Travel to the Isle of Wight: A Very English Island
Last Updated: September 23, 2026
ALL THE REASONS YOU NEED TO TRAVEL TO THE ISLE OF WIGHT
HOW TO GET HERE • WHERE TO STAY • THINGS TO DO • WHERE TO EAT • WHERE TO PARTY • STAYING SAFE
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Cross the Solent and Step Back in Time
Travel to the Isle of Wight across the slender but mighty Solent and discover a land where time appears suspended in Victorian Britain.
A Britain where the locals still point at planes and think they're a future civilisation. Of course, we jest, but only a bit.
Being on the Isle of Wight feels like the mainland fifty years ago, where community and kindness are still lifestyle choices. Likewise, stunning views, beaches, chalk cliffs and promenades dance around this still peaceful island. However, dig a little deeper and you'll discover many dinosaur remains are hidden within its picturesque cliffs.
Visiting the Isle of Wight has something for every member of the family, and we are here to show you where to stay, where to eat and the best things to do on this gem just off the south coast of England.
After all, we should know because Charlie's dad (Allan) was born here, and Charlie still has family on the island, who, between us, we have visited many times.
What's the Isle of Wight Like?
The Isle of Wight is England's largest and second-most populous island and has been designated a UNESCO biosphere reserve. Not only that, but it is gaining a reputation among astronomers for its night-sky clarity.Â
Due to its relatively small population and rural rolling hills, towering cliffs, and miles of natural beauty, the island feels quiet, peaceful and relaxing.
Hidden coves and stunning long beaches greet the often howling winds and ever-flowing English Channel.
The coastal areas are awash with beauty and charm, whilst the larger towns have a historic feel. To some, the old-world'y buildings feel drab, but to most, they are charming in a captivating, yet unconventional way.
Imagine a time your grandparents talked about, and that will go a long way to explaining the Isle of Wight. Even if that sounds awful, you cannot help but be dazzled by its beaches, chalk cliffs and stunning sunsets.
The island is magical, beautiful, and during festival season, bloody mental.
You have to experience it to understand it.
How to Get To The Isle of Wight
Being an island, and a small one at that, there are no commercial airports, large train stations or anything resembling transportation on or off the island other than via the harbours.
Therefore, if you want to travel to the Isle of Wight, unless you are minted, have a private helicopter, and have permission to land on the island, you are limited to using three companies: Red Funnel, Wightlink (opens in new tab)(opens in new tab and Hovertravel.
To prove our commitment to honesty, we'll say one of our trips was paid for by Red Funnel, and whilst we loved the trip, we weren't impressed with Red Funnel. Nevertheless, we aren't going to praise Wightlink either. In our experience, both are overpriced, unreliable and often rude.
Red Funnel run from Southampton and arrives in East Cowes (Isle of Wight). The journey takes an hour each way, with the cheapest return journey for a car and two persons costing a stupid £153.50.
Wightlink runs from Portsmouth and arrives at either Fishbourne (Isle of Wight) or Ryde (Isle of Wight -foot and bike passengers only), or from Lymington and lands in Yarmouth (Isle of Wight). The journey takes 40 minutes each way, with return prices for two people and a car being an astronomical £182.75...
Hovertravel flies across the Solent from Southsea (Portsmouth) to Ryde (Isle of Wight) in 10 minutes, costing £13.50 each way (£27 return). However, they only cater for foot passengers, meaning that if you want to travel to the Isle of Wight, you will have to leave your car in Portsmouth.
Timing your Trip
How Long Should You Spend Visiting The Isle of Wight?
If you plan to travel to the Isle of Wight, I'd suggest at least four nights.
The island might be small, but there's a lot to see and plenty of activities from coast to coast. Not to mention plenty of fantastic restaurants and beaches to check out.
Best Time Of The Year To Travel to The Isle of Wight
The best time of year to visit the Isle of Wight is, as is always the case in the UK, the summer...
Ultimately, it's when you're more likely to enjoy warmer, sunnier skies and a lot less rain. Although I'm sure the famous Isle of Wight wind will still strike at some point.
And trust me... The Isle of Wight is much better when it's not raining.
Similarly, summer is when the Isle of Wight encounters its best atmosphere, and the world-famous Isle of Wight Festival kicks in. This usually happens in mid to late June.
Hence, I'd suggest May to August as the best time of year to travel to the Isle of Wight.
Where to Stay Whilst Visiting The Isle of Wight
Thanks to the Isle of Wight's size, you can be anywhere within the hour. Therefore, choosing the correct location isn't as important as it might be in other destinations.
