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30 activities for children and families on the Isle of Wight
An Isle of Wight family holiday is perhaps best suited for children during that brief patch when the toddler tantrums have stopped and the teenage door-slamming hasn't quite started (we've got guides for toddlers and teenagers if you're dealing with that).
Holidays with under fives are like transporting a circus, and once they reach the teenage years they start to claim that all their friends are going on shopping weekends in New York.
Here are our pick of some attractions, days out and things to do on the Isle of Wight with children who are Primary, Middle and Junior School aged (about 5-12 years old).
Holidays with under fives are like transporting a circus, and once they reach the teenage years they start to claim that all their friends are going on shopping weekends in New York.
Here are our pick of some attractions, days out and things to do on the Isle of Wight with children who are Primary, Middle and Junior School aged (about 5-12 years old).
1. Best Isle of Wight beaches for children
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For a cheap and (relatively) stress free day out with pre-teenage children, most people head for the busy beaches like Shanklin, Sandown, Ventnor or Appley (Ryde). Shanklin, Sandown and Ventnor are good for swimming. Appley is a vast patch of sand at low tide so is good for football and beach games.
They all offer lots of stress-reducing facilities like easy parking, decent toilets, cafes selling chips and beach-side amusements like mini golf, pedalos and machines which steal 10p coins. Sandown has a pier with amusements, bowling and an indoor play area. |
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We prefer slightly quieter beaches which sometimes require a little more effort or have more basic facilities. Try Colwell and Hanover Point/Compton Bay in the West Wight, St Helen's, Priory Bay or Whitecliff Bay in the East Wight, Steephill Cove in the South Wight or Gurnard in the North Wight.
Rockpooling in Bembridge is a good time-filler with pre-teenage children or if you want some waves for bodyboarding then Hanover Point is usually best (see the surf forecast).
See our lovely clickable guide to the best Isle of Wight beaches for more detail or our guide to which is the best Isle of Wight beach for...?
Rockpooling in Bembridge is a good time-filler with pre-teenage children or if you want some waves for bodyboarding then Hanover Point is usually best (see the surf forecast).
See our lovely clickable guide to the best Isle of Wight beaches for more detail or our guide to which is the best Isle of Wight beach for...?
2. Robin Hill Adventure Park and Gardens
Squawk! Peacocks at Robin Hill
Robin Hill is owned by the same people as Blackgang Chine and they are both good quality family attractions which can fill a whole day. I’ve always felt that Robin Hill is best for slightly older children (about ages 5 to 12 I would say) although we did take our 3 1/2 year old and she had a great time on the various playgrounds (and she got in free).
There are a couple of medium sized rides – not quite Alton Towers, but better than the dodgy funfairs which appear on village parks with rusty dodgems. There’s also a toboggan run, a maze, some adventure playground type-things and loads of woodland to explore.
Tickets are about £15-£20
There are a couple of medium sized rides – not quite Alton Towers, but better than the dodgy funfairs which appear on village parks with rusty dodgems. There’s also a toboggan run, a maze, some adventure playground type-things and loads of woodland to explore.
Tickets are about £15-£20
3. Blackgang Chine
As mentioned above, Blackgang Chine is a good day out but is probably better for slightly younger children (I would say about 4 - 10 year olds ideally). Most people who have been to the Isle of Wight reminisce about its carbon fibre dinosaurs, crooked house, giant pirate, cowboys and various things which fell into the sea when the cliff gave way.
The kitschy nature of Blackgang Chine is still there, and there are also some medium sized rides including a water slide, a rollercoaster (which even my weak stomach can handle) and a new animatronic dinosaur section called Restricted Area 5.
Those who have been to big mainland theme parks might find it a bit tame, but there is enough to dazzle younger children, and it has more charm than most parks.
Tickets are about £20.
The kitschy nature of Blackgang Chine is still there, and there are also some medium sized rides including a water slide, a rollercoaster (which even my weak stomach can handle) and a new animatronic dinosaur section called Restricted Area 5.
Those who have been to big mainland theme parks might find it a bit tame, but there is enough to dazzle younger children, and it has more charm than most parks.
Tickets are about £20.
4. Our Isle Spy car journey Game
The Isle of Wight's bumpy roads can be a bit nauseating at times, and can lead to children complaining from the back seat. One solution is to tell them to imagine it is a rollercoaster ride at Blackgang Chine but if that doesn't work then try our Isle Spy Car Journey game.
We've chosen 15 things which you'll see on an Isle of Wight car journey, including quirky road signs, a giant coloured cone and a very short stretch of dual carriageway.
