Summer 2016 Wightlife

FREE GUIDE

Summer 2016

TM

THE GREAT WIGHT OUTDOORS

CLASSIC ENGLISH SEASIDE INSPIRATIONAL

WHERE HISTORY COMES TO LIFE LOCAL GUIDE

ISLE OF WIGHT BEACHES

GO.STAY.DO! Your must have guide for the Isle of Wight attractions | eating out | island map | accommodation | travel guide | wightlife.com

ISLE OF WIGHT

A great value family day out.

Visit us at the South-Western tip of the Isle of Wight,

beach, enjoy an unforgettable boat trip or delight in one of

explore our wonderful natural coastline and discover the

the UK’s most picturesque open-top bus rides.

world famous Needles Rocks and Trinity Lighthouse from Alum Bay – the Island’s most iconic location.

Take time to explore our rich and varied history and have your photo taken at the World Famous Marconi Monument,

Set within an area of outstanding natural beauty,

which marks the precise location where Guglielmo Marconi

experience our spectacular chairlift and grab a bird’s eye

undertook his pioneering work at the end of the 19th

view of the multi-coloured sand cliffs of Alum Bay and the

Century, which led to radio and all telecommunications as

stunning turquoise waters beyond. Take things easy on the

we know it today.

Save 25% on all attractions with our Super Saver tickets.

Watch our craftsmen at work

Delicious hot and cold snacks

4D Film Experience Spectacular fireworks Get close to the Needles Rocks Shop like aVictorian Shop like aVictorian

Landmark Location – grab a bird’s eye view from our spectacular chairlift Landmark Attractions – The Lost World 4D film Landmark Shopping – Taste the Wight in our new retail outlet Landmark Events – Join us for music & fireworks every Thursday throughout August

Relax and unwind with a speciality coffee in Marconi’s Tea Rooms or indulge in a spot of lunch before watching a fascinating demonstration courtesy of our Alum

Only pay to park your car and for the activities you want to enjoy.

confectionery is made in our Sweet Manufactory or making

theneedles.co.uk

your own unique coloured sand souvenirs in our Sand Shop.

The Needles, Alum Bay, Isle of Wight PO39 0JD

Bay glassmakers, learning all about how traditional

For further information please call 01983 752401 or visit our website.

WELCO ME ...to the summer edition of Wightlife magazine. We like to think that this is your must have guide for the Isle of Wight, whether you are planning your visit, on your way across the Solent or looking to make the most of your time on the Island.

In this edition, we feature some of the Isle of Wight’s most outstanding and enduring assets. It’s a classic seaside experience, which is unashamedly a bit old fashioned... and that’s its charm. There are more miles of footpaths and bridleways here than there are roads, which makes it a brilliant destination to enjoy with or without your car. If you’re into history and wildlife then the Island can be a fantastic place to immerse yourself.

On the Isle of Wight you can enjoy all types of activities, entertainments and attractions. Some you might have heard of before and many more that we are delighted to introduce you to. There are also lots of ideas for places to eat out.

Our aim is to provide you with a little inspiration and lots of useful information, whether you are visiting for the first time or like me, lucky enough to call the Island ‘home’.

It really is your must have guide for the Isle of Wight.

Mark Persad

Head of Marketing PS. Don’t forget to download the Wightlink APP.

C ON T R I B U T OR S Matthew Chatfield Island countryside and wildlife pundit Matthew Chatfield has been working in country parks and nature reserves for 25 years, and now runs the Island’s countryside charity, Gift to Nature.

Katie Ganly Mother of one Katie lives in her head where she is free to do all the things she has no time for in reality. These include surfing, singing, break-dancing, tattooing and cooking.

Lindsay Becker Lindsay is a regular contributor to the wightlife.com blog. She works at Solent in marketing and PR where she is the editor of Taste of the Wight, the Island’s local guide to food & drink.

Geoff Westby Geoff is an independent filmmaker and writes for radio and podcasts. A regular to the Isle of Wight as a boy during family holidays, he is a fully-fledged fan of the Isle of Wight.

Richard Grogan Chartered ecologist Richard, has been looking after the Island’s wildlife for the past thirty years. Over the last 18, he has worked for the Wildlife Trust to conserve and enhance our special Island wildlife.

Roz Whistance Roz was a feature writer and sub-editor on The Daily Telegraph. Since leaving London she has interviewed all manner of Islanders for local magazines.

