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45 Activities For Children And Families On The Isle Of Wight 2022
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
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 whilst Shanklin is good for amusement arcades or beachfront minigolf.
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 whilst Shanklin is good for amusement arcades or beachfront minigolf.
Sandown and Shanklin (pictured) have sandy beaches, watersports, minigolf, parking and chips
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Ventnor has an old fashioned charm but it's not quite as sandy
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We prefer slightly quieter beaches which sometimes require a little more effort or have more basic facilities. Try Colwell, Totland or 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.
Colwell in the West Wight is best at low tide. It's good for paddleboarding and has a couple of cafes.
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Priory Bay is an effort to reach but it's one of our favourites
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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).
Bembridge is a dog friendly beach which is good for rockpooling
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Compton Bay sometimes gets enough surf for bodyboarding or surfing
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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
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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). However, we did take our 3 1/2 year old and she had a great time on the various playgrounds (and she got in free, so I was happy).
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. During the summer holidays, they usually put on shows in their woodland amphitheatre and there are other special events during other holidays. Tickets are about £20. |
Robin Hill has hosted a ballooning festival, which had more hot air than the House of Commons
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3. Blackgang Chine
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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 newish 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. The sea view is fantastic too. Tickets are about £20-25. Read our blog about squeezing every penny out of Blackgang Chine. |
Yes, I know you went here on a school trip once...
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4. Watersports and Beach Sports
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If your children won't complain about falling in the icy waters around the Isle of Wight then there are loads of watersports on offer. Some have age restrictions, but if you're older than 8 or 9 then there are some good options.
We explore these in more detail in our guide for teenagers, but the main providers are:
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Shanklin has a couple of kayak and stand-up paddleboard places (we took this photo in Shanklin in 2021)
Surf lessons are run from Sandown and Compton Bay by iSurf
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There's also the Isle of Wight Aqua Park which we mention later in this guide.
There's also an organisation called Wight Wave which run beach sports such as beach soccer, beach tennis and beach volleyball during the warmer months from the beach at Appley. Some of their events are just for established teams but they also hold community events on certain dates. If you're interested, the best place to start is their Facebook page.
There's also an organisation called Wight Wave which run beach sports such as beach soccer, beach tennis and beach volleyball during the warmer months from the beach at Appley. Some of their events are just for established teams but they also hold community events on certain dates. If you're interested, the best place to start is their Facebook page.
5. TAPNELL FARM PARK
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Tapnell Farm Park is one of those attractions which appeals to Dads like me, who like to drive around on a go-kart because their daughter "is feeling a bit nervous". I'm dreading the day that the children tell me I'm too old to join in.
It's got a good mix of indoor and outdoor activities, including soft play and adventure play (zip wires, trampolines etc.) as well as a petting zoo with farm animals alongside foreign animals like wallabies and meerkats who are coming over here and stealing our, er, hearts. The cafes sell food you aren't ashamed to feed your children and the gift shops sell local art and food (as well as the usual stuffed tat). It's only been open a few years, so new stuff is being added regularly and it's nice and clean. Alongside all that, it's got a distant sea view and it doesn't stink of poo like most farm parks. Be warned, it does get pretty busy and noisy during peak season. We arrive at opening time and do the indoor play area or go-karts first. Entry is about £10. It's in the West Wight, so combine it with a quick trip to Freshwater Bay. Read the blog about one of our visits. |
Tapnell Farm Park has jumping pillows, animals, zip wires, minigolf and pedal go-karts
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6. Wildheart Animal Sanctuary, Amazon World, Monkey Haven
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I’ve bundled these three 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 Monkey Haven 4.5, whilst Isle of Wight Zoo/Wildheart Animal Sanctuary and Amazon World both scored 4.0 (checked 2021). Monkey Haven won an award as 'Small Visitor Attraction of the Year' 2019 at the South East's Tourism Awards. Apparently the award relates to the size of the attraction rather than the size of the visitors. Wildheart Animal Sanctuary is by the beach in Sandown, Monkey Haven is near Newport, Amazon World is between Newport and Sandown. You can read more about all three in our guides to animal attractions and discounts to Isle of Wight attractions. Other places to see animals on the Isle of Wight include Butterfly World or the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary, which is free. Seaview Wildlife Encounter and Coleman's Farm closed in 2015 (most of the animals went to Tapnell Farm Park). |
Wildheart Animal Sanctuary is right by the beach in Sandown. It was previously called Isle of Wight Zoo
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7. Isle of Wight Aqua Park at Tapnell Farm
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The Isle of Wight's first aqua park opened in 2020, unless you count my neighbour's enormous paddling pool/trampoline combo (Ed: I think that might be stretching it a bit).
