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The Isle of Wight Travel Guide takes a closer look at the Isle of Wight situated off the southern English coast, given it is a short ferry ride or even faster by hovercraft it is an assessable holiday spot for many visitors from the UK and overseas. The Isle of Wight is around four miles out to sea from the mainland and historically has been a key battle ground in battles and invasions.



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Isle of Wight Guide

Overview and Attractions
Isle of Wight Hotels
Isle of Wight Map
Isle of Wight Weather
Flight Search



Overview and Attractions

The Isle of Wight have had many visitors over the past hundred years who have come to enjoy its delights, in particular island paradise for yachtsmen, cyclists, walkers and sun seekers. Visitors attracted by the lack of crowds on the beaches and roads and gentle hills have found the Isle of Wight a delight to visit. About one third of the Isle of Wight is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and blessed with weather that is milder than the rest of the UK, holiday makers have a great location.

The town of Ryde has some historical attractions that are worth visiting. Quarr Abbey is a short distance away close to the village of Binstead, here you can witness one of the earliest relics on the island. Nunwell house is a property that has been a part of the Oglander family for hundreds of years. Shanklin has its own charm and character and the Old Village, is a great place to spend a relaxing summer evening walking long the pathways. There are nice clean beaches to enjoy in the town along with cafes and places to eat and stay.

One of the historical sites worth a visit is Yarmouth Castle, the last coastal fort built by Henry VIII. A series of artillery forts were built on the south cost fearing an invasion from France and Spain. Yarmouth Castle has a square design without a central tower. The castle was completed in 1547, a house built on the east side of the castle is now the George Hotel. For further information please see:

Yarmouth Castle

Carisbrooke Castle is one of the most famous attractions on the Isle of Wight. The castle was built in 1100 and has become an important site for the island's defences. The Spanish Armada sailed close by in 1588 and it was thought they may try to seize the island at the time. Charles 1 was imprisoned in the castle in 1588 and the room he was kept in can be viewed and is seen as a room of the Start period. The well house and tread wheel are still in working order and open to visitors. The Carisbrooke Museum is on site and provides important historical information about the castle. There are also artefacts to see. For more information please see:

Carisbrooke Castle

The Botanic Garden on the Isle of Wight is a place where visitors can enjoy seeing the wide array of plants on show. There is a visitor centre and education programmes to help further the understanding of plants for plants enthusiasts. There is much attention paid here to environmental issues and concerns and there is a Friends' Society that organises events and actively helps out in the work of the Garden. You can enjoy walking on the tour of the garden and see many different types of plants that have been careful looked after at the Botanic Garden. For more information please see:

Ventnor Botanic Garden

The exotic animal attraction Amazon World has been named among the top tourist attractions on the Isle of Wight and is great for a fun family day out. At the Amazon World Zoo Park visitors can learn about conservation and rainforests and see for themselves some of the worlds most endangered and unusual animals. The park is well known for its large range of exotic and highly unusual animals. There are around a couple of hundred different species to be seen here that range right across the spectrum. There are tropical birds flying in the rainforest and crocodiles to see too, these are just some of the many animals visitors can see at this attraction. For those wanting to learn more about the animals there are talks teaching you more about these fascinating creatures from the animal kingdom. For more information please see:

Amazon World Zoo Park

For those that like a bit of adventure and life in the fast lane, you can try go karting on the Isle of Wight. Popular for stag and hen parties, corporate events, a children's party, you can try it for yourself. Westridge Racing offer the go karting experience for everyone, they have an outdoor karting centre that is an all weather track. There is a junior and a senior tract, so something for everyone. Many visitors have had great fun is experiencing the go karting experience, you can enjoy the exhilaration for yourself. There is a cafeteria the aptly named 'Pit Stop' serving a range of foods both hot and cold. For further information please see:

Westridge Racing

Visitors to the Isle of Wight can enjoy a relaxing cruise, where you can take in the beautiful scenery whilst relaxing at your leisure. The cruises vary from smaller boats to larger ones offering lounges and full bar and drinks facilities.
Cruises usually take you around the sights to see. For further information please see:

Solent Cruises

The Needles Park is located at Alum Bay overlooking the Needles Rocks and Lighthouse. Every year many visitors come to see the lighthouse, jagged chalk stacks, the cliffs and the stunning chairlift. The Needles and Alum Bay has long been a favourite area to visit among tourists. This scenic area is still very popular today with visitors able to enjoy the natural beauty of the coastline. There are also crafts and other educational attractions to enjoy. The Needles Park Chairlift is a favourite with visitors and the most spectacular way to see the Isle of Wight’s most famous landmark. Visitors can ride on the chairs from the top of the cliff to Alum Bay Beach and back again. The views are spectacular and truly memorable. There is also a wide range of food on offer at the park, making for a great day out for everyone. For more information please see:

Needles Park

When looking for a place to eat, you may wish to consider the Mojacs Restaurant situated in Cowes. The restaurant has a cosy atmosphere where you can enjoy the food and drink on offer. The restaurant prides itself on using fresh local produce and dishes are prepared freshly on site. You can enjoy the taste of fresh food here, the menu is regularly changed so there is always something new to try and enjoy. The restaurant can also be booked for larger functions, it is a popular restaurant that has built up a good reputation. For further information please see:

Mojacs Restaurant

The Bugle Coaching Inn has a long history of providing hospitality, it provides a great place to enjoy good food. The atmosphere and character have been well maintained in this establishment, here you can enjoy some nice food and wine. There is a courtyard garden and a Brassiere offering a choice from a traditional lunches and sandwiches to a variety of hot and cold. There is live entertainment throughout the year to enjoy. Visitors can try the local dishes made from local produce to get a real sense of the local cuisine. For further information please see:

Bugle Coaching Inn

The internationally famous and renowned Isle of Wight Festival is one of the biggest attractions on the island. The festival has established itself as one of the most foremost music festivals in the UK. It takes place annually in June and is growing by the year. There are many famous big name acts each year that draw the crowds. The festival also boasts market stalls and funfair rides as well as fashionable bars. For more information please see:

Isle of Wight Festival

Accommodation in the Isle of Wight is available to suit most budgets. The compact nature of the island means you are never too far away from the attractions and sights the Isle of Wight has to offer. It is wise to ensure youir hotel does offer the facilities you require to avoid disappiontment. There are a range of hotels available on the Isle of Wight, for further information please see:

Isle of Wight Hotels


In the Isle of Wight Travel Guide we have seen the island offers a surprising number of attractions for a compact island, there is great scenery and a relaxed, holiday feel to things here. Its close proximity to the UK mainland mean it is a viable option for a day trip to those in the south of England and a great short break destination for those elsewhere in the UK. The short ferry crossing or hovercraft adds to the experience and holiday feel when you arrive at this picturesque island.

Isle of Wight Travel Guide

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