|
|
This site uses cookies - see our privacy policy. Ads & links in bold may give us a small payment from the seller, at no cost to the buyer. However, this never affects our views - if we like it, we recommend it.
30 Days Out For Adults On The Isle Of Wight - 2024
The Isle of Wight is often marketed as a 'family holiday' destination, but it's a nice place for grown-ups too with lots of interesting and romantic spots for single people or swooning couples.
The key, of course is knowing where to avoid - you don't want to be surrounded by other people's teenagers, toddlers and children whilst you attempt to enjoy a romantic Isle of Wight getaway or a bit of peace and quiet.
If you're looking for somewhere to stay, take a look at our:
I would also think carefully about the time of year that you book your holiday if you want to avoid children - have a read of our guide to What time of year should I visit the Isle of Wight?
The key, of course is knowing where to avoid - you don't want to be surrounded by other people's teenagers, toddlers and children whilst you attempt to enjoy a romantic Isle of Wight getaway or a bit of peace and quiet.
If you're looking for somewhere to stay, take a look at our:
- luxury hotels guide, which tend to target the adult market
- holiday lodges guide, for self catering with a bit more space than a hotel
- quirky places to stay, including helicopters, lighthouse keepers cottages and a castle
- hot tub holidays, for those who enjoy outdoor baths
I would also think carefully about the time of year that you book your holiday if you want to avoid children - have a read of our guide to What time of year should I visit the Isle of Wight?
1. Best Isle of Wight Beaches for Adults
Families with toddlers and junior school aged children generally flock to Sandown, Shanklin, Appley (Ryde) or Ventnor because they are easy to access whilst carrying 16 bags and they have plenty of facilities like toilets, cafes selling ice cream and amusement arcades which consume small change.
However, if you want to avoid being hit on the head with a Frisbee whilst you try to achieve an English tan, then I would avoid these four, particularly during school holidays.
I would also avoid Alum Bay, which is more of a busy attraction than a beach to spend the day on. During school holidays I’d also avoid any of the beaches which sit alongside holiday parks, like the stunningly-pretty Whitecliff Bay.
However, if you want to avoid being hit on the head with a Frisbee whilst you try to achieve an English tan, then I would avoid these four, particularly during school holidays.
I would also avoid Alum Bay, which is more of a busy attraction than a beach to spend the day on. During school holidays I’d also avoid any of the beaches which sit alongside holiday parks, like the stunningly-pretty Whitecliff Bay.
Shanklin is a sandy beach but it's not the place to avoid families
|
Whitecliff Bay is very pretty, but it's next to a popular holiday park
|
There are several alternative beaches which aren’t so family-friendly where you can carve out a little bit of peace and quiet, even on a busy day.
Our beach guide covers most of them in more detail and includes a map, but some options include:
Our beach guide covers most of them in more detail and includes a map, but some options include:
- Brook Chine (the beach is usually quiet, although try not to get decapitated by a kite surfer)
- Compton Bay (the Hanover Point end gets busy, but if you walk towards the white-cliff end it is much quieter)
You can walk your dog at Brook Chine without disapproving looks
|
Compton Bay at low tide is our favourite beach
|
- Dunroamin Beach (half way between Sandown and Shanklin, but much quieter)
- Yaverland (near Sandown, but a bit windier and less busy - famous for dinosaur fossils)
Dunroamin Beach is halfway between Sandown and Shanklin - and it's much quieter
|
Yaverland is another popular beach for dog walking
|
- Freshwater Bay (there’s a small sandy bay round the corner from the stony beach at low tide)
- Priory Bay (privately owned but accessible by walking from Seagrove Bay)
Freshwater Bay is a favourite spot on a windy day
|
Priory Bay is a lovely beach which takes a bit of effort to reach
|
- Binnel Bay (stony and quite a long walk, but very isolated)
- Steephill Cove (quite small but it’s down a steep hill unsurprisingly, which puts a lot of people off)
You'll probably have Binnel Bay to yourself - if you can manage the walk
|
Pretty Steephill Cove can be reached via the coastal path from Ventnor
|
- Players Beach (sandy at low tide, not much space at high tide, tends to stink of seaweed)
- Totland Bay (quite stony but with a lovely outlook and sand at low tide, not much beach at high tide)
- Orchard Bay (private beach which the public can use, long walk but has a Famous-Five quality)
- Whale Chine (very hard to access now without an abseiling rope, so very isolated. Walk along from an adjacent beach.)
- Blackgang Beach (considerable effort to reach but attractive and shingly. Popular with those who like to like to, ahem, let it all hang out)
Players Beach near Ryde is much quieter than Appley
|
Whale Chine in the South Wight can be accessed by walking along from Atherfield
|
2. Isle of Wight Historic Churches and Religious Retreats
My parents took us to ancient churches whilst on holiday but I think we were in the minority and we never stayed long enough for me to break anything.
The Isle of Wight has some really interesting little chapels, churches and religious retreats many of which are older than the United States of America and are free to visit.
A few to consider:
The Isle of Wight has some really interesting little chapels, churches and religious retreats many of which are older than the United States of America and are free to visit.
A few to consider:
- St Boniface's 'Old Church' in Bonchurch is mentioned in The Domesday Book and was visited by King Charles I. I would combine a visit here with a walk along the coastal path to Ventnor.
- All Saint's Church in Freshwater dates from the 11th century or earlier.
- St. Agnes Church in Freshwater Bay is the only thatched church on the Island (lots of i-Spy points for that one). There are a couple of nice cafes nearby - Dimbola and Piano Cafe - and there is an excellent walk along the coastal path.
You might like to combine visiting the thatched St Agnes Church...
|
...with a walk around nearby Freshwater Bay and Tennyson Downs
|
- St. Lawrence Old Church on Seven Sisters Road is tiny, with a door designed for hobbits. It's one of the smallest churches in Britain, according to a few websites.
- Quarr Abbey is a working Benedictine monastery which sits alongside a 12th century ruin. There's a coffee shop, tours and some hungry pigs which gobble like there's no tomorrow.
- The Church of St Nicholas in Castro within Carisbrooke Castle is as ornate as you'd expect, although you have to pay to get in (unless you have English Heritage membership)
St Lawrence Old Church is a head-banging sort of place...and one of Britain's smallest churches
|
"Quarr Abbey!" said Peter Crouch to his wife
|
- St Mildred's in Whippingham was Queen Victoria's church, so you can see her pew if you want.
