinosaurs

Tapnell Farm

Set in acres of beautiful countryside, surrounded by amazing views of the Isle of Wight, Tapnell Farm Park is one of the Island’s biggest all-weather, fun-filled family attractions.

There’s so much to see and do, with just as much inside as…

Freshwater is a large village in West Wight and is a popular destination for visitors with the spectacular Freshwater Bay area lying to the South of the main village.

The bay is easily recognised by its chalk cliffs and the imposing “Stag” and…

Bembridge lies on the most easterly point of the Isle of Wight. It's claimed to be the largest village in England, with a population of around 4,000.

A spectacular coastline that includes rugged white cliffs, the famous Needles rocks and the multicoloured sandstone cliffs of Alum Bay. It also has many Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

A Victorian town with a Mediterranean feel & many attractions, Ventnor is one of the sunniest spots on the Isle of Wight with its sheltered southerly aspect

Yaverland Beach

Yaverland Beach is one of the Isle of Wight’s best beaches, providing a long stretch of sand and great swimming waters for children and families.

Wildheart Animal Sanctuary

Wildlife Centres & Nature Reserves

From pocket sized primates to powerful predators, the residents of Wildheart Animal Sanctuary, will charm and amaze you!

Carisbrooke Castle

Visit Carisbrooke Castle and enjoy over 800 years of history!

Information about the Isle of Wight holiday resort of Shanklin including the town centre, things to do and a map.

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Isle of Wight travel guide: Where to eat, drink, walk and stay on England’s biggest island

I f you set sail from England ’s southern shore to the quietly cool Isle of Wight for a staycation, you’ll find a destination that values the simple pleasures: food , fresh air and good old-fashioned fun. The Hampshire isle, once the home of dinosaurs and now a haven for the illusive red squirrel, marches to a gentler beat than the mainland, with over half of its countryside now recognised as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Beyond pocket-sized villages like Godshill that epitomise “chocolate-box”, a population of almost 142,000 call The Needles’ famed land of military forts and royal residences home. Classic beach days full of salt and sand meet the reinvented style of seafront restaurants and luxe hotels on the island that’s going from musty to modern.

Here’s what you need to know if you’re planning an Isle of Wight holiday .

Best time to travel for price, weather and crowds

While weather-dependent ferry crossings may not make it the easiest locale to access on a drab winter day, the Isle of Wight is rich with seasonal delights from March to November .

Notable as the southern shore that basks in some of the UK ’s sunniest days, springs are green and autumns orange before big-name headline acts descend to serenade the island and kickstart the al fresco activities at the Isle of Wight Festival in June.

With August comes Cowes Week, the sailing regatta that draws a nautical-loving crowd of over 100,000 in the height of the summer holidays. Accommodation prices, slow traffic and a dearth of car parking spots tend to peak – it’s always best to book ferries in advance for the lowest price.

Read more on England travel :

• Best hotels with cookery schools in the UK
• How to spend a day in King’s Cross, north London’s most exciting neighbourhood
• The ultimate Lake District guide

Where to stay

With parapets and battlements from Henry VIII’s lifetime,  Ryde Castle’s  grand four-poster beds and ambient dark wood accents are an affordable option situated among a hotchpotch of traditional shop fronts, decorative stucco and Georgian townhouses.

Warm and welcoming, The Seaview Hotel , in the upmarket coastal village of Seaview, has comfortable, naval-themed rooms, a dining room strewn with warships and a swish restaurant, The Aquitania, for inventive meals created from local produce by head chef Mark Wyatt.

One of the island’s oldest, The Royal Hotel is perched on the cliffside of Victorian resort Ventnor and has sprawling sea views, contemporary modern rooms and a choice of tiered afternoon teas and seafood risottos in The Royal Kitchen.

For glamping at its best,  Tom’s Eco Lodges  at Tapnell Farm promotes hassle-free luxury in its safari tents, wood cabins, modulogs, eco pods and geo domes – plus wood-fired hot tubs, pizza ovens and sunset views.

Eco pods for two adults from £138 per night.

• Read more of our reviews of the best hotels in the Isle of Wight

Visit Osborne House

Queen Victoria’s seaside retreat in East Cowes, the grand Osborne House , fuses Victorian opulence with Italianate gardens for a visually and culturally enriching afternoon spent glimpsing royal life – with pinkies raised while sipping tea in the terraced cafe.

Travel on the Steam Railway

It’s all aboard the Isle of Wight Steam Railway for a charming journey back in time as you puff through the countryside, rolling from Havenstreet to Smallbrook Junction and on to Wootton in ornate Victorian and Edwardian carriages, with or without the kids.

Dine at The Garlic Farm

Garlic chutney, garlic olives and garlic vodka strongly season Arreton Valley’s  Garlic Farm  with its pungent namesake and tractor-trailer tours, with a side of garlicky taste tests in the restaurant. Well worth the necessary breath mint post-visit.

Surf at Compton Bay

Surf’s up at Compton Bay on the Isle of Wight’s west coast, an exposed beach with reliable breaks that peak in the winter. The popular spot gets winds from the southeast and northwest, and surf schools including Eddie’s Surf Academy are on-hand to teach beginners how to stand up on the board.

Try the UK’s oldest rides

At Ventnor’s  Blackgang Chine , the UK’s oldest family theme park, you can ride, scream and dance your way through 180 years of thrills and games, with summer firework extravaganzas and Halloween spookfests a family-friendly highlight of the island calendar.

Walk with an alpaca

It’ll be hard not to fall for the residents of  West Wight Alpacas  on a trek of the farm’s 23 acres of countryside with a woolly Suri alpaca as a companion. Whether walking with Larry, Oreo or even Amadeus, you’ll learn all about the South American animals on a scenic stroll with your unique new pal.

Cruise the Needles

A trip to Alum Bay not only offers an action-packed high-speed ride with  The Needles Pleasure Cruises  – for a whistle-stop tour of the water’s iconic chalk stacks – but also a steep trip down the colourful cliffs on the famed chairlift, giving you the chance to see the three landmarks up close for yourself. 

Where to eat

If you’re getting off the ferry in Yarmouth, an  Off the Rails  brunch featuring the fish finger sandwich to end all sandwiches in the town’s old railway station sets the tone for a foodie island affair. Just down the road, pick-me-up coffees in  Chessell Pottery Cafe’s  homemade ceramics are sure to warm the cockles on a rainy day.

Putting on a seasonal showstopper,  The Crab Shed’s  famed crab and mackerel pasties are well worth the downhill climb to Steephill Cove for a seafood lunch, or if its pan-Asian dishes that make your mouth water, the  Smoking Lobster  on Ventnor’s nearby esplanade (along with boozy sister bar, the  Drunken Lobster ) never misses a chance for a flavour explosion.

The Duck  in Ryde serves an elevated taste of seasonal British plates, including slow-cooked beef stews and roast pork – complete with crackling, of course – taking local classics to contemporary new levels.

As Totland braces for the glam new arrival of The Pier in 2024, The Hut  in Colwell Bay still reigns as the seafood spot in West Wight for stylish surf ‘n’ turfs and unrivalled sunset views.

