Isle of Wight supplement

A Groups Guide to

Isle of Wight

A Beau Business Media Publication In partnership with Isle of Wight Tourism

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Contents

Managing Director: Nigel Whittaker Publishing Director: Hugh Cairns

The Isle of Wight Calling

David Thornton, Chief Executive of Visit Isle of Wight, gives his foreword.

Introduction - Pure Island Happiness

Queen Victoria’s Island Trail; Carisbrooke Castle and the four crossing points

Essentials - getting there

Ferry good ways to visit - and have an adventure too with a new promotion aimed at energetic groups.

Memory Lanes on the Isle of Wight

Railways that steam off into the distance. Reminiscing with the dedicated volunteers at the Isle of Wight Steam Railway about the last Jimi Hendrix gig, cruises round the Island and Ryde’s heritage pubs.

Pure Shores - Music and Events on the Island

Awash with festivals and steeped in events. There’s always something on to suit everyone.

Towns and Attractions.

Board the coach and take our land cruise round the Island...

Ryde Saucy postcards and Victorian heritage.

The Island’s biggest town is within easy reach of everywhere, and has a working pier of note.

Sandown, Shanklin and Godshill. Sandown Zoo, Dinosaur Isle ,Isle, nature reserves, and adventures at Amazon World, Robin Hill, and Shanklin Chine. Live life large at Godshill Model Village.

Pure Essentials -

Staying and Sustaining - lodging and dining for groups

Essentials -

coaches and parking and getting around

Ventnor.

Ventnor Botanic Gardens, and make the 250 steps down to Steephill Cove.

South Coast.

Blackgang Chine and the Disappearing Village, St Catherine's Lighthouse shines as brightly as Isle of Wight Pearl. Ride the Warrior Trail and learn about the Island’s fossil heritage on a Dinosaur Expedition.

View from the North - Phil “heart” IoW

Manchester based coach operator Phil Hitchin says his Belle Vue colleagues can’t get enough of the Isle of Wight’s pure, cool and calm roads.

Freshwater, Yarmouth, and The Needles - The Point of It All

The Needles Landmark Attraction, shopping in Yarmouth and Yarmouth Castle. View more than the mainland at Fort Victoria.

Cowes - All at Sea

Visiting Osborne House, Cowes Week, walking to Newport, and the Churchill Trail.

Newport and Carisbrooke

The hub of the Island, Carisbrooke Castle, out to Robin Hill Country Park, and ride the bus back in time to the Isle of Wight Steam Railway and Arreton Barns Craft Village

Conclusive words on this green and purely pleasant isle.

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Production: Laura Collins Design:Alexina Whittaker

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A Groups Guide to Wales is a controlled circulation publication and freely available to qualifying applicants. Care is taken to ensure that the information contained within the magazine is accurate. However, the publisher cannot accept liability for errors or omissions, no matter how they arise. Readers are advised to get facts and statements confirmed by suppliers when making enquiries. The opinions of the author are not necessarily those as the publisher.

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Welcome T

he Isle of Wight is the UK’s holiday island. Just four miles off the south coast, it’s easy to get to and the perfect destination for groups of all sizes and requirements – from a large school visit to a specialist interest group.

Take the short crossing over the Solent and you’ll discover spectacular countryside, stunning coastline and a compelling mix of attractions. History buffs will fall in love with the breadth of historical and animal attractions, many of which are open

of our inns.

The towns and villages of the Isle of Wight have a warm, friendly feel and come the modern benefits of independent boutique shopping, quality cafes, hospitable pubs and numerous places to dine out. There’s a diverse range of accommodation on the Island - choose between a seafront hotel, a luxury country house with spa facilities, or even enjoy some eco-friendly glamping.

The Isle of Wight offers an open welcome whatever your group.

all year round. Discover roman ruins, dedicated dinosaur museums, castles, a seaside palace and the newly restored home of Alfred, Lord Tennyson; Farringford.

Lovers of the great outdoors won’t be disappointed. Whether it’s a peaceful cycle path or a high-octane adventure on the sea, there’s an adventure for everyone.

And if just sitting back, relaxing and enjoying a stunning view with a drink is more your thing, then you’ll find a warm and hospitable welcome at one

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There’s something happening year-round; from the Isle of Wight Festival (June) to smaller events such Isle of Wight Pride (July), Electric Woods Illuminations (February and October) and new for 2017, Isle of Wight Comic Con (November).

We look forward to welcoming you to the UK’s holiday island.

David Thornton,

Chief Executive Visit Isle of Wight Ltd

Visiting Pure Happiness Victoria’s Island for Groups

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t’s all over the papers. It’s all over the cinema screens.

Victoria & Abdul is putting the Isle of Wight on the big screen once again. Britain's second longest reigning Queen made the Isle of Wight, and Osborne in particular, her home from home.

Now the hit film has thrown the spotlight on the place she said was “impossible to imagine a prettier spot.”

From Red Funnel Ferries going all Red, White and Blue Ferries[AF6] , with their victory[AF7] arch at Southampton, welcoming passengers to “Victoria’s Island”, through to the new Victoria’s Island Trail, linking the Isle of Wight locations that Queen Victoria loved the most, the impact of the film is certainly adding new reasons to bring your loyal group to explore the jewel in England’s crown of islands[AF8] .

You’ll feel like royalty right from embarkation.

Stroll down from the platform at Portsmouth Harbour station, just an

Lighthouse, washed by the outermost waves of the English Channel.

hour and a half from Waterloo, and the English Heritage murals already encourage you to visit Osborne House and Carisbrooke Castle just two of it’s properties in this quintessential English landscape (englishheritage.org.uk).

On the Wightlink crossings from Portsmouth, and Hovertravel from Southsea, keep a weather eye out for the sea forts of Spithead, Horse Sand, No Man’s Land and, in the distance, St Helen’s - the quartet of defences built in the 1850s to keep at bay the ambitions of the natural enemies of the state: the French!

Once aboard, I dare you not to feel a huge surge of anticipation as the island’s skyline comes into view.

It’s more rock steady than rock and roll, the short trip across the waters offers even the least intrepid mariner no opportunity to be other than cool and captivated by the growing spectacle of Island ahoy.

Embark from Portsmouth Harbour, Southsea, Southampton or Lymington; for short crossings to Ryde, Fishbourne, Cowes and East Cowes, or westerly Yarmouth - so convenient for the wonderful spectacle of the chalky white Needles Landmark Attraction (theneedles.co.uk), complete with chairlift and the stoic Trinity

There’s so much packed into these 147 square miles. Bustling market towns, where hurry doesn’t mean stress, and rolling countryside that gives way to rugged coastlines in the blink of an eye. All this in an area that’s a third the size of Greater Manchester, half the size of Singapore, and a quarter the size of Skye.

In other words, so much neatly packed in, with just the right amount of space to roam. It is an island popular for its own charms, and totally unique.

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You’ll be more than

-

pleasantly surprised how easily the Island offers opportunities for getting around. You’re never far away from where you want to be, yet easily out of reach if rest and relaxation is the mood of your group.

Essentials getting there Ferries, ferries and more ferries. It’s not quite a fixed link, but there are up to 350 crossings a day between the mainland and the Isle of Wight. None take more than 45 minutes, some hardly give you enough time for a round of deck quoits!.

Wightlink, who offer many deals for organised parties, sail coach-friendly ships from Portsmouth Ferry Terminal to Fishbourne and Lymington to Yarmouth - the latter very close to The Needles Landmark Attraction. It’s Wightlink who also operate the catamarans from Portsmouth Harbour for foot passengers - a short crossing and ideal for groups arriving by rail

(wightlink.co.uk).

Southampton based operator Red Funnel really pushed the boat out to make the Isle of Wight the destination of choice. Working with Visit Isle of Wight through their Adventure Island promotional campaign, their Southampton to East Cowes route gets the heart pumping as fast as the engines on their ferries.

If you don’t propose to take your coach over the waters, then for foot passengers there’s also a route to West Cowes (the famous nautical town is divided by the wide Medina River). The operator has some interesting packages for groups, and especially camping parties making the most of the Island festivals (redfunnel.co.uk).

For those in a real hurry to get there, what better way to arrive at the place where commercial usage of the hovercraft began. Super new stealthy machines that would have Christopher Cockerel gasping in amazement dash across from Hovertravel Terminal at Southsea, right on to the Esplanade at Ryde, in about ten minutes. If you feel the need for speed, it can’t be beaten.

Not bad for a quick trip to the malls in Portsmouth, either (hovertravel.co.uk).

On arrival, you may choose to be met by operators like Isle of Wight Guided Tours (isleofwightguidedtours.co.uk).

Choose your accommodation.

Camp, glamp, airstream caravans, yurts, log cabins, and, yes lots of guest houses and hotels.

