Isle of Wight
Visitors have been flocking to the Isle of Wight for hundreds of years - whether as a health resort in Victorian times, a classic bucket and spade holiday in the 1950s or for the music festival era of the 70s, the Island has something for everyone and for every season…
Getting across is half the fun, surrounded by water, visitors can travel on one of the regular vehicle ferry services where you can bring the car or take the speedy catamaran and hovercraft services as a foot passenger. Competent sailors can arrive under their own steam (or should that be wind!?) to one of the many marinas located around the island.
Head to Lymington, Southampton, Portsmouth or Southsea to embark on the crossing over. Gateways to the Isle of Wight include Ryde, which is serviced by Wightlink FastCat foot passenger ferry and the unique Hovertravel’s hovercraft - the fastest way to travel to the island and the only commercial passenger hovercraft service in world. Fishbourne and Yarmouth for Wightlink’s vehicle ferry route and East Cowes or Cowes for Red Funnel’s vehicle and foot passenger crossings.
Given its small size, the island certainly packs a punch when it comes to things to do. No matter what your interest, there is something for everyone. For nature enthusiasts, explore the Island's stunning landscapes including the iconic Needles at Alum Bay or the beautiful coves and caves of Freshwater Bay. The Island's coastline offers a treasure trove of opportunities for water-based activities, including sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. For walkers, enjoy a stroll through enchanting woodlands of Parkhurst Forest, Brighstone Forest and Bouldnor Forest, or head out to the highest point on the Tennyson Downs for spectacular views and a visit to the famous Lord Tennyson memorial.
For history buffs, a visit to Osborne House, Queen Victoria's former residence, Carisbrooke Castle, with its rich medieval heritage or Yarmouth Castle with its great views over the Solent, is a must. The Isle of Wight is also renowned for its vibrant arts and cultural scene, with numerous festivals, galleries, and performances to indulge in including the famous Isle of Wight Festival and a bustling summer carnival calendar. Families can enjoy exciting attractions such as Blackgang Chine, Dinosaur Isle, Tapnell Farm, Isle of Wight Steam Railway and Robin Hill Adventure Park. The Isle of Wight tourist attractions will definantly keep you busy whenever you choose to visit, many are open all year round. For foodies, the Island's local cuisine is not to be missed with delicious seafood, seasonal local produce and some of the best dining spots in the UK.
The sheltered south-east towns of Sandown and Shanklin are among the most popular places to visit on the Isle of Wight while further north, Cowes and Newport are popular for days out and bustling with activity. If you're looking for things to do in Ryde, there are three great beaches with attractions and refreshments nearby and with direct links from the mainland, it's easy to make the short hop across the Solent for the day and discover what's waiting on the other side. The Isle of Wight map will help discover more about the island's geography and plan your next island adventures.
Whether you are looking for high downs or soaring cliffs, long sandy beaches fringed by farms and forestland, fishing villages or bustling resorts, you will find them on the Isle of Wight. It’s no wonder that this almost fairy-tale like island was the inspiration of Lewis Carroll to write his magical story Alice in Wonderland - what stories will you share from your Isle of Wight visit.
Miles of footpaths, bridleways and cycle routes make the Isle of Wight a top destination for those who like getting around on two feet or two wheels. The Island’s coastal path offers a whopping 68 miles to explore, or there are plenty of inland routes to take, through dappled forests, rolling countryside and pretty villages.
Cycling seems to be a national sport on the Island, largely due to the 200 miles of cycle tracks cutting through stunning scenery and plenty of great little places to stop. For those seeking adventure, the famous Round the Island cycle route offers a challenging 65-mile journey around the coastline, passing through quaint towns and iconic landmarks. Families and leisure cyclists can enjoy more relaxed rides, exploring the scenic countryside and stopping at idyllic spots for picnics. With its fresh sea air, stunning vistas, and well-maintained cycling and footpaths, the Isle of Wight provides an unforgettable experience that perfectly combines fitness, exploration, and immersion in the Island's natural beauty.
The Isle of Wight is renowned for its food and drink. Award-winning local produce, freshly caught seafood or ‘landlubber’ served in picture-perfect spots equals a winning combination. Whether it's fine dining, laidback restaurants, cosy cafes or stocking up on locally produced items in the farm shops, the Isle of Wight is a true foodies paradise.
