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About Isle of Wight Tourism

Introduction Tourism is vital to the Island's economy. However, the industry is a highly fragmented and often complex one, mainly populated by very small businesses.

About the Isle of Wight

The Isle of Wight is home to some of the most diverse countryside in the UK, and what better way to unwind than to get out into the fresh air and explore? Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or ...

Accessibility Statement

We believe in access to information over the Internet for all. This Accessibility Statement provides an overview of the accessibility features we have implemented on this website.

Accessible Accommodation

Category: National Accessible Scheme Accommodation that displays one or more of the signs shown below are committed to accessibility. When you see one of the symbols, you can be sure that the accommodation has been thoroughly assessed against demanding criteria.

Accommodation Booking Service

Here to Help Isle of Wight Tourism Booking Services Our on-line accommodation booking service is available 24hrs a day. This facility will offer you the freedom and flexibility to select accommodation that suits your needs.

Accommodation for Schools on the Isle of Wight

Many of our Accommodation Providers offer free or reduced teacher prices and free pre visits. Please contact each provider for full details of what they are are able to offer for your school visit.

Accommodation on the Isle of Wight

The Isle of Wight boasts a huge variety of accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets.

Advanced Accommodation Search

Visit our Advanced Accommodation Search page.

Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

About half of the Isle of Wight is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty , mostly in the South and West, but with five parcels stretching across the whole land area, in total around 189 square kilometres.

Around the Isle of Wight

Printable Isle of Wight Map By Car - Island roads are well signposted and many have outstanding views. A number of roads are narrow, so please observe the speed restrictions and look for the brown signs directing you to attractions.

Art

Art "All this beauty is of God" is the motto of the Isle of Wight. In order to capture this beauty many professional artists visited the Island during the 18th century.

Assessment Awards explained

VisitBritain Awards VisitBritain's unique Gold and Silver Awards are given to establishments in recognition of exceptional quality within their existing rating. Properties therefore already need to be accredited in order to enter these awards.

Attractions for School Visits on the Isle of Wight

Whatever the age of your pupils the Island offers the opportunity to bring the National Curriculum to life in many different subjects. Use the Attractions Search below to help make your plans.

Attractions on the Isle of Wight

Carisbrooke Castle Carisbrooke Castle Medieval Event | Dinosaur Isle Osborne House Mottistone ...

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Bed & Breakfast Isle of Wight

If you are seeking a home from home atmosphere, there are a variety of good quality bed and breakfasts on the Isle of Wight that create a more authentic experience of Island living.

Bembridge Beach

Complies with the Enviromental Agency's Bathing Water Quality Standards Bembridge hosts several quiet beaches of pebble and sand, suitable for swimming except unsafe in harbour - use the beach adjacent to the east.

Bembridge, St Helens, Seaview

Situated on the most easterly point of the Isle of Wight, lying beneath the headland of Culver is the village of Bembridge.

Bird Watching

Over half the Isle of Wight is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty , including over 50 miles of Heritage Coast both part of the national family of protected landscapes recognised and treasured for their special qualities and character.

Brading

Situated just a few miles inland from Bembridge, Brading is one of the oldest towns on the Isle of Wight and steeped in history.

Chill Out on the Isle of Wight

A thatched cottage by the sea shared with people who really matter... Clean air and ancient woodlands ... Castles and country houses. ..Fine food and wine...

Close to Nature on the Isle of Wight

As a destination for a nature holiday in the UK look no further than the Isle of Wight. No motorways, cities or pollution...just nature, simple and unspoilt. One of Britain's natural wonders, it's an escape for the senses.

Coastal Wight

Explore cliff tops walks, beaches and coastal woodland. The wonderfully varied and unspoilt coastline scenery is probably the Island's finest natural asset, from glistening chalk cliffs overlooking clear waters to the tranquil estuaries which meander inland.

Colwell Bay

Complies with the Enviromental Agency's Bathing Water Quality Standards. This small and sandy beach is tucked away on the quieter west coast of the Island with panoramic views of the Solent.

