Given that the Isle of Wight is just a short ferry hop across the Solent, you needn’t think it a problem if you want to bring your car with you when you come to stay with us at Whitecliff Bay. Thousands upon thousands of families bring their cars to the island every year, and why wouldn’t they? Having your own car opens up the entire island for you. Below is a list of 10 top attractions you should consider:
You can find everything from monkeys, lemurs and marmosets to barn, eagle, snowy and other owls at this wonderful sanctuary in Newport. There’s also a café, special play areas for kids of all ages, learning centres and much more — it’s a great family day out.
2 – Seaview Wildlife Encounter
Another great choice for a family-friendly wildlife-filled day out! This park offers a truly interactive experience, with visitors encouraged to take part in one of the park’s nine daily wildlife events. There is also an excellent licensed café offering delicious locally sourced seafood and much more.
This is a beautifully intricate 1/10th scale model of Godshill and Shanklin Old Village, offering a unique and stunning look at two of the oldest areas on the Isle of Wight. Kids and parents will have a great time exploring the model village and wonderful gardens. The kids will feel like giants for the day!
4 – Osborne House
An old favourite located in East Cowes, the former summer residence of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert is a must-see for anyone visiting the Isle of Wight. It’s open all year round, and holds special seasonal events throughout the year. Tour the house and gardens, and even see her late majesty’s former private beach!
5 – Shanklin Theatre
The Shanklin Theatre is open all year round and offers a great range of amateur and professional productions, as well as musical performances, comedy and other shows. If you’re a lover of all things on stage, then this is definitely needs to be on your itinerary. See their website (link above) for details on upcoming shows.
6 – Boat Trip with Black Rock Charters
It’s possible you never thought of using your car to take you out on the ocean — not literally of course. Drive over to Yarmouth and take an exciting boat trip with Black Rock, where you can enjoy sea fishing, and cruises to see the most stunning coastal spots. Get out on the open water and see more of the island from another perspective.
Located in Niton, the area boasts a long history of lighthouses dating back to the 14th Century. St. Catherine’s is a beautifully distinct octagonal shaped lighthouse, looking out over the English Channel. Take a tour of the stunning building, and enjoy fishing nearby, as well as the unbeatable coastal scenery. Please be aware that the walk up and down the lighthouse is quite steep.
8 – Isle of Wight Steam Railway
The Steam Railway in Woolton Bridge has been a favourite with families for many years. It is one of Britain’s Heritage Railways, and offers a great day out with rides on amazingly restored steam-engine locomotives in wonderful Victorian and Edwardian carriages. What’s more, over the Easter Period from March 29th to April 12th, kids go absolutely free!
An unparalleled historical landmark on the Isle of Wight, Carisbrooke Castle is steeped in British history and heritage. The former prison of King Charles I, Carisbrooke has many fascinating stories to tell. There are also great activities for kids, like dressing up as Normal soldiers, or Civil War troopers, and even meeting the famous donkeys of Carisbrooke.
10 – The Garlic Farm
It’s possible you never really considered a farm as part of your visit to the Isle of Wight, but the Garlic Farm in Newchurch is a real must-see. There’s literally no one on the island who knows more about garlic than these folks. But there’s much more to see too, including tours of the farm, fun animals, and a gift shop jam packed with not only gifts, but also a full range of delicious garlic-inspired food items.
Browse our website to see great deals on accommodation at Whitecliff Bay in 2015, and join us to enjoy all of the above, and the many more attractions, on the Isle of Wight.