Paddling in Alum Bay

WIGHTLIFE.COM

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C ON TE N T S

36 ISLE OF WIGHT BEA C HES Our guide to the Island’s beaches for where it’s best to spend the day this summer season.

1 2 W H E R E H I S T ORY CO M ES TO L IFE Steeped in history and heritage, from prehistoric times to the Victorian, discover where the past comes to life.

8 C LA SSIC ENGLISH SEA SIDE The Isle of Wight is the best destination to enjoy a thoroughly traditional trip to the seaside. What makes a perfect day on the beach?

18 WIGHT WILDLIF E Being separated from the mainland the Island is home to many unique types of animals and plants. Find out where you can enjoy these natural wonders.

30 THE PERF EC T PIC NIC With an abundance of locally produced food and drink to enjoy and wonderful countryside and coastline to explore, picnics are the way to go.

32 ISLA ND HIDEA WA YS Your ‘home-from-home’ will make your holiday or short break. Here are some hidden gems to inspire you.

42 DESTINA TION GUIDES Wightlife has divided the Island into six areas and provided an informationpacked guide to each one so you can get the most out of your visit.

44 ISLA ND MA P Our map provides an overview of the Isle of Wight with the main roads as well as visitor attractions, beaches and places of interest.

94 PORTSMOUTH This vibrant waterfront city is also home to the Royal Navy with a proud maritime history. Enjoy a day exploring its many attractions.

98 LYMINGTON A ND THE NEW F OREST As well as being a gateway to the Isle of Wight the historic market town of Lymington also provides an open door to the New Forest National Park.

100 EVENTS C A LENDA R Every year the Isle of Wight hosts an amazing season of events to enjoy. This guide will help to make sure you don’t miss a thing.

2 6 O F F T H E B E ATEN TRACK Famous for its international music festivals and Cowes week, the Isle of Wight has so many other great events to enjoy.

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110 WIGHTLIF E C OMPETITION Enter our free competition to win a holiday to the Isle of Wight

e mor n d n i F io mat ps at r o f in ma /do free uk and link.co. t h wig

20 MILES OF F OOTPA THS A ND TRA ILS It’s possible to travel more miles off the road than you can on it, so why not leave the car and explore the Island on foot or on a bicycle?

DES T I N A T I O N G UID E S 46 NORTH EA S T

Coastal villages and bustling towns from Wootton round to Bembridge Harbour including Ryde, St Helens and Seaview.

58 E AS T

The beautiful sandy beaches of Sandown Bay stretching from Shanklin through to Yaverland and the historic town of Brading.

68 SO UTH

‘Back of the Wight’ following the rugged southern coastline from Bonchurch to Blackgang featuring the town of Ventnor.

74 W E ST

The western peninsular running from Brighstone in the south to Yarmouth and Newtown Creek on the north coast.

80 NORTH

From Thorness to Fishbourne including Cowes, East Cowes and Northwood.

84 CE NTRA L

Covering the county town of Newport and the surrounding villages of Arreton, Godshill and Rookley.

E DITOR Abigail Hennings DE SIGNE R Thea Welsford A DV E RTISING SA LE S David Brooks, Rob Hull, Jame Rolfe DISTRIBUTION MA NA GE R Brian Curd CONTRIBUTORS Matthew Chatfield, Lindsay Becker, Katie Ganly, Roz Whistance, Geoff Westby and Richard Grogan P H OTOGRA P H Y Neil Southwell, Julian Winslow, Monika Olek, Lucy Boynton, Duncan Allan, Jason Swain, Margaret Pilkington, Sara Lincoln, Jeremy Cangialosi, Tim Addison and special thanks to The National Trust, English Heritage & Visit Isle of Wight P RINT Precision Colour Printing

30 Quay Street, Newport Isle of Wight, PO30 5BA 01983 200336 info@solent.co solent.co/wightlife Wightlife magazine is published by Solent on behalf of Wightlink. Content and copyright remains the property of Wightlink. No photographs may be reproduced without prior consultation. The publisher accepts no responsibility for any claims made in advertisements or editorial, opinions, nor for any decision made based on these advertisements or opinions. The publisher cannot accept liability for any loss arising from late appearance or non-appearance of any advertisement. All opening times, admission charges and other details were correct at the time of going to press.

(March 2016).

Wightlink is a partner of Visit Isle of Wight and works closely with it to promote the Isle of Wight.