It's on the same site as Tapnell Farm Park in the West Wight but it runs as a separate attraction which you pay extra for (£20 per person at the time of writing). It is only for those aged 8+ and there are rules about younger children being accompanied. It's a bit like Total Wipeout where you clamber around inflatable floating things and leap into the water. The main difference is that it doesn't include Richard Hammond making sarcastic remarks and counting his money whilst sitting in a dry studio in a different country. |
"Are we going on three or after three?"
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8. 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.)
Rylstone Gardens minigolf is charming, cheap and quite challenging
- Dino Islands in Sandown (New in 2019. Big and flashy course which replaced the old mini golf course at Sandham Gardens. About £6 each). Read our blog about Dino Islands.
Dino Islands in Sandown has a puffing volcano...
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...and we enjoyed this narrow bridge hole
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- Pirates Cove, Jurassic Bay and CaddyShack in Shanklin (Three separate courses. The dinosaur one was new in 2017 and replaced one of the two minigolf courses on the Esplanade, about £6 per course. Caddy Shack is an indoor one which opened in 2020).
Shanklin has three seafront minigolf courses including a fairly straightforward dinosaur course...
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...a pirate minigolf course, which is a similar level of difficulty...
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...and an excellent indoor course called Caddyshack, which has easy and tricky routes to the hole
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- Mini golf at Puckpool Park in Ryde (12 holes, £3.50, quaint, well kept gardens, adjacent cafe, tennis courts and decent playground)
Puckpool's minigolf course was popular with my green-fingered mother...
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...and it has a nice homemade feel it, like a sponge cake at a village fete
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- Jurassic Golf at The Needles Park near Alum Bay (9 holes, £3, nice new course - read our blog)
The small course at The Needles is also dinosaur themed
- Farm Themed Crazy Golf at Tapnell Farm Park (Simple farm-themed course as part of a bigger attraction. Not flashy but good fun. About £10 entry to the whole park, plus £1 per person to play minigolf).
Tapnell Farm Park's minigolf course isn't flashy, but it's good fun and a nice location
- 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 37)
- Captain Hook's Adventure Golf at Peter Pan's Funfair and Amusements in Ryde (not done this one yet, TripAdvisor has some reviews).
- Adventure Golf at Calbourne Water Mill (About £10 per person to get in, plus extra for minigolf. Here's some reviews).
- There's also a putting green in Ventnor Park which has the excellent name of Tee In The Park.
Which is the best minigolf course on the Isle of Wight, I hear you cry?
If it's raining, I would go for Caddyshack. The holes have been cleverly thought out with easy routes for young children and trickier shots for grown-ups. If it's sunny, I'd go for either of the dinosaur courses in Shanklin and Sandown. They're both modern, well-located and straight forward for children. If you want old-fashioned charm for about half the price, go for Rylstone Gardens.
For those keeping notes, Jungle Adventure Golf on Shanklin Esplanade disappeared in 2019 to make way for Caddyshack. No flowers please.
If it's raining, I would go for Caddyshack. The holes have been cleverly thought out with easy routes for young children and trickier shots for grown-ups. If it's sunny, I'd go for either of the dinosaur courses in Shanklin and Sandown. They're both modern, well-located and straight forward for children. If you want old-fashioned charm for about half the price, go for Rylstone Gardens.
