Top Holiday Attractions in Isle of Wight - what to do, where to go and what to see
If you are heading to Isle of Wight for a cottage holiday or self catering short break we have compiled some of the must see places and the best things to do. Whether you are looking for some family fun, visit relaxing and peaceful gardens or immerse yourself in the history and culture of Isle of Wight then take a look at some great ideas below.
And, if you are still to book your self catering accommodation we have listed some great Isle of Wight cottages and apartments close to the attractions and available direct from independent owners and leading holiday operators.
Search Top Isle of Wight Attractions Here
Isle of Wight Steam Railway, Ryde
Attractions in Isle of Wight
A 5 mile railway that uses Victoria and Edwardian locomotives and carriages. New carriages and wagon works, adapted to be wheelchair accessible. Take a ride behind one of their vintage steam locomotives for a special journey back in time.
Fort Victoria Marine Aquarium, Yarmouth
Attractions in Isle of Wight
See poisonous weever fish, graceful rays, beautiful anemones and amazing cuttlefish that change colour before your eyes. Extraordinary tropical fish and much more can be seen at this aquarium. Built into a series of arches which once housed huge cannons guarding the Solent the aquarium concentrated mainly on the native fish and invertebrate life found around the Isle of Wight.
Blackgang Chine, Ventnor
Attractions in Isle of Wight
This park was originally a Victorian garden but has been developed into a family friendly theme park, water gardens and maze. Blackgang Chine is an eccentric mix of exciting rides, goblins and fairies, dinosaurs, nursery rhyme characters, cowboys and indians all set within the rambling Victorian gardens.
Osborne House, East Cowes
Attractions in Isle of Wight
Osboure House was bought by Queen Victoria and Prince Ablert in 1845 and used as a retreat from the stresses and strains of court life. Today it is on the the most important memorials to Britians's Monarchy. Enjoy a horse and carriage ride through the grounds.
Classic Boat Museum, Newport
Attractions in Isle of Wight
A great indoor collection of lovingly restored sailing and motorised classic boats, dating from the 19th Century.
Shanklin Chine, Shanklin
Attractions in Isle of Wight
Enjoy the unique tranquility of Shanklin Chine, the Isle of Wight's oldest tourest attraction, which first opened in1817. A natural scenic gorge with a 45feet waterfall and stream leading to a beach. Shanklin Chine was once a site for shipwrecks and smuggling. It was later used for training Commandos during WWII.
The Neeldes Park, Alum Bay
Attractions in Isle of Wight
Overloooking the famous Needles, the park has attractions and rides for all the family. The chairlift boasts the most famous view on the Isle of Wight of thuniquely colours sand cliffs.
Fort Victoria Model Railway, Yarmouth
Attractions in Isle of Wight
The British and Continental trains weave their magic through villages, mountains, tunnels and factories; rekindling many happy childhood memories for many of their visitors. There are working models, some operated by a push button system, whilst others are running all day. A circus and fairground, with working models is an assed attraction as it also has its own miniature railway.
Seaview Wildlife Encounter, Seaview
Attractions in Isle of Wight
Set in acres of landscaped gardens overlooking the Solent, this wildlife park has magnificent views. The park is filled to the brim with unbelievably tame feathered and furry friends, a magical day out for all ages.
Isle of Wight Zoo, Sandown
Attractions in Isle of Wight
A family run zoo with a special interest in tigers and lemurs. The zoo was built within the ruins of a Victorian Fort built to guard Sandowns's coast. The zoo's focus is on looking after older tigers and giving them a happy retirement.
Seaview Wildlife Encounter, Seaview
Attractions in Isle of Wight
Set in acres of landscaped gardens overlooking the Solent, this wildlife park has magnificent views. The park is filled to the brim with unbelievably tame feathered and furry friends, a magical day out for all ages.
Looking for Accommodation close to Isle of Wight
If you are looking to spend a short break or holiday in Isle of Wight there is a lot of great quality self catering accommodation, ranging from apartments and cottages to lodges and chalets, to choose from. Of course, you will also find some lovely guest houses, bed and breakfast and hotels in Isle of Wight. Find out more by using the links below:
- Self catering cottages and apartments in Isle of Wight
- Lodges in Isle of Wight
- Holiday parks in Isle of Wight
- B&B and Guest House in Isle of Wight
- Hotels in Isle of Wight
Add a Reviewing or an Attraction
If you would like to tell us about your experiences at one of these attractions or would like to add one ot our list please contact us via our Find Cottage Holiday Facebook page.