Things To Do on the Isle of Wight

Island adventures all year round on the 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. In 2024 we would encourage you to get out and explore more, even if you are a regular visitor to the island and discover somewhere new. 

Getting to the Island

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.

Top Things to do on the Isle of Wight

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 Dinosaur Isle, Tapnell Farm, Isle of Wight Steam Railway and Blackgang Chine. 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. 

Places to visit on the Isle of Wight

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.

Walking & Cycling

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.

Places to Eat

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.

Book an Island Getaway

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.

 

List of things to do & places to visit for days out on the Isle of Wight

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.