For those keeping notes, Jungle Adventure Golf on Shanklin Esplanade disappeared in 2019 to make way for Caddyshack. No flowers please.
9. Alum Bay and The Needles
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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 National Trust's 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 about £6 to park and then you just pay for whatever you decide to do. |
The Needles Lighthouse from the Old Battery
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10. Isle of WIght Football Golf
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Once you've fallen out with each other over minigolf, you might like to try Isle of Wight Football Golf which is on fields alongside Tapnell Farm Park and the Isle of Wight Aqua Park (although they are all separate attractions). It's on a pleasant spot overlooking the West Wight.
There's a shorter 9-hole course which is more suited for younger children and a longer 9-hole course for dads who want to shout "'ave it" as they hoof the ball into the car park. When I last checked, it was £6-£11 depending on how many holes you sign up for. I've spent the last 10 minutes trying to come up with golf/football mashup puns but the best I've managed is Christiano Ron-Faldo. |
Pringle jumpers are optional at football golf
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11. Dinosaur Isle
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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 #14). If you're really into dinosaurs, there's also a small museum in the West Wight called the 'Dinosaur Expedition, Conservation and Paleoart Centre'. The same company run fossil hunting trips around the crumbly cliffs along the Military Road. |
Dinosaur Isle's funky building
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12. Newport and Ryde Cinemas
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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…
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Newport's 11 screen cinema
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13. 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.
14. Sandham Gardens
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Just round the corner from Dinosaur Isle on Sandown esplanade is Sandham Gardens, which has been revamped with a number of new things being added and other stuff planned for the future.
There’s a skate park and football/basketball court alongside a play area which older children will enjoy, as well a toddlers' playground. Dads won’t be able to resist trying out the zip wire. See our toddlers guide for more playground advice. The recent additions are a fancy dinosaur themed minigolf course, which opened in 2019 (about £6) as well as some electric go karts (about £5 a race) and some 'Skynets' which opened in 2020 where you can bounce around in giant nets (about £13). In case you're worried, the Skynets in Sandown have no relation with the baddies of the same name in the Terminator films. |
Sandham Gardens has a good playground, as well as minigolf, go karts and 'skynets'
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15. Traffic-free cycle tracks
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The Isle of Wight has loads of gruelling cycle routes down chalk ridges and up steep hills but if your child's helmet has Moana or Spiderman 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 Two Elements). 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. The map below shows the Cowes to Newport section of the Red Squirrel Trail. See our full cycling guide for more waffle on Isle of Wight cycling holidays. |
There are several places to hire bikes. This photo was taken in Shanklin in 2021
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Google map showing the cycle track from Cowes to Newport
16. Bembridge lifeboat stationAnother 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.
They also hold training events where you can watch the lifeboat being launched. Details are usually on their Facebook page. |
This walkway leads to Bembridge Lifeboat station
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17. Breezer Buses
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For those without wigs, the '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. |
Hold on to your hats!
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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 very scenic in places 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 which does take away some of the appeal in my view.
It's better value if you travel in a group. At the time of writing (2020 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.
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 very scenic in places 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 which does take away some of the appeal in my view.
It's better value if you travel in a group. At the time of writing (2020 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.
18. Wight Karting
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Go-karts are never a cheap day out, but Wight Karting near Ryde does family deals and it gets rave reviews from visitors. Also, bear in mind that Lewis Hamilton earns about £40 million a year and he started out go-karting, so it's a more sensible investment than a lottery ticket.