Whether you stay more centrally or at one of the coastal towns, you will find charm, tranquil countryside and views. That said, we would recommend a couple of places, such as Ventnor or Freshwater, as two of the more popular and pretty locations.
As mentioned, having family living on the island means we haven't stayed in many spots, and even fewer we'd recommend.
In fact, unless you'd like to shack up with Charlie's nan, there's only one place we'd recommend from our travels, and that happens to be near Freshwater.
So, without further ado, here is our recommendation...
Toms Eco Lodge, Tapnell Farm
- What: A range of eco-lodges, glamping safari tents, and domes.
- Where: Near the southwest of the island, just outside Freshwater. (map)
- Why: Great location, fantastic hot tub and funky lodges.
- Why Not: I'm sure there are cheaper places to stay on the Isle of Wight.
Nowadays, Tom's Eco lodge comes in a variety of styles, and frankly they all look fantastic. However, we can only truly review the Modulog.
The modulog is a semi-circular log pod, complete with BBQ, deck chairs and even a large hot tub - this place was awesome! A private log cabin set into the lush green hills, it was paradise.
Inside continued to impress with a stunning open-plan living, dining and kitchen area followed by two wonderful bedrooms (one double, and one twin).
Furthermore, the showerroom is host to a very powerful and hot shower - which is important for breaks in the countryside, and is separate to the toilet, making life easy for groups.
The modulog came complete with every comfort, including a welcome hamper of milk, teabags, coffee, and local biscuits, to mention a couple of items, which for the weary traveller was much appreciated.
If all that wasn't enough, the spacious deck and hot tub have views out over the countryside, with nothing but fields running to the horizon which, in the evenings, frame the dipping sun.
In August 2026, the eco lodges for four people for three nights will cost £752.... That's £62.66 per night per person.
Further Accommodation
If, for some reason, our suggestion isn't 'a little bit of you', don't worry; there are many other styles and types of accommodation on the Isle of Wight. These range from campsites to B&B's, hostels and hotels.
Like most locations these days, you'll find somewhere to suit you and your budget, even if you travel to the Isle of Wight without a pre-booking. However, during the high season, we do recommend booking in advance.
Below are our three usual recommendations. Between them, they cover most accommodation on the Isle of Wight.
Best Things to do on the Isle of Wight
As mentioned earlier in the blog, the Isle of Wight is a seasonal island. Whilst you can visit year-round, if you want to get the best out of it, the summer months are far more spectacular.
Then again, prices alter dramatically, which makes a winter break slightly more appealing.
No matter the season, we urge you to take the opportunity to explore the rugged natural beauty and join in some activities across the island too.
The Isle of Wight has something for everyone and is a great place for a family break. As you'll see below, there are excellent activities for the kids, more adventurous ideas for the teens and plenty of wonderful countryside walks and beauty for those here to relax.
Below are a few of our favourite activities that we have experienced on the island.
So, without further ado, let's show you some of the best things to do on the Isle of Wight
Discovering The Isle of Wight: The Highlights
Experience the Fun and Games at Tapnell Farm
- Why: Tapnell Farm has a day out in one place.
- Where: Halfway between the markets and the airport (map)
- How long: Hell, there's a day out here, including a top-class restaurant.
- How much: Clay pigeon from £49.50, Aqua Park £22, and £9 for football/frisbee golf. (Tapnell Farm)
Tapnell Farm was once the Isle of Wight's leading dairy producer, but is now one of the top locations on the Isle of Wight for activities. Along with accommodation, it has become a self-contained entertainment hub with so much to do on-site.
Animals roam the site, many of whom you can interact with. Although having seen the massive hairy bulls, I'd stay away from them.
For kids, there are petting zoos, pillow trampolines and karting tracks. Then, for older kids and adults, there's a wide range of shooting facilities, which we found great fun, aqua parks, padel, tennis, frisbee golf, relaxation retreats, and much, much more.
Admittedly, you could spend a fortune at Tapnell Farm, so I'd keep it to a couple of activities and, of course, a great bite to eat at the Cow, the best on-site restaurant.
Get Wet in Freshwater Bay
- Why: It's thrilling, and you can explore the coast from a different perspective.
- Where: In Freshwater Bay, near the Needles on the island's south-west coast. (map)
- How long: Three hours should cover everything once on site.
- How much: From £45, depending on the tide. (Freshwater Coasteering)
We managed to rustle up a kayaking trip from Freshwater Bay and, even with a killer hangover, loved every second.
