The Isle of Wight, often called the "Garden Isle," is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered. As someone who has explored this idyllic island firsthand, I can confidently say that it offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and outdoor adventure. Whether you're planning a day trip, a weekend escape, or a longer stay, the Isle of Wight promises something special for everyone.
From its golden sandy beaches to its dramatic chalk cliffs, this island off the south coast of England is a haven for nature lovers and photographers alike. History buffs will be captivated by landmarks like Osborne House, Queen Victoria's favorite retreat, and the Carisbrooke Castle, a medieval fortress steeped in centuries of intrigue. For those seeking adventure, the Isle of Wight Coastal Path offers over 70 miles of stunning walking trails, with breathtaking views around every corner.
I also love how family-friendly the Isle of Wight is, with attractions like Blackgang Chine, the UK’s oldest theme park, and the charming Isle of Wight Steam Railway, which takes you on a nostalgic journey through the countryside. And let's not forget the food scene—local seafood and award-winning Isle of Wight cheeses are a must-try.
In this guide, I’ll take you through the best things to do on the Isle of Wight, helping you plan an unforgettable trip to this enchanting corner of the UK.
Best Things to do on the Isle of Wight, UK
TOURS & DAY TRIPS
1. Carisbrooke Castle
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Discover the captivating history of Carisbrooke Castle on the Isle of Wight.
This medieval fortress, dating back to 1100, has witnessed the imprisonment of a tragic king and served as the residence of Queen Victoria's youngest daughter. Immerse yourself in the castle's rich past by watching an introductory film and exploring the battlements for breathtaking views.
Delve into the ruins of Carey's Mansion and witness the original domestic buildings that have been adapted over time. Don't miss the chance to meet the famous Carisbrooke donkeys and witness their daily demonstration of the castle's water wheel. Complete your visit by admiring the statue of the war horse Warrior, a poignant tribute to the First World War.
2. Osborne House: Queen Victoria’s Favorite Residence
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Delve into the lavish Royal Apartments and intimate family bedrooms at Osborne House, the beloved residence of Queen Victoria. Witness the desks where the Queen and Prince Albert worked together, and marvel at the ornate Durbar Room.
Discover the intricate details of entertainment at Osborne House through its furniture and artifacts, showcasing everything from grand state banquets to cozy family meals. Explore the Swiss Cottage where the royal children played and tended gardens, and step into a room set as it was in 1861 when the children prepared tea for their parents.
Wander through the pleasure gardens, Victorian Walled Garden, and private beach once enjoyed by the royal family, including Victoria's restored bathing machine.
3. Salisbury and Stonehenge Day Tour from Southampton
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Explore the wonders of Salisbury and Stonehenge on a day tour from Southampton.
Discover the ancient stone circle of Stonehenge and wander through the charming town of Salisbury, home to the iconic Salisbury Cathedral with its impressive spire and well-preserved Magna Carta.
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HISTORY & CULTURE
4. Cotswolds Private Day Tour from Southampton
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Discover the enchanting Cotswolds on a private day tour from Southampton.
Experience the freedom and flexibility of this tour as you explore the idyllic villages and famous Cotswold towns. With a recommended route, you'll get a comprehensive overview of the Cotswolds' charm. Customize your itinerary and spend as much time as you desire in each place. The knowledgeable guides are happy to modify the tour on the day to suit your preferences. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Cotswolds on this unforgettable private driving tour.
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5. London's Highlights on a Full Day private tour from Southampton
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Experience the best of London on a full-day private tour starting from Southampton.
Immerse yourself in the rich history of the city as you visit iconic landmarks such as Big Ben, the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, Trafalgar Square, and Tower Bridge. Discover hidden gems and learn about the fascinating journey of London from its Roman origins to its present-day glory.
Your knowledgeable guide will pick you up at the Southampton Cruise Port and take you on a scenic drive through the English countryside before reaching Central London. After a 5-hour sightseeing tour, you will be returned to the Southampton Cruise Terminal, filled with unforgettable memories of your London adventure.
PRIVATE & CUSTOM TOURS
6. Heritage and Majesty: Private Full-Day Tour from Southampton
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Uncover the rich history and grandeur of England with Heritage and Majesty: Private Full-Day Tour from Southampton.
