Viewed from the air, the Isle of Wight looks like a chunk of England’s south coast has broken away from the mainland. Spanning just 23 miles from east to west, this compact island packs a punch when it comes to natural beauty and cultural attractions, with its stunning coastline, picturesque villages, and rich history. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, or a relaxing rural escape, the Isle of Wight is well worth adding you your itinerary.

Enjoying the view from the esplanade

GETTING THERE AND GETTING AROUND

The Isle of Wight is easily accessible from the mainland via ferry or hovercraft. Crossings take anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour with the quickest journey, the hovercraft service from Southsea to Ryde, providing a unique and exhilarating experience.

Once on the island, there’s an extensive network of buses, trains, and cycle paths and there are plenty of a car and bicycle hire options. It’s also a fantastic island for hiking, so why not lace up your boots and discover the island on foot?

THE OUTDOOR LIFE

Nature lovers are spoiled for choice. Head to the island’s western tip to discover the iconic Needles – a series of chalk stacks that rise dramatically from the sea, marked by a lighthouse at the extreme tip. A stroll along the coastal path offers panoramic views of this natural wonder and the surrounding cliffs.

For a taste of island life, wander through the lush countryside of the Isle of Wight Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. From rolling hills and wooded valleys to sandy beaches and rugged cliffs, this protected landscape offers countless opportunities for outdoor sightseeing. One highlight is Compton Bay, with its fossil-rich shores and stunning sunsets.

HISTORIC LANDMARKS

The island’s heritage spans thousands of years of human occupation. Step back in time with a visit to Carisbrooke Castle, a medieval fortress steeped in history and once a prison for King Charles I. Climb the battlements for panoramic views of the island and explore the castle’s unique exhibits, including the donkey-powered wheel used to draw water from the well.

Another must-visit attraction is Osborne House, the beloved summer residence of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. The opulent interiors of this palatial estate are a sight to behold and there are some wonderful walks through the manicured gardens where you can imagine yourself as a royal guest at a grand receptions.

VILLAGES AND TOWNS

For a small island, the Isle of Wight has more than its fair share of charming villages and coastal towns. Head to the bustling seaside resort of Shanklin, with its sandy beach, seafront promenade, and quirky shops and cafes. Nearby, the enchanting Shanklin Old Village is a delight, with its thatched cottages and winding lanes that feel like a journey back in time.

Inland you’ll find the picturesque village of Godshill, famed for its quaint thatched cottages, historic church, and traditional tea rooms serving delicious cream teas. Take a stroll through the village, admiring the floral displays and browsing the local craft shops for unique souvenirs.

CULTURAL SCENE

The Isle of Wight boasts a vibrant cultural offering, with museums, galleries, and performing arts venues to explore. Discover the island’s maritime heritage at the Shipwreck Centre and Maritime Museum in Arreton, where you can learn about the island’s seafaring history and view artefacts recovered from shipwrecks around its shores.

Art enthusiasts are rewarded with the diverse collections on display at the Quay Arts Centre in Newport, housed in a converted 19th-century warehouse overlooking the River Medina. From contemporary paintings and sculptures to live performances and workshops, there’s something to inspire and entertain visitors of all ages.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

There’s a growing culinary scene on the Isle of Wight which showcases the island’s abundant natural resources and thriving food culture. You’ll find freshly caught seafood at several of the island’s seafood restaurants, where you can find locally caught crab, lobster, and sea bass.

For a taste of the island’s agricultural heritage, visit one of the many farm shops and markets dotted around the island, where you can buy locally grown produce, including fresh fruit, vegetables, and artisanal cheeses. Be sure to try the island’s famous garlic, cultivated in the fertile soil of the Arreton Valley and celebrated at the annual Isle of Wight Garlic Festival. Sandown’s Garlic Farm is a great place to visit.

From wild natural landscapes to ancient historic landmarks, charming villages and vibrant cultural and foodie scenes, the Isle of Wight can feel like a microcosm of a slightly bygone England. Big enough to merit a week-long break, but small enough to make a worthwhile weekend, if England’s islands are on your visit list, the Isle of Wight should be near the top.