Our guide was great fun, friendly and knowledgeable about the coastline and the sea, making us feel safe at all times... We didn't mention the hangover...
Despite the instructor's blind confidence in us, moments happened that Charlie will forget, whilst I, of course, won't, having nearly wet myself laughing as Charlie crashed out big time.
This is something we highly recommend taking the time to do whilst here.
**2026 Update** Coasteering now seems to be the only activity you can do from Freshwater Bay. Nevertheless, with that rugged, breathtaking coastline, we highly recommend giving that a go. You'll uncover caves where the incoming tide rushes past, sweeping you off your feet, or rocks so perfectly placed for a leap of faith.
You will get wet, you will have fun, and you will be in the safest of hands here in Freshwater Bay.
Walk with the animals at West Wight Alpacas and llamas
- Why: Alpacas are bloody cute, enough said!
- Where: Just north of Tapnell Farm. (map)
- How long: An hour, maybe two, should be enough. The walk with the alpaca or llama takes around half an hour.
- How much: Entry is free, but walking the alpaca costs £24.50. (Westwightalpacas)
Yeah, alpacas on the Isle of Wight, who knew?
The last time I saw them was in Peru, and I fell in love with the long-necked balls of fluff. So, this should be something we rave about. However, this one was a little slower-paced than our usual antics, so we'll hold off the rave...
That said, it was fun.
Plus, the farm showcases far more than alpacas, with llamas, sheep, goats, birds, pigs and other farm animals roaming the fields. For us, the day's highlight was walking the alpacas around the grounds and learning all about the varied animals on-site.
Also, on a side note, if you get the chance to cuddle with a pygmy goat on the way around, do that too.
Genuinely, we had a great time and could see how people of all ages would have a fantastic day on the farm. Once you have worn yourself out, we recommend a trip into the farm shop and café, with the llama and alpaca wool products on sale, and you’ll even meet a parrot who sings merrily away to himself in the corner of the shop.
Taste the Magic of the Garlic Farm
- Why: You'll understand when you get here.
- Where: A ten- to fifteen-minute drive southeast of Newport towards Sandown. (map)
- How long: Lunch and a look around the shop and site, let's say three hours, maybe a bit more.
- How much: Overall it's not the cheapest, but there's plenty to see and do... (Garlic Farm)
Every time we travel to the Isle of Wight, we visit this place! That's how good it is...
From humble beginnings, the Garlic Farm has grown into one of the island's main attractions.
Within the ever-growing site, you'll find a stunning restaurant serving countless dishes all containing, you guessed it, garlic!
Between the two of us, we must have tried most, if not a significant portion, of the menu and still haven't been disappointed.
However, the Garlic Farm is more than just a restaurant... The shop sells a plethora of garlic-related products, plants and other farm shop essentials. What's more, during the day you can partake in tasting some products, then end up buying half the shop.
Other than shopping and eating, there are activities around the farm for the kids, countryside walks, and even on-site glamping huts and events if you wish to stay a little longer.
Uncover the Beauty of the Needles
- Why: The sea views and chalk cliffs create a sense of natural beauty and fresh air.
- Where: On the Isle of Wight's magical west coast. (map)
- How long: Half a day here should blow the cobwebs away.
- How much: Parking costs £7, plus there are a variety of activities at different prices, plus free walks. (Needles)
Standing in the westernmost reaches of the Isle, the pretty, picturesque chalk cliffs of the Needles jut out into the oncoming rushing tide, wind, and often swirling rain...
From the island, three narrow cliffs point out to sea, shaped like a needle, all guided by a red-and-white-ringed lighthouse.
The contrast of the white chalk, red lighthouse and deep blue sea makes for a special picture, but there's more to the Needles than a few white cliffs.
Enjoy sublime fresh walks that encircle the area. Maybe enjoy some fun and games at the amusements and funfairs. How about soaring through the air on the chairlifts down to boat rides and other sea experiences. Back above the cliffs, why not get involved in sweet-making or shopping for those shitshelf items. Maybe even enjoy a meal at one of the restaurants.
Whatever you choose to do, the Needles will leave you full of happy memories and laughter - unless you or someone in your party slips off the cliff... Don't do that!
Where to Eat on the Isle of Wight
Despite lingering in the 1970s, the Isle of Wight boasts both modern and historic foods, stylish pubs and gourmet restaurants.
Basically, they've taken traditional, historic dishes and sprinkled them with a new-age twist.
It might not shock you that the Isle of Wight's best dishes include fresh seafood, scrumptious fruit and veg and often impeccable dairy. After all, it is the sunniest place in the UK and surrounded by the sea.