Print it off and see if you can find all 15 before someone throws up.
We've chosen 15 things which you'll see on an Isle of Wight car journey, including quirky road signs, a giant coloured cone and a very short stretch of dual carriageway.
Print it off and see if you can find all 15 before someone throws up.
5. Isle of Wight Zoo, Amazon World, Monkey Haven, Tapnell Farm Park
Isle of Wight Zoo
I’ve bundled these four Isle of Wight animal attractions and zoos into one, as they are all family friendly and offer a similar sort of day out for a similar price (all are around the £10 mark).
Which is best? Well, I guess it depends which type of animals you are most interested in seeing, but Trip Advisor reviewers gave Tapnell Farm Park and the Monkey Haven 4.5, whilst Isle of Wight Zoo and Amazon World both scored 4.0 (checked June 2016).
Isle of Wight Zoo is in Sandown, Monkey Haven is near Newport, Amazon World is between Newport and Sandown, Tapnell Farm Park is near Freshwater in the West Wight.
You can read more about all three in our guides to animal attractions and discounts to Isle of Wight attractions.
Seaview Wildlife Encounter and Coleman's Farm closed in 2015 (most of the animals went to Tapnell Farm Park).
- Isle of Wight Zoo used to be known as Sandown Zoo and specialises in tigers.
- Tapnell Farm Park is newer than the others (it opened in 2016). About half of it is a petting zoo with farm animals alongside wallabies and meerkats whilst the other half is indoor soft play and adventure play.
- Amazon World includes monkeys, sloths, snakes, crocodiles and parrots.
- Monkey Haven also has owls and is fairly self explanatory!
Which is best? Well, I guess it depends which type of animals you are most interested in seeing, but Trip Advisor reviewers gave Tapnell Farm Park and the Monkey Haven 4.5, whilst Isle of Wight Zoo and Amazon World both scored 4.0 (checked June 2016).
Isle of Wight Zoo is in Sandown, Monkey Haven is near Newport, Amazon World is between Newport and Sandown, Tapnell Farm Park is near Freshwater in the West Wight.
You can read more about all three in our guides to animal attractions and discounts to Isle of Wight attractions.
Seaview Wildlife Encounter and Coleman's Farm closed in 2015 (most of the animals went to Tapnell Farm Park).
6. Adventure golf/ mini golf/ crazy golf
If your idea of ‘crazy’ is putting a red golf ball around a corner then you’ve lived a very dull life, my friend. However, there are loads of adventure/mini/crazy golf courses on the Isle of Wight which fill a couple of hours with kids, until the inevitable cheating starts ('that was just a practice shot...' etc).
We've argued our way round most of them now. A few to choose from:
We've argued our way round most of them now. A few to choose from:
- Rylstone Gardens in Shanklin (About £10 for a family of four. It's not terribly flashy, but it is in the middle of a lovely park and is next to a coffee shop so you might be able to leave the children playing whilst gorging on latte and lemon drizzle cake. Read our blog about Rylstone Gardens and Jurassic Bay.)
- Pirates Cove and Jurassic Bay in Shanklin (Two separate courses. The dinosaur one was new in 2017 and replaced one of the two minigolf courses on the Esplanade, about £6 per course)
- Jungle Adventure Golf as part of the Summer Arcade on Shanklin Esplanade (£3.50 for adults, small course but some nice creative features)
- Mini golf at Puckpool Park in Ryde (12 holes, £3.50, quaint, well kept gardens, adjacent cafe, tennis courts and decent playground)
- Jurassic Golf at The Needles Park near Alum Bay (9 holes, £3, nice new course - read our blog)
- Lost World Adventure Golf in Sandown (indoor course on Sandown Pier, £3. My brother enjoyed this one - that makes it sound like he is a child, he's 36)
- Captain Hook's Adventure Golf at Peter Pan's Funfair and Amusements in Ryde
- Adventure Golf at Calbourne Water Mill (About £10 per person to get in, plus extra for minigolf. Looks good from the road, but some reviews say it is overpriced).
- Crazy golf at Sandham Gardens in Sandown (about £3, near to a big playground, Mrs Guru did this one without me and reported that it was quite tricky in places).
7. Alum Bay and The Needles
The Needles Lighthouse
Alum Bay and the Needles reminds me a bit of the Canadian side of Niagara Falls. OK, so it’s not quite so spectacular but it is a natural wonder which has become a tourism hotspot with loads of different things to do.