WIGHTLIFE.COM

CARPENTERS ROAD, BRADING ISLE OF WIGHT, PO36 0QA - (01983) 613760 | WWW.OASIS-IOW.COM

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8

CLASSIC ENGLISH SEASIDE

Classic English Seaside A trip into the countryside can be glorious during the summer months, but in the holiday season, the seaside is where it’s at.

Sand, sea and deck chairs at Sandown Bay

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CLASSIC ENGLISH SEASIDE

9

Island days to remember Share days out where history happened and memories are made.

Carisbrooke Castle

The Isle of Wight has been welcoming visitors to enjoy its wonderful beaches and coastline since Victorian times. Queen Victoria herself coveted her own private section of beach in East Cowes which is now open for you to explore too. Here on the Isle of Wight, we are blessed with sandy shorelines and resort beaches perfect for families, as well as more remote, rugged and uncharted parts of the Island’s stunning coastline.

Osborne

Yarmouth Castle

The British are of course an island race, so perhaps it’s perfectly natural that we feel so happy and at ease at the water’s edge. Add-in some nostalgia for yesteryear and a dash of retro charm – it’s no wonder that the Isle of Wight is the perfect home of the traditional English seaside experience.

Our love affair with the Great British seaside holiday shows no sign of waning – we can all conjure up memories of seaside holidays back in their heyday, taking more sand home with you in the car than you left on the beach. And the Island still has that old fashioned seaside charm, making your holiday the highlight of your summer.

So what is it that makes a classic day on the beach?

Every family has its own favourite way to spend time by the sea, but throw in the following and you are on to a winner with a holiday you’ll all remember and still be talking about in years to come.

Osborne

Carisbrooke Castle

Yarmouth Castle

Visit www.english-heritage.org.uk

The English Heritage Trust is a charity, no. 1140351, and a company, no. 07447221, registered in England.

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10

CLASSIC ENGLISH SEASIDE

Crabbing at Freshwater Bay

Buckets and spades

First time in the sea

You can’t go far along an Isle of Wight beach during the summer months without seeing a brightly coloured bucket and spade being put to excellent use. The seaside shops that line our esplanades are full to bursting with different shapes and sizes, castles, intricate turreted towers and the obligatory flag for the top.

If this is going to be a first time in the sea for a member of the family then you’ve chosen a great place for a dunk. Many of the Island’s beaches, including Sandown, Shanklin and Ryde, have gently shelving soft sand, perfect for beginners to paddle and learn to swim. The waters around the Island are clear and bright and there are a number of places to hire boats, kayaks or paddleboards, too. If you are swimming in open water for the first time, the RNLI provides very good safety information and there are lifeguards in operation at Sandown and Ryde beaches during the school summer holidays. Make sure you read the local beach safety board and have a safe day.

Building sandcastles and digging moats, burying dad (because mum is not that daft) and collecting shells are just a small selection of the uses for these essentials of the beach. Buckets and spades are as important as your sun-screen, rubber-ring and beach towel for a top time by the sea – especially when there are so many beaches with excellent sandcastle opportunities to choose from (see our beach guide on page 36).

Crazy golf and amusements On a hot day, an amusement arcade can provide some much needed shade as well as keeping the kids amused (the clue is in the name). Or if the heavens open with our great, yet unpredictable weather, they are a welcome port in a storm.

Sandown Pier has a large indoor play area as well as a huge amusement arcade where a bag of change will provide hours of fun for youngsters looking to test their skills on coin-rollers, cascades and grabber cranes.

There’s traditional crazy golf in Sandown at Sandham Grounds and the pier offers a rainforest-themed course with sound effects. In the neighbouring beach resort of Shanklin, the Esplanade hosts no fewer than three courses to try right on the beach, including a full 18-hole traditional course and the themed Pirates’ Cove, next to the Summer Arcade and Jungle Jim’s indoor play area.

Ice cream, chips and sticks of rock It’s a cliché that beach picnics put the sand into sandwiches but the food we eat completes a good day by the sea. From barbequing sausages on a quiet beach, to trying – and failing – to keep up with a melting cornet or lolly, there are some foods that instantly trigger a seaside memory. Salt and vinegar on hot chips are guaranteed to evoke a smile – plus a few seagulls – and nothing says traditional UK holiday like a bright pink stick of rock with ‘Isle of Wight’ written through the middle. (See our great picnic article on page 30).