Most dishes you'll come across are hearty, warming and built to fuel you through the cold, wet winters.
Huge roast dinners, plentyful seafood platters and delicious juicy farm foods are everywhere, and you won't be disappointed by the taste.
With that said, let's skip the queue, grab a table and look at some of the best places to eat on the Isle of Wight.
Garlic Farm
- What: A restaurant dedicated to delicious, flavourful garlic. (Veggie and vegan options)
- Where: A ten- to fifteen-minute drive southeast of Newport towards Sandown. (map)
- How much: Expect to spend about £30 for a drink and a main meal. (menu)
Those paying attention will notice we've already covered the Garlic Farm, but this time we're looking purely at the restaurant.
We've had countless meals at the Garlic Farm and watched the restaurant grow and grow, developing from a cocoon to a beautiful butterfly. Over the years, despite the expansions, the restaurant has maintained its rustic, cosy vibes with glorious wooden beams and a relaxing atmosphere. Yes, there is a pungent odour that tickles the nose hairs, but even that feels like a hug from a panda. - No, we've never been hugged by a panda!
The restaurant's style is meditative and simply a lovely place to be. The staff, whilst busy, are friendly and very helpful -not to mention quick to get your drinks and orders out to you.
Then, to top it off, the flavours, textures and vibrancy of every dish are divine. Garlic baked beans- who knew that would be so good, but they are... Every dish is constructed with love and care and created with a real enthusiasm for, yes, the garlic, but for an exciting, entertaining experience.
If you travel to the Isle of Wight and don't eat at the Garlic Farm, you are missing out.
The Seapot
- What: Sublime beach hut cafe with some truly epic platters. (Veggie and vegan options)
- Where: A short fifteen-minute walk east along the coast from Ventnor Beach. (map)
- How much: Grab a fantastic platter and a beer for around £20. (menu)
Firstly, this is not somewhere you'd happen to come across; it's hidden away, and one the locals would want to keep hidden. It's too good to share, but hey, that's my job.
Weirdly, the Seapot started life as a public toilet, serving those happy-go-lucky, won't-pee-in-the-sea beachgoers.
Nowadays, everyone pees in the sea, so this toilet block received a top-quality clean-out and renovation.
With views over the beach below, this stylish beach-themed restaurant is a delightful, soothing place to be. Likewise, the owner makes you feel at ease, almost like you're family.
In truth, the menu is limited, but that's what's created Seapot's success. They have specialised in the platter, and they go all out to be the best.
Huge, fresh, colourful platters are placed in front of you, and they don't skimp on the ingredients. The blend of flavours throughout this beast of a platter combines to create a truly award-winning taste. Again, this is one you don't want to miss out on when you travel to the Isle of Wight.
The Cow
- What: Old cow shed specialising in burgers and meat dishes (veggie and vegan options)
- Where: Nestled in the heart of Tapnell Farm. (map)
- How much: Average main meals range between £20 and £24. (menu)
This large, barn-style building not only looks great, but once inside has the ambience to match. The vibe is 100% big, bold and in your face. Kind of American in a way. Style-wise, imagine if a barn had a kid with a large hunting lodge, but the postman was a restaurant. Then, you got it.
With a fantastic atmosphere, friendly, welcoming staff and quirky decor reflecting the island's history, this slice of farm life is exactly what you're looking for.
From stalking every dish that left the kitchen like a lion playing with a mouse, it's fair to say that the portion sizes are as they should be, too. You guessed it, big! You won't be leaving hungry.
We can highly recommend the burgers and dirty fries, followed by a sticky toffee pudding. Similarly, the cocktails and drinks are phenomenal. This isn't just a foodies' heaven; they cater for the drinkers too.
Overall, this has to be one of our top recommendations on the Isle of Wight for sheer taste.
The Blacksmiths
- What: Proper old-fashioned pub grub. (Veggie and vegan adaptations possible)
- Where: On the southwest fringe of Newport on the B3401. (map)
- How much: That delicious pie and potato costs £17.50. (menu)
Firstly, we recommend booking... This place gets busy.
Of course, like the idiots we are, we rocked up at 7pm without a booking, and had to wait a while. We should have known from the daily, constantly busy carpark.
With a friendly, helpful team and a menu in which you could immerse yourself for hours, the Blacksmiths are on to a winner. More importantly, the flavours and sensations that accompany every bite lived up to and exceeded our expectations.
A particular shout-out goes to the duck bao bun starter and the Newchurch Pie.