- All Saint's in Godshill is the one featured on 92% of Isle of Wight Fudge boxes.
- St Peter and St Paul Mottistone is the one where Benedict Cumberbatch married Sophie Hunter in 2015.
- All Saints Church in Newchurch is worth a visit in early Spring when the churchyard flowers are out (according to my mother, anyway).
- Carisbrooke Priory is a former nunnery which is now a Christian House of Prayer and Healing. They offer cream teas and the like and also have pretty gardens, a courtyard and a chapel.
Queen Victoria was often amused by the sermons at St Mildred's Church
|
Nun other than Carisbrooke Priory
|
3. Isle of Wight Coastal walks
I tend to feel that if you can't see the sea on an Isle of Wight walk then you're missing out. Of course, the key is picking a walk which is suitable for the slowest or least mobile person in your party.
If you like a short walk and a long lunch, then I would go for an amble along a nice flat pavement or a seawall such as:
If you like a short walk and a long lunch, then I would go for an amble along a nice flat pavement or a seawall such as:
- Bonchurch to Ventnor (crashing waves, we've done this one with a wheelchair, plenty of places to eat in Ventnor)
- Sandown to Shanklin (touristy resorts with sandy beaches. Very busy on a sunny day but plenty of places to eat, particularly on Shanklin seafront)
- Gurnard to Cowes (yachts to admire and places to eat in Cowes)
- Totland to Colwell (short coastal walk with a pub/restaurant at either end)
- Appley to Seaview (busy on a sunny day, but views of Ryde Pier and the Hovercraft whooshing about)
Park in Gurnard and walk to a Cowes for a pleasant seaside stroll
|
Ventnor to Bonchurch provides a more crashing and splashing sort of seaside walk
|
If you want a bit of a climb with gorgeous views, then I would go for:
- Ventnor to Steephill Cove in the South Wight (hilly coastal path which leads to a pretty cove) - see #7 in our guide to the Isle of Wight's best circular walks
- Freshwater Bay to Tennyson Down in the West Wight (steady climb up to a monument with a view. Carry on to the Needles Old Battery if you're more adventurous) - see #1 in our circular walks guide for a great route
The Ventnor to Steephill Cove coastal path is a corker
|
The climb up to the Tennyson Monument from Freshwater Bay is another favourite
|
- Hanover Point to Freshwater Bay in the West Wight (cliff edge walk alongside unspoilt beaches) - see #2 in our circular walks guide
- Headon Warren near Alum Bay in the West Wight (distant views of The Needles) or the Needles Old Battery and New Battery (windy and quite busy but great views of The Needles)
- Blackgang Viewpoint Car Park to the Pepperpot in the South Wight (short walk but very steep up to an abandoned 13th century lighthouse) - see #6 in our circular walks guide
A walk around The Needles New Battery provides this calendar-worthy photo
|
Compton Bay has a terrific coastal path which leads to Freshwater Bay
|
If you want to cover a bit of local history or nature on a walk, then options include:
If you own a pair of walking boots and one of those transparent folders for your OS map, then you might like to attempt a section of the Isle of Wight's coastal path. If you want to do the whole thing, then it's about 65 miles, so most people attempt it over 4-7 days (see our suggestions of where to stay). If you just want to do one or two sections, then I personally would do a part around the West Wight or South Wight.
The majority of the Isle of Wight’s hotels, guest houses, caravan parks and bed and breakfasts are concentrated around the East Wight towns of Sandown, Shanklin and Ryde. The West Wight is much quieter and so was our preferred option for a ramble until children and pushchairs arrived, at which point we had to think more practically.
If that's not enough choice for you (Ed: er, I think it might be) then check out our guides to:
There are organised walks by the Isle of Wight Ramblers. Or you can buy a book of course or the Isle of Wight Walking Map.
If walking sounds too enjoyable and relaxing then you might like to join the Isle of Wight's free weekly Parkrun. It is usually held in Newport and gets about 200 finishers.
- Victoria's Island Trail, The Churchill Trail and The Warrior Trail which all feature landmarks about historic characters.
- A maritime walk called The Rope Walk in Cowes
- The Tapnell Trail which circles the 1970 Isle of Wight Festival site.
- Several 'Treasure Trails' which we've enjoyed doing in Ventnor, Yarmouth, Cowes and Freshwater - although you have to pay about £10 for those. There's a similar thing run by City Break UK which costs £25 - I've not tried that one yet.
If you own a pair of walking boots and one of those transparent folders for your OS map, then you might like to attempt a section of the Isle of Wight's coastal path. If you want to do the whole thing, then it's about 65 miles, so most people attempt it over 4-7 days (see our suggestions of where to stay). If you just want to do one or two sections, then I personally would do a part around the West Wight or South Wight.
The majority of the Isle of Wight’s hotels, guest houses, caravan parks and bed and breakfasts are concentrated around the East Wight towns of Sandown, Shanklin and Ryde. The West Wight is much quieter and so was our preferred option for a ramble until children and pushchairs arrived, at which point we had to think more practically.
If that's not enough choice for you (Ed: er, I think it might be) then check out our guides to:
- the 10 best circular walks of 3-9 miles on the Isle of Wight.
- 10 Isle of Wight walks of one mile if you fancy something less ambitious.
- Themed walks and trails on the Isle of Wight
There are organised walks by the Isle of Wight Ramblers. Or you can buy a book of course or the Isle of Wight Walking Map.
If walking sounds too enjoyable and relaxing then you might like to join the Isle of Wight's free weekly Parkrun. It is usually held in Newport and gets about 200 finishers.
4. Isle of Wight Lighthouses
Crowds of school parties and families flock to Alum Bay and the Needles with its famous multicoloured sands, chairlift and amusement arcades. It's a beautiful coastline and good entertainment for families but it wouldn't be my choice for a romantic, child-free day out. There's just too much risk that your sunset moment will be interrupted by a child dropping a toffee apple on your foot.
If you want to see The Needles, you can get the moneyshot from Headon Warren (nearest postcode PO39 0EP) which is looked after by the National Trust. Alternatively, the Needles Old Battery covers a lot more of the history of the site away from the Pleasure Park. The Old Battery also gives you the chance to wander through a tunnel in the cliffs and then get a close-up view of the Needles.
