Things to Do

On the Isle of Wight

Shanklin Beach: With its golden sands, shallow waters, and classic British seaside charm, it’s perfect for a day of relaxation, swimming, and picnicking.
Colwell Bay: Known for its calm waters, ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding.
Appley Beach: A quieter spot with great views and a more tranquil atmosphere.
Compton Bay: Popular for surfing, walking, and fossil hunting along the dramatic cliffs.

The Coastal Path: The Isle of Wight is famous for its stunning coastline, and the 70-mile coastal path offers some of the most breathtaking views in Britain.
Tennyson Down: A lovely area for a walk, with spectacular views over the island and the Solent, and a monument to the poet Alfred Lord Tennyson.
The Needles: A must-see natural landmark, offering striking views of the famous chalk stacks and the lighthouse.

Carisbrooke Castle: A well-preserved medieval fortress with interactive exhibits, stunning views, and the opportunity to see the famous donkeys that once powered the well.
Osborne House: Queen Victoria’s former royal residence, this grand estate offers fascinating tours of the house and beautiful gardens overlooking the Solent.
Bembridge Windmill: A traditional, working windmill offering a glimpse into the island’s agricultural history.

Cycling: With miles of scenic cycle paths, including routes through the countryside and along the coastline, the Isle of Wight is a cyclist’s paradise.
Water Sports: The island is perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, windsurfing, and sailing, with several beaches offering equipment rentals and schools.
Horseback Riding: Explore the island’s countryside and beaches on horseback, with several stables offering rides for all levels.

Monkey Haven: A sanctuary for rescued primates, this is a fun and educational day out for families.
Isle of Wight Steam Railway: Take a nostalgic ride on a vintage steam train, traveling through beautiful countryside and past picturesque villages.
The Garlic Farm: A unique visit to a farm dedicated to garlic, with tastings, local produce, and a lovely café.

Ryde: A bustling seaside town with plenty of independent shops, cafés, and a long pier. The town is perfect for a relaxed stroll by the sea or a visit to the local museum.
Cowes: Famous for its sailing, this town is full of maritime history, stylish boutiques, and trendy cafes. The Cowes Week regatta is a must-see for sailing enthusiasts.
Shanklin and Sandown: These neighboring seaside towns offer traditional amusements, beaches, and cliff-top views.

Isle of Wight Zoo: Located near Sandown, the zoo offers a chance to see rare and endangered animals, including tigers and lemurs.
The Isle of Wight Butterfly World: A tropical haven filled with butterflies and exotic plants, perfect for nature lovers.
Nature Reserves: The island is home to several nature reserves, including the Newtown National Nature Reserve, which offers walking trails, bird watching, and beautiful landscapes.

Seafood: Being an island, the Isle of Wight offers incredible fresh seafood, including locally caught fish and shellfish. Many seaside restaurants offer stunning views along with their meals.
The Island’s Distilleries and Breweries: Enjoy locally produced gin, wine, and craft beer at one of the many distilleries, wineries, and breweries.
Cream Tea: A quintessentially British treat, many tea rooms offer traditional cream teas with scones, jam, and clotted cream.

Cowes Week: The UK’s largest sailing regatta, held annually in Cowes, is a lively event for sailors and spectators alike.
Isle of Wight Festival: One of the UK’s most famous music festivals, featuring top live performances, including rock, pop, and indie music.
Ventnor Fringe Festival: A vibrant celebration of arts and culture, featuring theatre, comedy, music, and more.

Spas and Wellness: Several hotels and boutique retreats offer spa treatments, yoga sessions, and wellness packages for ultimate relaxation.
Picnicking in the Gardens: The Isle of Wight is home to many beautiful gardens, such as Ventnor Botanic Garden and Alum Bay, offering peaceful spots to unwind and enjoy nature.