The bits that will appeal to children are unlikely to be the wartime, telecommunications and space race history of the Old Battery. However, families do flock to: the chairlift, the handful of funfair rides, the boat ride out to the lighthouse (you can’t go in the Lighthouse unfortunately) and the shop where you can fill up a glass shape with multi-coloured sand.
You pay a few pounds to park (£5 in 2017) and then you just pay for whatever you decide to do.
The bits that will appeal to children are unlikely to be the wartime, telecommunications and space race history of the Old Battery. However, families do flock to: the chairlift, the handful of funfair rides, the boat ride out to the lighthouse (you can’t go in the Lighthouse unfortunately) and the shop where you can fill up a glass shape with multi-coloured sand.
You pay a few pounds to park (£5 in 2017) and then you just pay for whatever you decide to do.
8. Isle Jump
"Isle Jump!" may sound like a threat, but it's also the name of the new trampoline park in Lake. Yes, huge trampolines are no longer just filling up your neighbour's back garden, they are now filling up big warehouses with bouncy versions of basketball, dodgeball and the like.
At the time of writing it was about £10 an hour (2016) with family deals available.
At the time of writing it was about £10 an hour (2016) with family deals available.
9. Dinosaur Isle
Dinosaur Isle's funky building
The first corridor at Dinosaur Isle is a bit educational for my liking, although I'm sure it's very worthy and important stuff for academics. As I've said before, trying to educate your children in August is a bad move.
However, once you get into the main room, it is much more child-friendly with things to prod, poke and smell. There are staggeringly large bones which are well presented and genuinely interesting.
It is quite small but it is near to some other nice beaches and attractions (Sandown Bay, Yaverland beach, Sandham Gardens - see #12, Brown's Golf Course).
However, once you get into the main room, it is much more child-friendly with things to prod, poke and smell. There are staggeringly large bones which are well presented and genuinely interesting.
It is quite small but it is near to some other nice beaches and attractions (Sandown Bay, Yaverland beach, Sandham Gardens - see #12, Brown's Golf Course).
10. Newport and Ryde Cinemas
Newport's 11 screen cinema
If it’s raining then you might like to shelter in the safety of the modern multiscreen cinema in Newport, which is owned by Cineworld, or the more nostalgic cinema in Ryde which is much smaller but is usually very cheap (£4 at the time of writing). Good luck finding a film that everyone is happy with…
11. Ryde 10 pin bowling alley (Superbowl)
The Wii version of bowling is certainly cheaper for a family activity, but you can't beat the real thing. Ryde has a 10 pin bowling alley. Sandown Pier also has a half decent (and cheap) bowling alley with four lanes.
12. Sandham Gardens
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Just round the corner from Dinosaur Isle on Sandown esplanade is a good sized play area at Sandham Gardens, which is designed to have something for anyone aged from about one upwards. There’s a skate park and football/basketball court alongside a play area which older children will enjoy, as well as an outdoor gym and a toddlers playground. Dads won’t be able to resist trying out the zip wire.
See our toddlers guide for more playground advice. |
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13. Traffic-free cycle tracks
The Isle of Wight has loads of gruelling cycle routes down chalk ridges and up steep hills but if your child's helmet has a Disney or Marvel character on it then it's probably best to keep it simple and traffic free.
Most families with children on wobbly bicycles attempt a section of the Red Squirrel Trail. It's mostly former railway lines (i.e. flat and car-free) but some parts go through towns.
The whole thing is 32 miles long and covers Cowes, Newport, Shanklin and Sandown but you can easily just do a small section of it.
Some people hire a bike in Cowes and cycle to Newport alongside the River Medina (4 miles each way, options include Top Gear Hire or Isle Cycle). Alternatively, you can do a more circular ride by starting from Wight Bike in Merstone, routefifty7 in Shanklin or Isle Cycle in Sandown
Other car free cycling options suggested by the Red Squirrel Trail people include:
Other bike hire options include TAV Cycles in Ryde and Tackt Isle near Bembridge.
The map below shows the Cowes to Newport section of the Red Squirrel Trail.
Most families with children on wobbly bicycles attempt a section of the Red Squirrel Trail. It's mostly former railway lines (i.e. flat and car-free) but some parts go through towns.
The whole thing is 32 miles long and covers Cowes, Newport, Shanklin and Sandown but you can easily just do a small section of it.