If you fancy seeing a lighthouse that is a little less busy, try St. Catherine's Lighthouse although you can no longer see inside unfortunately. Or, for something even quieter, search out St. Catherine's Oratory (often called The Pepperpot). It is the leftovers of a 14th century lighthouse, which bizarrely isn't all that near the sea. That might explain why it's a former lighthouse...
Read the blog about our trip to The Pepperpot
If you want to see The Needles, you can get the moneyshot from Headon Warren (nearest postcode PO39 0EP) which is looked after by the National Trust. Alternatively, the Needles Old Battery covers a lot more of the history of the site away from the Pleasure Park. The Old Battery also gives you the chance to wander through a tunnel in the cliffs and then get a close-up view of the Needles.
If you fancy seeing a lighthouse that is a little less busy, try St. Catherine's Lighthouse although you can no longer see inside unfortunately. Or, for something even quieter, search out St. Catherine's Oratory (often called The Pepperpot). It is the leftovers of a 14th century lighthouse, which bizarrely isn't all that near the sea. That might explain why it's a former lighthouse...
Read the blog about our trip to The Pepperpot
Yes..it's a lighthouse
5. Carisbrooke Castle and Yarmouth Castle
**English Heritage Discount Code: Save 20% on annual memberships via this link with exclusive code IWGEHMEXC until 07/01/24**
Carisbrooke Castle is one of the places they put on the front of the Isle of Wight tourism brochures. It's an impressive site which looms over Carisbrooke village and once kept a King prisoner.
My favourite bit is the 'keep', from which you see a 360 degree view of a large chunk of the Island - including my mum's kitchen. Please give her a wave if you are visiting.
There are also donkeys which pull up water from a well and a museum. It's pretty big, so allow half a day.
If you don't fancy paying, you can still walk round the dry moat. It's run by English Heritage, so members get in free.
If you plan to visit Carisbrooke Castle and Osborne House (see #6) then it is probably worth considering English Heritage Membership. At the time of writing (2022), membership is £66 for an adult. Standard entry to both for one adult is about £33.
Yarmouth Castle is smaller, but it is a notable historic site and has nice sea views. It's also run by English Heritage.
You can also save some money by booking a bundled ticket for Osborne House and Carisbrooke Castle via a booking website called Tiqets.
My favourite bit is the 'keep', from which you see a 360 degree view of a large chunk of the Island - including my mum's kitchen. Please give her a wave if you are visiting.
There are also donkeys which pull up water from a well and a museum. It's pretty big, so allow half a day.
If you don't fancy paying, you can still walk round the dry moat. It's run by English Heritage, so members get in free.
If you plan to visit Carisbrooke Castle and Osborne House (see #6) then it is probably worth considering English Heritage Membership. At the time of writing (2022), membership is £66 for an adult. Standard entry to both for one adult is about £33.
Yarmouth Castle is smaller, but it is a notable historic site and has nice sea views. It's also run by English Heritage.
You can also save some money by booking a bundled ticket for Osborne House and Carisbrooke Castle via a booking website called Tiqets.
King Charles I gave Carisbrooke Castle a harsh review on Ye TripAdvisore
|
Yarmouth Castle is squeezed between a posh hotel and the Wightlink ferry
|
6. Isle of Wight Historic Houses
**English Heritage Discount Code: Save 20% on annual memberships via this link with exclusive code IWGEHMEXC until 07/01/24**
You will see children being taken around English Heritage's Osborne House by well-meaning parents who want their youngsters to understand history, but I'd consider it a grown-ups' attraction. My (wonderful) mother used to read interesting snippets in stately homes and then repeat them in a hushed tone right in my ear, presumably in the hope that I would suddenly snap out of my teenage strop and choose to read history at Cambridge. It didn't work.
Osborne House is one of the busiest attractions on the Isle of Wight and is on a huge site with a Swiss Cottage and a beach where Queen Victoria used to paint pretty pictures and bob about in the Solent. There's a walled garden, terrace gardens and trees planted by Prince Albert.
A free English Heritage option is Appuldurcombe House which is the leftovers of a grand old 18th century house. The front of the house is intact, and the rear of the house is a ruin which you can wander around. It's not a full day out but it's a pleasant way to spend an hour without spending a penny (read the blog).
Farringford was the home of Tennyson. The house was restored over five years and opened for public tours in 2017. You have to book in advance and it isn't open every day, so don't just turn up unless you want to practice your frowny face.
Osborne House is one of the busiest attractions on the Isle of Wight and is on a huge site with a Swiss Cottage and a beach where Queen Victoria used to paint pretty pictures and bob about in the Solent. There's a walled garden, terrace gardens and trees planted by Prince Albert.
A free English Heritage option is Appuldurcombe House which is the leftovers of a grand old 18th century house. The front of the house is intact, and the rear of the house is a ruin which you can wander around. It's not a full day out but it's a pleasant way to spend an hour without spending a penny (read the blog).
Farringford was the home of Tennyson. The house was restored over five years and opened for public tours in 2017. You have to book in advance and it isn't open every day, so don't just turn up unless you want to practice your frowny face.
Vicky's big detached pad - Osborne House
|
A free alternative is Appuldurcombe House - which is a ruin from behind
|
7. Isle of Wight Gardens and Parks
**National Trust Offer: Free £15 National Trust Gift Card when you join (Ts & Cs apply).**
We've got a detailed guide to 10 Isle of Wight gardens and parks, but here's the summary for all those millennials reading with a nine second attention span:
If you only want to visit one, I'd choose Mottistone Gardens. If you don't want to spend any money, I'd choose Ventnor Park or Rylstone Gardens (unless you're an English Heritage member already, in which case I'd go for Osborne).
- Mottistone Gardens - National Trust property. You can't go in Mottistone Manor (which is where Benedict Cumberbatch and Sophie Hunter had their wedding reception in 2015, in case you're interested). However, the gardens are lovely and it's got a mostly outdoors tea room.
- Ventnor Botanic Garden - famous garden which has featured on various TV programmes, as it is home to plants which usually only grow in the Mediterranean.
- Shanklin Chine - not really a garden, but a very pleasant walk through a gap in the cliffs which leads to a tearooms and the beach.
- Osborne House - English Heritage property with walled gardens and trees planted by Prince Albert.