With sixty miles of dramatic coastline, much of it within the Island’s protected Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, plus hundreds of miles of wellmaintained and signposted footpaths, the Isle of Wight hits the trail for walking and hiking parties.

Trail finders

Themed Trails make an intriguing way to wander whether organised or self-guided. Try the Jail Trail for -an arresting experience, the Warrior Trail to learn the real-life story that inspired War Horse; or the Churchill Trail for an insight into the early life of the charismatic leader. Victoria’s Island Trail is extremely popular and was created to celebrate the major feature film, ‘Victoria and Abdul’.

The Trail includes key locations across the Island, including the church in which Princess Beatrice was married, the Queen’s favourite Isle of Wight viewpoint, and the yacht club created just for her.

Follow in the footsteps of a Queen walk along the same paths, see the same views and enjoy a unique journey around the Isle of Wight From Alfred, Lord Tennyson, who made his home in Freshwater, to Lewis Carroll, who was inspired by the golden sands of Sandown, the scenery and tranquillity of the Isle of Wight has long been a source of creativity for some of the world's renowned literary figures. The Isle of Wight Literary Heroes Trail takes in a journey across the island discovering locations where celebrated writers spent time……..

“This Island is a little paradise.”, said Karl Marx.

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Pure Thrill Seeking

Visit Isle of Wight’s ‘Escape to Adventure Island’ campaign has been supported by Red Funnel, among others. The campaign encourages groups, as well as families and individuals, to explore the wilder aspects of the Isle of Wight. Now there’s a series of promotional videos, produced in collaboration with the ferry company and others. Jonathan Green of Red Funnel told us how the Island is famous for its beautiful and varied landscape and its awardwinning attractions and events. “The Isle of Wight is perhaps less well known as an adventurer’s playground. The purpose of the new films is to change that perception and show the breadth of fun activities that are available to teenagers and thrill-seeking adults.”

Memory Lanes on the Isle of Wight

Jeffrey Ledicott and Malcolm McCree have a few stories to tell, and they’re happy to head down memory lane, or any other lane you care to mention, as they reminisce about bygone days in Ryde. With these two, it’s pure time travel through the streets of the Isle of Wight’s gateway town.

These days, the refreshments are rather less tribal and rather more sophisticated. Scooters are electric, rather than eccentric……well, except during the scooter fest that is the Isle of Wight International Scooter Rally at the end of August.

Also waxing lyrical, when on his pet subject, Jeffrey Ledicott enthusiastically champions the traditional pubs and inns in the

“

towns and in country locations. “Smuggling inns on the south coast, seaside pubs elsewhere. You can really get a feel for the Island’s history through the pubs and inns. Ryde had dozens and even though many have changed into other uses, you can still spot them as you walk up and down the town centre streets.”

There are plenty of memory lanes on the Isle of Wight.”

“

“The queues wound all the way up and down the pier,” says former publican Jeffery, recalling the enduring appeal that brought visitors by the thousand to see attractions by the hundred, and visit Ryde’s pubs by the dozen. “It’s all the best of England from the last fifty years, distilled into this rich blend of Island life, says Malcolm, painting a perfect picture.

“It’s something like when tearooms were cool, and coffee bars came with a line of over-mirrored scooters parked out front.”

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Make your way to Union Street and you’ll happen upon the Ryde District Heritage Centre, the award-winning voluntarystaffed celebration of the town’s rich history (historicrydesociety.co.uk).

Opened on the 175th anniversary of its location, the charming Royal Victoria Arcade, the Centre is home to the sublime life of the Island, and the mildly risqué art of Donald McGill, the socalled ‘King of the Seaside Postcard’. Once prosecuted for his saucy scenes, you can judge for yourself, and maybe stifle a titter as you peek at Donald’s 5,000 exhibits.

It’s all very prim and proper when Malcolm and

Jeffrey obligingly pose for a photograph, on the steps of the Train Story. This large and exciting addition to the Isle of Wight Steam Railway’s visitor experience is another superb piece of social history and is told through the medium of the Island’s once extensive rail network. (iwsteamrailway.co.uk). While these days, your driver will be at the wheel, rather than the regulator, you can swap the country roads for the country rails, for a different taste of bygone Island life.

In addition to getting up close and personal with the workings and workshops of the steam railway, there are play and picnic areas, woodland walks, a secondhand bookshop and even a falconry, that turn Havenstreet into one of the Island’s most popular destinations.

For social history, the audio stories, triggered as you step into the railway exhibits, are a delight, and sometimes Jeffrey or Malcolm will add some personal experiences too. Younger groups will also enjoy the opportunity to dress up as historical Southern Railway staff and take away a unique souvenir picture. “You’re very welcome to try on a uniform yourself,” offers Malcolm, “but it may be a bit of a tight fit for a such mature student.”

Although many of the exhibits are 19th-century vintage, Train Story and the Steam Railway are very much run on 21st-century lines. “We’re not quite that old,” they both chorus, but Malcolm and Jeffrey are of an age to just about remember when music ranged from an experimental, eclectic mix of clean cut standards, to a down and dirty experimental sonic assault. Were they at the very first Isle of Wight Festival back in the late 1960s? Neither of them remember. So, yes, they were there. If there was a national anthem for the Isle of Wight, it would be the Star-Spangled Banner, played by Jimi Hendrix on a Stratocaster, set on fire on stage.

Sadly, Jimi’s ghost (of Jimi) would today be unable to take the train to the gig. “It’s a shame of course that the trains have gone,” says Jeffrey, “but the lines are still almost all there, and many of them are walking and bike trails now. You can see a lot of the lineside heritage that way, and get a completely different feel for the Island. So, if you don’t remember the sixties, and you really were there, it’s a way to fill in a few gaps.

You might even meet someone with a few stories to tell. There are plenty of memory lanes on the Isle of Wight.”

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Pure Shores Music and Events on the Island

They say if you only ever do one festival, do the Isle of Wight Festival (isleofwight festival.com). Revived in 2002 at Newport’s Seaclose Park, attendances might now be a more manageable 60,000 - a tenth of that vast gathering in 1970, but the headliners are just as big as ever.

Faithless to Foo Fighters; Boy George to Rod Stewart; this is still the still the place to burn your guitar, live, on stage. 21-24 June 2018 are the dates for the 50th anniversary show.

Giving you something else to talk about in mid-August, Alexander O’Neal headlined the third Jack Up The 80s,

along with Right Said Fred and S Club (jackupthe80s.co.uk) . Well, there ain’t no party like an Isle of Wight 80s party, especially if the hits are just as fresh faced as Bradley, Jo and Tina.

Get out to Ryde’s Smallbrook Stadium and let your slightly less padded shoulders hang out to some memorable sounds from the original artists.

Also parked up in midAugust, V-Dub Island is three days of DJs, tributes and fresh acts, with a big twist: you’ll be surrounded by thousands of Volkswagen fans showing off their classic prides and joy.

With three stages, and over 80 acts booked in 2017, V-Dub Island is a fantastic three-days out whether your man’s a campervan fan or your girl’s hot for a Golf GTi, you can rock your chassis to Old School House - or Olly Murs covers. It’s family friendly and entirely up to you.

Early September Eklectica sounds like lots of fun (eklectica.live). In fact, it sounds like lots of things, as indeed a boutique festival dedicated to tribute acts should. Held in the rural surroundings of Robin Hill, this hang out for copy cats could become an Island fixture. For a family-friendly festival to end the summer, this could be just the one.

Festival Fixtures

There’s year-round activity on the Island, but here’s our pick of high-season events to

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whet your appetite. If only they didn’t come around every year, there might be time to get round the whole creative calendar at visitisleofwight.co.uk /whats-on.

Lendy Cowes Week (late July, early August)

West Cowes is a laundry of sails for the world’s largest and oldest sailing regatta.

For salty dogs, this celebration of competitive sailing since 1826, is their sporting Wimbledon, Open, Cup Final and World Series all rolled into one. No matter if you can’t tell your spinnaker from your mainbrace, the spectacle alone will knock the wind from your sails. Expect over 8,000 competitors, plenty of spectator entertainment and the world-renowned Cowes Week fireworks as a blazing finale.

4 Aug 2018 - 11 Aug 2018

Ventnor Fringe Festival (early August)

Why go to rainy Edinburgh, when you can have it all for free in sunny Ventnor. From street performers to performances in the street, you’ll find the five days of mid-August awash with colour and candour in equal measure. Relax in a pop up bar to the strumming of a folk guitarist, or hustle with the crowds to a synchronised dance troupe in pink emu costumes. Past performance is a guide to future returns at the Ventnor Fringe.