Vegetarians are looked after on the island with  PEACH Vegan Kitchen & Zero Waste Store  in Newport stacking meat-free “Tricken” burgers high with vegan “cheeze” and slaws.

What’s a trip to the British seaside without a fish and chips feast?  The Blue Crab’s  beer-battered cod and generous chip portions are ideal for a beachfront picnic in Yarmouth. For a pizza fix,  Gusto2Go’s  sourdoughs bring a wood-fired pizzazz to Freshwater Bay in summer.

Where to drink

Holding the title of the UK’s oldest commercial vineyard,  Adgestone Vineyard’s  tantalising wine tastings swirl through full-bodied reds, crisp glasses of blush and a sparkling blue for just £20pp, including a self-guided tour of the cellars and vines, and live music performances.

Wood beams, a crackling fire and a hearty roast dinner menu – the traditional pub essentials – make  The Red Lion  in Freshwater an ideal watering hole for a post- ale trail  pint or a warming glass of rouge.

Fancy an al fresco cocktail? The George  in Yarmouth has a waterfront beach bar to rival the Mediterranean (on balmy summer nights, at least), complemented by a masterful menu of classic drinks.

You’ll find it hard to miss the local Mermaid Gin on your Isle of Wight holiday, and  The Mermaid Bar Distillery  in Ryde is the spot to sample a fine G&T or a Mermaid Margarita while learning all about the distillery process.

Where to walk and cycle

Not one but two annual  walking festivals  take place on the island, in October and May, to encourage outdoors enthusiasts to tread the more than 500 miles of footpaths that the Isle of Wight has to offer.

Keen walkers can get their steps in on the  Tennyson Trail , an invigorating 14-mile hike from Carisbrooke to Alum Bay – best planned with a well-deserved refuel at  Dimbola Tea Rooms  – or embrace nature on the gentle 3.6-mile Newtown  Estuary Walk,  bound to feature sightings of visiting birds and rare butterflies. For a more relaxed island rendezvous, a scenic stroll around  Shanklin Chine’s  historic gorge comes alive at night as the narrow paths, streams and waterfalls are illuminated at dusk from April to November.

The  Red Squirrel  cycle trail weaves through 32 miles of largely traffic-free countryside if you’re looking for a family-friendly pedal. Alternatively, cyclists ready to give it a  lot  of leg can take to the winding Military Road on two wheels for a 65-mile  round lap  of the island in either direction.

Where to shop

High Street hits, eco-conscious outlets and indie boutiques – specialists in all things nautical – dot Newport, Cowes, and Ryde, but it’s the tucked-away traders that will lighten your wallet.

Quirky home furnishings and one-of-a-kind gifts litter  Oasis  in Brading, and if you’re still on the hunt for a keepsake, you’ll find a trail of artisan shops covering everything from glass sculptures to bespoke leather belts and ceramic ghosts at  Arreton Barns , the island’s largest craft centre.

Peruse the fine jewellery collection of the  Isle of Wight Pearl  on Military Road for timeless and statement pieces with a side of sprawling views of the southwest coast or venture east to  Cowes Arcade  for a bric-a-brac fusion of chutney, socks and mystical memorabilia.

Getting there

City dwellers after a country escape can take a  South Western Railway  train to reach Southampton or Lymington Pier from London Waterloo in less than two hours before setting sail across the Solent.

With  Wightlink , that’s a 45-minute journey from Lymington to Yarmouth or Portsmouth to Fishbourne from £44.50 per vehicle and a £27.20 return ticket for adult foot passengers. Red Funnel  ferries sail from Southampton to East Cowes in under an hour from £28.00 each way or 30 minutes for foot passengers travelling on a Red Jet from £12.30. Portsmouth’s passenger hovercraft arrives in Ryde in just 10 minutes; £31.50 for an adult return ticket.

How to get around

A car provides the most flexibility for reaching remote beaches and the inland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with Red Funnel’s  heritage driving trail  a great way to see all of the island’s historic sites.

Thankfully, ferry foot passengers need not worry.  Southern Vectis  buses connect the main towns of Newport, Cowes, Ryde and Yarmouth, even offering Breezer  open-top bus tours  to top attractions and a  Christmas Lights  journey around the island’s best festive displays.

Read more on the best Isle of Wight hotels

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The 13 best things to do on the Isle of Wight

Explore this bucolic corner of England with our guide to the best things to do on the Isle of Wight

The Isle of Wight continues to be a popular destination for Brits looking for a holiday close to home. That’s partly due to the sheer convenience of its location: the quickest ferry will get you there in 30 minutes from Lymington and the longest in an hour from Southampton . Alternatively, you can sail across the Solent from Portsmouth in 45 minutes.

Aside from the easy access, it’s also the perfect spot for anyone looking to explore some of the country’s most idyllic countryside, with great options for hikers and cyclists in particular. It’s not all outdoorsy though – there’s an increasingly impressive restaurant scene, as well as an excellent line-up of gorgeous hotels. Here’s a round up of the best things to do on the Isle of Wight.

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Best things to do on the Isle of Wight

1.  St Catherine’s Oratory

What is it?  A lookout that stands on one of the highest points of the island, known locally as the Pepperpot.

Why go? It’s the only remaining medieval lighthouse in England and looks a bit like a stone rocket (although those buttresses at the bottom were added much later). The tower was built in 1328 by Walter de Godeton in an attempt to atone for stealing wine from a shipwreck; a priest would operate a light at the top while praying for lost sailors. Take a tour of the newer, still-working St Catherine’s Lighthouse too – it was built in 1838 and is just a few miles away at Niton Undercliff.

2.  Set sail on the open seas

What is it? A leisurely tour of the island from the water.

Why go? Given its direct connections to Southampton, it’s no surprise the northern seaport town of Cowes has acquired a thriving boating community. It’s the perfect spot from which to experience the open water and you don’t need to be a pro sailor to do so. Plenty of companies offer a skipper with your boat hire. If you’re around in August check out Cowes Week, featuring daily boat races, live music, stalls, pop-up bars and fireworks displays.

3.  Adgestone Vineyard

What is it?  One of the UK’s oldest working vineyards

Why go?  The award-winning sparkling wines made at Adgestone Vineyard have helped the Isle of Wight become one the UK’s best wine-growing regions. The beautiful setting, on sloping hills overlooking the sea, make this the perfect place to while away a day. You can order a picnic and enjoy a glass while watching daily concerts, held every day in summer between 1pm and 3pm.

4.  Isle of Wight Steam Railway

What is it?  Lovingly restored vintage locomotives running along a five-mile route.

Why go? See how people and goods travelled round the island in the old days on the Isle of Wight Steam Railway. The trains stop at four old rural stations, which you can enjoy from the comfort of the Edwardian and Victorian carriages or hop off and have a look around. Island Heritage Train Days run once a month, offering visitors a chance to see ‘Island pedigree’ and goods trains, as well as learning more in the Discovery Centre.

5.  Yoga on a paddle board

What is it? Yoga. On a paddle board. On the water.