- Nunwell House - privately owned with five acres, limited opening hours
- Ventnor Park - free park, nicely kept
- Rylstone Gardens, Shanklin - pleasant public park, mini golf, brass bands in summer
- Robin Hill - children's adventure park with nice gardens and woodland
- Carisbrooke Priory - free, former nunnery, courtyard and fruit trees in the garden
- Appuldurcombe House - free English Heritage site, gardens designed by Capability Brown. The house is a ruin.
- Ever Garden - small sculpture garden, museum and garden in Brighstone
If you only want to visit one, I'd choose Mottistone Gardens. If you don't want to spend any money, I'd choose Ventnor Park or Rylstone Gardens (unless you're an English Heritage member already, in which case I'd go for Osborne).
Warning: Mottistone will make you feel guilty about the state of your own garden
|
Ventnor Park is a free park which has won awards
|
8. Isle of Wight Museums
Please don't travel to the Isle of Wight expecting to see British Museum or National Gallery scale exhibitions (thanks to people who throw their money away every week on the National Lottery).
However, there are lots of small scale art galleries and factories offering tours and museums.
However, there are lots of small scale art galleries and factories offering tours and museums.
- There is a good-sized Roman Villa in Brading (WARNING: high risk of bumping into a school party with clipboards and matching caps).
- There is a smaller Roman Villa in Newport. It's not huge, but is a nice curiosity as it is wedged between two houses on a residential road.
- Dinosaur Isle is a Dinosaur Museum in Sandown. Again, there is a significant risk of running into a school party at this one. Don't say I didn't warn you. There's a smaller dinosaur museum on the Military Road run by Dinosaur Expeditions.
- The Donald McGill Museum in Ryde celebrates the creator of thousands of saucy seaside postcards. Ponder the fact that police raided five Isle of Wight shops in 1953 because they were selling mildly cheeky postcards. Meanwhile, in 2015 Leicestershire Police admitted that it would only fully investigate a break in at your house if you lived at an even number....
- There's a modestly sized museum within Carisbrooke Castle, which English Heritage members can see for free.
- There's a railway museum as part of the Isle of Wight Steam Railway in Havenstreet
- The Museum of Island History in Newport's Guildhall re-opened in 2016 after a short funding related closure.
- The Isle of Wight Bus and Coach Museum in Ryde is free and offers the chance to climb onboard a selection of old vehicles. Read our blog from the bus museum.
- Cowes hosts the Classic Boat Museum and the Classic Boat Museum Gallery. Ideal if you like either boats, or pictures of boats, or both (actually I'd be surprised if there's anyone out there that loves pictures of boats, but doesn't like real boats).
- Dimbola is a Museum and Galleries in Freshwater Bay, which focuses on photography.
- Bembridge Lifeboat Station is free and has volunteers on hand to tell you about the impressive vessel, which lives at the end of a long walkway. They also do practice launches which are a local spectacle and are usually announced on their Facebook page.
- The RNLI Inshore Lifeboat Centre is a factory in East Cowes where about half of the RNLI's fleet are manufactured and repaired. You can sign up for a free tour which takes about 90 minutes.
- The Sir Max Aitken Museum is free and is in Cowes High Street. He was an MP, a fighter pilot, a newspaper magnate and the London Boat Show founder. The museum is a chance to rummage through his odd collection of stuff.
- The Lilliput Antique Doll and Toy Museum in Brading is...well, I think you can work that out for yourself.
- Those of us who still snigger at Viz Magazine will enjoy the National Poo Museum. It was briefly part of Isle of Wight Zoo (now renamed as Wildheart Animal Sanctuary) but it's now a plop-up exhibition. I didn't make that up, honest.
- The Wight Military and Heritage Museum is a charity with ex-service volunteers offering tours and rides in armoured vehicles.
- Brighstone has a quaint little museum about village life and there are similar small museums in Bembridge and Ventnor.
- The Wight Aviation Museum is a volunteer led exhibition based at Sandown Airport. The highlight is the replica of a rocket which was built on the Isle of Wight.
Brading Roman Villa is large and impressive - but you may bump into a school party
|
The Lifeboat at Bembridge can be viewed within the station at the end of a walkway
|
9. Isle of WIght ARt Galleries
If you want to gaze thoughtfully at artworks without feeling an obligation to buy anything, then I would start with Quay Arts in Newport. It’s got a couple of good-sized galleries which regularly change. There’s also a cafe next to the river and a couple of spaces for small concerts. That section of the River Medina is a little muddy and next to a dual carriageway, but it’s a nice cafe.
Another option is Monkton Arts which is a bit smaller, but which is more convenient if you are in the Ryde area. It’s also got a cafe and is a live music venue with lots of jazzy type music.
If you like photography, then the galleries at Dimbola in Freshwater Bay are your best bet. They’ve had some big names displaying work there in the past, and it’s housed in a building owned by a Victorian photographer called Julia Margaret Cameron. Again, there’s a cafe (you may be noticing a pattern). The major advantage of visiting Dimbola Lodge is that it has a sea view and is five minutes' walk to the rather lovely Freshwater Bay.
If you're in the market for a holiday souvenir, then there are several art gallery shops on the Isle of Wight. These tend to be found in the posher parts of the Island:
Another option is Monkton Arts which is a bit smaller, but which is more convenient if you are in the Ryde area. It’s also got a cafe and is a live music venue with lots of jazzy type music.
If you like photography, then the galleries at Dimbola in Freshwater Bay are your best bet. They’ve had some big names displaying work there in the past, and it’s housed in a building owned by a Victorian photographer called Julia Margaret Cameron. Again, there’s a cafe (you may be noticing a pattern). The major advantage of visiting Dimbola Lodge is that it has a sea view and is five minutes' walk to the rather lovely Freshwater Bay.
If you're in the market for a holiday souvenir, then there are several art gallery shops on the Isle of Wight. These tend to be found in the posher parts of the Island:
- Anne Toms' Yarmouth Gallery has a mix of paintings, sculptures and classy greetings cards. Yarmouth is a small town but it's got a castle, a pier and some good walking routes around the harbour.
- Seaview Art Gallery has lots of sea themed art from local artists. Combine it with a walk along the esplanade to Appley or stop at either The Old Fort or Seaview Hotel for lunch
- Cowes has got a couple of galleries, including Bath Road Gallery and Kendalls Fine Art. The town has plenty of good places to eat and there's a pushchair friendly walk along the seafront to Gurnard.
