The Isle of Wight
Crossing the Solent to the Isle of Wight feels as though you have travelled abroad without leaving behind all the beauty a holiday in the English countryside has to offer. With its rolling green pastures, charming villages, bustling seaside resorts and stunning beaches, it is a wonderfrul place to explore. There are plenty of attractions on the Island to suit all tastes ranging from historical buildings, botanical gardens, theme parks, wildlife centers, Roman villas, forts and windmills to name just a few. There are also numerous sporting activities to be enjoyed, such as sailing, surfing, windsurfing, diving, golf, walking, cycling and horse riding. A stay on the Isle of Wight really can offer something for everyone.
Places to visit
Osborne House
Queen Victoria's magnificent family home, extensive grounds, Swiss Cottage and private beach to explore.
Http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/iow
Blackgang Chine
Once the haunt of smugglers and wreckers and now a fantasy park full of exciting and fun things to do, Blackgang Chine is just the place for all the family.
Http://www.blackgangchine.com
Isle of Wight Steam Railway
Ten-mile steam train rides, refreshment rooms, woodland walk, children's play area, Haven Falconry, picnic area, shop and museum.
Http://www.iwsteamrailway.co.uk
Amazon World Zoo Park
One of the best zoos in Europe to see endangered South American wildlife. Learn about tropical rainforests, exotic animals and the conservation of jungle habitat.
Http://www.amazonworld.co.uk
Dinosaur Isle
Interactive museum where you can discover the lost world of the dinosaurs, hear the sounds and encounter the smells of a real Cretaceous park.
Http://www.dinosaurisle.com
Carisbrooke Castle
The Isle of Wight's most famous royal castle with it's battlements and keep to climb. Meet the resident donkeys and relax in the tranquil Edwardian-style garden.
Http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/iow
Brading Roman Villa
See some of the best preserved Roman mosaics in Europe. Award-winning visitor centre and museum, licensed cafe, shop, meadow trail and garden.
Http://www.bradingromanvilla.org.uk
The Model Village and Garden
Come and walk amongst the 1/10th scale models, watch the busy railway and enjoy the garden.
Http://www.modelvillagegodshill.co.uk
Tapnell Farm Park
The fun-filled farm that's great in any weather.
www.tapnellfarmpark.com
Monkey Haven
The primate rescue centre.
Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary
West Wight Alpacas at Yarmouth
The Wildheart Animal Sanctuary at Yaverland
Ventnor Botanic Garden
Harvey Browns @ Hale Manor Farm, Arreton
The Island's newest fine food destination. Lakeside cafe, stunning food hall, extensive deli, comprehensive butchery.
www.harveybrowns.co.uk
Sandham Gardens, Sandown Bay
Family fun activities including Dino adventure golf, Skynets, karting, playground and skate park as well as gardens and ice cream kiosk.
https://www.sandhamgardens.com
Bembridge Windmill, National Trust
One of the Island's most famous landmarks, this much-loved windmill last worked over 100 years ago but still has most of its original machinery intact.
https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/bembridgewindmill
What's on in 2026
Spring Walking Festival
9 - 17th May 2026
https://isleofwightwalkingfestival.co.uk
Cowes Fringe
22 - 24th May 2026
www.cowesfringe.com
Isle of Wight Festival
18 - 21st June 2026
https://isleofwightfestival.com
Round the Island Race
11/07/2026
https://roundtheisland.org.uk
Prom '26 Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra @ Robin Hill
11 - 12th July 2026
https://robin-hill.com/whats-on/events/
Royal Isle of Wight County Show
11 - 12th July 2026
https://iwcountyshow.co.uk
Cowes Week
1 - 7th August 2026
https://cowesweek.co.uk
Sandown Bay Regatta
09/08/2026
www.sandowncarnival.com
Isle of Wight Garlic Festival
15 - 16th August 2026
www.garlicfestival.com
Ventnor Fringe
17 - 26th August 2026
https://vfringe.co.uk
Autumn Walking Festival
3 - 11th October 2026
https://isleofwightwalkingfestival.co.uk