Why go? Bored with pulling the same old yoga poses on land? Try them on water: iSurf Mobile Surf School works with Balance and Glo’s yoga teachers to offer SUP (stand-up paddleboard) yoga lessons at various locations off the island. The sea provides a meditative backdrop and thoroughly challenges your sense of balance, therefore suitably strengthening your core. If water’s not your thing, book into  Erling’s Yoga , a yoga-focused B&B in Shanklin on the southeast coast.

6.  The Duck

What is it?  The Isle of Wight’s hottest restaurant.

Why go?  The cocktails alone make this waterfront spot in Ryde a must visit. But with an ever-changing menu serving up dishes made using ingredients grown and reared locally, from both land and sea, The Duck has carved out a reputation as the island’s best place to eat.

7.  Afternoon tea at The Royal

What is it? An indulgent afternoon treat at the historic Royal hotel.

Why go?  Founded in 1832, The Royal is one of the oldest hotels on the island and was once a favourite spot of Queen Victoria. The Royal Afternoon Tea, served from 3pm to 5pm daily, includes finger sandwiches, scones, mini pastries and cakes, tea/coffee for £27. Add a glass of Champagne for an extra £9. If you’re on a budget (or diet) opt for the Cream Tea, which comes with either scones or cake.

8.  The Needles

What is it? A trio of pointy chalk rocks that have iconic status on the Isle of Wight.

Why go? Being the unique shape that they are, the Needles create a striking silhouette just off the western tip of the island. They’re accompanied by a lone lighthouse that’s stood at the edge of the rocks since the nineteenth century, warning ships in the night. Get a bird’s eye view of the Needles via chairlift, which also provides a quick route down to Alum Bay beach. In winter, this is often the windiest place in Britain.

9.  Sounds and Grounds

What is it?  A record shop selling weapons-grade coffee or a coffee shop selling classic vinyl? Whichever way you look at it, it’s a winner.

Why go?  The Isle of Wight is the unlikely birthplace of Britain’s coolest band Wet Leg. And music fanatics can get their fix of the best vintage vinyl at Sounds and Grounds. This Cowes record shop also does a strong line in proper coffee – making it the perfect place to kick back and enjoy some tunes.

10.  West Wight Alpacas

What is it?  An alpaca farm set up by husband and wife duo Neil and Michelle Payne in 2010.

Why go?  The Paynes offer treks with rare Suri alpacas, as well as llamas, in the village of Wellow. After getting to know the four-legged furries, you can pick up some themed goods in the shop, with numerous items spun from alpaca hair. The adjacent Llama Tree café makes for a good spot for lunch, serving stone-baked pizzas of both savoury and sweet varieties.

11.  Babushka Books

What is it? A haven for word nerds and literary collectors.

Why go?  Babushka Books care just as much about literature as you do, describing themselves as ’an orphanage of unwanted books waiting for a new home’. They stock newbies, oldies and stunning special editions. They also sell a range of fully serviced and working vintage typewriters. If you can’t make it to the shop, you can order from Babushka online and they’ll send your book out in retro (and protective) packaging, with a personalised, hand-typed thank-you note.

12.  Stargazing on the south coast

What is it?  With some of the best dark skies in England, the Isle of Wight is a haven for amateur astronomers.

Why go?  Thanks to low light pollution, the Isle of Wight is perfect for star-gazing. The south-west coast, from Freshwater Bay to Whale Chine, is particularly good, as is Culver Down in the island’s south-east. Pack some decent binoculars and remember to wrap up warm!

13.  The Bandstand

What is it?  A restaurant in a renovated old seaside haunt in Sandown.

Why go?  Get a food experience with a slice of history at The Bandstand. This modest space has been artfully restored from a neglected old bandstand (hence the name) on Bembridge embankment. Glass surrounds the dining area, providing 360-degree views of Sandown Bay and Culver Parade as you tuck into fresh seafood and seasonal British dishes. The Bandstand is less than a ten-minute walk from the Isle of Wight Zoo – a trip here is the ideal way to work up an appetite.

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Top Things To Do On The Isle of Wight – Ultimate Isle Of Wight Blog

Long days on the beach, extreme sports, wine tasting and a top foodie scene, there are plenty of amazing things to do on the Isle Of Wight ! Find out more in this Isle of Wight blog filled with fab tips for your time on the island. 

My relationship with the Isle of Wight began around 20 years ago. I was at primary school and about to embark on my biggest trip yet. Along with 25 other kids, I hopped on a coach, then a ferry and spent a few days on the seemingly exotic island.

I was 10, and for me, this was like the Caribbean. We played games on Shanklin beach, visited Osborne House , and spent a day at theme park Blackgang Chine . I have very happy memories from the trip. Flash forward 20 years and here I was boarding WightRider 2 (the ferry) from Portsmouth to Ryde. Over the next 3 days I’d be reliving some childhood memories and, fingers crossed, be creating a few new ones!

If you’re visiting the Isle of Wight soon I hope you find my guide helpful! Feel free to leave any questions or comments at the end. 

Things To Do On The Isle Of Wight For Water Sports and Adrenaline Lovers

From sailing, kayaking and stand up paddle boarding to segwaying, airwheeling and mountain biking, Tackt-Isle Adventures is THE place on the island for trying something new!

I spent a whole afternoon there and while I was pretty nervous as I hopped on a Segway for the first time, within a few minutes I was flying around the place and getting competitive in drills and races!

After that I took to the water for a few hours of relaxed kayaking, while my partner hopped on a stand up paddle board. It’s a beautiful area to explore on the water, and even when it bucketed it down, our spirits weren’t dampened! The instructors were young, fun, patient and super enthusiastic.

Things To Do On The Isle Of Wight For Wine Lovers

I spent February exploring vineyards in Chile  and  Argentina , then just a few weeks ago I enjoyed a day wine tasting  in California… but what’s this? There’s a top winery on the Isle of Wight?! Yep – this is one of my top things to do on the Isle of Wight.

Rosemary Vineyard is run by a dedicated team and happens to be one of the largest producers of English Wine in the country. Along with top wines, they also produce some of the most delicious apple juice you’ll ever taste (the flavour reminded me of apple pie!) along with fruit liqueurs and gin.

Whatever your tipple, you’ll find something you like! They’re located in a picturesque spot in the middle of the island where the climate is perfect for the grapes, and after taking a wine tour you can enjoy a casual wander through the lush vineyards.

Things To Do On The Isle Of Wight For Vintage Lovers

During our visit, several locals referred to island life as ‘going back in time by 30 years’. In some ways, that’s true, and it’s part of what makes it such a charming place. 30 years is nothing though, so for a real vintage touch we stayed in a 1960s American Airstream.

Helen from Vintage Vacations bought her first Airstream in 2004, and fell in love with the quirky trailers. Since then, she and husband Fraser have expanded their fleet into an uber-cool glamping experience. With tonnes of vintage knick-knacks (from Coca Cola trays and Babycham, to retro curtains and bedding) staying here really did  give a flavour of the swinging 60s.

Things To Do On The Isle Of Wight For Foodies

Where to start?! It turns out there’s a buzzing foodie scene on the island. I’ll go into more detail in a future blog but whether you’re after fish and chips on the seafront, tapas, a restaurant with a view or high end fine dining, there’s something for everyone.