- There are a couple of Isle of Wight landscape photography shops which are worth a mention. They are a little artier than the usual shots of Godshill which appear on boxes of fudge. I'm a fan of both Available Light in Newport and Chad Powell's shop at Arreton Barns.
Dimbola Lodge has galleries from big name photographers and a cafe
10. Rare Wildlife Spotting on the Isle of Wight
I've often wondered why we teach small children how to identify safari animals but not British birds. I could tell you difference between a cheetah and a tiger but I'd be clueless if you asked me to explain the difference between a starling and a chaffinch. Sorry Dad.
If you have a little more knowledge and interest in these things, then I would suggest you try these spots:
If you have a little more knowledge and interest in these things, then I would suggest you try these spots:
- According to the National Trust, Newtown National Nature Reserve offers 'perhaps the best opportunity for bird watching on the Isle of Wight' with three hides to choose from. We last visited the Creek on a misty evening and felt like we were taking part in a Scandinavian crime drama, although it's a little less creepy on a sunny day.
- Ultra-rare White-Tailed Eagles were reintroduced to the Isle of Wight in 2019 - a mere 239 years after the last one was spotted. These things really are magnificent. Your best bet is Culver Down which is in the East Wight, overlooking Sandown, Shanklin and Bembridge.
- If you want to see red squirrels, you could try Parkhurst Forest (outskirts of Newport) Alverstone Mead Nature Reserve (near Sandown) Borthwood Copse (near Sandown area) or Brading Marshes.
- My grandfather often searched for the Glanville Fritillary which is a rare butterfly which can be spotted on the Isle of Wight. He searched around the clifftops at Compton Bay but the National Trust recommend its Mottistone Estate in the West Wight.
These handsome fellas can be spotted in Parkhurst Forest, Alverstone Mead Nature Reserve and occasionally in TK Maxx in Newport
|
Newtown's walkways and bird hides are popular spots for birdwatching
|
11. Isle of Wight Pearl
Isle of Wight Pearl is a popular stopping point for the many coach trips which tour the Isle of Wight.
It offers a talk about pearls, a chocolate shop and a café. It is on the Military Road, with a panoramic outlook over the Isle of Wight's west coast.
If you're looking for coach-party favourite Waltzing Waters, I'm afraid it closed in 2017 due to a lease running out.
It offers a talk about pearls, a chocolate shop and a café. It is on the Military Road, with a panoramic outlook over the Isle of Wight's west coast.
If you're looking for coach-party favourite Waltzing Waters, I'm afraid it closed in 2017 due to a lease running out.
12. Vineyards and Food Producers
You might assume the Isle of Wight’s food tourism industry revolves around seafood. Well buster, you’d be wrong.
Whilst there are plenty of places to pick up crabs (fnarr fnarr) or a local lobster, there is also the Garlic Farm which offers tractor-pulled tours and tasting (along with a Garlic Festival which attracts thousands of people). The Garlic Farm Shop won 'Best Shop/Retail' at the Red Funnel Isle of Wight Awards in 2022.
There are also lots of farm shops selling chutneys with fancy labels which make ideal presents for your grandma (Briddlesford Lodge, Isle of Wight Farm Shop near Godshill and others).
The Isle of Wight Gin Distillery produces Mermaid Gin, which has a rather attractive bottle. You will spot it in bars and restaurants across the Isle of Wight. At the time of writing, they don't offer tours but you can see them at work and talk to staff.
Goddards Brewery opened a big new premises in 2023 in Branstone, which is on the way towards Sandown from Newport. You can visit the shop for free or pay £12.50 to become a 'member' which gives you various perks. You'll get a souvenir glass and three small drinks on your visit and can also see the brewery at work from the upstairs bar.
There's also Adgestone Vineyard, which I’m assured can produce a bottle of English bottle of wine which isn’t disgusting. Adgestone Vineyard was on an episode of Countryfile in 2016.
I remember my father attempting to make gooseberry wine in the bath. I can’t remember quite how that masterplan panned out, but he certainly didn’t make a career of it.
See our Isle of Wight Food and Drink Tour for more ideas of foodie places to visit or our selection of restaurants by the sea.
Whilst there are plenty of places to pick up crabs (fnarr fnarr) or a local lobster, there is also the Garlic Farm which offers tractor-pulled tours and tasting (along with a Garlic Festival which attracts thousands of people). The Garlic Farm Shop won 'Best Shop/Retail' at the Red Funnel Isle of Wight Awards in 2022.
There are also lots of farm shops selling chutneys with fancy labels which make ideal presents for your grandma (Briddlesford Lodge, Isle of Wight Farm Shop near Godshill and others).
The Isle of Wight Gin Distillery produces Mermaid Gin, which has a rather attractive bottle. You will spot it in bars and restaurants across the Isle of Wight. At the time of writing, they don't offer tours but you can see them at work and talk to staff.
Goddards Brewery opened a big new premises in 2023 in Branstone, which is on the way towards Sandown from Newport. You can visit the shop for free or pay £12.50 to become a 'member' which gives you various perks. You'll get a souvenir glass and three small drinks on your visit and can also see the brewery at work from the upstairs bar.
There's also Adgestone Vineyard, which I’m assured can produce a bottle of English bottle of wine which isn’t disgusting. Adgestone Vineyard was on an episode of Countryfile in 2016.
I remember my father attempting to make gooseberry wine in the bath. I can’t remember quite how that masterplan panned out, but he certainly didn’t make a career of it.
See our Isle of Wight Food and Drink Tour for more ideas of foodie places to visit or our selection of restaurants by the sea.
Lost your bottle? Don't worry, they'll sell you one at the Isle of Wight Gin Distillery
13. Newtown Old Town Hall and Bembridge Windmill
If you happen to have a National Trust Membership you might want to explore their five main properties on the Isle of Wight, which include Bembridge Windmill and Newtown Old Town Hall.
Bembridge is home to the Isle of Wight's only windmill. It dates from around 1700 and can be heard to 'creak and groan' on a windy day, much like my knees.
Newtown Old Town Hall has a bizarre history as the town hall where there wasn't a town, since it was a rotten borough with two MPs. 400 years later it is such a relief to see Westminster is now completely free of corruption, dishonesty and structures designed to benefit a few chosen people.