Some people hire a bike in Cowes and cycle to Newport alongside the River Medina (4 miles each way, options include Top Gear Hire or Isle Cycle). Alternatively, you can do a more circular ride by starting from Wight Bike in Merstone, routefifty7 in Shanklin or Isle Cycle in Sandown
Other car free cycling options suggested by the Red Squirrel Trail people include:
- Yarmouth to Freshwater along a short bit of former railway line. Wight Cycle Hire is at the former railway station in Yarmouth.
- Parkhurst Forest (watch out for Red Squirrels and prison escapees)
- Brading to St Helens (former trainline with nature reserve)
- Newport to Wootton Bridge
- Ryde to St Helens (mostly coastal)
Other bike hire options include TAV Cycles in Ryde and Tackt Isle near Bembridge.
The map below shows the Cowes to Newport section of the Red Squirrel Trail.
14. West Wight Alpacas
Alpacas tucking in to some grass in Wellow
If a box of souvenir Isle of Wight fudge will cause Aunt Ethel's teeth to fall out then you might consider a trip to the shop at West Wight Alpacas. Just think how great she'd look down the Post Office with an alpaca scarf or shoulder bag.
Besides the shop, there is also 'The Llama Tree' pizzeria which does those fancy wood-fired pizzas. For a fiver (less for children) you can have a look round the farm or you can take an alpaca for a walk from £12 (2017 prices).
Besides the shop, there is also 'The Llama Tree' pizzeria which does those fancy wood-fired pizzas. For a fiver (less for children) you can have a look round the farm or you can take an alpaca for a walk from £12 (2017 prices).
15. Bembridge lifeboat station
Another good free outing is to Bembridge Lifeboat Station to see their impressive vessel which hangs at the top of a slope ready to swoosh into the sea. There's a huge great walkway/pier, although it does have some small gaps in it so smaller children need to watch out.
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16. Breezer Buses
Hold on to your hats!
For those without wigs, the three 'Island Breezer' open top bus routes provide a fun way to see the Isle of Wight. A warm day is preferable, or you'll soon be calling it the 'Freezer'.
The Needles Breezer trundles through Yarmouth, Freshwater, Alum Bay and Colwell in a circular motion in just under an hour, whilst the Downs Breezer does a circular route through Ryde, Sandown, Brading and Arreton in just over an hour. The Island Coaster is no longer open top, but has good views and goes from Ryde to the Needles, via Ventnor in 2 hours 45 minutes. You'll be stunned to read that the Shanklin Breezer travels around Shanklin.
You can hop on and off all four, and you can buy an all day ticket which also covers the connecting 'normal' buses.
I would say that the Needles Breezer is better for seeing unspoilt scenery and some sea views, whereas the Downs Breezer is better if you want to stop at busy seaside resorts and attractions on route (having said that, Brading Downs has lovely views).
The Island Coaster is an epic journey of nearly three hours which takes in loads of lovely coastline and sea views. It is stunning but personally I'd be somewhat sick of buses after three hours (and it's not circular so you'll need to get another bus back to wherever you are staying). Of course, you could just do part of the journey. It's no longer an open top bus.
It's better value if you travel in a group. At the time of writing (2016 prices), you can get a hop-on hop-off 24 hour ticket for £10 for an adult or £5 for a child - but it's only £25 if you travel in a group of any five people.
One ticket gives you access to all four buses (and other Southern Vectis buses) - so you can attempt a bus tour challenge if you fancy it.
The Needles Breezer trundles through Yarmouth, Freshwater, Alum Bay and Colwell in a circular motion in just under an hour, whilst the Downs Breezer does a circular route through Ryde, Sandown, Brading and Arreton in just over an hour. The Island Coaster is no longer open top, but has good views and goes from Ryde to the Needles, via Ventnor in 2 hours 45 minutes. You'll be stunned to read that the Shanklin Breezer travels around Shanklin.
You can hop on and off all four, and you can buy an all day ticket which also covers the connecting 'normal' buses.
I would say that the Needles Breezer is better for seeing unspoilt scenery and some sea views, whereas the Downs Breezer is better if you want to stop at busy seaside resorts and attractions on route (having said that, Brading Downs has lovely views).
The Island Coaster is an epic journey of nearly three hours which takes in loads of lovely coastline and sea views. It is stunning but personally I'd be somewhat sick of buses after three hours (and it's not circular so you'll need to get another bus back to wherever you are staying). Of course, you could just do part of the journey. It's no longer an open top bus.
It's better value if you travel in a group. At the time of writing (2016 prices), you can get a hop-on hop-off 24 hour ticket for £10 for an adult or £5 for a child - but it's only £25 if you travel in a group of any five people.