Ready for a day at the beach and heading down to Compton Bay

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CLASSIC ENGLISH SEASIDE

11

Real Island pubs in great locations Don’t forget your sun hat for a day on the beach

If you’re on the lookout for an ice cream, try a scoop or two of Minghella’s locally produced ice creams and sorbets.

They’ve been made here on the Island by the same family since the 50s – the seaside heydays – using the highest quality Isle of Wight milk and cream – delicious!

views at Panoramic sea Inn, Shanklin The Steamer

Rockpooling If you can manage to cram a couple of nets into the car and carry them along with everything else down to the beach, there are some great opportunities for catching crabs, shrimps and fish in the rock pools. Kids will love discovering mysterious sea creatures on Bembridge Ledge at Foreland on the eastern point, or the rocks in Freshwater Bay on the west coast, both perfect for clambering over and exploring. Take care when walking along the slippery, seaweed covered rocks but it’s definitely worth the trip to discover a whole world of creatures.

Stunning cou ntryside sur rounds The Dairyma n’s Daughter, Arreton

erside location Beautiful riv ort n’s Rest, Newp The Bargema

The Spyglass Inn, Ventnor

The New Carnival Company‘s Mardis Gras event is a highlight of carnival season

Carnivals The traditional carnival season on the Isle of Wight is still thriving, taking place across the Island between July and September every year. We might not be Rio de Janeiro but we know how to bang our drums and shake our tail feathers. (See our events calendar on page 100 for dates).

Ryde is home to the oldest carnival in the UK, seeing huge crowds lining the streets of the seaside town every August.

The procession never fails to impress with brightly coloured costumes, lively music and dancers aplenty. The illuminated carnivals are also a spectacle not to be missed. Throw on a jumper, snap some glow sticks and watch the vibrant lights as they parade past.

So whether you are visiting with the grandchildren for a day trip, short break, or taking a full length family holiday, the Isle of Wight’s beaches and coastline provide the perfect backdrop to enjoy the traditional English seaside experience. Don’t forget your knotted hanky.

By Lindsay Becker

01983 525828 BARGEMANSREST.COM

01983 862641 THESTEAMER.CO.UK

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01983 539361 ARRETONBARNS.CO.UK

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Join the locals! a b WIGHTLIFE.COM

12

WHERE HISTORY COMES TO LIFE

WHERE History comes to life Dinosaurs, Vikings, Romans and Royals... the Island is steeped in a rich cultural and historical heritage, yet still shrouded in mystery.

A whole world of wonder awaits as you journey back through time to uncover the tales of this enchanted Isle.

Set against captivating landscapes, there’s something for everyone. So let the adventures begin as history comes to life. (Bring a child for shameless fun with multiple dress up opportunities and interactive play at every turn).

Dinosaurs up close and personal at Dinosaur Isle

You’d be hard pressed to find a small child who isn’t totally obsessed with all things Jurassic. And really, who can blame them?

The UK’s dinosaur capital There’s no shortage of dino-mite adventures to be had here in the UK’s dinosaur capital and no better place to start than Dinosaur Isle. If you think you’ve got bad breath in the morning, just wait until you compare yours to that of a prehistoric carnivore. Watch the lab scientists get to work on real dino remains and see how you measure up to the bones of Britain’s largest dinosaur (which would have been over 26 metres in length). There are plenty of experts around to answer all your burning questions as well. Why not join a guided fossil tour on nearby Yaverland beach for some dinosaur footprint action?

Age-old longstone If humans are more your bag, allow us to introduce you (not literally of course) to the Island’s oldest human ancestors. Little is known of Stone Age Island life, but an ambitious neolithic reminder in the form of a sandstone pillar, appropriately named ‘Longstone’, stands near the picturesque village of Mottistone. Drink in the stunning scenery on your afternoon stroll across the tops of the downs, but be careful where you step. Is it a hill, or is it a grave? Over 240 Bronze Age round barrows (burial mounds) pepper the landscape.

Castles and fortresses Marvel at artefacts formerly belonging to these ancient people and more, at Carisbrooke Castle, the Island’s most important fortification. En garde! Built in its initial form as a refuge against vicious Viking raids, you can discover tales of 1000 years within the castle walls. From an Elizabethan artillery fortress to a Royal summer residence, it also famously imprisoned King Charles I shortly before he was beheaded. Get into character as a medieval soldier or civil war trooper in the Gatehouse, where you can also fire a mini-cannon. Take advantage of the fancy dress opportunity, less embarrassing if you’re with a child. But who’s to judge? When you’re ready, take a breather from all the heavy stuff and meet some castle donkeys, play some bowls, wander through the gardens and enjoy some cake.