7 Aug 2018 to 12 Aug 2018 The Isle of Wight Garlic Festival (mid-August)

Garlic with everything including ice cream. Others claim to be the capital of garlic, the home of garlic, the heritage of garlic, but there’s only one claim to be the Island of Garlic, and this is it. Growing, showing, cooking, eating; and then there’s lots of entertainment too. Arrive hungry. Even the address has plenty of flavour: The Garlic Farm at Fighting Cocks Crossroads, and don’t forget the real ale pub nearby. Read more garlicky flavours in our Sandown pages.(Garlic Festival is held at Newchurch, Sandown).

18th & 19th August 2018.

Isle of Wight International Scooter Rally (around the August Bank Holiday)

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Mirror mirror on the tyre wall, who’s got the mod-est fairing of all? If you thought

the two-wheeled 50cc mode of transport was consigned to history and suburban Rome, think again. Rev up for one of the biggest scooter rallies in the world. Modern and vintage scooters descend upon the Island’s biggest town for a long weekend of scooter-based events culminating in the Ryde ride-out on Sunday. Parkas with targets on the back welcome. Rockers not.

Island Steam Show (around the August Bank Holiday)

While the Scoots toot toot around Ryde, you can also take a ride on something with a bit more capacity than a 50cc two-stroke. For some heavy metal action, the Isle of Wight Steam Railway celebrates nearly two centuries of industrial heritage with their mighty steam engines fully fired up for a weekend of blast pipe action.

From enthusiasts of rail to real ale,

there’s a train shed load of entertainment for everyone at their Havenstreet depot in the middle of the line. For the Island’s other railway - the Island Line, run with old Bakerloo Line London Underground stock - it’s a chance to get back to the good old days - with commuters crammed in nose to nose. Ahh, blissful memories.

International Classic Car Show (mid-September)

Two centres - Newport Quay and Ryde Esplanade. Oh boy, those traffic jams at Wootton are going to look just a bit more classy than usual. This charity event brings together classic vehicles from all over the UK and Europe. Dress code is shiny chrome and white wall tyres. Whatever your four wheels, if they’re in tip top show condition, you’ll be welcome. It goes without saying that there’s a whole

showroom of other entertainments too. Both show locations are free to attend.

Isle of Wight Day (late September)

The 2018 date was yet to be announced, but 2017 was the biggest yet. If you want to get down and dizzy with all 120,000 Caulkheads, this is the Island-wide celebration of everything and everybody that calls themselves Isle of Wight. Best of all everyone’s welcome. It’s about businesses, individuals, schools, clubs, associations, and visitors coming together to raise money for local causes. Think Durham Miners’ Gala, Notting Hill Carnival and Chinese New Year in Manchester all rolled into one and put by the seaside. That should just about cover it.

Isle of Wight Cycling Festival (last week in September)

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Cycle Island lives up to its reputation with an event for everyone who gets off by getting on the saddle and pedalling away into the sunset. With

opportunity to get together and really enjoy what this Island has to offer.

There are races for those competitive types. For the rest of us, there are a cornucopia of rides all over the Island, so take them at your own pace. Children’s events to rides designed for “classic humans”,. everyone can get involved. [AF21] Isle of Wight Literary Festival (mid October)

rides to suit all ages, abilities, and bicycle styles, the Isle of Wight Cycling Festival provides a unique

Want to snuggle up with a good book? Want to explore a stunningly good looking stately home? Feel the need to do both at once? Thank goodness for the Isle of Wight Literary Festival at Northwood House, Cowes. With talks, workshops, and entertainments, all with a bookish theme, you’ll be lost for words at the library of diversions at your disposal. Expect a chapter of authors in residence for the duration.

Don’t forget your bookmark.

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Isle of Wight Classic Buses, Beer & Walks Weekend (mid October)

Leave the coach on the mainland, as you’ll be drinking beer. As the fresher days of Autumn brace the Island, get your walking boots on and work up a thirst for beer, heading for the best of the outlying watering holes, before riding a classic coach back to Newport Quay. A weekend of walks, buses and beer. Do one or do all, there are vintage buses to take sightseers and drinkers on tours of the island, with plenty of opportunities to stop off at pubs on the way for beer. As if that wasn’t incentive enough, there’s a specially augmented range of beers available to sample. There are also walking routes for those who prefer to build up a thirst with a little exercise first. Oh, and there’s beer.

Island Towns: recently acquired Royal Esplanade Hotel (royalesplanade hotel.co.uk). It’s classically styled and Mike rules the roost like a later day Rick Blaine, having traded Casablanca for the north shore of the Isle of Wight. That said, given the easy transport options on his doorstep, maybe a few diners are just awaiting their transit papers. “There are certainly choices for getting your group around the Island from the Royal Esplanade,” Mike says.

“You’ll have to navigate the pedestrian crossing outside the front door, that’s all. After that, it’s choices, choices, choices.

In Ryde, we are one of the best placed hotels for transport.”

Ryde

Then there’s shopping, like Liz Earle. Founded on the Island in 1995, the beauty brand is available from leading stores throughout Britain and internationally – but fans still enjoy visiting the original store in Ryde.

Mike Stickland knows a thing or two about those new places. He’s just opened Harry’s within his

“

The High Street and Union Street are always worth a browse of the shops.

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Take a leisurely stroll around Ryde’s busy streets.

The steep gradient down from the town square to the Esplanade demands it.

Only the buses hustle, and they take a running tilt at them to get up to the top.

You’ll spot plenty of those old pubs Jeffrey Ledicott from Train Story used to own, manage, or simply enjoy a pint within. It might not be the wall to wall ale houses Jeff remembers, but there is a healthy collection of newer, trendier bars and eateries, taking advantage of the Island’s fresh produce.

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There’s the choice of going where you please on the ubiquitous Southern Vectis bus services, direct from the adjacent travel terminus; the choice of jumping on the famous Island Line railway, that runs vintage Bakerloo Line tube stock all the way from Ryde Pier to Sandown and Shanklin; or the choice of

crossing the footbridge for a ten-minute hovercraft flight to Portsmouth for the day with the Royal Esplanade’s own £5 return fare. You can even bring your cycling group. Mike’s repurposed a secure hotel outbuilding into a dedicated bike store.

Local Knowledge - where to go

Mike’s first insider tips is Steephill Cove (steephill-cove.co.uk), hidden away, but right next door to Ventnor Botanic Garden. “It’s about 250 steps, but well worth the effort. There are a handful of self-catering cottages down there, but it’s good to visit the little restaurant and coffee shop. The tiny sweet shop is run by the young daughter of the owners.

Proceeds go to charity.

Another tip is about Ryde: “Here in Ryde, walk out along the seafront to Appley Tower and beach, and if the mood takes you, the old Victorian Fortification Battery at Puckpool Park.

The High Street and Union Street are always worth a browse of the shops.”

Running five tourism businesses across England, Mike may not get as much free time as the rest of us, but he still happily directs guests to the Esplanade, for a variety of attractions. “Get the group together at the the bowling alley, or get the youngsters out on the canoe lake or the beaches.”

Ryde’s Sauciest Attraction

The Donald McGill Postcard Museum is tucked away within Ryde’s small and stylish Royal Victoria Arcade (donaldmcgill.info). This muchacclaimed museum pays homage to the ‘Ace of Cards’ Donald McGill and his truly extraordinary work, particularly during the 1950s, when he was prosecuted under arcane obscenity laws, and Ryde was among many seaside towns raided by police ‘clean up’ operations.

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McGill’s 12,000 designs embraced the

hot topics of over seven decades, lampooning matrimony, religion, inventions, fashion, and of course saucy double entendres. The jokes are still just as cringe-worthily laugh out loud.

Interactive displays and rare film footage show the talented artist at work.

The Museum is alongside the Ryde Heritage Centre with a joint admission of just £3.00. Groups over twelve are guide and driver complementary. For refreshments try the museum's Orrery Café whose walls makeup an incredible planetarium.

Nearby Ryde Quarr Abbey

There’s spiritual peace and quiet on the west edge of Ryde at Quarr Abbey (quarrabbey.org). The monastery is home to a small group of Benedictine monks, who welcome visitors to experience their lives of

prayer, work and community life. Do that while enjoying the heritage of nearly nine centuries of monastic presence since the abbey’s original foundation in 1132. The cafe is also a groupfriendly refreshment stop, with an excellent reputation. The art gallery, livestock grounds and woodland walks all complete the serene visit.

of the town and Bembridge Harbour below, and out across the Solent.

Rosie and Stephen say the tour of the house takes about an hour, with the garden at your group’s

leisure. While you’re exploring the grounds, the couple do the most hospitable thing: they get the kettle on for fresh tea and coffee to accompany Rosie’s homemade cakes.

Nunwell Historic House

One of the UK’s most beautiful historic houses, Nunwell, lies three miles from Brading, just south of Ryde (nunwellhouse.co.uk).