Complaints

It is regretable but from time to time customers can experience a problem which may prompt you to register a complaint.

Compton Bay

Complies with the Enviromental Agency's Bathing Water Quality Standards. Compton Bay is a sandy beach located beside the coast road between Freshwater Bay and Brook. Suitable for swimming and windsurfing, but no hire facilities on site.

Contact Isle of Wight Tourism

If you have any queries or questions about visiting the Isle of Wight please do not hesitate to contact us.

Cowes & Gurnard Beaches

Complies with the Enviromental Agency's Bathing Water Quality Standards. Gurnard is a small pleasant resort to the west of Cowes.

Cowes, Isle of Wight

Separated by the River Medina and linked by a chain ferry, the Isle of Wight's most northerly towns of Cowes and East Cowes are steeped in maritime heritage.

Cycling

Cycling Trails There are routes to suit everyone, with a choice of challenging off-road bridle ways, peaceful byways and level purpose-made tracks on former railway lines.All routesavoid major roads wherever possible £2.

Cycling on the Isle of Wight

Quiet country lanes and scenic off - road cycling routes make the Isle of Wight an ideal destination for a UK cycling holiday or short break.

Cycling Safety

On roads Check your bike before cycling.

Disclaimer

Whilst considerable care has been taken to ensure the information contained within the Isle of Wight Tourism Website is accurate and up-to-date, no warranty is given as to the accuracy or completeness of any information and no liability is ...

Discovering Archaeology

Downland barrows, Roman villas and ancient settlements. Wherever we walk on the Island, we follow in the footsteps of ancient people.

Downloads

Visit our Downloads page.

Eating out on the Isle of Wight

Savour the flavour of home grown fruit and vegetables, freshly caught seafood and local wines, beer and cider in Isle of Wight restaurants. Every town and village has a variety of establishments offering menus to tempt you.

English

English It has been said that the 19th Century was the golden age of literature many well-known writers of that time either lived or visited the Isle of Wight.

Explore the Isle of Wight

Walking Within an area of just 147 square miles (3,800 hectares) over 500 miles of carefully maintained and well signposted rights of way can be found.

Family Fun on the Isle of Wight

For a stress-free family adventure holiday come to the Isle of Wight. We understand you've a lot to think about when you holiday with your children. You need somewhere safe, clean and hassle-free.

Famous Residents & Visitors

The Island has attracted many famous visitors in search of inspiration, including John Keats, Charles Darwin, Charles Dickens, Karl Marx, Lewis Carroll, Longfellow, J.M.W. Turner and Alfred Lord Tennyson.

Feedback

Visit our Feedback page.

Fishing on the Isle of Wight

The Isle of Wight is an ideal destination for a fishing holiday, the visiting angler is very well catered for. Most styles of Sea and Freshwater angling can be done on or around the Island.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Do I need a passport? We are part of the United Kingdom therefore a passport is not required for travelling over to the Isle of Wight. Q2. How many visitors does the Isle of Wight receive each year? 2.

Freshwater Bay

Freshwater Bay is a small sand and shingle bay adjacent to bus route, car park, coastal walks, nature trail, golf course, refreshments and toilet.

General Views of the Isle of Wight

Needles yachts Needles from the air Needles Aerial Bonchurch Pond Bembridge Windmill Bedroom image Seaview The Causeway, Freshwater Isle of Wight Garlic Hoy ...

Geography

Geography Known as 'The Garden Isle', this jewel of England indeed resembles a diamond in shape - being some 23 miles west to east, from The Needles to Bembridge, and 13 miles north to south, from Cowes to St.

Geology

Geology Geologists believe that the Earth's crust is composed of separate plates which move in relation to one-another.

Godshill

With its charming thatched-roofed cottages, delightful medieval church and a winding main street lined with tearooms, Godshill is the quintessential English Village.

Grading Organisations Contact Details

If you choose to stay in any quality-assessed accommodation, you can be confident that it has been checked out before you check in.

Green Island

It may be known as the Isle of Wight, but the popular holiday Island is fast becoming known for its green and eco-friendly tourism.