One ticket gives you access to all four buses (and other Southern Vectis buses) - so you can attempt a bus tour challenge if you fancy it.
17. Ryde Canoe Lake
Ryde's Canoe Lake with its pedalo swans
Have you ever wanted to pretend you were a swan?
Fulfill your dream with a trip to Ryde's Canoe Lake with its novelty swan shaped pedalos and canoes for those who are less bothered about imitating a large white bird.
Fulfill your dream with a trip to Ryde's Canoe Lake with its novelty swan shaped pedalos and canoes for those who are less bothered about imitating a large white bird.
18. Carisbrooke Castle
Carisbrooke Castle
I wasn’t sure if I should include anything which may appear educational in this list, as I used to get very irked when my mother used to try and make me learn things during school holidays.
However, if your kids are constantly lunging at each other with swords and holding shields then you might get away with Carisbrooke Castle. English Heritage make an effort to make it family-friendly with jousting on the bowling green in the summer and donkeys which pull up a bucket from a well all year round. There’s also a dry moat which we used to run up and down like lunatics.
There’s another smaller castle in Yarmouth, but Carisbrooke would be my choice if you only have time for one.
Osborne House (another big English Heritage property) didn't interest me until I was at least 25, but well-meaning parents may be able to talk children round with the promise of the summertime Punch and Judy show on Queen Vicky's beach.
However, if your kids are constantly lunging at each other with swords and holding shields then you might get away with Carisbrooke Castle. English Heritage make an effort to make it family-friendly with jousting on the bowling green in the summer and donkeys which pull up a bucket from a well all year round. There’s also a dry moat which we used to run up and down like lunatics.
There’s another smaller castle in Yarmouth, but Carisbrooke would be my choice if you only have time for one.
Osborne House (another big English Heritage property) didn't interest me until I was at least 25, but well-meaning parents may be able to talk children round with the promise of the summertime Punch and Judy show on Queen Vicky's beach.
19. Isle of Wight Steam Railway and Island Line Railway
Enthusiasts at the Isle of Wight Steam Railway
The Isle of Wight Steam Railway appeals to a) families who fancy a nice ride on an old train and b) men called Nigel and Brian who like to discuss the merits of Ivatt Class 2 locomotives.
A round trip takes about an hour, but they do put on special events throughout the year and there's also a play area, woodland walk and the 'train story discovery centre'. The train route is inland and goes through some nice scenic fields.
An alternative option is the 'modern' Island Line which travels from Ryde Pierhead to Sandown and Shanklin. It's a former London underground train which is so old that it's become a vintage tourist attraction. The route is relatively attractive but not stunning (the bit along the pier is the most exciting). We wrote a blog about our trip on the Island Line service.
A round trip takes about an hour, but they do put on special events throughout the year and there's also a play area, woodland walk and the 'train story discovery centre'. The train route is inland and goes through some nice scenic fields.
An alternative option is the 'modern' Island Line which travels from Ryde Pierhead to Sandown and Shanklin. It's a former London underground train which is so old that it's become a vintage tourist attraction. The route is relatively attractive but not stunning (the bit along the pier is the most exciting). We wrote a blog about our trip on the Island Line service.
20. Horse Riding
Encouraging young girls to try horse riding carries a severe risk of a lifetime of poverty, weekend gymkhanas and shovelling manure at 6am. However, there are three family-friendly stables to choose from on the Isle of Wight (Sally's Riding School, Bembridge, Island Riding Centre and Hill Farm Stables, Freshwater).
Sally's Riding School sometimes lead horse rides along the beach, which sounds like it would be great fun, especially if it was in slow motion with an 80s ballad playing in the background.
Sally's Riding School sometimes lead horse rides along the beach, which sounds like it would be great fun, especially if it was in slow motion with an 80s ballad playing in the background.
21. Geocaching
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Geocaching combines a 17th century pirate's love of treasure hunting with a 21st century child's love of staring at small screens. The basic idea is that you download an app on a smartphone which shows you roughly where little boxes of 'treasure' are hidden all over the world.
The 'treasure' is usually a tupperware box full of little trinkets that has been hidden by a fellow geocacher. |
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You sign a log book, swap a trinket if you want to and then declare to the world that you found it. There are lots of 'caches' hidden across the Isle of Wight, some of which are at landmarks and historic sites.
It is free for the basic app (search for geocaching intro) or about £8 for the full app which has more features.
We wrote a blog about our first Isle of Wight geocache adventure
It is free for the basic app (search for geocaching intro) or about £8 for the full app which has more features.