For the freshest seafood on the island, head to The Best Dressed Crab in Bembridge Harbour. You can watch the lobsters and crabs being delivered straight from the fishing boats.

The Shed in Bembridge offers international cuisine in tapas form – perfect for those who love to share! The Seaview Hotel is home to one of the best restaurants on the island, serving gourmet food at very reasonable prices. There are plenty of tearooms around the island, perfect for afternoon tea.

Looking for things to do in the evening on the Isle of Wight? It’s hard to beat the amazing view over Appley Beach in Ryde from Three Buoys , plus the restaurant has a delicious menu featuring fresh seafood and a great selection of cocktails. It’s also quite a romantic spot if you’re with your other half.

The Garlic Farm is another great spot to spend an afternoon. After checking out the beautiful gardens filled with garlic plants, head to their garlic-themed restaurant. I loved the mezze platter as it offered a chance to try plenty of their garlicky specialities, including delicious buttery mushrooms, a whole roasted garlic, and some of the best garlic bread I’ve tasted in a long time!

Things To Do On The Isle Of Wight For Beach Babes

You just can’t beat a great British beach holiday! We were based towards the north east of the island, and loved checking out Shanklin, Ryde and a few other beautiful sandy beaches. Even when the sun was hiding we had plenty of fun things to do including checking out the cute shops, cafes, amusement arcades and paying a few rounds crazy golf!

Things To Do On The Isle Of Wight For History Lovers

From dinosaur remains and Norman Conquests, to Queen Victoria’s holidays – the island is packed full of history. Queen Victoria spent a lot of time on the island, and said of Osborne House , “it is impossible to imagine a prettier spot.”

She used the house as her holiday home and these days it’s open to the public. You can explore Victoria and Albert’s private apartments, their bathing beach and children’s play-cottage along with the beautiful gardens.

If you’re interested in history, you should also check out motte and bailey castle, Carisbrooke Castle. At this English heritage site you can find out all about the days of the Norman Conquest to why Charles I was imprisoned there in the run up to his trial.

Or for a fun experience for adults and kids alike, hop on board the Isle of Wight steam railway . You’ll feel like you’ve travelled back in time as you board one of the vintage locomotives! 

Things To Do On The Isle Of Wight For Nature Lovers

The island is a top destination for anyone with a love of walking, cycling and nature. 500 miles of footpaths, beautiful lush countryside, sweeping coastlines, sandy beaches and plenty of natural wonders will have you reaching for your camera over and over again. 

Voted as one of the top sights in the UK, The Needles are one of the must-sees. If you’re feeling brave, you can even take the chairlift – one of the most unusual things to do on the Isle of Wight!

Opened in 1817, the waterfall at Shanklin Chine is one of the island’s oldest tourist attractions. Not only is the waterfall beautiful, it’s set within a deep gorge covered in trees – a magical place to spend an afternoon. While we visited during the day, they also illuminate the waterfall at night over the summer months, just to add to the magic!

And for a great way to see the island, head to the top of the  Spinnaker Tower in Portsmouth before or after your ferry. At 170m, the architectural wonder is designed to sway slightly in order to withstand high winds. Feeling brave? You can even abseil down the tower while taking in the incredible panoramic views of Portsmouth, the Solent and the Isle of Wight!

When Is The Best Time To Visit The Isle Of Wight?

England is a country obsessed with weather. Don’t know what to say? Comment on the weather! We talk about it a lot, but contrary to what you may have heard, we don’t have awful weather in England. It’s just a little unpredictable and varies from region to region.

You can expect average lows of around 5 °C on the island in January / February, and highs around 22°C in July / August.

If you’re wondering when is the best time to visit the Isle of Wight, I’d suggest planning a trip in May or June. The weather tends to be warm and sunny, rain is at a minimum and it’s out of peak season, so you shouldn’t be battling any big crowds either. The longest day is around 20th June every year, so it’s a time you can enjoy maximum daylight hours exploring!

I’ve never been a fan of November in England. It’s the wettest month of the year, and while December can be pretty cold, there’s a Christmas magic around the country which always puts a smile on my face!

I hope you’ve found this Isle of Wight blog helpful – there are plenty more amazing things to do on the Isle of Wight. No doubt I’ll head back soon to experience some more!

Thanks to Visit England and Visit Isle of Wight for inviting me to explore the island as part of the #OMGB campaign! Check out more amazing unique experiences across the country here. 

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Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

30 thoughts on “Top Things To Do On The Isle of Wight – Ultimate Isle Of Wight Blog”

I hardly ever think about going on holiday in the UK but the Isle of Wight looks just as good as some of the places I’ve been abroad! How hot was it?

This takes me right back! Genuinely the best British summer holiday I’ve ever had and I completely fell in love with the Isle of Wight – it’s such a cute place!

Thanks Macca – it was a lovely summer holiday wasn’t it?! Not sure I’ll be AirWheeling anywhere soon but I’ll deffo return for the food! Cx

Thanks Charlie – we had a real mix of weather last week – torrential rain and exciting storms but then incredible sunshine and warm temps (around 27!) Plenty to do whatever the weather! Cx

Wow, this place looks amazing! I’ve only been to London but I’d have to visit sometime when in the UK next 🙂

Hey Kelsey, Thanks for your comment! Yes definitely get to the island if you get the chance! It’s a really stunning place.

Ah, I went to the Isle of White with school in year 6 and had the BEST time. It was really fun then, but I’d love to go back as an adult. Especially for that food – looks amazing 🙂

Yeah the foodie scene was really impressive. Writing a blog just about that as we speak so watch this space! If you make it over there I’ll be sure to send over some top tips 🙂 Cx

Awesome! I’m finding really awesome food scenes on islands atm, I think it’s cos importing is so expensive. The local produce has to up its game to make up for it and the results are great! Xx

Yep so true Emily! I guess with the IOW it’s really easy to get produce from the mainland but they definitely put lots of effort into what they can grow on the island. The tomatoes and garlic were amazing!!

Except for the Segway 😉 this looks like an amazing trip! I love the silver streamers. I stayed in one in Cape Town once and think they are so cute. Mind you, the tipis are also awesome. I didn’t know they would have their own wine – was it good?

Some of the wine was excellent, quite a unique flavour! The segwaying was a lot of fun once I got used to it and I LOVED our trailer… 🙂

Within 5 seconds of reading this post you had me going to look up prices of train tickets to Portsmouth for this weekend! Great suggestions for all interests! Tx for for sharing this!

That’s so great to hear Eulanda! Always love to share my fave places with my readers 🙂 Let me know if you make it there or if you need any more tips! Cx

I am a beach person and I think I am going to love this. Kayaking looks attractive so do the beautifully done interiors of this hotel. I like it if my room has lot of wood in it.

