Home Page Skip Navigation
Weather Info

Home / News / 2008 / 5 / 2 /

YOU CAN BANK ON THE ISLE OF WIGHT THIS MAY

Why not take advantage of the second Bank Holiday of the month (24-26 May) and get away to the Isle of Wight where a great range of events awaits you?

For the outdoor type, there's a mountain bike festival, or just sit back and relax with the locals at first ever Big Green Picnic. Appuldurcombe House and the Isle of Wight Zoo are hosting two special animal-themed Bank Holiday events while those who prefer history and heritage should head to Mottistone Manor where National Trust members can view the interior of this delightful stone manor house which opens its doors just once a year.

HENRY VIII AND HIS FALCONERS
Costumed falconry displays at Appuldurcombe House recreating the visit of Henry VIII and his Falcons in 1538:
Where: Wroxall off the B3327 to Ventnor. Follow the brown tourist signs to Appuldurcombe House.
When: 24-29 May
Cost: Adult £7.25, Children £5.25, Family ticket 2adults and up to 3 children £22
Contact: Tel.01983 840188/ www.appuldurcombe.co.uk

MOTTISTONE MANOR HOUSE OPEN DAY
A rare opportunity for National Trust members to see inside Mottistone Manor which dates back to the 15th and 16th centuries, only open one day a year (26 May). The delightful gardens are open to the public as usual:
Where: Mottistone, Isle of Wight PO30 4EA.
When: 26 May
Cost: Adult £3.70 & Child £1.90 in addition to garden admission price
Contact: Tel. 01983 741020/ www.nationaltrust.org.uk

MARVELLOUS MINIBEASTS
Whether you are a fanatic or just a curious visitor, come and marvel at the world of minibeasts at the home of the rare White Tiger. Become a bug detective and join the zoo's mini-beast hunt. Visit the creepy crawly Discovery Table and be amazed by the secret micro world of invertebrates. Free face painting and reduced entry for children in bug-themed fancy dress:
Where: Isle of Wight Zoo, Yaverland seafront, Sandown, PO30 8QB.
When: 26-30 May
Cost: Adults £5.95 & Children (5-16yrs) £4.95, Family ticket (2+2) £19.75.
Contact: Tel. 01983 403883/ www.isleofwightzoo.com

BIG WIGHT FESTIVAL MOUNTAIN BIKE FESTIVAL
Did you know that 20 miles of cycling a week can halve your heart attack risk? This May, you can kick-start the habit at the Big Wight Festival Mountain Bike Festival - a combination of superb riding events to suit the whole family with on-site camping, catering and entertainment:
Where: Ninham Country Holidays, Shanklin (main site) races Islandwide.
When: 23-26 May
How much: Prices vary, please see website.
Contact: Tel. 0118 976 2491 or visit www.trailbreak.co.uk/bigwight

THE BIG GREEN PICNIC
As part of the Isle of Wight Council's vision to turn the Island into the first Eco-Island, there will be a Big Green Picnic for locals and visitors alike. Expect lots of local food, arts & crafts and live music as well as the latest info on saving the planet.
Where: Quay Street, Newport.
When: 24 and 25 May, from 10am to 7pm each day.
How much: Free
Contact: Tel. 01983 203891, www.iwight.com/biggreenpicnic/whats_on.asp

There is a vast array of accommodation available on the Isle of Wight. With more than 400 accommodation providers to choose from, including comfortable B&Bs, pretty cottages and rural farmhouses, you are sure to be only a stone's throw from any of the wonderful sights and attractions the Island has to offer. For further details of where to stay, eat and drink, visit the rest of our site or telephone 01983 813813.