Inside has a great blend of old and new, while the views from the outdoor terraces are to die for. This ancient old pub has it all. Simply magic from the family-run team at this old-worldy farmhouse-style pub.
If you travel to the Isle of Wight and come here, your stomach will thank you.
Harvey Browns Farm Shop
- What: Stylish and well-stocked farm shop and cafe. (Veggie options)
- Where: Near Amazon World, between Newport and Shanklin on the A3056. (map)
- How much: Three bacon butties and four hot drinks cost £37.50. (menu)
The name kind of gives this one away.
Just off the main road, this vast and beautifully crafted building houses unimaginable delights, mostly from local producers.
This three-in-one food hall, farm shop and kitchen is somewhere to relax, admire and enjoy.
Whether you're here to buy something to take home, grab a coffee and cake or a bite to eat, you're in for a treat.
With indoor and outdoor seating overlooking the lush green fields, trees and river making up the Arreton Valley, you couldn't ask for a better place to munch down on a bacon sarnie.
The food is fantastic, the staff are friendly, and you will walk away with a huge smile on your face.
Where to Party on the Isle of Wight
The Isle of Wight is home to one of the UK's biggest and most loved festivals, aptly named the Isle of Wight Festival.
Drinks flow 24/7, and mayhem ensues.
However, outside that week of pure blissful chaos, the Isle of Wight isn't somewhere you go to drink.
Don't get me wrong, there are a lot of pubs, some with magical sea views and others, how do I put it? A little less captivating and certainly nowhere we would shout about or necessarily recommend.
We found nights out in Newport (one of the largest towns on the Isle of Wight) dated and rather peculiar. It was difficult to understand what sort of building we were in. Was it a bar, a pub, or a club?
Thankfully, Fever, the island's illustrious nightclub, has closed permanently. You didn't miss anything. If you know, you know.
In truth, we preferred drinking in places we ate and aren't going to recommend anywhere as we usually would... If you think we're missing a trick, please let us know, and next time we're there, we will check it out unless you suggest Slug and Lettuce or the Hogshead.
Is Visiting the Isle of Wight Safe
I could waffle on for paragraphs about this, but the only answer you need is yes, it is very safe to travel to the Isle of Wight.
Crime
The Isle of Wight is one of the safest places in the UK, with lower crime per capita than most of the mainland. Violent crimes are extremely rare.
Crimes against tourists are unlikely, but as we always say, be sensible and keep an eye on your belongings in the main towns and/or on drunken nights out.
Natural Disasters
Compared to the rest of the world, the Isle of Wight suffers very few natural disasters.
In truth, the most likely disaster to strike the Isle of Wight is flash flooding caused by the onslaught of strong winds and rain from the Atlantic.
Occassionally this can cause serious damage to buildings and landslides, but in reality, this is very unlikely to happen.
Road Safety
While we joke about the Isle of Wight being stuck in the 1950's, you will see plenty of modern-day cars. Nevertheless, we've always found the traffic on the island to be free-flowing.
Around the main town centres, such as Newport and Cowes, traffic can get busy, but having driven on the mainland, it feels very quiet, especially in winter. However, the winter weather brings other complications to driving on the Isle of Wight.
Yet, there are many narrow countryside and coastal dipping roads and blind bends. Locals know the roads, but as a tourist, you'll need to keep your wits about you. The Isle of Wight's terrain can catch you out, so drive sensibly.
The Sea
Ultimately, this is the biggest risk to your safety on the Isle of Wight. No matter how calm or beautiful the sea looks, the undercurrent and tides the Isle of Wight experiences can wash you out to sea or worse at any time.
If you're going to enjoy the sea and wonderful coastal beauty, respect the water and enjoy it safely.
Leave a comment
We're dedicating this Isle of Wight guide to Charlie's dad, Allan Flux, the man, the myth, the legend and a proud Wightian who sadly passed away in March 2026. Truly one of the kindest, funniest and friendliest people you'd ever wish to meet and a keen traveller alongside his wife Lisa.
The Isle of Wight is a magical place, with a lot going on in such a small location. Our only gripe with the Island is how expensive it is to get to. So, should you travel to the Isle of Wight?
Honestly, yes, but... I can get to the Med quicker and cheaper from my home in Bristol, and as much as I like the Isle of Wight, I'd prefer somewhere on the Mediterranean.
Nevertheless, once there, you'll have a blast!
All that's left to say is please let us know your views on our Isle of Wight guide or share your experiences on the island by leaving a comment below.
Thanks
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