We wrote a blog about our first Isle of Wight geocache adventure
22. Tweerooms
Catch the ferry to see fairies in Shanklin
Younger girls that are into pink things, fairies and angels (or boys, I'm not judging), may enjoy a visit to The Old Thatch Teashop in Shanklin (PO37 6NU). It is English tweeness turned all the way up to 11 with a thatched roof, garish pink walls and a well-kept 'fairy garden'. It is right in the middle of Shanklin's olde village, which is pretty twee in itself.
Thanks to Rachel for getting in touch and recommending it.
Thanks to Rachel for getting in touch and recommending it.
23. Amusement Arcades
Sandown, Shanklin and Ryde have big amusement arcades on their esplanades
If you have deep pockets and a high tolerance for electronic noise, there are amusement arcades on the seafront in Sandown (on the Pier), Shanklin (our personal favourite) and Ryde.
Ventnor's Gaiety seafront amusement arcade is currently boarded up and looking a little sorry for itself (2018).
Ventnor's Gaiety seafront amusement arcade is currently boarded up and looking a little sorry for itself (2018).
24. Seafront 'funfairs'
Peter Pan's Funfair in Ryde
On Ryde's Esplanade, towards the Appley end you will find Peter Pan's Funfair and Amusements, which is aimed at younger children and has things like a small carousel, teacups and little cars to drive.
I've only looked at it in passing, but I would politely describe the reviews as 'mixed'. There are some good reviews, but more than one person uses the phrase 'run down' which presumably is a critique rather than an instruction.
Meanwhile, Shanklin Seafront has some small funfair type attractions, like those balls you climb inside and run on water.
I've only looked at it in passing, but I would politely describe the reviews as 'mixed'. There are some good reviews, but more than one person uses the phrase 'run down' which presumably is a critique rather than an instruction.
Meanwhile, Shanklin Seafront has some small funfair type attractions, like those balls you climb inside and run on water.
25. National Museum of Poo
Isle of Wight Zoo sporadically incorporates Poo At The Zoo, a celebration of all things turdy. Prepare yourself for sniggering and poo-related puns with remnants from safari animals and ancient humans amongst retro toilet seats and educational bits about the power of poo.
At the time of writing it had left the Zoo for a bit, but was on offer nearby as a 'plop-up' attraction.
At the time of writing it had left the Zoo for a bit, but was on offer nearby as a 'plop-up' attraction.
26. The Wight Military and Heritage Museum
I know what you're thinking - my kids are not going to be impressed if I take them to something which is bordering on educational during the school holidays. However, the Wight Military and Heritage Museum may well appeal to some as they offer rides in armoured vehicles. Check their website in advance as it is a charity run by volunteers.
27. Sea Safaris and Pleasure Cruises
Taking children on a boat trip is a bit of a gamble, as there is always a chance that one member of your party will start to feel sick and ask to go home when you are sat out in the Solent.
If you are willing to risk such things then you might consider the following:
If you are willing to risk such things then you might consider the following:
- Needles Pleasure Cruises runs a tame 20 minute tour out to the famous red and white lighthouse (you can't go in the lighthouse) and a less tame 15 minute high speed ride around the coastline. They leave from Alum Bay and cost about £5 for the slow ride or £10 for the fast trip.
- Black Rock Cruises also covers the Needles, but they leave from Yarmouth which makes it a longer journey which explores more of the West Wight coastline. Costs about £15 for 90 minutes. They also do a fishing trip which lasts a couple of hours.
- Ocean Blue Sea Charters is based in Ventnor. They do 1 hour trips which either involve looking for lobster and admiring the coastline, or fishing for mackerel. Costs about £20 each.
28. Family friendly festivals and events
The Isle of Wight has a busy calendar of events which start around mid-Spring and continue until the Autumn (see our guide to festivals and carnivals).
Child-friendly ones include Carnivals which take place in July and August in Sandown, Shanklin, Ryde, Newport, Ventnor, Cowes, Yarmouth and St Helen's (Islanders sure do love their carnivals). The Garlic Festival is family-friendly, whilst Cowes Week is good for a wander.
Along similar lines, Jay Miller's Circus turns up on the Isle of Wight for a few weeks in the summer. The National Trust run sandcastle building competitions in July and August (more details in our annual events guide).
Child-friendly ones include Carnivals which take place in July and August in Sandown, Shanklin, Ryde, Newport, Ventnor, Cowes, Yarmouth and St Helen's (Islanders sure do love their carnivals). The Garlic Festival is family-friendly, whilst Cowes Week is good for a wander.