Guided Walks

Explore the Island the easy way with the Isle of Wight Countryside section In this programme of outdoor events throughout the season, local experts share their knowledge and special understanding of natural history, conservation, local history and the rural ...

Historical Publications

An Illustrated History This is a comprehensive history of the Isle of Wight illustrated with 200 photographs, drawings and maps. £9.

History

History The story of the Isle of Wight reflects national history and also illustrates something of the Island's unique character.

Horse Riding on the Isle of Wight

This Island was made to be explored and to inspire freedom. With literally hundreds of miles of bridleways it is a great place to relax. The Island's warm climate means that there are lots of opportunities for all outdoor activities.

Images of the Isle of Wight

Welcome to the Isle of Wight Tourism Picture Gallery Our categories contain large thumbnail images, annotated with file name and size.

Information Services

The first port of call for potential visitors to the Island is often our Call Centre.

Isle of Wight Activities

Cycling on Brighstone Down Family at Sandown Golf Horse Riding | Walkers on Tennyson Trail Winter Walking | Walking at Alum Bay Walkers on Tennyson Trail Walkers in Borthwood ...

Isle of Wight Beach Guide

There are currently 13 award winning beaches on the Isle of Wight all of which are managed and maintained to the highest standard.

Isle of Wight Camping & Touring Caravans

If you are looking for a touring and camping holiday the Isle of Wight has a wide selection of campsites to choose from.

Isle of Wight Caravans & Chalets

In farmland and coastal settings, near shops and towns , the Isle of Wight has a great variety of superb caravan and chalet parks .

Isle of Wight Events

Below is a small selection of IW event images. Generic walking, cycling etc images can be found under activities on our image library.

Isle of Wight Family Images

Family eating out Children learning to sail Family at Compton Beach Family cycling at Sandown Family at Nodes Point Children at Compton Beach Family on ...

Isle of Wight Festivals & Events

The Isle of Wight Music Festival , the White Air Extreme Sports Festival , Skandia Cowes Week , the Isle of Wight Walking Festival , the Wight Diamond Mountain Bike Festival , carnivals and concerts - the list goes on.

Isle of Wight Film and TV Information

Films made on the Island: Fragile Mrs Brown with Dame Julie Dench and Billy Connolly That'll Be The Day with Ringo Starr and David Essex Guest House Paradiso with Ade Edmonson and Rik Mayall Lady Chatterley's Lover, a TV ...

Isle of Wight Golf Courses

Sail away to the Isle of Wight, the perfect place for a golf weekend break or holiday. Only 2 hours from London, 6 ferry routes connect directly with road, rail and coach links.

Isle of Wight Hotel Accommodation

Isle of Wight Hotel accommodation has always been a popular choice.

Isle of Wight Locally Grown Produce

When you taste our locally grown produce you taste the real Isle of Wight. Sip our beers, smell our fresh bread and bite into our homemade salads and you know they are made with care and passion.

Isle of Wight Media Services

Isle of Wight Tourism's Press & PR Department's overall purpose is to raise awareness and improve perception of the Isle of Wight as one of the UK's leading holiday destinations through proactive communications management.

Isle of Wight Mobility Impaired Accommodation

The following establishments have been inspected and received Access Awards in accordance with the National Accessible Scheme.

Isle of Wight Music Festival

13th - 15th June 2008 In the music festival calendar, June is now very much associated with the Isle of Wight Festival and 2008 will be no exception.

Isle of Wight Nature Images

Butterfly Glanville Fritillary Seabirds Red Squirrel Ventnor Wall ...

Isle of Wight Self-Catering, Cottages and Holiday Flats

If you are looking for a more flexible break away, why not try the convenience of an Isle of Wight self-catering holiday.

Isle of Wight Teacher's Guide

Teacher's Introduction Welcome to the Isle of Wight Whatever the age of your pupils the Island offers the opportunity to bring the National Curriculum to life in many different subjects.

