Holiday Cottages on the Isle of Wight - Page 1

Sitting just off the south coast of England, the Isle of Wight is only 2 hours from London and has frequently been touted as the holiday island for the rest of the country. With stretches of golden beaches coupled with an island charm, the Isle of Wight is a popular tourist spot and has activities and events for all the family throughout the year. Read More

Holiday on the Isle of Wight

Being in the English Channel, the Isle is in the perfect position for water based activities and hosts the world’s most famous sailing regatta, Cowes Week, at the beginning of August when the Solent is awash with colour and activity. The more adventurous of visitors can go kayaking in the crystal clear waters off the coast or swimming through the ancient caves that are dotted around the island. It is not all water focused and for such a small island it manages to create the impression of rural tranquillity in many places, with its pretty little villages, nature reserves and wooded areas where the rare red squirrel can be seen.

Queen Victoria died on the island at the majestic Osborne House that is now open to the public. The Victorian interior mixed with splendid gardens, extensive grounds and cricket pavilion make it a popular attraction on the island. Other natural beauties include the Ventnor Botanic Gardens that host various sub-tropical plants and trees in a quiet and peaceful surrounding.

The island was also home to several poets including Algernon Charles Swinburne who grew up and was buried on the island in 1909 and the former Poet Laureate of the United Kingdom from 1850 to the late 19^th century, Alfred Tennyson. There is a monument to Lord Tennyson that was erected in 1897 at Beacon Down on the west coast.

Families can enjoy the sandy beaches and scenic surroundings of The Needles Park, the islands most popular attraction. The park features a chairlift that runs from the top of the cliff to Alum Bay beach and provides spectacular views over the channel and coast line. A 4D cinema has recently been built in the park too, as well as a sweet manufactory and, keeping in tune with the old age charm of the island, carousels and tea cup rides.

The diversity of the Isle of Wight is apparent in its festival season, as twice a year it comes alive. The Isle of Wight Festival has been going since 2002 (after having its roots established in the counterculture of the late 1960’s) and brings some of the biggest names in music as well as 55,000 festival goers in June every year. More recently Bestival has begun on the island and offers a similar experience with headline acts and a lively atmosphere over 4 days in September.

The key to the island lies in its diversity. It offers tranquil and nostalgic appeal with thatched roofs, a unique culture and some beautify scenery but it also provides an energetic dynamic during its festival season. For a unique experience and surroundings then there are not many places to rival the Isle of Wight.

If you're still undecided whether to visit this magical island, let us share some first hand holiday experiences with you - you are bound to be convinced to visit!