Along similar lines, Jay Miller's Circus turns up on the Isle of Wight for a few weeks in the summer. The National Trust run sandcastle building competitions in July and August (more details in our annual events guide).
29. Sandown Pier
Sandown's Pier is one of four left on the Isle of Wight (Yarmouth, Ryde and Totland are the others) but it is the only one which offers classic pier style attractions.
So, roll up, roll up for the headache-inducing clankity-clank of amusement arcades and the flashing lightbulbs of teacups and dodgems. You'll also find a cheap bowling alley, minigolf, indoor play and a couple of bars.
It's cheap and cheerful but it's a good way to waste a couple of hours if it suddenly starts raining when you are sat on the beach in your pants.
Read the blog about Sandown Pier
So, roll up, roll up for the headache-inducing clankity-clank of amusement arcades and the flashing lightbulbs of teacups and dodgems. You'll also find a cheap bowling alley, minigolf, indoor play and a couple of bars.
It's cheap and cheerful but it's a good way to waste a couple of hours if it suddenly starts raining when you are sat on the beach in your pants.
Read the blog about Sandown Pier
30. Chessell Pottery Cafe and Arty Shakes
Chessell Pottery is a pleasant attraction in the West Wight where pleasant people eat pleasant cream teas whilst painting pleasant pottery. There's no entrance fee, but you pay a studio fee (about £7 in 208) if you want to paint anything. You then pay to buy a plate, mug or whatever you fancy painting. You can have it glazed or just paint with acrylic which isn't as durable.
There are also paint-your-own souvenir type places in less rural locations in Ryde (Fired Art Ceramics) and Shanklin (Arty Shakes).
There are also paint-your-own souvenir type places in less rural locations in Ryde (Fired Art Ceramics) and Shanklin (Arty Shakes).
31. Mottistone Gardens
Harry Pot-ter hiding in a tree at Mottistone Gardens
Now don't get me wrong. Children will not be entertained by the glorious floral displays and tea served in delicate crockery at Mottistone Gardens (PO30 4ED, West Wight, near Brighstone). Nor will they be impressed with the adjacent manor house which is owned by Benedict Cumberbatch's in laws (the house is closed to the public apart from a couple of days a year).
However, children can waste an hour spotting the puntastic flowerpot celebrities hidden around the grounds and another 10 minutes in the maze or den building area. It is a National Trust property so worth a stop if you are members. It's not open every day so check the website first.
However, children can waste an hour spotting the puntastic flowerpot celebrities hidden around the grounds and another 10 minutes in the maze or den building area. It is a National Trust property so worth a stop if you are members. It's not open every day so check the website first.
32. The Garlic Farm
I wouldn't plan a full day out with children at The Garlic Farm, but it is worth an hour or two of your time if you are in the Sandown or Shanklin area. Entry is free and then you pay a couple of quid for a 20 minute tour around the farm in a trailer pulled by a tractor. If you prefer, you can follow a walking trail through the woods. It's family run and is very well kept and laid out.
It is a working farm, although we didn't actually see any garlic growing as they rotate round between fields and were using a section a couple of miles away.
There's a small (but modern) playground, a popular cafe and various garlic tasting opportunities. Of course there's also a large garlic themed shop where you can discover what happens when you add garlic to perfectly decent tasting things like beer. The owners also organise the Garlic Festival in August which is a sort-of country show with a focus on garlic.
Not recommended for vampires.
It is a working farm, although we didn't actually see any garlic growing as they rotate round between fields and were using a section a couple of miles away.
There's a small (but modern) playground, a popular cafe and various garlic tasting opportunities. Of course there's also a large garlic themed shop where you can discover what happens when you add garlic to perfectly decent tasting things like beer. The owners also organise the Garlic Festival in August which is a sort-of country show with a focus on garlic.
Not recommended for vampires.
33. Godshill Model Village
If you are allergic to quaintness, stay away from Godshill Model Village
I previously just included Godshill Model Village in our guide to days out for toddlers. I've added it to this guide for older children after a successful day out with three girls aged four, six and nine who spent an hour or two pointing and giggling at things and completing the quiz. I wouldn't drag a teenager round.
The Model Village is immaculately kept and has the feel of a family's pride and joy rather than an attraction created to relieve tourists of their money. If you want an amusing five minutes then stand near to the model of the model village and listen to every visitor having the same conversation. I thought about recording eight hours of it and entering it into the Turner Prize
The Model Village costs about £5. Prudes should look away when they get to the streaker at the model football match.