There are various speeds of vehicle available, so anyone over the age of 3 can take part. It even runs in wet weather, ideal for those who like the 'drowned rat' look. |
Wight Karting is open on rainy or sunny days
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19. Carisbrooke Castle
**English Heritage Discount Code: 15% off membership with code EH2021 until 31/12/21**
**Save about £5 with a Carisbrooke Castle/Osborne House bundled ticket via Tiqets**
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I wasn’t sure if I should include anything which may appear educational in this list. 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 a good effort to keep it family-friendly with jousting on the bowling green in the summer. Is there a charge? Yes, of course, that's the general idea of jousting (Ed: groan). There are also donkeys which pull up a bucket from a well all year round and a dry moat outside the ground 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 summertime entertainment which has previously included a Punch and Judy show on Queen Vicky's beach. If you plan to visit two or three of the Isle of Wight's English Heritage properties then you might consider membership as it also gets you a ferry discount. |
Carisbrooke Castle hosts jousting in the summer
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20. Isle of Wight Steam Railway and Island Line Railway
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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 small play area, woodland walk and the 'train story discovery centre'. The train route is inland and goes through some nice scenic fields although you won't get a sea view. An alternative option is the Island Line which travels from Ryde Pierhead to Sandown and Shanklin. 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 old Island Line service before it was replaced in 2021 with new trains. |
Well trained staff at the Isle of Wight Steam Railway
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21. 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, near Newport and Hill Farm Stables, Freshwater).
Sally's Riding School and Island Riding Centre 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.
The Island Riding Centre also has lots of modern accommodation for those who really want the full horsey holiday experience. Options include:
Sally's Riding School and Island Riding Centre 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.
The Island Riding Centre also has lots of modern accommodation for those who really want the full horsey holiday experience. Options include:
- Red Rum (sleeps 4)
- Shergar (sleeps 6)
- Pegasus (sleeps 8)
- The Orchard (sleeps 10)
22. ISLE OF WIGHT TREASURE TRAILS and Geocaching
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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 £10).
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. So far we've done the Treasure Trails in:
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Our five year old detective trying to crack the case in Cowes
The Freshwater Bay and Tennyson Down Treasure Trail offers terrific views
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Meanwhile, 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.
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 or you can pay a fee if you want the version with more features.
We wrote a blog about our first Isle of Wight geocache adventure. You might also like to watch this video called What Is Geocaching?
The 'treasure' is usually a tupperware box full of little trinkets that has been hidden by a fellow geocacher.
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 or you can pay a fee if you want the version with more features.
We wrote a blog about our first Isle of Wight geocache adventure. You might also like to watch this video called What Is Geocaching?
23. Child Friendly short walks on the Isle of Wight
If you'd rather keep it simple and free, some of our favourite short strolls on the Isle of Wight include:
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Bonchurch to Ventnor is a flat walk, whilst Ventnor to Steephill Cove is much hillier
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The Cowes to Gurnard walk includes a playground with a view
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You may end up stopping for an ice cream in Shanklin
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Colwell to Totland is only about half a mile - although there are no railings on the sea wall
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- Carisbrooke Castle's dry moat is good for a short walk and you can access it without paying to get into the Castle. You can walk up from Carisbrooke village via Castle Street which has a ford for children to fall into. Alternatively, drive up to Carisbrooke Castle and walk round it for nice views across Carisbrooke and Bowcombe.
- Freshwater Bay to Tennyson Down is a bit more ambitious but it has a good combination of a glorious beach at the start of the walk and fantastic views from the top of the downs. Sometimes there are cows in the field and there is also a cliff edge so perhaps not one if you're feeling a bit tense because of a stressful morning of arguments over who left the dishwasher open.
- Ryde Esplanade is long and has some attractions and entertainments along the route including two playgrounds on the seafront and a splash park. If you keep going past Appley Tower you'll end up at Appley Park which has another good playground.
- Compton Bay is probably our favourite beach for a wander along the sand. It gets nice sunsets and is particularly appealing in the late afternoon on a hot day when everyone else has gone home. You can either park at the Hanover Point end which has about 20 steps to climb down or the Compton Farm end which has better views but a precarious set of steep steps and a bit of clambering to get on to the beach. Yaverland Beach is a better option for walking if you have a dog, as it allows dogs all year whereas Compton Bay is closed to dogs in the warmer months.
