Things to Do in the Isle of Wight

Located just off the coast of Hampshire, the Isle of Wight is a picturesque island, enriched with sandy beaches, beautiful countryside and various attractions for the whole family. Over 50% of the Isle of Wight is classified as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and according to Visit Isle of Wight, the Island has the coveted credentials of being internationally recognised as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Despite being the second smallest county in the UK, the Island attracts around 2 million visitors each year and is a hub of activity all year round.

History of the Isle of Wight

For those looking to explore the local history, Osborne House is a great place to start. Built between 1845 and 1851, the House was built for Queen Victoria and Prince Albert as a summer home and rural retreat. The house was occupied by Queen Victoria for over 50 years and even today, many of the rooms feature original furniture and works of art. The House is surrounded by beautiful gardens and meadows.

A trip further inland will take you to Carrisboke Castle, a medieval fortress and a castle of the Norman Conquest. The Castle is best know for being the prison for Charles I during the Civil War, shortly before being executed.

Landmarks

The Needles is an iconic landmark in a row of distinctive rocks rising off the west coast of the Isle of Wight. It is a common image seen on many postcards and souvenirs and is typically synonymous with the Isle of Wight. There is a pleasure park at the top of The Needles, which consists of a small amusement park, shops and rides. Visitors can access the park via a chairlift which operates between the park down to Alum Bay.

St Catherine’s Lighthouse is a poignant landmark, which is set on the southern tip of the Isle of Wight. It is the third most powerful lighthouse in the UK and was built in response to local need for reliable light to guide shipping. The lighthouse and engine room are said to be haunted by three lighthouse keepers who were on duty the night it was bombed back in June 1943. Outside the lighthouse is a plaque dedicated to RT Grenfell, C Tomkins and WE Jones on the ground floor.

Water Sports on the Isle of Wight 

With a fantastic countryside and coastline, the Isle of Wight is a great place for walking, cycling, horse riding and trying out watersports. There’s over 500 miles of footpaths and walking routes as well 165 of bridleways available for everyone to use.

When the water is calm, Paddleboarding is a great way to explore some of the Isle of Wight’s surrounding waters. Visitors can paddle board around the iconic Needles and lighthouse.

For those who prefer something a bit more energetic, there are some excellent spots for surfing and body boarding off the coast of the Isle of Wight. Compton beach is great for kayak surfing and popular with surfers.

The Isle of Wight is most famous for Cowes Week, the world’s largest sailing regatta that takes place every August. The event consists of an 8-day schedule, which combines competitive racing and friendly sailing fun for the 8,000 competitors and 100,000 spectators. Visitors can watch the sailing action from the shore, as well as have the opportunity to aboard a spectator boat. The regatta is concluded with an epic firework display, which takes place on the final Friday of the event.

Family Attractions

For a great family day out, visit Blackgang Chine, the UK’s oldest amusement park. From fairylands, an underwater kingdom to towering dinosaurs, the park offers endless entertainment. The amusement has various zones, as well as rollercoaster rides, water slides and play areas.

Animal lovers will want to visit Monkey Haven in Newport. Home to all kinds of wonderful creatures, including monkeys, meerkats and snakes, the animal sanctuary is one of the most popular attractions on the Island. Throughout the day, there are keeper talks and animal feeds, where you can find out about the animals and how they came to be here.

If you are planning on visiting the Isle of Wight, whether it be for a weekend away or holiday, we recommend staying in a pub with rooms. They are a great base for exploring the local surroundings, tasting good quality home-cooked meals and even meeting the locals!

For inspiration on where to stay, browse our list of boutique pubs and traditional inns in the Isle of Wight.

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