Begin your journey at the mysterious Stonehenge, then delve into the historic town of Windsor to witness the grandeur of Windsor Castle. Finally, explore the vibrant city of London and its iconic attractions. This private tour promises an immersive experience of England's heritage and modern charm, with the flexibility to return to Southampton or stay in London after the tour.
7. New Forest Day Out Private Tour from Southampton
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Experience the New Forest like never before with this private tour from Southampton.
The friendly and knowledgeable driver will ensure your comfort throughout the journey, providing a personalized service tailored to your preferences. With 14 years of experience, a reliable and relaxed tour experience guaranteed.
Travel in the comfortable Mercedes E350, or request a larger vehicle if needed. Stay connected with the complimentary WiFi and enjoy the convenience of air conditioning and bottled water. The hosts are always open to accommodating any specific requests or changes to your booking. Let them show you the best of the New Forest on this unforgettable tour.
8. Isle of Wight Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (7 Day Pass)
Deals & Tickets: EXPEDIA
Discover the Isle of Wight with this innovative City Break by Cluecation tour app, featuring a Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz with a 7-day pass for endless exploration.
Enjoy a self-guided tour and treasure hunt experience with over 100 destinations and challenges to uncover, perfect for families looking to avoid crowds. Benefit from flexible start times and 100% free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
With just one ticket for your entire group, the smartphone travel tool utilizes GPS technology to lead you off-the-beaten-path, earning points, solving clues, and competing in the Travel League for exciting prizes. Explore the great outdoors and connect with the world around you in a unique and engaging way.
9. Portsmouth: Historic Dockyard Ultimate Explorer Ticket
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Discover the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard with the Ultimate Explorer Ticket, offering access to attractions like HMS Victory, HMS Warrior, and The Mary Rose Museum.
Explore at your own pace within a year with a family or individual ticket. Dive into history with the new Dive the Mary Rose in 4D experience and visit iconic ships like HMS Victory and HMS Warrior. Don't miss the chance to see the Mary Rose and take a waterbus to explore the Cold War submarine, HMS Alliance. Complete your visit with a harbor cruise to see the modern Royal Navy ships and learn about Britain's naval history.
10. Pedal & Puzzle, Outdoor Escape Room E-Bike Adventure
Deals & Tickets: EXPEDIA
Experience the ultimate adventure on the Pedal & Puzzle Outdoor Escape Room E-Bike tour!
Hop on the retro-style Chopper e-bikes with fat tires and pedal assist, perfect for any terrain. We even have a step-through frame option for those with shorter legs. Get ready to crack the code with the Outdoor Escape Room Puzzle Pack, complete with a mobile phone route guidance app.
The e-bike HQ is conveniently located near miles of coastal road tracks and trails, offering endless exploration opportunities. Enjoy the convenience of free on-site parking, helmets, and locks. Rest assured with the all-day emergency breakdown and recovery service. And don't forget to ask us for recommendations on the best eateries and pubs in the New Forest area. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
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11. New Forest Sunset Bike Rides
Deals & Tickets: EXPEDIA
Experience the magic of New Forest with new midweek evening bike rentals before the peak season kicks in.
As the daytime hustle fades away, immerse yourself in the tranquility and beauty of the surroundings that only the locals usually get to enjoy. Connect with nature and live like a local for an evening to remember.
12. Portsmouth: Spinnaker Tower
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Discover the awe-inspiring views of Portsmouth from the magnificent Spinnaker Tower.
Standing tall at 170 meters, this iconic landmark offers a panorama of Portsmouth Harbour, the city, the Solent, the South Downs, and the Isle of Wight. Ascend in a high-speed lift to three sky-high viewing decks, including the thrilling glass 'Sky Walk' at 100 meters above sea level.
Immerse yourself in the history and beauty of the surroundings through informative touchscreen displays and vertigo-inducing virtual reality experiences. Indulge in a coffee or a glass of bubbly at The Clouds, savor locally sourced meals at the Waterfront Cafe, and soak in the stunning vistas from the open-air 'Sky Garden'.