The sixteenth-century, three storey property is in private hands, but groups are welcome for bespoke tours, led by the owners themselves, Rosie and Stephen Bonsey. The charming couple take turns to welcome visiting groups to Nunwell’s five acres of tranquil gardens and parkland. It’s elevation commands sweeping views

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A SERIES OF STUNNING EVENING EVENTS FEATURING A SPECTACLE OF CREATIVELY THEMED LIGHT, COLOUR, SOUND AND ENTERTAINMENT SET IN THE ANCIENT WOODLAND AT ROBIN HILL. FESTIVAL OF LIGHT INSPIRED BY DIWALI 30th September - 4th November 6pm – 10pm • 2ćĈāāüāú ĆĂĈā÷ S ÿüúûć ÷üĆăÿôČĆ • ąćüĆćüö ÿüúûć üāĆćôÿÿôćüĂāĆ • Ĉćûøāćüö 'ā÷üôā ĀøāĈ • $Ĉā öĂÿĂĈą Ċôÿþ Ċüćû &Ăÿü ăĂĊ÷øą

SPIRIT OF THE ORIENT CAPTURING THE SPIRIT OF THE CHINESE NEW YEAR 10th – 25th February 2018 6pm – 10pm • 2ćĈāāüāú ĆĂĈā÷ S ÿüúûć ÷üĆăÿôČĆ • Traditional lion dancing • 'āćøąôöćüĉø ÷ąôúĂā ăąĂöøĆĆüĂā • Ĉćûøāćüö -ąüøāćôÿ ĀøāĈ

$Ăą ĀĂąø üāùĂąĀôćüĂā ôā÷ ćĂ Āôþø ô úąĂĈă õĂĂþüāú call 01983 732100

www.robin-hill.com

www.electricwoods.co.uk

Robin Hill Country Park, Downend, Nr Newport, Isle of Wight. PO30 2NU

Island Towns: Sandown, Shanklin and Godshill.

The Isle of Wight Zoo, housed in an old fort, is the best-known attraction (isleofwightzoo.com).

Then there’s the purpose built interactive Dinosaur Isle (dinosaurisle.com).

The latter draws on the Island’s reputation as a location with one of the highest concentrations of dinosaur fossils anywhere in the world.

The area around Sandown Bay makes fossil hunting fun for

all the group. Your party could leave with some very old souvenirs indeed.

Learn more about the giant reptiles who first inhabited the Island, before a visit to the Zoo, for encounters with big cats to meerkats and monkeys.

Near to the town there’s more animal magic at Amazon World, with its exotic animal collection (amazonworld.co.uk).

Walk through jungle rainforests while tropical birds fly overhead and crocodiles eye you up for a snack from the ponds. Educationally, the attraction teaches about conservation efforts through themed enclosures and a raised walkway to observe the animals in their habitats.

A few miles inland, Robin Hill Country Park is a countryside attraction, aimed at family groups, with

rides and adventure play, with a spot of relaxing woodland gardens, ponds and sculpture walks added for good measure (robin-hill.com).

With free unlimited return visits over a seven-day period, your group can make the most of the attraction during their stay.

Twice daily falconry displays get any visit off to a flying start, while the Roman interpretation barn gives a fascinating flavour of life at Robin Hill two thousand years ago.

The big village of Godshill is host to the tiny little Model Village of Godshill (modelvillage godshill.co.uk). Not just a model display, this RHS Partner Garden nestles in the grounds of the Old Vicarage. Amid the two acres of landscaped gardens sit one-tenth scale models of Shanklin and Godshill as they 18

were in the 1920s, complete with steam railway. The bonsaistyled living trees are a must see for any gardening group.

Shanklin, with its thatched cottages and church tower, epitomises the quaint old English seaside village. For a relaxed atmosphere, it’s long sandy beach and esplanade makes a wonderful stroll against the dramatic cliffs. All that and the sight of rows of traditional beach huts, available for an afternoon’s rental.

Away from the seashore, Rylstone Gardens are a blooming marvel in the sunshine. You may even catch a performance from the celebrated bandstand.

After that, the Old Village has plenty of independent shops, cafes, and charm by the street full. One of them, Vernon Cottage Tearooms and Giftshop, hosts the

“

The old docks are now a striking waterfront

“

Sandown is famed for its long stretches of golden sandy beach, seafront and pier.

Apart from getting your feet wet on the shore and enjoying a locally made ice cream, there’s lots for a group to do. On the traditional Sandown Pier there are amusements and arcade games, with bowling, crazy golf and cafes to keep the whole gang happy for hours.

local tourist information point. It’s handy for the main municipal parking too.

Annual events include Shanklin Regatta, a somewhat less intense nautical experience than the full-on Cowes Week, and all the more accessible for it.

Most groups will make for the famous Shanklin Chine, a gorge with rare plants and waterfall, that’s celebrating its bicentenary this year (shanklinchine.co.uk). Not surprisingly, it’s the island’s longestestablished tourist attraction, and your group can follow in the footsteps of illustrious visitors like Jane Austen, John Keats, Charles Dickens and Queen Victoria.

Summer nights are brightened by Chine Lumière, lighting the narrow paths, streams and waterfalls up and

down to the shore.

Staying and Sustenance - lodging and dining for groups

Shanklin’s group friendly hotels make the seaside resort a prime destination for Island bound organisers. Along with neighbouring Sandown, the destinations have updated their appeal without compromising their respective charms. That means there’s a raft of excellent value properties to tempt group organisers.

Bourne Hall Country House Hotel is a Shanklin landmark (bournehallhotel.co.uk). The impressive tree-lined approach is bound to impress any group, and do the organiser’s reputation for taste no harm at all. With its own sun trap of an outdoor pool, where you can lie back and listen to the breakers hit 19

the shore, you’ll find it difficult to drag your party away to sample the Island’s other delights.

The Shanklin Hotel has been part of coach operator Alfa Travel’s Leisureplex brand since 2014 (leisureplex.co.uk). It joins the well-known Bayshore in nearby Sandown. Both three-star hotels have been praised by guests for cleanliness and cheerful staff, and the sea views seem to go without saying. The Bayshore is a popular entertainment venue too, most suitable for lively groups seeking a fun-filled visit.

Coach holiday specialist Daish’s (daishs.com) have an eponymous property right on the High Street in Shanklin. The historic 18th-century coaching inn sits amidst large grounds and is also adorned with an

indoor pool. Lovely for a relaxing time after exploring the old town.

The operator is known for their well-organised excursions, and the hotel offers a comprehensive selection taking in many popular Island destinations.

The Shanklin Beach Hotel is ideal for coach tour holidays. Originally built as two properties, the conjoining has created the largest hotel on the seafront (shanklinbeachhotel.com).

Where else can your group put down their heads? All over is the answer. The Isle of Wight is well served with quality and comfortable accommodation. There’s something for everyone, and all with that unique Island feel.

Set apart from the rest, Priory Bay in Seaview shouldn’t be hard to find the clue’s in the name (priorybay.co.uk). Sixty acres of estate means this certainly qualifies as a country house. The eighteen rooms are augmented by selfcatering and even yurts. Everything has spectacular views out to sea, via the gardens and woodland. In demand by private parties, your group can take on the whole property, if desired.

The Marina Bay Hotel (marinabayhotel.co.uk) stands on the Esplanade at Sandown with stunning views of Sandown Bay and The English Channel. The hotel caters well for groups. There’s a full schedule of live entertainment in the evenings, to accompany evening meals, or you can relax on the verandah of the bar.

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When it comes to groups and coach operators, the Trouville Hotel in Sandown pulls out all the stops (trouvillehotel.co.uk). The destination property caters well for coaching operators. The good reputation is backed up by a dramatic sea view location, and makes a well-appointed base to explore the Island.

Both Warner Leisure Hotels are quite unique (warnerleisure hotels.co.uk). You can read about the Norton Grange Coastal Resort, in the west of the Island, in the Needles and Yarmouth section.

Here, the Bembridge Coast Hotel offers quality accommodation, near to Ryde. Once owned by George V’s Lord in Waiting, the hotel overlooks the Solent. The late Queen Mother came to the Bembridge Coast Hotel

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to watch the yachts racing during Cowes Week. The hotel has a wonderful beach, and is an ideal base for touring the Isle of Wight. Balcony rooms allow guests to enjoy the sunrise over the Solent, followed by a dinner in the Four Tides restaurant. Get active and try archery, bowls or rifle shooting with tuition in-house.

If not traditionally seaside, Tapnell Farm Cottages provide a different sort of traditional stay - on what was once one of the largest dairy farms in England. Coupled with the group-friendly attraction of the educationally themed park within the farm’s 700 acres, this could be the place for your group on the west side of the Island, if something

Tiny Homes, Small Group, Big Ideas

special is what you’re after (tapnellfarm.com).