Bembridge is home to the Isle of Wight's only windmill. It dates from around 1700 and can be heard to 'creak and groan' on a windy day, much like my knees.
Newtown Old Town Hall has a bizarre history as the town hall where there wasn't a town, since it was a rotten borough with two MPs. 400 years later it is such a relief to see Westminster is now completely free of corruption, dishonesty and structures designed to benefit a few chosen people.
There's a sail on at Bembridge Windmill
|
Newtown offers an old town hall, birdwatching and a misty-film-noir atmosphere
|
14. Car Park Viewpoints and the Wighty 90 Driving Route
It takes a certain level of maturity before you actually begin to admire views. My mother never persuaded me to look up whilst being driven through The Alps.
There are lots of car parks with gorgeous viewpoints on the Isle of Wight (see our separate guide to 15 of the best Isle of Wight car park viewpoints) but I would say my top 5 are:
You might like to try out the Wighty 90 Driving Route which includes several of the best views in one journey.
There are lots of car parks with gorgeous viewpoints on the Isle of Wight (see our separate guide to 15 of the best Isle of Wight car park viewpoints) but I would say my top 5 are:
- Top of the Military Road (there's a car park on one side of the road and a lay-by on the other)
- Hanover Point (views towards Freshwater and there's usually an ice cream/tea van)
- Brading Down (inland car park with far reaching views in both directions
- Mountjoy Cemetery (not really a car park, but views towards Cowes of a huge proportion of the Isle of Wight)
- Gurnard (pretty spot for watching yachts and cruise liners on the Solent)
You might like to try out the Wighty 90 Driving Route which includes several of the best views in one journey.
The view from the car park at Hanover Point in the West WIght
15. Isle of Wight Steam Railway and Island Line trainline
I'm stereotyping here, but I'm yet to meet a man over 60 who doesn't enjoy the smell of a steam train. I do wonder if I'll get nostalgic about the smell of a Vauxhall Astra once we've all switched to electric cars, but I doubt it.
Anyway, there's a very well run steam train which you can catch from Havenstreet. It doesn't have sea views or anything like that, but it's a nice day out with a museum section.
Alternatively, you can use the Isle of Wight's only 'modern' trainline, which connects the east side of the Island.
Anyway, there's a very well run steam train which you can catch from Havenstreet. It doesn't have sea views or anything like that, but it's a nice day out with a museum section.
Alternatively, you can use the Isle of Wight's only 'modern' trainline, which connects the east side of the Island.
Steamy days out at Isle of Wight Steam Railway
16. Golf
The term 'golf' covers quite a range of activities, if you'll excuse the pun. At one end of the scale is putting a red golf ball through a windmill at crazy golf (see our guide to family days out for more on that), right through to the Mercedes-driving businessmen who combine a round of golf with a gin and tonic and a discussion about the failings of the current government.
There are eight 'proper' golf courses on the Isle of Wight. Day visitors are welcome at all of them, as far as I can tell.
They all have their charms but I reckon there are four which stand out (Ed: surely you mean fore?):
Read our full guide to golf courses on the Isle of Wight.
There are eight 'proper' golf courses on the Isle of Wight. Day visitors are welcome at all of them, as far as I can tell.
They all have their charms but I reckon there are four which stand out (Ed: surely you mean fore?):
- Freshwater Bay Golf Club is the winner for views. It is on the top of a windy hill with wide views across to Freshwater Bay and the West Wight. Property developers would be licking their lips if they ever got their hands on it. There is a modestly sized and simple clubhouse.
- Shanklin and Sandown Golf Course is the Isle of Wight's only County Championship course. When I checked, it was the most expensive for a day visit (£55-£60) but it has a good reputation and a larger clubhouse. It's about a mile inland but you get some good views towards Culver cliff.
- Osborne Golf Course is next door to Osborne House, so it may be a good compromise if you fancy a round of golf whilst your spouse visits Queen Victoria's holiday home. It only has nine holes but there's a good-sized clubhouse, distant sea views and some curious history. The bath for Queen Victoria's elephant is a highlight.
- Westridge Golf Centre isn't in the prettiest location but it is the best bet for anyone who takes golf very seriously. They have highly qualified coaches, a floodlit driving range, a big golf shop and a machine which tells you that you have an awful technique.
Read our full guide to golf courses on the Isle of Wight.
This isn't my best photo but you get the idea of what to expect from Freshwater Bay Golf Club
17. Donkeys, Alpacas and Deer
Several Isle of Wight animal attractions carry a catastrophically high risk of being surrounded by an irritating family, such as mine. Tapnell Farm Park, Amazon World, Wildheart Animal Sanctuary and Monkey Haven all have more pushchairs than Argos.
However, some animal attractions offer something a bit simpler which may appeal to grown-ups looking for a quiet day out. I can't guarantee you won't get an ice cream dropped on your foot by a six year old, but the risk is certainly lower at places such as:
However, some animal attractions offer something a bit simpler which may appeal to grown-ups looking for a quiet day out. I can't guarantee you won't get an ice cream dropped on your foot by a six year old, but the risk is certainly lower at places such as:
- Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary - free entry, popular attraction in the South Wight on the way to Ventnor, cafe. Voted the Best Large Attraction at the Red Funnel Isle of Wight Awards 2022.
- Isle of Wight Deer Farm - working farm near Carisbrooke which opened to the public in 2019, offering walking and driving tours
- West Wight Alpacas - cafe, shop and walks with alpacas and llamas
18. Open Top Buses and helicopter rides
Fans of sitting down and holding on to their hats will enjoy the two open top buses which tour the Isle of Wight in the summer months. You can get a hop on-hop off ticket which covers both, and it works out better value if you travel in a group of five.
Your options are:
The Shanklin Shuttle is no longer an open top bus. It does a small route around, er, Shanklin unsurprisingly.
The ones we went on came with a recorded commentary.
The Island Coaster is no longer an open top bus, but it does a mammoth trek from Ryde to Yarmouth via the Needles in just under 3 hours. There are good coastal views if your bottom can stand it, or perhaps stop in Ventnor for a bit and hop back on.
Your options are:
- The Needles Breezer which does a circular route of the West Wight (nice views of the Needles, optional stops in Yarmouth, Freshwater Bay)
- The Downs Breezer which does a circular route around Ryde and Brading Downs (nice views of the Downs, good for getting between attractions, mostly inland).