24. Amusement Arcades
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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 a small one in Ryde.
Ventnor's Gaiety seafront amusement arcade was boarded up a few years ago and is preparing to become residential property. |
Sandown, Shanklin and Ryde have amusement arcades on their esplanades
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25. Seafront 'funfairs'
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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 there are reviews on TripAdvisor. Meanwhile, Shanklin Seafront has some small funfair type attractions, like those balls you climb inside and run on water. |
Peter Pan's Funfair in Ryde
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26. Our Isle Spy car journey Game
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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. |
Can you spot an Isle of Wight personalised number plate?
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27. 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.
28. 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 £7 for the slow ride or £12 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 £20 for two hours. They also do a fishing trip which lasts a couple of hours.
- Coral Star is another boat which is based in Yarmouth and offers trips to the Needles.
- During the summer months, the world's last 'seagoing paddle steamer' (the Waverley) usually does trips around the Isle of Wight. It's based in Scotland but visits other parts of the UK (reviews can be found here).
29. 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).
30. Sandown Pier
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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. |
Sandown Pier is a good place to hide if it starts raining
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31. Chessell Pottery Cafe
Chessell Pottery Cafe is a pleasant attraction in the West Wight where pleasant people eat pleasant cream teas whilst painting pleasant pottery. It's less of a painting place than it once was, but it is still available if you're keen.
There's no entrance fee, but you pay a studio fee (about £7 last time I checked) if you want to paint anything. You then buy a plate, mug or whatever you fancy painting. My daughter chose a unicorn, obviously.
You can either have your pottery glazed or use acrylic paints which is less durable. Unfortunately, the only real option for most holidaymakers is acrylic paints, as it takes about two weeks for pottery to be glazed and they don't post them out anymore (this changed a couple of years ago).
There are also paint-your-own souvenir type places in less rural locations in Ryde (Fired Art Ceramics which will glaze your masterpiece) and Shanklin (Isle of Sweets Craft Centre).
There's no entrance fee, but you pay a studio fee (about £7 last time I checked) if you want to paint anything. You then buy a plate, mug or whatever you fancy painting. My daughter chose a unicorn, obviously.
You can either have your pottery glazed or use acrylic paints which is less durable. Unfortunately, the only real option for most holidaymakers is acrylic paints, as it takes about two weeks for pottery to be glazed and they don't post them out anymore (this changed a couple of years ago).
There are also paint-your-own souvenir type places in less rural locations in Ryde (Fired Art Ceramics which will glaze your masterpiece) and Shanklin (Isle of Sweets Craft Centre).
32. Mottistone Gardens
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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 (West Wight, near Brighstone). Nor will they be impressed with the adjacent manor house which is apparently 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. |
Harry Pot-ter hiding in a tree at Mottistone Gardens
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33. 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 or first dates.
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 or first dates.
34. Godshill Model Village
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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 a 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. |
If you are allergic to quaintness, stay away from Godshill Model Village
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35. Ryde Canoe Lake
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.
36. Fort Victoria
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 and the Isle of Wight Reptilarium and Terrapin sanctuary .
The attractions cost about £3 - £5 each.
There's also a woodland with natural trails at the site which is worth exploring. We found homemade swings and a rarely visited beach which can be reached via some steps in the woods.
There's a planetarium and the Isle of Wight Reptilarium and Terrapin sanctuary .
The attractions cost about £3 - £5 each.
There's also a woodland with natural trails at the site which is worth exploring. We found homemade swings and a rarely visited beach which can be reached via some steps in the woods.
37. Briddlesford Lodge Farm Tours
On 'Welly Wednesdays' during school holidays, you can take a tour of Briddlesford Lodge Farm for about £8. 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.
38. Snacks and Ladders Board Game CAfe
Newport is home to a board game cafe called Snacks and Ladders which opened in 2019.
If you're into this sort of thing, there are lots of specialist games with hundreds of cards and funny shaped dice. Younger visitors may prefer to stick to that one where you have to climb ladders and slide down snakes. I forget what it's called.