The privately-owned Lakeside Park Hotel at Wootton, midway between Ryde and Newport, is a superior four-star property (lakesideparkhotel.com) . Fire up the WIFI, or get surfing for real - well, not on the lake. Instead, surf the menu at the Brasserie, with informal dining for up to 100 guests. The hotel handles all sorts of private functions and groups with a well-earned reputation for friendly and personal service.

If you go down to the woods, you’ll find Helen Cunningham’s Tiny Homes Holidays. Halfway between Cowes and Newport. It’s an ideal getaway for small groups, maybe looking for some wellbeing, organised craft activities or to get back to nature, but with solar power, high-spec sanitation and cosy wood burners for central heating (tinyhomes holidays.com).

This cluster of ecofriendly cabins sits in a peaceful meadow environment adjacent to the magnificent Parkhurst Forest. “Also, part of the development is a large purpose-built studio

Ryde’s Abingdon Lodge offers a coach full of rooms on a bed only basis, with continental breakfast available (abingdonlodge.com).

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building,” says Helen. “It can cater for crafting, fitness and teaching activities and even has demonstration kitchen facilities.”

The year-round comfortable six cabins have a maximum occupancy of 24, and accessibility is important.

“The cabins and studio are well suited for those with cognitive, sight and hearing issues,” said Helen. “In 2018 we’ll include a wheelchair accessible Tiny Home too.”

Eat Drink, And Be Merry, Hearties.

From smugglers coves to

WORLD RENOWNED FO OSSIL COLLECTION Culver Parade, Sandown, Isle of Wight, PO36 8Q A (01983) 404344 www. w.di nosau risle.com

• Working laboratory • Interacttive display yss • Exttensive gift shop

• Expert led talks and field trips • All-weather attraccttion open all year

Open daily April to August, 10am to 6pm, September to March, 10am to 4pm. Last admissiion one hour befoore close.

din nosaurisle

seaside sunsets, there’s a dining option just right for your group. So, take your seats, your benches, your tables, and settle in for a maritime meal to remember.

Only a few minutes from Ryde, the Seaview Hotel in the village of the same name (seaviewhotel.co.uk) offers a great location, some superb accommodation within a seafood platter’s throw of the beach, and a Michelin noted menu, offered in three options, from formal restaurant, to hotel bar, to the stylish Naval Mess. A group fine dining experience for sure.

There’s also a touch of Edwardian class at the Spinnaker, a few miles south, round the coast at The Spinnaker (thespinnakeriow.co.uk). An enviable wine list, and fourteen rooms on site may make this the stop of choice for moderate-sized groups with a taste for fine dining or simply a seaside treat in splendid surroundings.

Let the nautical theme continue at the Spyglass Inn, Ventnor (thespyglass.com). A seaside location, with plenty of tables to watch the waves break, and lure ships on the rocky shore. All dishes guaranteed pirate friendly.

Inland to Arreton and the Fighting Cocks(thefightingcocksiow.co.uk) . A traditional styled country pub with three square meals a day served until 9.30. Nearby sister pub, Chequers, in Rookley is a few minutes’ drive. Both are handy for attractions near Newport, Sandown and Shanklin.

The Bonchurch Inn (bonchurchinn.co.uk) in Ventnor, dates to the times of Charles Dickens, and the great expectations are all met by the Italian flavoured menu. It’s a pizza tradition in the centre of town.

A few more we’ve tried include the floating café situated along the jetty in Bembridge Harbour, the Best Dressed Crab in Town is a familyrun business (thebestdressed crabintown.co.uk), offering what is says on the door, a dose of the finest crabs and some super fresh prawns from right on the doorstep.

There’s the cliff-top Buddle Inn at Niton village on the south coast very near to Blackgang Chine, and often hosting local performers. It’s one of the Island’s collection of Historic Pubs and a visit to the website characterinns.co.uk will reveal the other seven, at all points of the compass, including Caulkheads in Sandown; The Bugle in Brading (just south of Ryde); and the Sun Inn, Hulverstone, not far from the Isle of Wight Pearl attraction, which itself also has a delightful cafe with sea views from every table.

Enjoy what’s known as the ‘Island’s National Dish’ – crab on chips – with a grab and go at Ventnor Haven Fishery. They’re on Facebook, but call for a takeaway to enjoy on the jetty on 01983 852176.

Gardens, cafe, and fashion store all in one, in Godshill village. The Old Smithy epitomise the finer, relaxed dining and shopping experiences of the Island (theoldsmithy.com).

Come and stroll through the beautiful gardens and browse the shops. Choose from a wide range of gifts from cards to collectables, books, pictures, candles, pens, pottery, glassware and much more.

The ideal place for that unusual gift.

For more dining ideas, pick up a free copy of Taste of the Wight (tasteofthewight.co.uk), an independent guide to eating out on the Island. Recommendations include fine dining options such as Thompson’s open kitchen in Newport (robertthompson.co.uk); award-winning country pubs 24

including The Pointer Inn (pointernewchurch.co.uk); The Yarbridge Inn (theyarbridgeinn.co.uk); and The Piano Cafe in Freshwater, just off the beaten track, but easily reached independently, by service buses, and the Island Coaster seasonal sightseeing buses (thepianocafe.co.uk).

Essentials - coaches and parking The best thing about the Island’s 147 square miles is that every one of them has something to see and do.

So, you’ll be wanting to stop quite a lot as you journey round. The good news is that there is plenty of coach designated parking and, where it’s not free, there is an easily obtained permit system, tailored for tourist vehicles.

Coaches can park overnight for just £10.50 and for up to seven days for £62.25 (2017 prices). Multiple day passes are issued on demand by registering over the phone (01983 331331 - the top-secret code is 71001), and are valid at almost all municipal facilities. If you have the PayByPhone app already downloaded, you’re laughing, all the way to your parking bay.

Basically, the system is a virtual parking pass for the Island, with just four exceptions. Pier Square and Harbour in Yarmouth, and the Esplanade in Totland. All three are near The Needles Landmark Attraction, which has its own extensive parking facilities, which are free to professional coaches. The other exception is Browns/Dinosaur Isle Car Park, in Sandown, where visiting coaches can be accommodated privately by arrangement. All the group-friendly attractions have parking arrangements too - with booking in

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universal appeal, and sees visitors from all over the world. You’ll hear every language on the planet, on the top deck of a 7 Service to Carisbrooke and Fort Victoria, or a number 6 to Ventnor Botanic Gardens and Blackgang Chine.

“Beautiful coastline and beaches to an abundance of rolling hills and countryside, it makes the perfect choice for group travel.

Breezer Buses, that run a selection of seasonal special routes. “There’s something for everyone and the perfect way to travel for groups visiting the Isle of Wight,” says Nikki, who’s delighted to show off the way the Island’s drivers make light work of country lanes and convenient stops for the shops and attractions alike.

All the while, your happy group can take a top deck look at the iconic Isle of Wight views. “It’s definitely one of the reasons why I love the Isle of Wight, says Nikki.

“Every journey is a sightseeing tour. You’re never more than a few stops away from something new, spectacular, or exciting.”

advance always appreciated. There’s more info at iwight.com, but we think you’re covered if you’ve read this.

Fares Fair on the Island Bus Services

Not brought your own coach? Got left behind because you were just too long in the authentic sweet shop, again? No problem, you’ll soon catch up on the local services.

In getting around with Southern Vectis, the company's Nikki Honer has every reason to be proud of the Island buses.

The ubiquitous sea-green livery reaches every corner of the Island, and the easy to understand service routes are as much a breeze and the open top

“The island is worldrenowned for its sailing events, most notably Cowes Week in early August. The many festivals are also a favourite among locals and visitors.”

The phenomenal success of “Victoria & Abdul” has brought the incomparable Osborne house back into

Nikki says the Island has

the spotlight. The regular number 4 from Ryde and the frequent number 5 from Newport stop right at the door. We are very much amused.

“During the 1800s, Queen Victoria chose the island’s Osborne House to be her family home, and it is a very popular tourist attraction today”, says Nikki. The regalest experience is the opulent Durbar dining room, which also played host to an exhibition of costumes from the box-office hit film”. Nikki however, favours less formal dining.

“The Isle of Wight is blessed with some of the most beautiful pubs, restaurants and bar locations in the south of England. During the summer months, there are

Island d Escape with w Wa arne er

Bembridge Coast Hotel Isle of Wight

Norton Grang ge Coastal Viillage Isle of Wight

Just a stone’s throw from the shore Four rink indoor bowls complex Visit Vi i it Osborne O b Hou H use, Queen Q Victoria’s i t i ’ summer home Call us on 01983 873 931

Unrivalled views of the Solent Beautiful coastal walks Explore nearby Ya a armouth Castle Call us on 01983 760 323

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opportunities to sit and enjoy a tasty meal whilst looking out to sea. And, in winter, open fires provide the perfect setting for savouring a pint of beer or a glass of wine.” No prizes for guessing what mode of transport Nikki recommends. “How best to explore this wonderful array of gems? By bus or coach of course! As the Isle of Wight’s principle bus operator, Southern Vectis serves the needs of the island’s residents with a comprehensive network of routes - and we cater for the major influx of visitors throughout what is becoming an everlengthening tourist season.