The Shanklin Shuttle is no longer an open top bus. It does a small route around, er, Shanklin unsurprisingly.
The ones we went on came with a recorded commentary.
The Island Coaster is no longer an open top bus, but it does a mammoth trek from Ryde to Yarmouth via the Needles in just under 3 hours. There are good coastal views if your bottom can stand it, or perhaps stop in Ventnor for a bit and hop back on.
Hold on to your wigs, gents!
|
The Needles Breezer travels along this road with views towards Alum Bay
|
A helicopter ride is a more thrilling (and more expensive) way to see the Isle of Wight's coastline.
You can sign up for a flight from Sandown Airport.
When I checked, they offered:
You can sign up for a flight from Sandown Airport.
When I checked, they offered:
- a 15 minute helicopter flight which headed towards either St Catherine's Lighthouse or Ryde and Cowes.
- a 30 minute flight covering a bigger area including Osborne House, The Needles and Sandown/Shanklin.
19. Boat Tours and Pleasure Cruises
If you've got sea legs, then you might enjoy one of the pleasure boats which chug around the Isle of Wight's coastline. Options that I know about:
- Needles Pleasure Cruises runs two boats from the beach at Alum Bay. One is a sedate trip out to near the lighthouse complete with the usual commentary (costs about £8, lasts about 20 minutes). The other is a high-speed ride on a RIB (rigid inflatable boat) which costs about £15 for about 15 minutes. When I last checked, there was also a boat trip from Yarmouth to The Needles.
- Black Rock Cruises run slightly longer Needles Cruises which leave from Yarmouth and explore a larger section of the coastline (about 90 minutes for £30 when I checked in 2022). They also run 2-hour mackerel fishing trips from Yarmouth which costs £30.
- If you're a nostalgic sort then you might enjoy a trip on The Waverley which is the world's last seagoing paddle steamer. It's based in Scotland but usually does trips around the Isle of Wight in the summer months (reviews can be found here).
Boat trips leave from Yarmouth Harbour in warmer months (this photo is from 2023)
20. Fossil Hunting Tours
I spent many years fruitlessly searching for dinosaur bones on the Isle of Wight's beaches, held back only by my complete ignorance of what fossils actually look like. We then went on an organised fossil walk and found a bit of dinosaur bone after half an hour.
The Isle of Wight was declared the dinosaur capital of the UK a few years ago and there was even the case of a valuable bone being found by a 5-year-old. More recently, a relative of the T-Rex was found in Shanklin.
There are various fossil tours run by experts, including Island Gems, Dinosaur Expeditions, Wight Coast Fossils and Dinosaur Isle. I was going to make a cheap gag about the tour guides all having beards, but nowadays beards are mostly worn by trendy hipsters from Shoreditch so I suspect the stereotype may need updating.
Perhaps start with Island Gems, which won an award for Best Activity Provider at the Red Funnel Isle of Wight Awards in 2022.
If you fancy some DIY fossil hunting, check out our guide which includes a section on 'which is the best Isle of Wight beach for fossil hunting'.
The Isle of Wight was declared the dinosaur capital of the UK a few years ago and there was even the case of a valuable bone being found by a 5-year-old. More recently, a relative of the T-Rex was found in Shanklin.
There are various fossil tours run by experts, including Island Gems, Dinosaur Expeditions, Wight Coast Fossils and Dinosaur Isle. I was going to make a cheap gag about the tour guides all having beards, but nowadays beards are mostly worn by trendy hipsters from Shoreditch so I suspect the stereotype may need updating.
Perhaps start with Island Gems, which won an award for Best Activity Provider at the Red Funnel Isle of Wight Awards in 2022.
If you fancy some DIY fossil hunting, check out our guide which includes a section on 'which is the best Isle of Wight beach for fossil hunting'.
A dinosaur footprint or a foot-shaped rock?
21. Afternoon Tea
If the Isle of Wight weather lets you down, then you might consider an afternoon tea in one of the nicer hotels. You can get tea for two at hotels including Bembridge Coast Hotel, Luccombe Manor or Lakeside Park Hotel.
The Royal in Ventnor is arguably the poshest hotel on the Isle of Wight. It offers Champagne Tea which is about £55-£80 for two.
Needless to say, the Isle of Wight isn't short on places for cream teas and the like. Godshill is responsible for consuming 30% of the world's strawberry jam, according to some statistics I just made up.
There are loads of cream tea options to choose from, but a couple we've tried with nice coastal views are Isle of Wight Pearl and The Needles Old Battery.
The Royal in Ventnor is arguably the poshest hotel on the Isle of Wight. It offers Champagne Tea which is about £55-£80 for two.
Needless to say, the Isle of Wight isn't short on places for cream teas and the like. Godshill is responsible for consuming 30% of the world's strawberry jam, according to some statistics I just made up.
There are loads of cream tea options to choose from, but a couple we've tried with nice coastal views are Isle of Wight Pearl and The Needles Old Battery.
22. Fort Victoria
At one stage, the Isle of Wight must have looked pretty unwelcoming with guns pointed at passing boats from various spots including The Needles Battery, Puckpool Battery and the site which is now Wildheart Animal Sanctuary and was previously Isle of Wight Zoo.
Fort Victoria in Yarmouth is another remnant of such things, although it now houses rather more sedate attractions including a planetarium.
An aquarium at the fort closed a few years ago, but the Isle of Wight Reptilarium and Terrapin sanctuary replaced it in 2017. Does anyone else fondly remember those Terrapins they gave away with Kinder Surprise in the 90s? Just me then...
Fort Victoria in Yarmouth is another remnant of such things, although it now houses rather more sedate attractions including a planetarium.
An aquarium at the fort closed a few years ago, but the Isle of Wight Reptilarium and Terrapin sanctuary replaced it in 2017. Does anyone else fondly remember those Terrapins they gave away with Kinder Surprise in the 90s? Just me then...
Fort Victoria is a popular spot for watching yachts on the Solent
23. Arts and Crafts
Pottery lessons and posh designs are available at Isle of Wight Pottery in Niton.
Or how about spending the day woodturning at Mulberry Tree Wood Turnery? Or a beekeeping experience at Bunbury Bees? Or a crafty workshop?
If you'd rather sit and watch, then you can build up a sweat at the glass blowing at The Needles. Watch out for school trips though...