Isle of Wight Tourism Research Reports

Isle of Wight Tourism conducts on-ferry and business surveys producing quarterly and annual reports with details of visitor numbers, trends and changes to the tourism income of the Island.

Isle of Wight Tourism Research Reports

Isle of Wight Tourism conducts on-ferry and business surveys producing quarterly and annual reports with details of visitor numbers, trends and changes to the tourism income of the Island.

Isle of Wight Tourism's Exhibitions Programme

Between September 2007 to March 2008, Isle of Wight Tourism attend numerous exhibitions, across the UK and overseas. Our Standpartners included accommodation providers, attractions and transport operators.

Isle of Wight Towns

Cowes Waterfront Cowes Cannons | St Thomas Square, Newport Newport Guildhall | St James Square, Newport Ryde Canoe Lake | Shanklin Old Village Shanklin beach | Sandown Bay with pier Ventnor beach Ventnor from Harbour Yarmouth ...

Isle of Wight Towns & Villages

Only minutes away from the mainland and so easy to reach - yet the Isle of Wight is a world apart.

Isle of Wight Transport Images

Hovertravel Red Funnel Ferry Red Jet Wightlink Ferry Fast Cat IW Steam Railway Southern Vectis ...

Isle of Wight Watersports

The Isle of Wight is the ideal destination for a watersports activity holiday. The Island is fast becoming the capital of extreme sports in Britain. And when you consider its geography it begins to make sense.

Isle of Wight Weird & Wonderful Facts

Statistics & Weird & Wonderful facts Statistics The Island has approx 2.

It's Adventure! Feel the Rush on the Isle of Wight!

A huge network of bridleways, crashing breakers, full-on headwinds and diverse terrain - the Isle of Wight is made for an adventure holiday. It will challenge you. It will entertain you.

Just the Two of Us

Inspiration for the beautiful love story 'The English Patient', written and directed by native islander Anthony Minghella, and home to one of the biggest love stories ever - Queen Victoria and Prince Albert at Osborne House - the Isle ...

Latest Availability

When searching for accommodation we understand that you do not want the added hassle of trawling through pages upon pages of establishments, only to find that they are not available on the dates you require.

Maps

Ordnance Survey Explorer OL29 - Isle of Wight Containing walking to mountain biking - the essential map for outdoor activities Scale 2 1/2 inches : 1 mile £7.

Maps, Guide Books & Souvenirs

This section contains a wide range of publications and gifts carefully selected for their quality and appeal.

Marketing Services

The primary role of Isle of Wight Tourism is to market the Isle of Wight as the UK's premier Island destination to domestic and overseas visitors.

Maths

Maths Maths is an essential element of communication and cannot be seen in isolation.

Natural History

Natural History The variety of geology, topography and habitats on the Island make it an ideal area for the study of nature and the environment.

Newport, Isle of Wight

The beautiful and historic town of Newport is situated in the centre of the Isle of Wight and is its principal town, centre of commerce and most popular shopping centre. Newport has many fine Georgian and Victorian town houses.

News

Visit our News page.

Newsletter

Isle of Wight Tourism would like to keep you up-to-date with all the latest news.

Online Booking Test

The Isle of Wight boasts a huge variety of accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets.

Other Publications

Isle of Wight - The Garden Isle Bays and Chines - Picturesque Towns and Villages - Historic Houses £2.

Places to Visit on the Isle of Wight

A small Island that's big on attractions There are an amazing number of attractions on the Isle of Wight for a place that measures only 23 miles by 13 miles.

Planning your Walking Holiday

Make life easier and enjoy this glorious Island at your own pace by taking advantage of companies that offer walking holidays and luggage transfer schemes.

Privacy Policy

Isle of Wight Tourism is committed to protecting your privacy as a user of our website www.islandbreaks.co.uk, and the confidentiality of any personal information that you may provide us with during your visit to the site.

Quality Assurance Caravan & Holiday Parks

Category: Holiday, Caravan, Touring and Camping Parks When you're looking for a place to stay, you need a rating system you can trust.

