Isle of Wight Destination Guide Print this page

Isle of Wight Destination Guide

An island of contrasts, this idyllic corner of England ranges from the rolling downs and broad estuaries of the north to the sea-beaten cliffs of the south.

Whether you are looking for a holiday which is energetic or relaxing or a combination of both, the Isle of Wight has something to suit all tastes.

Renowned as a sailing venue, you can try your hand at the sport, play a round of golf, stroll along its 67 miles of coastal path, indulge in fine food and wine in superb restaurants or simply put your feet up by the fire in a country pub.

Select a heading below for more information:

The events

Isle of Wight Events 2012

The Isle of Wight is host to a variety of events throughout the year and whilst it might be renowned for the sailing, there are a range of other reasons to visit the island.

May - Isle of Wight Walking festival

June - Isle of Wight Festival

June - Yarmouth Old Gaffers Festival

June - Round the Island Yacht Race

July/August - Osborne House Concerts

August - Cowes Week

August - Garlic Festival

September - Cycling Festival

September - Bestival


The facts

Geography

Lying 5 miles off the coast of Hampshire separated by the Solent, the Isle of Wight is a county of England and England’s biggest island. It is 27 miles long at its widest point.

Travelling times

There are a variety of routes to reach the island, but the car ferry from Portsmouth to Ryde takes around 40 minutes whilst the foot passenger catamaran from Portsmouth Harbour to Ryde takes 22 minutes. A second car ferry route between Lymington in the New Forest and Yarmouth takes 30 minutes.

Transfer times

On an island the size of the Isle of Wight, you won’t be surprised to know that most hotels are no more than 30 minutes from the main ferry ports.

Passports

It’s part of England, so you don’t need one!

Currency

Sterling.

The place

The Isle of Wight boasts superb scenery and endless variety. With over half the island designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, you are guaranteed to be dazzled by its abundance of flora and fauna.

Take in the sights by strolling along some of the 67 mile Coastal Path or the 500 miles of inland footpaths and bridleways. Stunning sandy beaches, several of which have European Blue Flag awards, will tempt you to picnic on a sunny day, whilst the island is renowned as a sailing venue, so water sports opportunities are second to none.

The sights

Shanklin

The town boasts spectacular views over the long, sandy beach of Sandown Bay, whilst the peaceful Rylstone Gardens will tempt you to linger.

Shanklin Old Village is a chocolate box delight with thatched cottages, tea rooms and quirky shops, where you can while away a pleasant afternoon. Don’t miss a visit to Shanklin Chine to admire the gorge with its rare plants and dramatic waterfall.


Sandown

Famed for its golden sandy beach and traditional seafront with its Victorian pier, the area around the bay is renowned for having the highest concentration of dinosaur fossils.

Take a stroll along the dramatic coastal path and at the little village of Culver, you’ll be able to take in the stunning panoramic views over the bay, the east coast and out to sea.


Ventnor

One of Britain’s most famous Victorian health resorts, Ventnor is famed for its microclimate. The town is build on a series of zigzag terraces and is steeped in history. Don’t miss the peaceful Botanic Gardens – a 22 acre tropical paradise.


Ryde

The gateway to the island boasts several miles of sweeping sandy beach and east of the town, you’ll find some interesting coastal villages.

Walk to Seaview, a busy sailing centre or trek to Bembridge, another sailing village with a pretty harbour and beach. The National Trust windmill at Bembridge is the only remaining one on the island.