Arreton Barns has about a dozen small shops, including some where you can watch 'Artisans' at work. When I visited, they had one guy glass blowing, a woman sat at a sewing machine and a man working on some jewellery.
Chessell Pottery Cafe in Calbourne in the West Wight stopped doing pottery painting in 2023.
Or how about spending the day woodturning at Mulberry Tree Wood Turnery? Or a beekeeping experience at Bunbury Bees? Or a crafty workshop?
If you'd rather sit and watch, then you can build up a sweat at the glass blowing at The Needles. Watch out for school trips though...
Arreton Barns has about a dozen small shops, including some where you can watch 'Artisans' at work. When I visited, they had one guy glass blowing, a woman sat at a sewing machine and a man working on some jewellery.
Chessell Pottery Cafe in Calbourne in the West Wight stopped doing pottery painting in 2023.
24. Liz Earle
I rarely venture beyond soap and water, but my wife got terribly excited when she realised that Liz Earle was based on the Isle of Wight. They are one of those natural skincare companies which appear on never-ending shopping channels, presented by people with never-ending smiles.
Liz Earle has got an Isle of Wight store in Ryde, and does things like pampering and Friday afternoon cake sessions.
Liz Earle has got an Isle of Wight store in Ryde, and does things like pampering and Friday afternoon cake sessions.
25. Isle of Wight cycle routes
There are lots of exhausting cycle routes for people who are much fitter than me. If you're a keen pedaller then you might like to start with our wonderful cycling guide (or don't, there's no pressure).
However, if you're just looking for a gentle jaunt along a cycle path with a three hour stop for lunch and a snooze then I would take a look at the Red Squirrel Trail website.
The main cycle path is on former railway lines, with a route which goes from Cowes to Newport and then onto Sandown and Shanklin. The Red Squirrel Trail site also has advice on other quiet routes along other parts of the Isle of Wight (Yarmouth to Freshwater and Brading to St Helen's, for example).
See our still-wonderful cycling guide for advice on bike hire and bringing your bicycle on the ferry.
However, if you're just looking for a gentle jaunt along a cycle path with a three hour stop for lunch and a snooze then I would take a look at the Red Squirrel Trail website.
The main cycle path is on former railway lines, with a route which goes from Cowes to Newport and then onto Sandown and Shanklin. The Red Squirrel Trail site also has advice on other quiet routes along other parts of the Isle of Wight (Yarmouth to Freshwater and Brading to St Helen's, for example).
See our still-wonderful cycling guide for advice on bike hire and bringing your bicycle on the ferry.
The Isle of Wight's main car-free cycle track is called the Red Squirrel Trail
|
The Cowes to Newport section of the Red Squirrel Trail is a former railway line
|
26. Calbourne Mill
Calbourne Mill is visited by some families but is somewhat more serene and quiet than most attractions.
There's a water mill (so you can buy your muesli), pottery related activities, a small war museum, 'rural museums', punts, croquet, petanque, lego tables and a giant chalkboard.
It scores 3/5 on TripAdvisor.
There's a water mill (so you can buy your muesli), pottery related activities, a small war museum, 'rural museums', punts, croquet, petanque, lego tables and a giant chalkboard.
It scores 3/5 on TripAdvisor.
27. ISle of WIght Board Game CAfe
Board game cafes are usually a mix of hardcore gamers playing some exceedingly complicated game about the Russian Revolution...alongside a family falling out over a game of Snakes and Ladders.
If you don't mind the risk of a few children monopolising the venue then head to Newport's board game cafe. It is called Snacks and Ladders, which wins an award for The Best Pun For An Isle of Wight Business.
If you don't mind the risk of a few children monopolising the venue then head to Newport's board game cafe. It is called Snacks and Ladders, which wins an award for The Best Pun For An Isle of Wight Business.
28. Isle of Wight Garden Centres
Busy Bee Garden Centre in Ryde is one of those which you can visit even if you don't like gardening. They sell plants, but they also sell kitchen gadgets, duvet covers, and an array of trinkets, knick-knacks and ornaments. At Christmas, they put a lot of effort into the decorations with moving polar bears and singing penguins.
Other sizeable garden centres on the Isle of Wight include Medina Garden Centre and Forest View Nursery near Newport, Thompsons in Newchurch (near Sandown) and Honnor and Jeffrey which is in the West Wight and near Sandown.
Other sizeable garden centres on the Isle of Wight include Medina Garden Centre and Forest View Nursery near Newport, Thompsons in Newchurch (near Sandown) and Honnor and Jeffrey which is in the West Wight and near Sandown.
29. Isle of Wight Photography Tours
Many years ago, photography was the hobby of the few who had the time and space to be dealing with darkrooms and 35mm film. Nowadays, everyone is relentless clicking, downloading and uploading whilst occasionally producing a decent photo like monkeys bashing out the works of Shakespeare in a warehouse of typewriters.
Sorry, I got a bit angry there. It's been a difficult day.
If you want to improve your photography and add a bit of structure to your sightseeing then you might like an Isle of Wight photography tour. One that I know of is Wild Wight Photography Tours. At the time of writing, it costs £60-£140 for a tour for a group of four people.
Sorry, I got a bit angry there. It's been a difficult day.
If you want to improve your photography and add a bit of structure to your sightseeing then you might like an Isle of Wight photography tour. One that I know of is Wild Wight Photography Tours. At the time of writing, it costs £60-£140 for a tour for a group of four people.
Compton Bay is a popular location for snapping away for hours on end
30. Stargazing
Some parts of the Isle of Wight are good for stargazing, thanks to the lack of houses and people. I would head for the Military Road which connects the South Wight to the West Wight. There are very few houses around, so your stargazing will only be ruined by the occasional car which whooshes along at great speed.
Visit Isle of Wight has a simple guide which tells you what you should see, depending on the time of year.
You might need your long johns and a thermos flask for this one.
There's also a planetarium near Yarmouth, if you really get into it.
Visit Isle of Wight has a simple guide which tells you what you should see, depending on the time of year.
You might need your long johns and a thermos flask for this one.
There's also a planetarium near Yarmouth, if you really get into it.
The Isle of Wight's coastline around Atherfield and Whale Chine offers dark skies
The-Isle-of-Wight-Guru-Don't-Blame-Us-Disclaimer™ All the information on this website is correct, as far as we know, but please do check details directly - and please contact us if you find anything inaccurate. Here's our full disclaimer.