Yeah there are tonnes of great beaches on the island! I wished we had a car to get out and see even more, but hey, there’s a great reason to return! Cx

OMG this looks so beautiful! I love the landscapes and the option for kayaking – sounds like my kind of destination 😀

Thanks Kathi 🙂 If you love the great outdoors then it’s a great place to go! Cx

Wow! It looks absolutely gorgeous here. I had never considered visiting here, but now l see it’s a must. Love the food pics and wine too? Sounds good to me 🙂

Yeah it’s a great holiday destination and so easy to travel to. I hope you get the chance to go one day! 🙂

As a self-proclaimed foodie and wine-o, and a lover of all things nautical, I think I need to get myself to Isle of Wight!

Hey Kelly – thanks for your comment! And yes you definitely should if you’re a fellow foodie like me! Cx

Though I am not a beach person , But I loved this place. The best thing that I liked is the 1960s American Airstream. It looked classic. I would love to spend some night there. Stunning photos .

Yeah it was such a cool place to stay! Really homely inside too. Thanks for reading 🙂

Isle of Wight seems like such a perfect destination for a fun filled holiday, beautiful beach, perfect sunny locations and the food, looks so inviting…

Oh yes it really does tick every box! The only one you can’t rely on is the weather!

Wow I didn’t realise there was so much to do on the Isle of Wight I’ve never been even though I’m not far from it. Now I know there is a vineyard I think I might be visiting very soon

Haha yes wine o’clock is calling! Hope you make it there soon and let me know if you need any more tips Jenni! 🙂

it is not somewhere I have ever really considered going given I live in Yorkshire but it looks fab

Thanks for reading Anne! Yep it surprised me too! Loved it though 🙂

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Isle Of Wight: Things To Do & Places To Stay

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The Isle of Wight is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. It is just one of seven UK sites to bear this prestigious status (others include the Isle of Man, North Devon and Biosffer Dyfi). There is plenty to do on the Isle of Wight. Choose from family-friendly campgrounds, hike along coastal trails between quaint villages and enjoy sightseeing at a number of attractions. Here is our pick for the best things to do on the Isle of Wight.

How to get to the Isle of Wight

Getting around the island, best things to do on the isle of wight, best hotels in the isle of wight, best camping spots in the isle of wight, best walks on the island.

The information in this article is inspired by Pocket Rough Guide British Breaks Isle of Wight , your essential guide for visiting the Isle of Wight.

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Refreshing English Countryside Break

Outside of London, England is known with a countryside full of history, picturesque villages, patchwork hills, and winding country roads. Explore the countryside with its castles, parks, and historical cities such as Oxford.

Situated just off the south coast of England, the Isle of Wight is the largest island in the country.

• Wightlink ferries serve three routes: Lymington to Yarmouth (40mins), Portsmouth to Fishbourne (45mins) and Portsmouth to Ryde (foot passengers only; 22mins). Well-behaved dogs travel free!
• Red Funnel catamarans run between Southampton to West Cowes (foot passengers only; 25mins) and East Cowes (55mins). There’s a free shuttle bus service from Southampton Central train station to the Southampton Ferry Terminal.
• The fastest – and most unique – way to reach the island is by hovercraft , which serves between Southsea (Portsmouth) and Ryde (foot passengers only; 10mins).

Freshwater Bay on the Isle Of Wight © Ian Woolcock/Shutterstock

Planning on leaving the car at home ? It really couldn’t be easier to get around the Isle of Wight. Buses are modern and efficient, and wind their way through steep narrow roads, past rolling countryside and along the seafront, all making for unexpectedly scenic sightseeing tours in their own right. Hop-on hop-off open-top buses operate during the high season.

There are two rail lines on the island. The Island Line (whose trains are made up of former London Underground carriages) runs between Ryde Pier and Shanklin. The second, and most scenic, line is the Isle of Wight Steam Railway; technically a tourist attraction, it still helps you to get around parts of the island.

Rental cars are another viable option. Go for something electric (and therefore environmentally friendly) if you can. With an absence of motorways on the island, driving around the Isle of Wight takes you via some wonderfully scenic routes, from large stretches of quiet countryside to horizon-lined coastal views.

In fact, getting around by foot or public transport not only contributes to responsible travel but also saves you a few pennies. An increasing number of attractions (such as Goodleaf Tree Climbing in Ryde) offer discounted tickets for those who have travelled by sustainable means.

Steam train at Havenstreet, Isle of Wight © Liz Miller/Shutterstock

Newtown Nature Reserve

It’s hard to believe that Newtown once served as the island’s capital. Today, it’s best known for its expansive Nature Reserve . In the 1960s the reserve almost became a nuclear power station, but this was thwarted thanks to local intervention. Visitors to this National Trust site today can appreciate its medieval field patterns, with carpets of meadows, tall wildflowers, and ancient woodland and harbourside walks.

Newtown Nature Reserve — little egret © Shutterstock

Fossil walks

The Isle of Wight is hailed as the “dinosaur capital of Britain” thanks to the impressive range of fossils that have been – and continue to be – discovered, dating back millions of years. It’s not just for history buffs, though. Kids and adults alike can enjoy walking across Compton Bay at low tide, where dinosaur footprints appear. There are various informative guided walks and talks, so you can really suss out your flint from your fossil.

Osborne House

The honey-coloured, Italianate villa-style Osborne House was Queen Victoria and Prince Albert’s family holiday home and later became the Queen’s permanent residence after Albert’s death in 1861.

Visit this English Heritage site today and gaze across the sprawling landscaped gardens overlooking the Solent, visit the beach where the royals liked to bathe and follow the one-way system inside the house to take in the Grand Corridor, formal State Rooms and Indian-style Durbar Wing.

Osborne House, Isle of Wight © Shutterstock

Shanklin Old Village

Yes, parts of the Isle of Wight still look rather old-fashioned. But this comes into its own in seaside Shanklin’s Old Village , with its centuries-old thatched cottages, traditional sweet shops, twee tearooms and one of the best beaches in the UK .

As you simply stroll along the winding road, stop for afternoon tea at the icing-pink Old Thatch Teashop, tuck into a hearty Sunday roast at The Village Inn and swing by Pencil Cottage for a souvenir. The romantic poets Keats and Longfellow used to buy their writing stationery here, hence the shop’s name.

The small town of Shanklin on the Isle of Wight in England © Gordon Bell/Shutterstock

The Garlic Farm

Some four miles southeast of Newport, the Garlic Farm makes for a fun day out, with farm tours of Arreton Valley available by foot or tractor. If you want to take some of the good stuff back home with you, choose from garlic-infused ice cream, mayonnaise and even vodka.

Their on-site cafe and restaurant serve up garlic-infused dishes (no surprises there) – just remember a packet of chewing gum for wherever you’re going afterwards…

Dimbola Lodge

This museum was once the home of Victorian photographer Julia Margaret Cameron, whose subjects included the likes of Charles Darwin. Following a circular one-way route, take in the displays of her photography and equipment, as well as iconic photography and memorabilia from the Isle of Wight festivals.

With advance booking, hand sanitiser points and positioned next door to Tennyson Down, this is another way to sightsee from a social distance and embrace the fresh air afterwards. Don’t miss the Jimi Hendrix statue in the front garden, either.