Get involved with the Jousting at Carisbrooke Castle

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WHERE HISTORY COMES TO LIFE

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Pubs for all the family FOOD SERVED ALL DAY • BREAKFAST FROM 9AM LOCAL PRODUCE & REAL ALES • SUNDAY ROASTS

Exploring the battlements at Carisbrooke Castle

Roman life Feel like roaming like a Roman? Check out a Roman Villa in either Newport or Brading. Get hands on in the activity rooms where you can try on some traditional clothing and even train the kids up in mosaic making on site, in case you have ‘Roman floor envy’ when you leave. The villa at Brading, being situated in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is a breath-taking bonus and its stunning mosaic floors are some of the best preserved in Northern Europe.

The intriguing range of artefacts and wonderful interactive displays on offer at Brading Roman Villa only add to this unique experience.

THE GRIFFIN MAIN ROAD • GODSHILL • IW PO38 3JD 01983 840039 www.thegriffiniow.co.uk The Griffin:

__________

Fun maze Bouncy castle Football goal Children’s play area Horse & Groom Paddock:

______________________

Giant bouncy castle • Crazy golf course Football goal • Log & tyre trail • Climbing frame

Mosaic floors at Brading Roman Villa

THE HORSE & GROOM MAIN ROAD • NINGWOOD • IW • PO30 4NW 01983 760672 www.horse-and-groom.com WIGHTLIFE.COM

14

WHERE HISTORY COMES TO LIFE

Rocks and Rockets

Victorian high life

Have a blast at The Needles Batteries — a Victorian coastal defence and a top secret rocket testing site. Immerse yourself in the underground tunnels and hunt down members of the Needles regiment. Discover secrets of sunken ships in the treacherous waters, jump behind guns used to fend off invaders and unearth the stories of those that manned them, with interactive displays. And there’s more dressing-up. You won’t get a better view of the pointy rocks known as The Needles than from up here, so have that camera handy. Being in the vicinity, the chairlift down to Alum Bay is now an essential part of your trip.

Hold on as the chair rides over the cliff edge.

You can’t say you’ve been to the Isle of Wight without a trip to Osborne. It’s “impossible to imagine a prettier spot” according to Queen Victoria herself. A shrine to high Victorian style and royal family life, there’s a sense the Queen, Prince and her nine children are still living there. After exploring the main house, play as the royal children did in Swiss Cottage and marvel at fascinating objects from around the world in the museum. Relax in the stunning gardens and sample some of the homegrown produce from the walled kitchen garden at the Terrace Restaurant and Orangery. Compared to the Bay of Naples by Prince Albert, don’t forget to take a stroll down to the Queen’s private beach, enjoying a wildlife trail on the way.

By Katie Ganly

A great day out for all ages, Osborne’s Swiss Cottage in the sunshine

WIGHTLIFE.COM

A SPECIAL DAY OUT R EO UR ILS A CH RO R DET B R OU E FO SEE EBSIT W

AND TRAIN STORY DISCOVERY CENTRE

This Multi-Award Winning Attraction will charm, engage, and captivate you Thrill to the sight and sound of powerful majestic steam engines Breathe in the evocative smells of a real steam railway Climb aboard for a 10-mile round trip back in time Absorb the tranquillity of quiet wayside stations Discover the Island’s very own Train Story Enjoy morning coffee, lunch or afternoon tea Experience a close encounter with owls, hawks and falcons Refreshment Rooms Children’s Play Area Picnic Areas Ice Cream Parlour Easy to Find

Woodland Walk Haven Falconry Shop and Museum Disabled Access FREE Car Park

Special Events 2016

We stage numerous special events when the steam trains provide the perfect centrepiece for us to put on something extra …

The 11th Isle of Wight Real Ale Festival

30th April, 1st & 2nd May

The Isle of Wight Festival of Transport

22nd May

Spring Gala

28th, 29th & 30th May

The 1940s Experience

2nd & 3rd July

The Island Motor Show

9th & 10th July

The Railway Folk

31st July, 1st & 2nd August

Victorian Weekend

6th & 7th August

The 42nd Island

Steam Show 26th to 29th August Diesel Gala 1st & 2nd October Wizard Week 24th to 28th October Santa Specials 3rd, 4th, 10th, 11th, 17th, 18th, 21st to 24th December

Isle of Wight Steam Railway • Havenstreet • nr Ryde • Isle of Wight PO33 4DS

Train Story Discovery Centre

Haven Falconry Bird of Prey Centre New for 2016

Meet Buzz the Barn Owl …

Indie the Kestrel … Archie the Hawk … Amber the magnificent Eagle Owl … and many more!