“Our iconic Needles Breezer bus service is one of the most spectacular bus rides in all of England, and it runs

throughout March to October. It is an open-top ride with views - including the cliff-hanging, dizzy climb from Alum Bay right up to the Needles Battery - that will simply take your breath away. We offer special group tickets and passes for a week or more - which means holiday makers traveling together with us can get excellent value whilst making the absolute most of their trip. For larger groups, our specialist organisers can arrange coach hire and bespoke trips, taking in specific attractions - or allencompassing tours of this wonderful island.”

It’s fair to say bus travel on the Island is quite idyllic, and few people could find fault. For more information about

Southern Vectis - and plenty of insider

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recommendations - visit www.islandbuses.info.

the highest point on the Island, Ventnor meanders down to the sea on the south coast, enjoying a fantastic climate that makes it climatically subtropical. It’s hard to argue with that.

Check in your group at all 54 rooms of the plush Royal Hotel (royalhoteliow.co.uk).

It’s set in sub-tropical gardens, which take advantage of that benign climate to display a wide variety of blooms. Built in 1832, it has a toprated restaurant, with an unbroken Michelin Guide entry since 1911. There’s a heated outdoor swimming pool, and a spa with sea view treatment cabins.

Literally an oasis of cultivated delights, Ventnor Botanic Garden epitomise the Island’s ethos of the perfect antidote to the stresses and strains of 21st century living (botanic.co.uk).

Normally found in protected glasshouses, plants thrive in geographical plantings based on the Mediterranean zones of the world. You’ll find examples of blooms from all over the world.

Visit the Tropical House and be transported to the

rainforest, take a walk along the secret tunnel to the sea, or step off the pathways to see the rare and exotic plants at their best.

Remnants of the former Royal National Hospital for Chest Diseases can be found, the former occupant of the site.

The gardens charge admission, but for a rest stop, entry to the Plantation Room Café, the restaurant, the gallery and gift shop is free. Mike Stickland’s recommendation of Steephill Cove is adjacent - albeit at the bottom of 250 steps.

The hilly road out of Ventnor leads past the shell of partly restored Appuldurcombe House, and to the entirely up and running Donkey Sanctuary (iowdonkey sanctuary.org). A visit here is a delight for animal loving groups, and nobody can resist the friendly creatures cared for here after life has dealt them a poor hand.

Visits and parking are free.

South Coast The rugged South Coast is a spectacular part of the Island.

The A3055 cliff-top drive - more descriptively known as Military Road - is a

fantastic short adventure in any weather, and often voted among Britain’s most scenic roads.

From St Catherine’s Lighthouse in the east, to Freshwater Bay in the west, there’s plenty packed into ten miles.

With almost forty attractions all in one location, Blackgang Chine really has to be experienced to understand just how diverse and engaging this destination can be (blackgang chine.com). Our guide, Howard, has been enthusing about the park for six years now, but he’s nowhere near as long served as the attraction itself, which opened in 1843, and has been reinventing itself ever since. Named after a ravine that, like the Disappearing Village, tumbled into the sea in a landslip, Blackgang is about six miles from Ventnor’s own precipitous streets.

On the edge of the Island’s wild side, the attraction is set in over forty acres of spectacular cliff-top gardens. However, until you’ve experienced fighting pirates on board your own ship, discovering life size moving dinosaurs and escaping from danger, being a sheriff of your own town, 28

rounding up the outlaws, water slides, cliff hanger roller coasters, pirate barrel rides, animatronic sea creatures, and a whale of a time discovering the biggest mammal of them all - you’ve not really discovered Blackgang Chine.

It may take more than one visit, so admission allows unlimited return for seven days.

The park is operated in conjunction with Robin Hill Adventure Park, near Newport.

Autumn illuminations extend the season at both attractions.

If you’re not heading for a smuggled pint at the Buddle Inn, your hardy group may be taking the Warrior Trail, a new six-mile circular for foot, bike and even horseback.

The Trail celebrates of one of the Isle of Wight’s most prominent First World War stories; that of General Jack Seely and his horse Warrior - a real-life War Horse.

Search for more at visitisleofwight.co.uk.

A less challenging walk is that around the gardens at Mottistone, surrounding an attractive Elizabethan manor house (nationaltrust.org.uk /mottistonegardens).

“

Ventnor Botanic Garden epitomise the Island’s ethos of the perfect antidote to the stresses and strains of 21st century living

“

Ventnor, from

Spectacular views | Perfect pearls Delicious lunch specials | Cream teas

25

over

yrs

WELCOMING group tours

1 HOUR STOP

2 HOUR STOP (RECOMMENDED)

Free pearl talk (30 mins) Discover how pearls are created, cultured and transformed into stunning jewellery.

Pick-a-pearl Choose an oyster from the pool and watch as it’s opened to reveal a genuine Akoya pearl.

Take in the view Rain or shine, enjoy breathtaking views.

Pearl Café Enjoy lunch or afternoon tea, with amazing views and outside seating available . Group discounts and menus available on request. Free pearl talk (30 mins) Pick-a-pearl Transform your newly acquired gem into a beautiful piece of jewellery while you wait.

Take in the view where the sky and the ocean meet.

Shopping Treat yourself to captivating jewellery, the perfect momento of your visit to the Isle of Wight.

Free parking with assigned coach bays Designated coach driver lounge Free IoW maps available upon request for delivery to required hotels

2 HOUR STOP (RECOMMENDED)

ALL TOURS MUST BE PRE-BOOKED OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK April to Sept Mon to Sat 10:00–17:30 Oct to March Mon to Sat 10:00–16:30, Sundays 10:30–16:30 Closed Christmas Day, Boxing day and Easter Sunday

CHILTON CHINE, MILITARY ROAD, BRIGHSTONE, PO30 4DD | TEL 01983 740352 | iowpearl.com

Nearby, in a windy cliff-top setting, Isle of Wight Pearl (iowpearl.co.uk) is a jewel in the crown for sure. Isle of Wight Pearl houses the largest collection of pearl jewellery in the UK. It’s a family-run, group friendly attraction with nearly 30 years’ experience in the pearl industry. There’s a recently revamped cafe, and plenty of expert assistance on hand. If you’re as lucky as us, your guide might even be Jules - she was born for the job.

Operational Overview - a coach industry perspective Proving that the adventure starts from the moment the vehicle leaves the depot, Manchester based operator Belle Vue (coachhiremanchester.c om) has extensive experience of operating coaching holidays to the Isle of Wight. As one leading operator says, the Isle of Wight is one top destination, and with new players eager to get on the road to the ferry terminals, it’s only likely to remain so.

Managing Director Phil Hitchen said his tours based themselves on the east coast, before exploring the Island. “Our Manchester client base really like the Isle of Wight, and it’s been really successful for us. We’ve organised our own tours in the past, and there’s no issue with the distance or

the company’s past partners. “We’ve used a number of hotels over the years and it’s not fair to single out any, since we’ve had the sort of service that backs up our own high standards. We’ve worked with family run suppliers in Shanklin and Sandown, and equally with bigger properties and chain businesses. One of the hotels we worked with also now does their own coach based holidays, which is a compliment to the Belle Vue operation, and I think says a lot about the enduring appeal of the Island.

long haul. We’ve operated tours of up to eight days, and with our charter focus now we get enquiries from old and new clients who want to take groups to the Island. It’s been such a good experience for us, that we’re able to make recommendations and help with itinerary building. We passed on our tailor-made holidays to another operator who is running them today with just as much success as we enjoyed.”

Belle Vue has a string of awards under its corporate belt. With a good reputation on the line every time their seventystrong fleet ventures out on the roads, they choose their working partners carefully. Phil, who’s also a well-known corporate coaching consultant with an emphasis on teamwork, says that’s never been an issue with the Island’s accommodation providers.

Top drawer service is how he described one property to us, and no complaints was the very most modest description as he reviewed

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“Operationally, our drivers always say that they appreciate the working environment. They rarely comment on anything other than the generally relaxed and less frantic experience of touring on the Isle of Wight. They may have to be on their mettle to tour a modern coach around the Island’s country roads, but there’s definitely a lot of courtesy from the Island population, who always

seem to understand what getting a coach on the road is all about. There’s always a lot of appreciation on board too.

I think that customers and organisers appreciate the slower pace and the bustle without the rat race. They certainly tell our drivers often how much they enjoy the trip.