Quality Assurance Guest Accommodation

Category: Guest Accommodation - When you are looking for a place to stay you need a rating system you can trust. VisitBritain and AA ratings are your clear guide to what to expect, in an easy to understand form.

Quality Assurance Hotel Category

Category: Hotels When you are looking for a place to stay you need a rating system you can trust. VisitBritain and AA ratings are your clear guide to what to expect, in an easy to understand form.

Quality Assurance Scheme Explained

Introduction to the Quality Assurance Schemes A quality assurance rating provides an independent assessment of what a guest can expect to find.

Quality Assurance Self Catering

Category: Self Catering The Star ratings reflect the quality that you're looking for when booking accommodation.

Quality development

An overriding priority for the Tourism Development Plan is to improve the quality of the Island's tourism product in-line with visitors' increasing expectations.

Religious Education

Religious Education The great majority of the population of the Island is of English decent and the religious buildings on the Isle of Wight are of the Christian Faith.

Ryde Beach

Complies with the Enviromental Agency's Bathing Water Quality Standards. Ryde Beach is situated to the north of Ryde Town Centre and is accessible by either foot, car, public transport or our delightful Dotto Train.

Ryde, Isle of Wight

The largest town on the Isle of Wight, Ryde has fine Georgian and Victorian buildings, lively pubs and restaurants, seafront promenade, a marina, great nightlife and entertainment.

Sailing on the Isle of Wight

The Isle of Wight is the ideal destination for a sailing holiday in the UK. It is known as the home of yachting, with a great range of sailing events, which take place all year round.

Sandown Beach

Blue Flag Winner Complies with the Enviromental Agency's Bathing Water Quality Standards. Sandown is the best place to have fun beside the sea safely.

Sandown, Isle of Wight

With its superb position on sweeping Sandown Bay, the sparkling resort of Sandown offers all the fun and excitement for everyone. Sandown has a magnificent sandy beach which slopes gently into the sea and is ideal for paddling and swimming.

Science & Technology

Science and Technology The Island teems with opportunities to observe and visit the application and development of science and technology. These notes can only give a taster of those opportunities... Download Workpack At East and West Cowes marine industries dominate.

Shanklin

A popular family resort, Shanklin offers all the traditional seaside treats of sandy beaches, restaurants and theatres together with the charming Old Village.

Shanklin Beach

Blue Flag Winner Complies with the Enviromental Agency's Bathing Water Quality Standards. Shanklin beach forms part of Sandown Bay which is famous for its sandy beach and safe bathing areas.

Sheer Indulgence on the Isle of Wight

Fine dining, quality accommodation , pampering, and a service second to none - as hosts of the world's premium sailing races we've been catering for the rich and famous for many years.

Shopping on the Isle of Wight

The beauty and varied landscape of the Isle of Wight has long been an inspiration to artists and makers . Such an artistic heritage is matched today with a modern arts community that is thriving.

Site Credits

www.newmind.co.

Special Offers

Visit our Special Offers page.

Sports & Outdoor Activities on the Isle of Wight

If it's an outdoor activity holiday you're looking for, the Isle of Wight has an A-Z list of activities, sports and outdoor adventures, some laid back, others that will set your heart racing .

St Helens Beach

Complies with the Enviromental Agency's Bathing Water Quality Standards St Helens Beach can be accessed by either foot or car. Public transport is available to the Village Green leaving the visitor with a 15 to 20 minute walk.

Steeped in History

Visit the castles , manor houses , churches and fortifications in the Isle of Wight.

Teachers Services

Fun Whilst Learning! Isle of Wight School Visits from NST Educational Tours If youre planning a school visit to the Isle of Wight 2005, then choose to travel with NST Educational Tours, the UK s leading school group tour operator.

Terms & Conditions

Copyright Notice Unless otherwise stated, the copyright and any other rights in all material on this site are owned by Isle of Wight Tourism. You are permitted to print and download extracts from this site on the following basis: 1.

Terms & Conditions - Competitions

Terms and Conditions Prize Draw for Exhibitions Programme 07/08- Terms and conditions Below shows the prize draw terms and conditions so please read carefully: Please note the following terms and conditions relate to the prize draw to win a ...

