Top 10 things to do on the Isle of Wight in 2020
With its mild climate and old school nostalgic feel, the Isle of Wight has drawn visitors from all over for many years. This relatively small island is brimming with activities to suit all tastes and ages which makes it the perfect campsite getaway.
Cinematic landscapes
Over half of the island has been named an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) so whichever way you look you’ll spot something great. The nature reserves are well-maintained and are home to stunning wildlife and birds. The craggy coastline offers magnificent views, particularly The Needles Rocks – arguably the island’s most famous site. Take the chairlift between the cliffs and the shore and you’ll witness the breath-taking views. There’s also the 4D cinema, glass blowing and a sweet factory too.
The Ventnor Botanic Garden benefits from its own microclimate which helps to nurture an astounding subtropical and exotic plant collection. Usually these plants would be found in greenhouses, but as the area is so sheltered and mild, they can thrive outside. The gardens also provide wellbeing classes and retreats, adventure for kids and a heritage centre.
The island’s rich heritage
Alongside the natural beauty of the island, you’ll find great man-made gems too. Osborne House was once Queens Victoria’s holiday home and she said “it is impossible to imagine a prettier spot”. Nothing short of a palatial dream, you’ll be transported back in time as you meander through garden terraces, take a peek inside Victoria and Albert’s private apartments, glimpse their bathing beach and even the children’s play-cottage.
See the island from a different point of view as you chug along in the IW Steam Railway. Hop aboard the locomotive and take the five-mile journey whilst the guides impart their fountain of knowledge upon you. The carriages and wagons have all been lovingly restored by volunteers and they’re truly beautiful.
Adrenaline and excitement
Both land and sea adventures are at your fingertips with Isle of Wight Adventure Activities. Try your hand at arrow tag, archery, bush craft, mountain boarding and climbing, or take to the water with coasteering, kayak tours, and stand up paddle boarding.
Although a potentially slower pace of activity, Goodleaf Tree Climbing is no less thrilling. Discover the beauty of nature as you make your way into the leafy canopy of a shoreside oak tree, guided on a rope tour by their staff. Hang out in the tree-top hammocks and enjoy the view.
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Fun for all the family
Shanklin seafront provides a real taste of the nostalgic British seaside. This award-winning family day out is just the right combination of eateries, attractions and sandy beaches to keep everyone happy. There you’ll find three miniature golf courses, an arcade, soft play centre and plenty of ice cream too.
Let your imagination run wild at Blackgang Chine. With different magical themed lands, you’ll find yourselves walking amongst dinosaurs, shooting down a variety of slides and even walking the plank in the pirate park.
Hitting the shops
For those of you that want to make the most of your cherished memories with a keepsake or two, the Isle of Wight has a fabulous independent shop community where you can pick up treasures made by local artisans. The Old Smithy and Gardens is a relaxed and tranquil shopping experience where you can find candles, collectables, pictures, pottery and glassware to suit any home. Be sure to stop at the coffee shop and taste some of the local produce too.
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Arreton Barns is a wonderful craft space where the makers sell their creations. Set in the stunning Isle of Wight countryside, you can even purchase home cooked food, fine wines, local ales and even take a relaxing walk round the medieval fish pond.
Top 10 things to do in the Isle of Wight 2020
- The Needles Rocks
- Ventnor Botanic Garden
- Osborne House
- The IW Steam Railway
- Isle of Wight Adventure Activities
- Goodleaf Tree Climbing
- Shanklin Seafront
- Blackgang Chine
- The Old Smithy and Gardens
- Arreton Barns
Top 20 Featured Holiday Parks on the Isle of Wight
Beaper Farm Camping & Caravan Park
Static holiday caravan site – open March – October.
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Cheverton Copse Holiday Park
Cheverton Copse is a conservation award winning family run park situated in a picturesque rural setting 1.5miles from the towns and sandy beaches of Sandown & Shanklin. The park is spaciously planned amid mature trees and native hedging and enjoys beautiful views of the surrounding downlands. Away from the main road we provide a protected environment in which children can play safely.