“If any operator is thinking about the Isle of Wight as an organised destination, I’d say you’ve plenty to choose from and the Island’s offering for visitors is only getting better. It’s not as far as you think, and the short distances between some really top attractions is a real bonus once you’re there. Strike up some partnerships and you’ll get some very good deals into the bargain. Keep an eye on costs and the Isle of Wight can be a really good value destination, that works well for everyone.

In all, it’s been a good experience for us and working with the island should be a good experience for you too.”

FREE COACH PARKING

SPECTACULAR SOLENT VIEWPOINT

ARCHAEOLOGY DISCOVERY CENTRE

& SUNKEN SECRETS EXHIBITION : Discover this fine Victorian fort. Find out about the important role the Fort played in WWII and its history of military experiments. Follow the ongoing rescue of a stone age settlement from underneath the Solent and explore our shipwreck heritage.

FORT VICTORIA RAILWAY: MODEL

There is easy access

flat surfaces to

and view busy layouts with working models, i.e. a circus and smoking chimneys.

A world in miniature, a trip down memory lane with British and continental layouts running continuously. A shop with railway modelling requisites. A monthly quiz, finding various models and situations on the layout.

REPTILARIUM AND TERRAPIN SANCTUARY:

33 exhibits of live reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates.

4 themed zones (desert, rainforest, turtle temple and nocturnal room).

Terrapin sanctuary snakes lizards and insects from around the world.

ISLAND PLANETARIUM & ROBERT HOOKE EXHIBITION: Journey into space in our armchair immersive Astrodome theatre with amazing stargazing shows.

Explore the Robert Hooke Exhibition and large solar system display.

FORT VICTORIA: An ideal place to spend the day by the sea, watching the boats, exploring

the beach and woodland trails - home to red squirrels, dormice and bats. Enjoy the indoor attractions and gift shops. Prebooked coaches welcome all year.

e Point of It A snapshot of Freshwater, Yarmouth, and The Needles showing off what is the most iconic image on the Isle of Wight, and much more besides.

“Everyone has heard of The Needles. They’ve probably seen the Trinity Lighthouse on TV dozens of times, but, until you’ve been here, you’ll never really appreciate just how much there is going on within the attraction.”

It’s no exaggeration nor marketing spin. “For this year we’ve revamped and refocused many of the individual attractions.

Frequent visitors have already been commenting on the way the Attraction is even better now at reflecting the heritage of Alum Bay and The Needles.”

Just park your group in Marconi’s Pantry to get a first-hand experience of that whole new focus. There’s plenty of room, with 250 covers and several themed areas. The celebrated radio pioneer made his landmark transmissions

from here, and that’s just one part of the story at The Needles that could take all day to explore. The famous Sand Shop lets you make your own unique souvenir from many of the twenty-six coloured sands that make Alum Bay’s beach a unique geological experience.

See them all in natural situ, as the famous chairlift glides out for a breathtaking view of the Bay, the Needles, Trinity Lighthouse, and the multi-layered and multi-coloured cliffs.

“We operate a pay-asyou-go system,” says Rachael. “There’s no admission fee, and we have a variety of group packages available for groups of 25 or more.

“After the Sand Shop, try made-before-youreyes traditional sweets in the Sweet Manufactory, then watch the skill of the Alum Bay glassmakers.

There’s a local connection with everything at the Attraction.”

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Open daily at least from 10.00-16.00, with extended summer hours and extra seasonal attractions and entertainment. There’s a welcoming hospitality package for organisers and drivers of course, and there’s ramped access everywhere which, given the nature of the clifftop setting, is welcomed by all. The open top Needles Breezer and Island Coaster buses run right into the park, and regular services 7 and 12 connect Yarmouth and Newport directly.

Coach operators favour the Yarmouth ferry from Lymington, operated by Wightlink.

It’s a short drive from there, though they may first call in at the Norton Grange Coastal Resort (warnerleisure hotels.co.uk). The complex offers stunning views of the Solent, and it’s on hand for the town’s Maritime Museum and underwater Archaeology Centre, there’s a selection of

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The superstar of the Island’s natural heritage.

Nothing beats a guided tour of The Needles Landmark Attraction

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In Island terms it’s a bit of a trek, but for those of us cursed with life on the mainland, the fifteen miles from central Newport to Alum Bay is a stroll in the park. Chances are though, it’ll take a little longer because, as with the rest of the Island, there’s plenty to see on the way. The medieval island capital, cute terrapins, castles and great views are all along the road to distract and happily delay you. Some photography buffs might find the delay life long, as did one famous resident.…the Victorian pioneer photographer, Julia Margaret Cameron.

Let’s however start with the superstar of the Island’s natural heritage.

Nothing beats a guided tour of The Needles Landmark Attraction (theneedles.co.uk), and nothing beats a guide like Rachael Hardiman, the indefatigable marketing manager, whom not even a full free coach park will deter from

accommodation from chalets to suites, with a planetarium and a model railway to add to the unique experience. The Norton Grange restaurant, Castaways, has a broad menu including local and seasonal produce.

You’ve seen nothing as cute as the rescue terrapins swimming to greet Louise Hartley at Fort Victoria’s Reptilarium (reptilarium.org).

“People abandon these pets in quite distressing circumstances,” says Louise, whose unique sanctuary is the latest, attraction based at the old defence of the realm against perceived Napoleonic aggression.

“Fort Victoria really is the Island’s hidden treasure,” says Louise. “Where the barracks once stood is our free coach and car park, and in the gun arches, that’s where you’ll find all the other attractions too. There’s the Island Planetarium, Verdi’s Cafe, gift shop, the ranger station and discovery centre, and I think you’ll like the model railway exhibition, that’s family run,

like all the other businesses here. We’re in the middle of a country park too, but if all you have time for is a short stroll, you can climb the battlements and survey the Solent, just in case those French have anything in mind!”

When you’ve finished signalling across the water to Hurst Castle, or down the coast to Yarmouth, step inside for a varied visit. The businesses all cooperate and there are combined ticket options. It’s free to visit the park and the battlements, and Verdi’s appreciate a call in advance for a large party. For all contact details, visit fortvictoria.co.uk

If you fancy getting up close and personal with a wallaby, brushing a donkey, or interacting with any number of four legged and one pouched friends, Tapnell Farm Park should suit your group, no matter what the age range (tapnellfarmpark.com). From the young at heart, to ageing rockers, Tapnell will perhaps best be remembered, through a purple haze, as 33

the site of the seminal 1970 Isle of Wight Festival.

Inside the modern all-weather attraction, you will find a wide range of hands-on animal experiences, and indoor and outdoor play – with loads to keep kids and adults entertained.

Located inland from Yarmouth and Freshwater, on the west of the Island, Tapnell Farm Park enjoys all-round views over the Solent, Newtown Creek, Tennyson Down, and the 1970 festival site.

The Park’s own cafe is a pleasant stop, and the adjacent Cow Co Restaurant & Bar offers a tasty sit down for farmedout groups (thecowco.com).

There’s an artist’s heaven at Dimbola.

The four bay-fronted white mansion in Freshwater was the home and work place of Victorian photographer, Ceylonese (Sri Lankan) Julia Margaret Cameron (dimbola.co.uk). Her famous images capture many Victorian celebrities, but during her life, her

home became a focal point for bohemian artists, writers and poets, including Poet Laureate Alfred, Lord Tennyson, who’s association with the Island is celebrated at Dimbola. Today, the museum hosts a programme of exhibitions and permanent displays, including the 1970 Isle of Wight Festival -, not of course shot by what would have been the 155-year-old auteur. The tempting homemade cake, delicious cream tea and light lunches in the cosy Victorian tea room, or sunny garden overlooking Freshwater Bay are a picture. Coach parties are welcome (£5.00pp rate) and there’s nearby onstreet parking. Book first with manager Elissa Blizzard (Elissa.Blizzard@dimbola.co.uk, 01983 756814). Elissa also recommends a visit to neighbouring St Agnes’ Church, the only thatched church on the Isle of Wight.

All at Sea in Cowes a town of two halves What to do in Cowes for the other fifty-one weeks of the year. That’s a good question easily fielded by Harbour Master, Captain Stuart McIntosh. He gives his endorsement to the Harbour Handbook, which you can pick up everywhere in the twin towns. In short though, if you visit during Cowes Week, you’ll look out of place if you don’t wear your deck shoes, salty beard and, if you’ve got one, your yacht. Ladies are excused the beard bit.

The world famous floating jamboree is far from the only reason for being in Cowes. Admittedly, nautical interests are high, and Stuart is already looking forward to 2019; “The bi-annual Rolex Fastnet Race, starting the Sunday after Cowes Week, and the World Championships for the SB20 keelboats. We hope to be welcoming 100 of these exciting boats. The Round the Island Race is a highlight of

the season.”