Terms And Conditions of Booking

The following conditions form the basis for the provision of your holiday accommodation. You, the customer must read these carefully along with your booking confirmation documents. These conditions apply to all bookings whether made in writing, verbally or online. 1.

To the Isle of Wight

By Car To plan your route by car contact: The AA - www.theaa.com The RAC - www.rac.co.uk Green Flag - www.greenflag.co.uk By Ferry For a full and up to date timetable contact Travel Operator on the numbers below.

Totland Bay

Complies with the Enviromental Agency's Bathing Water Quality Standards Totland Bay is stuated on the West side of the Island where families enjoy the delightful beach. Under the Seaside award criteria.

Tourist Information Centres

Make one of our six Tourist Information Centres your first stop when you visit the Isle of Wight.

Tourist Parking Permits for the Isle of Wight

Tourist Permits can be purchased for Cars and Coaches that allow unlimited parking in any Isle of Wight Council owned pay and display area.

Travel Information

With up to 350 ferry crossings a day, it's simple to travel to the Isle of Wight , and once you are there, it's even easier to get around .

Treasured Landscapes

Looking at the Island from the air or from a high vantage point on top of the downs, you will see a patchwork landscape of fields and woods stitched together by small country lanes and dotted with villages of ...

Useful Links

Isle of Wight Websites General Isle of Wight Council The Isle of Wight Council's official website, comprising of local information and news, and an A-Z list of Council Services.

Useful Links for Trade

Isle of Wight Websites IW Council The Isle of Wight Council's official website, comprising of local information and news, and an A-Z list of Council Services.

Ventnor

A Victorian town with a Mediterranean feel, Ventnor is one of the sunniest spots on the Isle of Wight, thanks to its sheltered southerly aspect.

Ventnor Beach

Complies with the Enviromental Agency's Bathing Water Quality Standards Ventnor is a sun trap bay sheltered by high cliffs on which the terraced town is built.

Video & DVD

IW & The Solent from the Air Breathtaking views....fascinating heritage....enjoy an unforgettable aerial journey around the Isle of Wight and the Solent.... DVD - £16.

Walking

Twelve Favourite Walks produced by the Ramblers Association £2.00 + P&P Twelve more walks produced by the Ramblers Association £2.00 + P&P Twelve walks from Towns produced by the Ramblers Association £2.

Walking on the Isle of Wight

Visit our Walking on the Isle of Wight page.

Walking Routes

The Isle of Wight Coastal Path is a fantastic way to explore the Island covering 67 miles of well maintained paths.

Weird & Wonderful Facts about the Isle of Wight

Statistics & Weird & Wonderful facts Statistics The Island has approx 2.7 million visitors per year. Tourism spend is estimated at £352 million per year. There are 21 tourists to every Island resident. There are approx 140,000 Island residents.

Welcome to the Isle of Wight

The Isle of Wight is the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing break, at any time of the year. It is a stunning Island with unspoilt scenery and a wealth of fascinating attractions.

West Wight

The West Wight has many Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty - rolling countryside forests, farms, picturesque villages, rugged cliffs and the famous Needles rocks.

What is the Credit Card Security Code?

The Card Security Code is the group of numbers immediately following your credit card number. These numbers are used by your credit card company to help prevent fraud.

Who Does What ?

What is Isle of Wight Tourism? Isle of Wight Tourism is the department of Isle of Wight Council that is dedicated to the promotion and development of tourism.

Winter Attraction Openings on the Isle of Wight

Throughtout the Winter period on the Isle of Wight there is a vast array of attractions open to assist you in planning your visit.

Workpacks

Workpacks The Island offers the opportunity to bring the National Curriculum to life in many different subjects.

Yaverland Beach

Complies with the Enviromental Agency's Bathing Water Quality Standards Yaverland is easily accessible by car or foot. Ample parking and only 1.5k from Sandown Town Centre. This beach is also a favourite for windsurfing and water sports.