Packed with interactive activities and fascinating displays, journey through the Island’s very own Train Story … and get up close and personal to swaggering locomotives, cheerful carriages and quirky wagons

Tucked away in a special corner of Havenstreet Station and housing the Island’s largest collection of birds of prey, Haven Falconry present their new visitor centre boasting over 22 species of birds.

Featuring four interactive, scene-setting display areas …

Rebels with Rolling Stock Once Unwanted, Now Unique The Island’s Essential Railway Service Preserving the Island’s Heritage

See

... Flying displays at 11.30am and 1.40pm each day (weather and events permitting) in the adjoining Events Field Learn ... Educational talks (times as advertised on the day) Experience ... Opportunities to handle hawks, owls and falcons Enjoy ... Pets Corner and the quirky, creepy Insect Hotel!

Do ... Take a Bird of Prey Experience, Hawk Walk or Owl Encounter.

The Steam Railway operates Every

day from late-June to late-September days in late-March, April, May and June Numerous days in October and December Most

KIDS GO FREE

Easter Hols (1st to 10th April) BEST HERITAGE PROJECT

01983 882204 • www.iwsteamrailway.co.uk

18

WIGHT WILDLIFE

Wight

wildlife Visitors and Islanders alike will all agree that the Isle of Wight is a beautiful place to live, work and visit.

The stunning landscape is further enhanced by the plants and animals that thrive here, isolated from mainland England by the Solent, the stretch of water that runs between the South Coast and the Island. This separation has led to some little known facts about our landscape, flora and fauna.

The woodlands on the Isle of Wight are unique in Britain as they are free from feral deer and grey squirrels and our rivers are free of American mink. As a consequence, we have a nationally important population of red squirrels, dormice, bats and water voles. Our downland supports most of the world’s population of the plant known as the early gentian and has the largest populations of the Chalk Hill Blue butterfly in southern England.

All this wildlife can be discovered if you know where to look and the following areas of interest should help you on your way.

Compton Bay The National Trust has recently bought Dunsbury Farm in the West Wight to add to their large coastal estate.

Although Compton is known for its lovely beach, which is popular with surfers year-round and families in the height of summer, the cliff tops are worth exploring for flowers, bees and grasshoppers as well as the Island’s very own butterfly, the Glanville Fritillary. This small brown and orange insect can be seen between mid-May and mid-June among the pretty pink of thrift plants.

There’s parking available in the National Trust car parks at Brook, Hanover Point or Compton Farm, all well placed for a walk on some of the Island’s most spectacular coastline.

The Island’s un-official mascot, the Red Squirrel, the only breed of squirrel native to the British Isles

Arreton Down This small area of downland to the east of Newport is a lovely summer spectacle with wildflowers such as the pyramidal orchid, birdsfoot trefoil, horseshoe vetch and kidney vetch which in turn attracts a range of little blue butterflies such as Adonis Blue, Common Blue and Chalk Hill Blue. The site is also home to the nationally rare Field Cricket which can be heard chirping in May in the short grassland. The downland can be accessed via a footpath past St George’s Church in Arreton Barns.

Hurst Copse Found in the north east of the Island near Wootton this woodland reserve, owned by the People’s Trust for Endangered Species, is a wonderful example of ancient woodland habitat. The site has Hazel Dormouse, Red Squirrels and bats including Bechstein and Barbastelle, two of Britain’s rarest species. A walk here also takes in the wet woodland habitats found by Wootton Mill Pond and can be found by following the public bridleway south past the Lakeside Hotel at Wootton Bridge.

Brading Marshes

The Chalk Hill Blue butterfly

WIGHTLIFE.COM

This RSPB reserve on the eastern edge of the Island includes a wide range of wetland habitats which attract a wonderful array of birds. Reed beds, wet grasslands and lagoons are home to Marsh Harriers, ducks, geese, Lapwing and Redshank, which can all be found depending on the time of year. There are also some great walks through wet woodland and grasslands. The Marshes can be explored from Brading through the railway station or following the Bembridge Trail east from Quay Lane next to the church.