Take your group for a refreshment at the harbour viewing watering hole, The Yachtsman (theyachtsman.co.uk). Despite being a new destination in Cowes, the pub has plenty of character, and is part of the Historic Isle of Wight Pubs collection (characterinns.co.uk), On dry land, on the southern edge of Cowes, the Wight Military and Heritage Museum in Northwood (iow-charm.org.uk) offers a blast from the past. Several blasts from the past in fact. Tanks, armoured vehicles, small arms and, uniforms from over one hundred years of armed defence.

As Keanu Reeves might have said: “We’re going to need guns, lots of guns.”

When it’s time for jaw-jaw, sip a refreshment at Churchill’s, the on-site cafe that’s all officers mess - without the mess.

Elsewhere around Cowes, the Classic Boat Museum (classicboatmuseum.org) really couldn’t be anywhere else – except also in East Cowes; and the classical Northwood House may have a car park on the courtyard, but the grounds are free and very relaxing. It’s also host to the Red Funnel sponsored Literary Festival in October (isleofwightliteraryfestival.com).

Cowes is also the pleasantly unlikely venue for the most Scottish event on the Island - for all the kilt and caber details, visit the tongue twisting IslandHighlandGathering.com

If the west side story is all about the song and dance of the regatta, and a sailing season that runs from April to October, then the east side is all about the regal waltz around Osborne, famously the home from home for Queen Victoria, and singularly the Island’s single most popular built heritage attraction www.visitisleofwight.co.uk/cowes 34

It might be said that Queen Victoria made some interesting friendships in her long and prosperous reign. Her marriage to Albert was of course the most enduring of these, but not the least noted. John Brown, her Highland ghillie became a celebrated confidant.

Yet, even more remarked upon, and her most unexpected camaraderie of all, was with her Indian head of household Abdul Karim, now the subject of the massive hit film, Victoria & Abdul. English Heritage Curator at Osborne, Michael Hunter is certainly a fan. “Osborne was Queen Victoria’s private family home which means visitors can step straight into Queen Victoria’s world when they get here. Victoria & Abdul is the first film to ever use the interiors of Osborne as a location.

Osborne has always been a huge draw, but now your group will most certainly not be amused if you miss the property off the itinerary. The palatial home offers an intimate glimpse into Victoria’s secret royal family life. Its state rooms, private apartments, bathing beach and children’s Swiss chalet play-cottage are all open to the public. The latter is only cottage in name, since its scale is certainly regal.

Frequent courtesy buses transport visitors to the further flung parts of the estate, and the friendly drivers offer an impromptu commentary on the short transfer between beaches, cottage and house. Don’t miss the fabulously opulent Durbar Room with its intricate Indian-style plasterwork ceiling inspired by Queen Victoria’s status as Empress of India. https://www.visitisle ofwight.co.uk/cowes

Island Towns: Newport and Carisbrooke

All roads lead to Newport, and all rails once did as well. It’s less easy to trace the old railway network although parts of the routes that once covered the Island are now incorporated into the Rail Trails that make walking the Island such a pleasure.

The town is still the hub of the Island’s transport network, relying now on frequent Southern Vectis services which snake out from here, to all parts (islandbuses.info).

Today, the closest approach made by rails to Newport is the western terminus of the Isle of Wight Steam Railway - a short bus ride away at Wootton Common.

The convenient number 9 will get you there, but there’s also extensive parking for all vehicles (iwsteam railway.co.uk).

Is it Georgian? Is it Victorian? Take a vote

among your party, as they stroll around the equally elegant period architecture in the centre of the town surrounding the square. For a relatively compact community, Newport has all the hustle and bustle of a de-facto capital of the Island. Take a break at God’s Providence House (godsprovidence house.com) next to the impressive church on St Thomas’ Square.

Traditional English teas, and lunches as well and give them a call if your party is large.

As always, the water is never far away, and the quay is still very much a working waterway.

The Quay Arts Centre, located in an old brewery. Runs varied exhibitions and courses, has a 100+ capacity theatre and its café has a reputation for good, homecooked food. It’s just a few steps from the town centre, and from

Seaclose Park, the site, adjacent to the River Medina, of the modern Isle of Wight Festival, every June (isleofwight festival.com).

Carisbrooke Castle will likely be your first trip from Newport, and it’s only a couple of miles west to the exquisite little village that nestles beneath the towering fairy-tale of a castle (englishheritage.org.uk/ carisbrooke).

This Elizabethan artillery fortress, has been a king's prison and a royal summer residence. There’s a museum within, and the recent addition of the Edwardian styled Princess Beatrice Privy Garden. As seems to be a recurring Island theme, there are donkeys that help work the castle’s waterwheel, and they’re inevitably ‘loveable’. Well, who would argue with that.

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Anyway, you’ll feel like a monarch as you survey the land from the high ramparts of the original ruins, surrounded by restored buildings housing exhibitions and a regal tearoom to boot.

Emphasising the compact and easily travelled nature of the Island, we visited Robin Hill in our Sandown and Shanklin pages, but the Adventure Park is just as easily reached from Newport (robin-hill.com). It’s also the site of one the island’s other big music events, Eklectica. More details in our events pages.

Co-wheels and Monkey Haven, for groups that like to swing by

When Paul Crabb isn’t in the middle of the Solent, sailing from Cowes, he’s hard at work for the car club, Co-wheels (co-wheels.

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org.uk). The national social enterprise hires hybrid cars from Ryde Esplanade. “It’s easy to become a member,” says Paul. “So, if any of your group want to freelance off in a small party, it’s cheap and hassle free.

Co-wheels and Monkey Haven, for groups that like to swing by

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“Let’s say you want to explore the Island’s animal sanctuaries. You’d be hard pressed to cover them all, but split up, grab a Cowheels car, and problem solved. A good example is Monkey Haven just north of Newport (monkeyhaven.org). It’s coach friendly for sure, and very welcoming no matter the size of your party.

There’s more than rescued primates too. It’s a happy home for birds of prey, a mob of meerkats and many more exotic creatures.”

Very much hands-on, there are animals that are at home with human attention, including hand-reared owls and snakes. Keepers offer popular talks and feeds throughout the day.

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Parking is free and guided tours are part of the coach group VIP experience.

There’s full disabled access with flat, wide paths suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs, and benches to relax on. Don’t be surprised if someone else decides to put their feet up too - all four of them. Groups can enjoy the on-site tearoom, where drivers and leaders are made welcome as guests. There are trails and picnic areas for the independent types as well.

and groups should have made a few things clearer for you now.

The Isle of Wight is a lot closer than you might imagine. Everything on the Island is much closer than you might imagine.

Once you’ve hurried across the water- relax, it’s all just a little less frenetic than life on the “North Island”.

“It’s difficult to argue with VisitEngland’s award as Best Small Visitor Attraction”, says Paul, just before driving off to pick up another Co-wheels customer party. “I’d suggest you swing on by on your next itinerary.

Don’t turn up your nose at The Garlic Farm (thegarlicfarm.co.uk), near the village of Newchurch, roughly half way between Newport and Sandown, and up on the Downs, as it were, on another of the Island’s picturesque byways. We could say follow your nose, but that would be too obvious, even for this fragrant attraction,

As a third-generation family farm, there’s a passion for excellent garlic inspired-produce that’s not to be sniffed at. An everincreasing range of tasty fare awaits adventurous groups, ready to try everything from smoked garlic to garlicky chutneys and pickles. To quench that thirst, try Black Garlic Beer, or even Garlic Vodka. The shop and

the Shipwreck Centre and Maritime Museum though it would have to have been a biblically high tide to get any boats up this high on the island.

restaurant offer fayre without added garlic, but if your teeth are sharp and you tend to stay out of the sunlight, you might want to consider staying on the coach for this one.

Finally,...

A couple of miles away, Arreton Barns Craft Village have been transformed into the Island's largest centre for arts and crafts (arretonbarns.co.uk).

Now, this really is a must stop and pull on the parking brake. Sort out some space in the hold, you’ll need it when the group get back from exploring the studios and shops around the courtyard site.

In context, the Barns are a craft based attraction, adjacent to the tiny village of the same name. Visitors can enjoy both the Barns, and the Dairyman’s Daughter - that’s a traditional pub - and peek at how a one-thousandyear old settlement has adapted to modern life.

Check out the historic church of St George with its medieval fish pond, and

Let Arreton be the last letter in your alphabet of the Isle of Wight. This I to W guide for coaches

Maybe you’ll get an understanding of why, for so many people, the worst thing that could possibly happen on the Isle of Wight, is having to use the mainland bound portion of their return ticket.

Unless of course, you’ve another trip planned which, after reading this, you’ll surely be working on, already.

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