ATTRACTIONS
13. Ship Simulator Experience
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Step aboard the Ship Simulator Experience for a unique opportunity to navigate a ship at sea, regardless of age.
Explore basic ship handling, nautical terminology, and navigation equipment on the bridge during your session. Encounter challenging weather conditions, vessel traffic, and emergency scenarios to test your skills.
Gain insight into ship maneuvering techniques, navigation routes, and the overall command of a ship and its crew.
SHOWS & CONCERTS
14. Portsmouth: Historic Dockyard Ultimate Explorer Ticket
Deals & Tickets: EXPEDIA
Discover the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard with the Ultimate Explorer Ticket, offering access to attractions like HMS Victory, HMS Warrior, and The Mary Rose Museum.
Explore at your own pace within a year with a family or individual ticket. Dive into history with the new Dive the Mary Rose in 4D experience and visit iconic ships like HMS Victory and HMS Warrior.
Don't miss the chance to see the Mary Rose and take a waterbus to explore the Cold War submarine, HMS Alliance. Complete your visit with a harbor cruise to see the modern Royal Navy ships and learn about Britain's naval history.
10 Free Things to Do in Isle of Wight (Hotels.com)
Traveling on a lean budget in Isle of Wight? Spend time, not your paycheck, on fantastic experiences.
15. Cowes Maritime Museum
Check if there are any special exhibits or tours on at this respected museum.
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16. Quay Arts
Spend a bit of time here and gain an insight into the arts and culture of the region.
17. Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary
Calling all animal lovers — here's your chance to spend time with some amazing new friends.
18. Seaclose Park
Make this one of your first stops for a bit of fun during your break.
19. Appuldurcombe House
Pay a visit to this historic attraction and learn something about the cultural heritage of the area.
20. Isle of Wight Owl and Falconry Centre
Widely renowned among those who live here, this site is worth a look.
21. The Minster Church of St Thomas
Get an understanding of the local beliefs at this sacred site.
22. Thorness Bay Beach
Play catch with the young ones or just sit back and catch some rays at this attractive coastal spot.
23. Parkhurst Forest
Escape the busy city life and get in touch with nature at this picture-perfect landscape.
24. Seaclose Park
Renew your mind, body and soul by spending a little time in nature.
More Free Things to do on the Isle of Wight (Hotels.com)
The Isle of Wight was named one of the best places to live in 2021 - the Times
Is it worth going to the Isle of Wight?
Yes, the Isle of Wight is absolutely worth visiting. The island offers a wide variety of attractions, activities, and natural beauty that make it a fantastic destination.
The Isle of Wight has stunning beaches, historic sites like Osborne House and Carisbrooke Castle, family-friendly theme parks and adventure parks, scenic hiking and cycling trails, and a thriving local food and drink scene. With its mild climate, diverse landscapes, and abundance of things to see and do, the Isle of Wight is a great choice for a holiday.
How many days are enough for the Isle of Wight?
Most visitors recommend spending at least 3-4 days on the Isle of Wight to see the main attractions, and get a good feel for the island. However, you could easily spend a week or more and still not see everything.
The island is quite compact, only 23 miles long and 13 miles wide, but there is so much packed into that small space. With its diverse landscapes, historic sites, family attractions, and outdoor activities, the Isle of Wight offers plenty to fill an extended stay. Many visitors find themselves wanting to return again and again to explore more of what the island has to offer.
What is the prettiest town on the Isle of Wight?
While the Isle of Wight has many charming and picturesque towns, Shanklin is often cited as one of the prettiest. The region features a historic old town with thatched-roof cottages, quaint shops and cafes, and the scenic Shanklin Chine gorge and waterfall.
Other contenders for the prettiest town include Yarmouth, with its historic harbor and castle, and Ventnor, a Victorian seaside resort with a Mediterranean feel. But Shanklin's combination of natural beauty, historic architecture, and traditional seaside character make it a standout.
What is the Isle of Wight best known for?
The Isle of Wight is best known for several things:
- Natural beauty and scenic landscapes - The island is renowned for its stunning coastlines, white cliffs, beaches, and rolling countryside.
- Historic sites - The Isle of Wight is home to many historic attractions like Osborne House, Carisbrooke Castle, and Yarmouth Castle that draw visitors.