WIGHT WILDLIFE

19

The view from Brading Down over-looking Brading Marshes and Sandown Bay

Parkhurst Forest On the western outskirts of Newport, what’s left of a royal deer forest is home to a wide range of woodland plants and animals. As well as viewing hides for Red Squirrels, there are wide tracks and narrow paths which will take you on quiet adventures to find rare plants such as narrow-leaved lungwort, which only grows in woods around the Solent, ancient beech trees and remnants of heathland.

!

N O I S S I M FREE AD

Wines, Juices Liqueurs & Ciders ● FREE ADMISSION & TASTING We charge no admission fee and offer free tasting.

● VINEYARD TRAIL

Feeling adventurous? Why not take a stroll round the vines, read our information boards and see all the different varieties that we grow.

Red Squirrel Haven Owing to the stretch of water separating the Island from mainland England, the population of Red Squirrels has thrived and you won’t find a single common Grey Squirrel anywhere.

● VISUAL DISPLAYS

We have many different informative displays showing the winemaking process.

Red Squirrels are the only species native to the British Isles and the Isle of Wight provides a habitat for around 3,500 of them. For the best chance of seeing one, try Parkhurst Forest, Robin Hill or The Garlic Farm.

● WINERY - OPEN TO PUBLIC Our winery is open for you to tour and you can see all the equipment used in the winemaking process.

The Western Yar A riverside walk will take you from the mouth of Britain’s shortest complete river system to its source at Freshwater Bay. In the summer months, the Isle of Wight Council’s Local Nature Reserve at Afton Marsh, near the source of the river has the nationally rare Water Vole and up to fifteen species of dragonflies and damselflies.

Remember to wear stout shoes or walking boots and a weatherproof coat, and bring binoculars and books to help you identify some of the plants and animals you may find.

In summer, don’t forget to wear a hat and to carry a drink and sunscreen.

Finally make sure you enjoy yourself in rain or shine.

Walks in the beautiful landscape of the Island not only keep you fit but also help you escape the stresses and strains of everyday life. Most wildlife is shy and easily disturbed so if you keep quiet and explore on foot you will see, hear and smell much more of the natural world around you.

By Richard Grogan

Every Saturday, Sunday, Monday & Tuesday we will be offering FREE guided winery tours.

Tours will commence at: 11am, 12pm, & 1pm and will last approximately 30 minutes.

April - September MON - SAT 10:00 - 17:30 SUN 10:00 - 16:00

October

MON - SAT 10:00 - 17:00 SUN 10:00 - 16:00

November - March MON - SUN 10:00 - 16:00

(Closed Sundays Jan / Feb)

We will go through the winemaking process and the equipment used, followed by a tasting of our wines, juices, liqueurs and ciders. (Booking is not necessary.)

At all times throughout the day our winery is open for you to self tour.

Set overlooking the vines!

Vineleaf THE

COFFEE SHOP

Serving a large selection of light lunches and snacks - including homemade cakes and scones.

SMALLBROOK LANE ● RYDE ● PO33 4BE tel: 01983 811084 www.rosemaryvineyard.co.uk WIGHTLIFE.COM

20

MILES OF FOOTPATHS AND TRAILS

Miles of footpaths and trails e mor Find ation at rm info e maps do e k r f u / and link.co. ht wig

Walking along the path between Freshwater and Yarmouth

The Isle of Wight has long been popular as a touring destination both by car and by coach. But the beauty of the diamond isle can be enjoyed in a completely different way by taking to some of the 500 miles of award-winning footpaths, bridleways and tracks that crisscross the landscape.

The magic of the Island’s small scale is that you don’t have to go very far at all to find yourself well away from the bustling towns and villages. The gently rolling chalk downs hide many valleys and pathways that lead off – seemingly to nowhere – but before long take an adventurous explorer to another part of this patchwork of countryside. Even at the busiest time a canny walker or cyclist can quickly find themselves all alone, with just the song of the birds and the distant sound of the sea for company. And when it’s time for a cuppa, a decent cream tea, or even a thoroughly indulgent pub dinner, it never takes that long to find your way back to civilisation again.

Walkers on the Coastal Path on Afton Down, West Wight

WIGHTLIFE.COM

An evening stroll on dog-friendly Compton beach

Explore on foot There’s plenty to please those who want a challenge. Sailors will be familiar with the annual ‘Round the Island Race’, where racing yachts compete to circle the Island in a day.

But walkers and cyclists have both got routes to make their own circumnavigation with the celebrated Isle of Wight Coastal Path.