The Model Village is immaculately kept and has the feel of a family's pride and joy rather than an attraction created to relieve tourists of their money. If you want an amusing five minutes then stand near to the model of the model village and listen to every visitor having the same conversation. I thought about recording eight hours of it and entering it into the Turner Prize
The Model Village costs about £5. Prudes should look away when they get to the streaker at the model football match.
34. Putting greens/pitch and putt
Besides the minigolf courses mentioned above (see #5) there are also several putting greens and pitch and putt courses, including:
- Sandham Gardens in Sandown
- Ventnor Park in, er, Ventnor
- Brown's Family Golf Course in Sandown which has two pitch and putt courses and two putting greens. There's also a nice family-friendly cafe.
35. Fort Victoria
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Fort Victoria is a medley of small attractions, housed within a beachside fort designed for firing cannonballs at unwelcome ships in the Solent.
There's a planetarium, a model railway, the 'Sunken Secrets Archaeology Discovery Centre' and the Isle of Wight Reptilarium and Terrapin sanctuary . The attractions cost about £3 - £5 each. |
Fort Victoria near Yarmouth
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36. Briddlesford Lodge Farm Tours
On 'Welly Wednesdays' during school holidays, you can take a tour of Briddlesford Lodge Farm for about £5. There are tractors and Guernsey cows, as well as some activities for kids.
According to the blurb, the tour includes an appetising opportunity to "stop off at the silage pits to look at and smell the different varieties of silage". It's a bit like a vineyard tour where you get to sniff the bouquet of fine wines, except that it's nothing like that at all.
According to the blurb, the tour includes an appetising opportunity to "stop off at the silage pits to look at and smell the different varieties of silage". It's a bit like a vineyard tour where you get to sniff the bouquet of fine wines, except that it's nothing like that at all.
37. Watersports
If your children won't complain about falling in the icy waters around the Isle of Wight then there are loads of watersports options. Some have age restrictions, but if you're older than 8 or 9 then there are some options.
We explore these in more detail in our guide for teenagers, but the main providers are:
We explore these in more detail in our guide for teenagers, but the main providers are:
- Adventure Activities Isle of Wight (based in the West Wight offering family kayaking and stand up paddleboarding for aged 8+)
- Tackt-Isle Adventures (based in St Helens in the East Wight offering sailing and windsurfing for aged 8+ and kayaking for 9+)
- Wight Water Adventure Watersports (based in Lake in the East Wight offering equipment hire and lessons in various watersports for 8+)
- Beach kayak hire (a good el-cheapo option is hiring a kayak from some heavily tanned guy sitting on a deck chair and wearing a bum bag. Shanklin is your best bet for this option).
- Medina Valley Centre specialise in residential trips, but they also do taster sessions in things like sailing for 8+ (based on the river near Newport)
38. Isle of Wight Treasure Trails
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Treasure Trails is a national provider of treasure hunts which offers several around Isle of Wight towns. They're one step up from the kind of thing your mother used to write, although you do have to pay for them (about seven pounds).
They usually take a couple of hours and involve a walk of a couple of miles, although some are done on bike and travel a bigger distance. If you get stuck you can text them and they'll give you a hand, and if you complete the puzzle you can enter a prize draw and download a certificate. |
Our five year old detective trying to crack the case in Cowes
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At the time of writing, Isle of Wight Treasure Trails include Cowes, Ventnor, Bembridge and Yarmouth.
So far we've done the Treasure Trails in:
So far we've done the Treasure Trails in:
- Cowes - couple of hours around the town, about 30 steps but you can take a detour if you've got a pushchair. Small playground towards the end of the route. Some scenic seaside bits.
- Godshill - shorter and more compact Treasure Trail with less walking and a couple of tricky questions. Keep a close eye on children in the pavement-free areas and shops selling breakables.
- Ventnor - lots of lovely views, very steep hills to climb, took us two hours. Playground about halfway round the route. About 20 steps, but you can take a detour if you know the town a bit. Probably my favourite so far.
39. Parkhurst Forest
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Parkhurst Forest is a good sized forest and is also a popular spot for seeing red squirrels in a specially built 'hide'.
There aren't a huge number of child-friendly things to do, but if you're one of those parents who went hiking when your children were still in nappies then you might like it. |
I can't figure out if the trees are leaning over or if my camera work was wonky
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The-Isle-of-Wight-Guru-Don't-Blame-Us-Disclaimer™ The information on this website is correct, as far as we know, but please do check opening times and details with attractions directly if you are planning a long journey - and please contact us if you find anything inaccurate.