My advice is to let the youngest player win unless you want a tantrum in Newport town centre.
When I checked, it cost from £2 to play any game you like.
If you're into this sort of thing, there are lots of specialist games with hundreds of cards and funny shaped dice. Younger visitors may prefer to stick to that one where you have to climb ladders and slide down snakes. I forget what it's called.
My advice is to let the youngest player win unless you want a tantrum in Newport town centre.
When I checked, it cost from £2 to play any game you like.
39. Parkhurst Forest, Firestone Copse or Brighstone's Dragon Tree
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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. You can read about our visit to the red squirrel hide. Firestone Copse which is nearish to Ryde is another good-sized woodland on the Isle of Wight. Other notable woodland on the Isle of Wight include Brighstone Forest (West Wight), Borthwood Copse (near Sandown) and America Wood (near Shanklin). There's also a small woodland at Fort Victoria near Yarmouth which is alongside a beach so you get glimpses of ships sailing past the trees. |
I can't figure out if the trees are leaning over or if my camera work was wonky
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Meanwhile...there's a rather famous and unusual tree in Brighstone which occupied us for half an hour.
The Dragon Tree was voted as the UK's third best tree in a Woodland Trust competition in 2019. Let's not worry about the two trees which beat it, since they aren't on the Isle of Wight. It's actually an oak tree which seems to be growing sideways across a stream. When we visited, the stream was shallow enough for wellies and it had a tyre swing. You can find it along footpath number BS23 which is off New Road in Brighstone. |
Local legend suggests this tree is a slain dragon. Logic suggests it isn't.
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40. Isle of Sweets Craft Centre
Someone in Shanklin obviously decided that they could appeal to most of the world's children by opening a shop which offered a) sweets b) craft activities and c) wool. I do wonder if the third one should have been Super Mario, but it seems to be working out for them, with loads of 5 star reviews.
The craft activities are reasonably priced and could fill a couple of hours if it happens to rain on your 'summer' holiday. Their Facebook page has information on booking.
The craft activities are reasonably priced and could fill a couple of hours if it happens to rain on your 'summer' holiday. Their Facebook page has information on booking.
41. West Wight Alpacas
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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 about £8 (less for children) you can have a look round the farm or you can take an alpaca for a walk from about £20 (2021 prices). |
Alpacas tucking in to some grass in Wellow
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42. Tweerooms
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Younger girls that are into pink things, fairies and pixies (or boys, I'm not judging), may enjoy a visit to The Old Thatch Teashop in Shanklin. 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. |
Catch the ferry to see fairies in Shanklin
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43. National Museum of Poo
The National Poo Museum is a celebration of all things turdy which is sporadically open at Sandown Barrack Battery. 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.
Stop giggling at the back.
Stop giggling at the back.
44. Skates Roller Disco
Slap on your lycra, perm your hair and get yourself down to the Isle of Wight's roller disco in Newport. Don't worry, it is self aware and retro rather than further evidence that the Isle of Wight is stuck in the past.
There are sessions for beginners as well as disco nights. It costs about £5-£10 depending on whether you bring your own skates or borrow theirs.
There are sessions for beginners as well as disco nights. It costs about £5-£10 depending on whether you bring your own skates or borrow theirs.
45. Appuldurcombe House
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I would normally avoid stately homes with children as they'll be bored to tears and will do their best to embarrass you.
However, we enjoyed a trip to Appuldurcombe House with children so I think it's worth a mention as a bit of a curveball. It's mostly a ruin and is rarely busy so it's ideal for exploring or hide and seek. There are no guides telling you to shush and no rare vases for your children to knock over. There's plenty of green space around it and trees for climbing. It only filled about an hour for us but it's free, so you can incorporate it into a visit to somewhere nearby such as the Donkey Sanctuary or Ventnor seafront. |
The grand front of Appuldurcombe House won't appeal to children...
...but the ruins inside are good for exploring
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