The Isle of Wight attracts millions of tourists and is one of the UK’s most popular summer holiday getaways. Chances are, you’ve already heard about some of the wonderful things to do on the Isle of Wight. You’ll find stunning beaches, dinosaur fossils, and massive chalk rock formations – plus a wealth of tourist attractions, including Queen Victoria’s former holiday residence.
In this guide, we’ll cherry-pick the best of what the Isle of Wight offers. These are the ten best things to do on the Isle of Wight.
1. The Needles
The Needles are the postcard image of the Isle of Wight. The three chalk stacks rise dramatically out of the ocean and are the island’s most famous natural attraction. Even on the shortest visit, visiting The Needles should be among your top things to do on the Isle of Wight.
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You can visit The Needles at the Old Battery, take a boat trip, or take the chairlift to Alum Bay. Want a local’s spot to admire the Needles? Head to Headon Warren. The heather-covered clifftop is one of the most peaceful places to sit with a picnic, and even better if you visit at sunset.
2. Carisbrooke Castle
Carisbrooke Castle is one of the most historical places on the Isle of Wight. A lot has happened at Carisbrooke Castle, including Cromwell’s Roundheads imprisoning Charles I. The mediaeval castle turned museum is in spectacular condition, and visitors can wander the halls – truly feeling like they’ve jumped back in time.
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Carisbrooke Castle is a fantastic addition to your itinerary for an immersive historical attraction. Allow at least a couple of hours to fully appreciate the castle and its grounds and coincide it with a sunny day if you’d like to picnic on the battlements.
3. Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary
Who doesn’t love an animal sanctuary? The Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary has been rescuing donkeys since 1987, and paying a visit is one of the most wholesome things to do on the Isle of Wight.
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Visitors can tick off all the different donkeys they spot on a sheet – walking along the pathways between the donkey paddocks. The sanctuary can have over a hundred donkeys at a time, so you’ll have many new friends to meet. Better still, entry is free. However, we recommend leaving a donation since all proceeds go to caring for the rescued animals.
4. Shanklin Chine
Shanklin Chine is no new kid on the block. The stunning ravine has been attracting visitors for over two hundred years, and it’s easy to see why.
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The 105 ft ravine is hidden away in woodland with a railed walkway for visitors to walk its length (peering over if they dare). Along the way, there are multiple small waterfalls, with the main waterfall falling a dramatic 45 feet towards the end of the path.
Shanklin Chine has attracted some famous tourists in its time, including Jane Austen and John Keats. This tourist attraction is worth the hype, and it has the history to prove it. Walk the entire trail and finish your experience with a meal at the ‘pub on the beach’ (aka The Fisherman’s Cottage).
5. Osbourne House
Osbourne House is no ordinary home. Besides the fact that it is a gigantic Italian-inspired mansion, Osbourne House was also once the holiday residence of Queen Victoria. The Queen filled the mansion with incredible features, such as an Indian Room and plenty of antique furnishings. Osbourne House was said to be her preferred residence, and it’s clear that she poured her heart and soul into its design and upkeep.
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After Queen Victoria’s death, Queen Elizabeth donated Osbourne House to the English Heritage Trust, allowing the mansion to be opened to the public. Now, tourists can wander the grounds and corridors for themselves. Regal history doesn’t get much more personal and immersive.
6. Godshill Model Village
On the opposite end of the spectrum, you’ve probably never seen houses as tiny as those in Godshill Model Village. The model village is spread over two acres. It is an exact replica of Godshill itself – from thatched roof cottages to the mediaeval church.
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Towering over the hip-height houses, you can crouch to peer into the tiny glass windows and admire the organised scenes. If you’ve never visited a model village before, prepare to be wowed by the experience.
7. Monkey Haven
Fancy another wholesome thing to do on the Isle of Wight? Visit Monkey Haven. Monkey Haven is a registered primate rescue centre. However, founder Don Walser also takes in birds and reptiles if they are in need. All resident animals have been deemed unfit to be released back into the wild. Monkey Haven provides a happy space for them to safely live out the rest of their days.
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You can quietly admire the animals while they play in their enclosures, attend Keeper Talks to get a more hands-on experience or stop for refreshments in the café. Monkey Haven is a fantastic, ethical day out.
8. Shanklin Beach
Shanklin Beach is the most famous beach on the island. It has that classic seaside aesthetic, with rows of wooden cabanas and a traditional promenade. If you want a British beach day, look no further than throwing out a towel on Shanklin Beach.
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The beach is over a mile long and is spacious enough to not be cramped – even in peak season. It’s a popular choice amongst families, although solo travellers will also appreciate the safety in numbers and cheerful crowd.
9. Isle of Wight Steam Railway
Taking a ride on a steam train is exciting, no matter your age or interests. The Isle of Wight Steam Railway is an impressive heritage railway and the perfect place to indulge in a vintage locomotive experience.
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The hour-long ride is sure to be an experience to remember. You’ll pass stunning scenery and get to sit in vintage cabins for the ultimate heritage experience. Don’t forget to stop by the museum after for some history and informative exhibitions as well.
10. Freshwater Bay Caves
Freshwater Bay Caves aren’t for the faint-hearted. You’ll need a strong sense of adventure and excellent timing to keep the experience fun and safe. Ready for the challenge? Good.
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Freshwater Bay Caves were once used by smugglers and are only accessible at low tide. The caves are a little like Portugal’s Benagil Cave – just in white chalk rather than orange sandstone. The phenomenon is fascinating, and we recommend a visit.
You can rent kayaks to explore the Caves at high tide or hire a local guide to visit safely on foot. Freshwater Bay Caves are not as well known as the other attractions on our list, so hopefully, you’ll get to enjoy them in peace and quiet.
You’ll never get bored of things to do on the Isle Of Wight
Ready to experience all the best things to do on the Isle of Wight? We hope you have a fantastic trip. And, if you’ve been to the Isle of Wight before, drop any extra recommendations in the comments below.
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