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Colwell Bay
Freshwater holiday Park
Compton Farm Partnership
Only 1.5 miles away from Freshwater Bay, there are stunning views across to Compton Bay at this lovely family holiday park. Compton Farm is filled with wildflowers, and is still a working farm. Kids will love exploring the area and seeing the animals such as chickens, goats and cows. Not far from the site is also a south-facing beach which is great for paddling and spotting fish.
Fairway Holiday Park
Tree-lined site close to award winning beaches. Caravans for hire. Suitable for families/couples only. Allows Pets in limited static caravans.
Grange Farm Brighstone Bay
Self catering cottages, static-caravans, camping site. Family farm holiday, beach, sea-fishing, fossil hunting, walkers paradise. Family run.
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Heathfield Farm Camping
Clean green camping on level grass field in good walking area close to shops, beaches, buses and ferry port.
Landguard Holiday Park
Nestled in the woodland between the resorts of Shanklin and Sandown, Landguard Holiday Park allows you to escape from the hustle and bustle in this relaxed atmosphere. Explore the lush countryside or enjoy the buzz of the beach; whatever you fancy, you will find all the space and freedom you need. On-park theres plenty to do, including family friendly entertainment in the Jesters Family Club, indoor and outdoor swimming pools and Kids Clubs to keep the children entertained all day long.
Lower Hyde Holiday Park
Under the dappled canopy of gorgeous woodland sits Lower Hyde Holiday Park. Just a stone’s throw away from Shanklin seafront, you’ll benefit from also being close to Blackgang Chine, idyllic waterfalls and adventurous trails. On site there’s an adventure playground, heated pool and even arcades.
Nodes Point Holiday Park
With direct access to the beach, Priory Bay is just a short stroll away from Nodes Point Holiday Park, meaning you can laze on the sands, take the kids for a rock pool adventure or even the chance to go horse-riding. At the end of a fun-filled beach day, head back to the park. Let the kids use their last burst of energy in taking on the exciting adventure playground, before settling down with a tasty meal at the Boathouse Bar & Restaurant followed by an evening of family entertainment.
Old Mill Holiday Park
Welcome to a quiet family park with a relaxing atmosphere, overlooking picturesque Bembridge harbour, sea and downs. St Helens beach is just 10 minutes walk away, and is backed by a National Trust recreational area.
Sandhills Holiday Park
Coastal park in AONB overlooking Whitecliff Bay with private access to the beach. 1.5 miles from local village of Bembridge.
Sunnycott Caravan Park
Small quiet family run country park close to Cowes. All caravans have cooker, microwave, fridge and colour TV. Shop & Laundry room on site. Dogs welcome.
Thorness Bay Holiday Park
Spread across glorious countryside on the north of the island, Thorness Bay Holiday Park offers the opportunity to get back to nature with spectacular views over the Solent and its own private bay a short walk away. Theres plenty of family fun to be had on park. Join the kids for a splash in the swimming pool, play family game of football or basketball on the sports courts, or let them burn off some energy in the adventure playground. After a busy day, enjoy a tasty meal in the Boathouse Bar and Restaurant before a spot of evening entertainment.
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Waverley Park Holiday Centre
Four star park with static caravans, flats and levelled serviced all weather pitches. Easy access from Cowes and Red Funnel Ferries. Open all year.
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Westcliffe Chalets
A secluded private development set in beautiful gardens which are situated on the southern side of the Isle of Wight, just south of the village of Niton. The site, which is only suitable for adults, has 26 individually owned chalets, ensuring the area is always quiet and peaceful.
Whitefield Forest Touring Park
Ideal camping holiday for families, couples and individuals, super clean toilet and shower block. AA 5 pennants.AA Campsite of the Year South East 2018
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Woodside Bay Lodge Retreat
After undergoing redevelopment, Woodside Bay Lodge Retreat is an unusual and fantastic luxury getaway. With a choice of lodges and treehouses available, it has access to a sweet shingle beach and is only a short distance from the harbour town of Ryde.
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Woodside Coastal Retreat
Beachside setting adjacent to woodland. Beautifully appointed modern lodges in a tranquil location.
Click here for a full list of Isle of Wight holiday parks.