- Family-friendly attractions - The island has a wealth of theme parks, adventure parks, and other activities that make it a popular destination for families.
- Outdoor activities - With its network of hiking trails, cycling routes, and water sports opportunities, the Isle of Wight is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Food and drink - The island's local produce, seafood, and award-winning restaurants and breweries have made it a foodie destination.
So in summary, the Isle of Wight's natural beauty, history, family attractions, outdoor activities, and culinary offerings all contribute to its reputation as a premier holiday destination.
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Best things to Do on Isle of Wight, UK - FAQs
Where to avoid on the Isle of Wight?
The Isle of Wight is generally a safe and picturesque destination, but there are a few areas that are best avoided. The town of Ryde, particularly the seafront, can be crowded and touristy, especially during peak season. The industrial areas around Cowes and Ventnor may also be less appealing to visitors. It's generally recommended to stick to the island's beautiful coastal paths, quaint villages, and popular attractions for the best experience.
Is the Isle of Wight expensive?
The Isle of Wight can be a relatively expensive destination, especially for accommodation and dining. Prices for hotels, B&Bs, and vacation rentals are often higher than on the mainland, and eating out at restaurants and pubs can add up quickly. However, there are ways to save money, such as staying in self-catering accommodations, visiting during the off-season, and taking advantage of the island's many free outdoor activities and attractions.
Do I need a car on the Isle of Wight?
Having a car on the Isle of Wight can be very convenient, as it allows you to explore the island's many scenic drives and reach more remote areas. However, it's not entirely necessary. The island has a good public transportation system, with regular bus services connecting the main towns and villages. Additionally, many of the island's top attractions are located in the central and southern regions, which can be easily accessed on foot or by bicycle.
Why is Isle of Wight expensive?
The Isle of Wight is generally more expensive than the mainland for a few key reasons. Firstly, as an island, the cost of transporting goods and materials is higher, which is reflected in the prices of goods and services. Secondly, the island's popularity as a tourist destination means that there is high demand for accommodation, dining, and activities, allowing businesses to charge premium prices. Additionally, the island's relatively small size and limited competition can contribute to higher prices in certain sectors.
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How long does it take to drive around Isle of Wight?
Driving around the entire Isle of Wight can be done in a single day, but it's a fairly lengthy journey. The island's circumference is approximately 57 miles, and with the island's winding roads and scenic detours, the full loop can take around 2-3 hours to complete, depending on traffic and stops. However, it's generally more enjoyable to take your time and explore the island's various towns, villages, and attractions along the way, which can easily fill a long weekend or week-long vacation.
What can't you do on the Isle of Wight?
The Isle of Wight is a relatively small and rural island, so there are some activities and experiences that may not be available or as easily accessible as on the mainland. For example, there are no major shopping malls, large theme parks, or bustling nightlife scenes. The island also has a limited selection of high-end dining options and cultural attractions compared to larger urban areas. However, the island more than makes up for these limitations with its stunning natural beauty, outdoor activities, and charming, laid-back atmosphere.
Which is better Isle of Man or Isle of Wight?
Comparing the Isle of Wight and the Isle of Man is a bit like comparing apples and oranges, as they each offer unique experiences and attractions. The Isle of Man is known for its rich history, stunning coastal scenery, and motorsports heritage, while the Isle of Wight is renowned for its picturesque villages, outdoor activities, and family-friendly atmosphere. Ultimately, the "better" destination depends on your personal interests and preferences. Both islands offer a peaceful, island getaway experience, but the specific attractions and activities may appeal more to some travelers than others.
Can you walk around the Isle of Wight in a day?
While it is technically possible to walk around the entire Isle of Wight in a single day, it would be an extremely challenging and exhausting endeavor. The island's circumference is approximately 57 miles, and the terrain can be quite hilly and rugged in places. Most experienced hikers would require at least 2-3 days to comfortably complete the full coastal path around the island. However, the Isle of Wight is an excellent destination for day hikes and shorter walking routes, with numerous scenic trails and paths that showcase the island's natural beauty without requiring a full circumnavigation.
Things to Do & Activities
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Best Things to Do on Isle of Wight - Top Attractions & Activities