Wildheart Animal Sanctuary

Situated at the northern end of the Esplanade, and built into the walls of a Victorian fort, the Wildheart Animal Sanctuary houses one of Britain’s largest collections of tigers, including some endangered species that are virtually extinct in the wild. It’s also home to panthers and other big cats, as well as some frisky lemurs, monkeys and reptiles.

Carisbrooke Castle

Just southwest of Newport lies one of the Isle of Wight’s greatest attractions, the hilltop fortress of Carisbrooke Castle. This austere Norman keeps the most famous visitor Charles I, who was detained here prior to his execution in London.

The museum at the centre of the castle shows off many relics from his incarceration, and there is also the Edwardian-style Princess Beatrice Garden, named after Queen Victoria’s youngest daughter. The castle’s other notable curiosity is the sixteenth-century well-house which features resident donkeys. Visitors can also walk around the well-preserved battlements, basking in the spectacular views over the island.

Carisbrook Castle, Wight Isle © Pixabay

Monkey Haven

The award-winning Monkey Haven is a primate rescue centre housing various monkeys as well as owls, tortoises, meerkats and reptiles (including Teddy, a retired bearded dragon). There are keeper talks throughout the day and opportunities to get up close with the animals, and there’s also a café on site.

Seagrove Bay

Seagrove Bay is a beautiful beach located on the northeastern coast of the Isle of Wight. The beach is popular for its stunning views of the Solent Strait and the mainland beyond.

Although Seagrove Bay is a relatively small beach, it offers a range of beach amenities, including public toilets, a cafe and a shop selling beach equipment and supplies. During the summer months, the beach is patrolled by lifeguards, making it a safe haven for families.

Ventnor Botanic Gardens

Some 22 landscaped acres of flourishing subtropical vegetation await you at the Ventnor Botanical Gardens. The plants grow naturally due to the mild microclimate of the south-facing Undercliff. Ventnor’s climate is similar to the Mediterranean, so a variety of subtropical plants prosper here that wouldn’t on mainland Britain. You’ll also find a lovely restaurant and café on-site to break the day up with.

Outside of London, England is known for its countryside full of history, picturesque villages, patchwork hills, and winding country roads. Explore the countryside with its castles, parks, and historical cities with our tailor-made Refreshing English Countryside Break .

Botanical Gardens, Ventnor, Isle of Wight © Shutterstock

There’s a wide variety of accommodation options available on the Isle of Wight. Treat yourself to spacious rooms with a sea view at Foresters Hall , or hunker down in one of Farringford’s self-catering cottages set amid a historic estate. With plenty of spacious and self-catering accommodation options, you can really stretch out at a safe distance.

Here are some of the best options around the island:

• Jireh House. This 17th-century guesthouse has a popular downstairs tearoom.
• Royal Esplanade Hotel . Situated along Ryde’s seafront esplanade and overlooking the Hovercraft terminal, this hotel is in a superb location.
• The Caledon Guest House . Provides free bus passes for guests – which is pretty handy, as the bus stop is directly outside.
• Channel View Hotel . Set in Shanklin, 300 m from Shanklin Beach, Channel View Hotel offers accommodation with a shared lounge, free private parking, a terrace and a restaurant.
• Weston Manor . This charming manor house is set within a National Trust Heritage Site, dating from 1871 and featuring its own chapel.

Find more accommodation options to stay on the Isle of Wight

Beach huts at Colwell Bay, Isle of Wight © Carl Dickinson/Shutterstock

Related articles from the blog

There are plenty of campgrounds spread across the Isle of Wight, from luxury tree houses to award-winning holiday parks. Most offer a wide range of facilities, views and camping options, so it’s an easy way to embrace all things outdoors.

Our recommendations:

• St Helens: Nodes Point Holiday Park. Excellent position overlooking Bembridge Bay.
• Newport: Tom’s Eco Lodge. Go glamping by a tent, cabin, pod, dome or unique “modulog”.
• Yarmouth: Orchards Holiday Park. Check out their decent package deals.
• Wroxall: Appuldurcombe Gardens Holiday Park . Set amid 14 acres of secluded grounds, with the countryside beyond.

Bembridge harbour, Isle of Wight © Charlesy/Shutterstock

Lace yer boots – the Isle of Wight is prime hiking and walking (and cycling) territory. Here are some of the best walks to take on the Isle of Wight:

Tennyson Down to the Needles headland: This seven-mile, moderate southwest route stretches from Tennyson Down to the Needles. Following cliff-top paths and signposts, highlights of this walk include a Celtic stone cross commemorating the Victorian poet Alfred Lord Tennyson, and the old defensive forts of New Battery and Old Battery.

This is one of the most scenic walks on the island, as you overlook Alum Bay from the headland and across to the white chalk stacks which make up the iconic Needles. Wind your way back following a parallel path and finish at Dimbola Lodge, where you can take a break in their tearoom.

Best of Niton: Enjoy a continuously changing view of the wildlife and coast on this slightly challenging 3.5-mile-long walk, focusing on the south coast of the island. Pass along grassy tracks and, at Knowles Farm, check out the memorial plaque to Marconi, an electrical engineer and inventor. Venture slightly uphill to reach the respite-worthy Buddle Inn pub, before continuing along towards picturesque Niton village.

The Cliffs of Freshwater Bay, Isle of Wight © J M Ritchie/Shutterstock

Sandown to Ryde: This moderate 12-mile route takes in the buckets-and-spade towns of Sandown and Ryde along the east coast. Start off from Sandown Beach, taking in the long stretches of sand, before passing through Bembridge Harbour, with yacht masts clinking in the nearby marina.

There are smart houses to ogle in Seaview before the coastal path continues straight onto Ryde; take in the mainland views of the Spinnaker Tower and more of Portsmouth to your right.

Ryde to East Cowes: If you fancy a historic walk, choose this easy 8-mile route, covering the northern part of the island. Start in Ryde, cross over Wootton Bridge and pass through Whippingham, which houses a small church that Queen Victoria frequented. You’re not far from Osborne House if you want to take a small detour, otherwise, end the route in East Cowes at the Classic Boat Museum Gallery.

Alternatively, catch the minute-long floating bridge to West Cowes and stretch those legs further until you reach the Royal Yacht Squadron, one of the oldest and most prestigious sailing clubs in the world.

Isle of Wight ferry © Shutterstock

Ready for a trip to the Isle of Wight? Check out the snapshot of the Pocket Rough Guide British Breaks Isle of Wight or The Rough Guide to England .

If you prefer to plan and book your trip to England without any effort and hassle, use the expertise of our local travel experts to make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be.

We may earn commission from some of the external websites linked in this article, but this does not influence our editorial standards - we only recommend services that we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.

Top image: Isle of Wight © Baalkta/Shutterstock

Aimee is an in-house Senior Travel Editor at Rough Guides and is the podcast host of The Rough Guide to Everywhere. She is also a freelance travel writer and has written for various online and print publications, including a guidebook to the Isle of Wight. Follow her on Twitter at @aimeefw .

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The Best Things to Do on the Isle of Wight

Getty/ s0ulsurfing - Jason Swain

Under two hours by ferry from London, the Isle of Wight has long been a popular escape for city-dwellers looking for unspoiled natural beauty, epic coastline scenery, and walks.