Boutique hotels, B&Bs, quirky yurts and classic campsites all offer visitors a unique Island stay, whatever your budget. Choose from sea views, countryside escapes or town boltholes for the ideal Island getaway.
For ideas and inspiration on where to stay, what's on and things to do on the Isle of Wight visit the official website, visitIsleofwight.co.uk.
For more information about the Isle of Wight, including itinerary ideas for days out, attractions and events, explore the list below. You'll find information on things to do, towns and villages and beautiful beaches all on the island. Use the 'map view' button to find something near you.
Number of results: 50
, currently showing 21 to 40.
Beach
Sandown
Sandown lies at the heart of 'The Bay' and is renowned for its beautiful beach and safe bathing.
Beach
VENTNOR
Ventnor beach is the southernmost holiday beach on the Isle of Wight and is well-loved by locals and visitors alike.
Towns & Villages
Cowes
What makes Cowes such a Mecca for yachtsmen and what is there to do in this seaport town?
Towns & Villages
Brading
An ancient little Isle of Wight town with a long and colourful history that offers some of the greatest heritage, landscape and wildlife on the island.
Historic House / Palace
East Cowes
Step into Queen Victoria’s favourite country home and experience a world unchanged since the country's longest reigning monarch died here just over 100 years ago.
Historic Site
NEWPORT
On the edge of Newport town centre, the remains of this Roman farmhouse are well worth discovering. The villa has one of the finest bath suites in southern England and there are hands on activities for all of the family.
Towns & Villages
YARMOUTH
Yarmouth is a historic port town is located on the North-West of the Isle of Wight. Find things to do, places to eat and a map.
Museum
Sandown
In a spectacular pterosaur shaped building on Sandown’s blue flag beach walk back through fossilised time and meet life sized replica dinosaurs
Towns & Villages
Situated just off the south coast of England and only 2 hours from London via ferry or hovercraft - the Isle of Wight is simple to get to and a wonderful holiday destination all year round to explore.
Towns & Villages
Sandown
Sandown is a firm favourite with families seeking a traditional seaside holiday. The magnificent sandy beach slopes gently into the sea, ideal for paddling and swimming.
Towns & Villages
FRESHWATER
Freshwater is a large village in West Wight and is a popular destination for visitors with the spectacular Freshwater Bay area lying to the South of the main village.
The bay is easily recognised by its chalk cliffs and the imposing “Stag” and…
Beach
Bembridge
The main beach in Bembridge runs down the coast from the spit at the edge of Bembridge harbour. The beach is comprised of stones, pebbles and shells but has sand below the high water mark and a large sandbank that extends into the Solent at low tide.
Pub/Inn
ROOKLEY
A traditional rural pub, serving locally sourced food and ales, situated in the heart of the Isle of Wight’s beautiful countryside.
Historic Site
BRADING
Have a day out with a difference at Brading Roman Villa. Visit one of the finest Roman sites in the UK, the award winning Visitor Centre and Museum offers a unique insight into Roman life in Britain.
Beach
Freshwater
Freshwater Bay is one of the most picturesque beaches in West Wight and lies just to the South of the town of Freshwater. The beach is covered in a mixture of grey flint and chalk pebbles that make a unique sound as the waves rise and fall onto the…
Wildlife Centres & Nature Reserves
HAVENSTREET
The friendly team at Haven Falconry are dedicated and skilled falconers who have a passion for birds of prey with experience back over 45yrs! Our ethos is education through fun!
Historic Site
FRESHWATER
The imposing memorial to Alfred, Lord Tennyson, the Victorian Poet Laureate, stands on the highest point of Tennyson Down (formerly High Down), a long chalk ridge with sheer cliffs on its south side.
A late work designed by J.L. Pearson, it…
Museum
BRADING
Celebrating 50 years in 2024!
This internationally acclaimed museum contains one of the finest collections of antique dolls and toys in Britain. Numbering over 2000 exhibits dating from circa 2000 BC to circa 1945, it was formed from the…
Beach
EAST COWES
East Cowes Beach is a quiet shingle and sand beach with fantastic views across West Cowes and its marina, and also out across the Solent.