Particularly popular with the Victorians, it remains a large part of the legacy of Queen Victoria—for whom this was a beloved holiday spot—as well as a favorite spot of Romantic writers and artists who took inspiration from the unbridled nature which can be found across the island.

Whether you want to relax at the beach, enjoy some hiking, indulge in water sports or stargazing, or simply get to know the towns, villages, and local cuisine that make up daily life on the Isle of Wight, this is a perfect vacation spot away from it all.

Enjoy the Coastline

Getty/ Copyright Ian Pacey

Naturally, you cant spend time on the Isle of Wight without taking in some of the fifty-seven miles of dramatic coastline. Whether you want to take a stroll along the cliffs, relax on one of fourteen award-winning beaches, discover rock pools, or enjoy some of the water sports on offer the coastline offers so much to visitors.

For bodyboarding and surfing, head to Compton or Sandown Bay, whereas if you want those Mediterranean-style views, head to Whitecliff or Priory Bay. Taking some time to visit the small towns around the coast, finding local pubs and cafes, or walking the sixty-eight-mile coastal path are also great ways to spend the day if you don’t fancy going into the sea.

There’s no shortage of seafront accommodations on the Isle of Wight so if you’re looking forward to opening your window and smelling sea air, you’re in the right place.

Munch on a Crab Pasty

Getty/ creacart 

Found at tucked away crabbing spot Steephill Cove, where you can enjoy the sea, visit the gift shop, and relax at one of the few restaurants or cafes, you’ll find the sensational crab pasties that have foodies religiously making the trek down at The Crab Shed , similar to the famous Cornish Pasties but stuffed with freshly caught crab meat and stamped with an iconic crab shape. The shack also serves crab sandwiches, ciabattas, crab and lobster salads as well as special dishes and drinks.

A visit here can also be combined with a trip to Ventnor Botanic Garden which has a car park and is just a fifteen minute walk away.

Hike the Isle of Wight Literary Heroes Trail

Getty/ s0ulsurfing - Jason Swain 

One of several themed walks on the Isle of Wight, this dynamic trail will take you in the footsteps of writers such as  John Keats, Lewis Carroll, Dickens, and Tennyson, whose home on the island— Farringford —attracted many notable names from his literary circles, who later became known as the Freshwater Circle.

Farringford, the Gothic house restored in a late nineteenth-century style, is a stop on the trail, as well as spots such as Ventnor and Sandown , where Charles Dickens and Darwin were thought to have begun their works of David Copperfield and On the Origin of Species.

The Literary Heroes Trail , if you choose to follow all of it, will take you to many notable spots across the island and is a great way to see some of the small towns and villages that make up life on the Isle of Wight.

Ride the Isle of Wight Steam Railway

Getty/ thyme

See the Isle of Wight from a different perspective—by steam train. The Isle of Wight Steam Railway and Museum is one of Britain’s heritage railways, a charming step back into the past, and a fun day out whether you consider yourself a train enthusiast or not.

The carriages are lovingly restored in Victorian and Edwardian style, the conductors wear traditional costumes, and refreshment rooms are available on the train. All you have to do is sit back and listen to the iconic steam engine sounds, watch the green fields, forests and quaint stations saunter by, or maybe hop off at a town you’re interested in.  

Go Stargazing

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A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the Isle of Wight has some of the darkest skies in the United Kingdom, making it a perfect place to look up at the Milky Way, Cassiopeia, Orion, and the Plough, as well as test your photography skills.

Gazing up from wherever you are on the island at night will treat you to some excellent views, but if you’d like to give it a serious go, make make sure to choose a clear night, bring some binoculars, and choose one of the many spots known for their great views of the sky, such as Compton Bay, St Catherine’s Down, or Freshwater Bay.

Go Fossil Hunting

 Getty/ Andrew Holt

There is no shortage of dinosaur and fossil-related activities to enjoy on the Isle of Wight; it is regarded as one of the richest areas for Dinosaur discovery in Europe, giving it the nickname ‘Dinosaur Island.'

A great start is visiting the Dinosaur Isle Museum , who can point you in the right direction for fossil hunts but also allow you to learn about some of the amazing discoveries found on the island.

Most people choose to start their fossil hunt on Compton Bay where you can find pieces of dinosaur bone and teeth as well as see fossilized dinosaur footprints. Other fossil-rich locations include Shepherd’s Chine and Whale Chine for fish and ammonite remains, Brook Bay, Whitecliff Bay, and Yarmouth.

Visit the Garlic Farm and Try Garlic Beer

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Famous for its black garlic, the Isle of Wight takes its garlic seriously, even throwing an annual Garlic Festival to try out new and exciting garlic-related foods and products.

Visiting The Garlic Farm is the best way to enjoy this integral part of the island’s culture and enjoy a number of activities such as seeing garlic fields roaming with small herds of cattle, goats, sheep, and horses. Trying out the extensive amount of products available are a given, with delights including garlic chutneys, jams, mayonnaise, and other dips, garlic plaits, seeds, butter, salt, and even beer and vodka.

Make sure to take time to eat at the restaurant, which offers a wide range of meat, vegetarian, and cheese dishes all with a garlic twist. You can even stay overnight in their self-catering cottages and yurts. More than a farm, this is truly an experience and a must for garlic and cooking lovers.

Visit Carisbrooke Castle

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No UK trip would be complete without a visit to a good castle and the looming Carisbrooke Castle is just that. It also offers superb panoramic views over the entire island. The castle has been used as an artillery fortress, a prison for King Charles I after the English  Civil War, and a royal summer residence.

A walk around the grounds will lead you to King Charles I’s bowling green and Princess Beatrice’s flower garden, daughter of Queen Victoria. Walk the castle walls, climb up to the Norman Keep, and explore the chapel and Castle Museum before enjoying the onsite Castle Tearoom. 

Walk Queen Victoria’s Island Trail

Getty/ Oli Scarff / Staff

Another unique way to traverse the Isle of Wight is in the footsteps of Queen Victoria and her husband Prince Albert, who frequented the island often with it being their favorite holiday getaway during the nineteenth century.

The heritage trail will take you from her holiday home to some of the major attractions on the Isle of Wight to the lesser-known parts of the island that they loved to frequent. To see all of the stately homes and beauty spots on the trail you would need a few days, but for shorter stays cherry-picking a few favorites will be enough to enjoy the island as royalty did before.

Wander Osborne House

One of the most popular spots to visit on the Isle of Wight, this opulent family holiday home of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert with walled gardens and a private beach was a beloved spot for the royal family, with Queen Victoria once saying, "It is impossible to imagine a prettier spot."

It would be easy to spend a full day at Osborne House with the grand state and family rooms to explore, the Royal Collection to peruse as well as the extensive grounds. The onsite terrace and orangery restaurant and cafe make this a delightful day trip. Families will particularly enjoy it here as there are activities specifically for children, including the Swiss Cottage where the royal children played, trails, and playgrounds, as well as an ice cream parlor at the seafront. 

Reach New Heights at The Needles Landmark

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There are so many ways to enjoy the Isle of Wight's most famous attraction—the Needles rocks and Lighthouse—though taking the incredible chairlift over the ocean to the top is probably one of the most exciting. The Needles have been named one of the seven natural wonders of the UK, and it isn’t hard to see why. The rocks' chalky points, which reach thirty meters above sea level and extend off of a backbone of chalk that cuts right through the island, are truly a sight to behold. On the outermost needle stands the active 19th Century Needles Lighthouse.

A famous Victorian area of seaside fun, The Needles Landmark Attraction also allows you to take part in Victorian games, enjoy boat rides, go shopping and sample some of the seaside treats and seafood.

See Bembridge Windmill

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The only surviving windmill on the Isle of Wight was built in the 1700s and featured in a watercolor painting by artist JMW Turner. Bembridge Windmill is a wonderful day out for anyone looking to explore some of the green countryside and coastline of the Isle of Wight on foot, as the windmill marks the start of the Culver Trail , and also learn about this historic landmark. 

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You are here > Home > Things To Do > Attractions

Located on the northern side of Sandown, Sandham Gardens is the ideal place to relax and enjoy some family time with friends and family.

Find out more

Ventnor Botanic Garden

Here at Ventnor Botanic Garden we grow around 6,000 species of rare and exotic plants and trees in 22 acres. The garden is unrivalled for its collections of sub-tropical plants grown unprotected…

Enjoy all weather fun at award-winning Tapnell Farm Park with bouncy pillows, pedal go-karts, crazy golf, sledge slides, trim trail and new spiders climbing web. Plus meet our Wallabies, Meerkats and…

Whooping gibbons, mischievous monkeys, amazing owls and the naughtiest Meerkats ever! Swing by and say hello to the Island's Gold award-winning rescue centre and sanctuary.

• 1 Sandham Gardens
• 2 Ventnor Botanic Garden
• 3 Tapnell Farm Park
• 4 Monkey Haven

Search Attractions

• Attractions

How would you spend your perfect day out? Maybe you want family fun and adventure for the kids? If this is the case, then maybe its time you looked at some of the amazing Isle of Wight attractions which include detailed history and heritage , extending right back to the time of the Dinosaurs !

View the latest information before you visit by checking the attraction's own website. To do this use the 'Search Attractions' box above and click the 'Visit Website' button on the individual attraction web page. 

Maybe you would like to take time out at one of our many music festivals or experience the last remaining hovercraft ferry in the world? Sometimes you might just want to get away from it all with a relaxing stroll along one of the many Isle of Wight beaches or through one of our magnificent gardens . You may also want to visit one of our many amazing restaurants which only use local produce from the island.

The Isle of Wight is a popular place for a holiday , and plays host to some of the most famous and popular attractions in the UK, including the UK's oldest theme park at Blackgang Chine! We even have a range of great animal attractions, where you can get up close and personal with penguins, meerkats and many others.

There are also many traditional seaside amusements offering a wide range of entertainment. Many of the Isle of Wight attractions are open all year round meaning there are lots of things to do in all seasons. Take a walk through the Ventnor Botanic Gardens whatever the weather, or enjoy a stop off at The Garlic Farm to try some of their fantastic products.

There are so many different places to go, and so much variety that we couldn’t possibly list them all on one page! That’s why we’ve broken it all down into easy to navigate sections, and also given you a handy search tool above so you can discover things that you like to do and see. No matter what your age or interests, there are things to do for everyone when it comes to Isle of Wight attractions!

Book Accommodation

In order to get the best out of your stay on the Isle of Wight and in order for you to experience as many attractions as possible, it is advised to book some accommodation .

We are proud to offer a wide range of accommodation that is suitable for all requirements, whether that be specific types of hotels , bed and breakfasts , holiday cottages , caravan parks or camping facilities, you can rest assured we have everything here for you to enjoy your stay on the island.

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Number of results: 92

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Carisbrooke Castle

Castle / Fort

CARISBROOKE

Visit Carisbrooke Castle and enjoy over 800 years of history!

Historic House / Palace

Step into Queen Victoria’s favourite country home and experience a world unchanged since the monarch died here just over 100 years ago.

Family Fun & Activities

Set in an Isle of Wight National Landscape (formerly known as Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) overlooking The Needles Rocks and Lighthouse, there's breathtaking scenery and a spectacular chairlift past amazing coloured sand cliffs.

Animal Collection / Zoo

Enjoy all weather fun at award-winning Tapnell Farm Park with bouncy pillows, pedal go-karts, crazy golf, sledge slides, trim trail and new spiders climbing web. Plus meet our Wallabies, Meerkats and other animals as you wander around the paddocks.

Tourism For All

Wildlife Centres & Nature Reserves

From pocket sized primates to powerful predators, the residents of Wildheart Animal Sanctuary, will charm and amaze you!

Yarmouth Castle

A Tudor Castle in a beautiful seaside town.

• Quality Assured Visitor Attraction VB Attraction

Adventure Park / Playground

Wight Karting

Sports Ground

Motorsport for the young, old, and everyone in-between on the Isle of Wight: all-weather, outdoor, go kart racing for 8yrs Up. 

Isle of Wight Steam Railway

Steam Railway

HAVENSTREET

Inspiring, surprising and award-winning… Equally appealing to adults and families, your visit to The Isle of Wight Steam Railway will charm, engage and captivate, leaving you with some lasting memories of a special day out.

West Wight Alpacas and Llamas

Wellow, YARMOUTH

'Discover this hidden gem nestled in the tranquil countryside of the West Wight…

Isle of Wight Aqua Park

Water Based Activities

The Isle of Wight’s only outdoor floating Aqua Park is at Tapnell Farm.

Needles Pleasure Cruises

TOTLAND BAY

Two types of trips, the slow and fast cruise.

Botanic Garden

St Lawrence

Here at Ventnor Botanic Garden we grow around 6,000 species of rare and exotic plants and trees in 22 acres. The garden is unrivalled for its collections of sub-tropical plants grown unprotected outdoors, capable of doing so due to our unique…

Goodleaf Tree Climbing

A unique, unusual adventure activity that takes you into the canopy of a mature oak tree. Led by experienced instructors, it's a fabulous experience to share with friends and family.

Dinosaur Isle

Dinosaur Isle Museum is the start to your journey into the Island’s prehistoric past! Britain's first purpose-built dinosaur attraction is just over the sea wall from Sandown’s blue flag beach.

Quarr Abbey

Abbey / Priory

Quarr Abbey is a working Benedictine monastery and is set in beautiful and peaceful surroundings and can be found just outside of Ryde.

The Wight Military & Heritage Museum and Churchills Cafe

The museum holds an interesting mix of tanks, artifacts, other vehicles, small arms and a range of uniforms from the 1940’s to the present day.

Wightlink Warriors Speedway Club

The innovative Wightlink Warriors Shale Track Racing Club host weekly race meetings (weather permitting) from June to September, all aimed at a family audience.

Shanklin Theatre

Shanklin Theatre has a seating capacity of 615 thanks to our newly installed Matrix Seating System; the theatre opens all year round and is currently running approximately 150 plus shows a year.

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