At 65 miles long it is one of the best-known and popular long-distance coastal walks in the country. It’s particularly attractive to walkers because of the good weather on the Island, the absence of steep hills along many sections and the spectacular sea views along most of the route.

Many walkers will take four or five days to finish the walk, starting and finishing at Fishbourne, Ryde Pier or Yarmouth. Sections of the walk are easy to complete in a day, giving the ideal opportunity for a round trip taking in some of the inland sights.

MILES OF FOOTPATHS AND TRAILS

21

Explore on two wheels Similarly the 62-mile Round the Island Cycle Route is a popular day’s ride and the ideal day-trip for a keen cyclist.

Or take it easy and make a week of it. The permanentlysigned route can be started and finished at any point and leads along country lanes and through towns and villages, without too many busy roads.

It’s not always quite as close to the edge as the Coastal Path but you can still be sure of some superb views along the spectacular coastline, especially on the Military Road in the south west of the Island, which has one of the most glorious vistas in England.

It’s a matter of personal choice but riding this particular part of the route clockwise will give you some of the best backdrops to your journey. You may want to do the route in stages, or join it up with some of the shorter cycle routes inland, such as the Red Squirrel Trail or the Freshwater Way, which meander along the level routes of old railway tracks.

Cyclists along the cycle track between Newport and Sandown

Explore the unknown But what about those secret pathways? You know, the ones they tell you that pirates and smugglers used to sneak along? Well, the brigands may be long gone but the pathways are still there. You won’t always locate them too easily but if you ask around, or follow our advice, you might be able to find a few of these ancient routes that are scattered along the southern coast of the Island, ideal for those approaching – or fleeing – England by sea.

The curiously-named Cripple Path is one such. South of the pretty village of Niton, this high and steep cliffside path allows the more courageous walker to climb down from the

The Isle of Wight Coastal Path stretches for more than 65 miles

www.quarrabbey.org WIGHTLIFE.COM

22

MILES OF FOOTPATHS AND TRAILS

Coastal Path on the clifftop, past fantastic rock formations into the green depths of the Undercliff. Despite the obvious suggestion that anyone unlucky enough to fall would end up as the eponymous cripple, its name comes from the Old English word ‘crypel’, meaning a narrow passage. At the eastern end of the Undercliff is an even more bizarre path, with not one but two startling passages through what appears to be solid rock. Like many others, these are very old byways that would have been used by locals for all sorts of purposes – no doubt including transporting contraband. Starting at Bonchurch Landslip, walkers with sure footing can climb down the Devil’s Chimney, and then back up The Chink.

Be sure to stop at the Wishing Seat way down below, a huge rock that local folklore suggests will grant a wish to any traveller who sits upon it. Then when you reach the top again, you can enjoy the Smugglers Haven tea room; an appropriately named venue that serves traditional cream teas with magnificent views across the English Channel.

Like many coastal walks on the Isle of Wight, this one is particularly good for dog-walkers, and the tea room even has doggy bowls for thirsty canines.

By Matthew Chatfield

e mor Find ation at rm info e maps do e k r f u / and link.co. ht wig

Drive Less, See More On foot or by bike is without doubt one of the best ways to experience the Island’s beauty and the Drive Less, See More scheme opens up possibilities for all.

There are walks and cycle routes available across the whole Island, really making the most of the miles of coastline and bridleways. As well as those mentioned, Wightlife also recommends some other routes: Hamstead Trail – An easy, family-friendly walking route, this trail is just seven miles long and crosses from the north to south coasts of the Isle of Wight in the West. It encompasses salt marches, woodlands and open countryside with a great opportunity for spotting wildlife too. wightlink.co.uk/walking Shepherds Trail – Another walk suitable for the whole family, this trail starts at Carisbrooke Castle in the centre of the Island and heads south to finish at Chine Farm. It passes over chalky hills with stunning countryside views and close by historic manor houses. wightlink.co.uk/walking Ryde to Brading – If you’re bringing your bike over from Portsmouth on the catamaran, try this 15-mile route taking you along the north east coast through the pretty sailing villages of Seaview and Bembridge, both with plenty of opportunities for a pit stop along the way. wightlink.co.uk/cycling

Cyclists going over the top of Luccombe Down towards St. Martin’s Down

WIGHTLIFE.COM

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26

OFF THE BEATEN TRACK

full r our a See calend s t 0 even page 10 on

Off The Beaten Track However, delve a little deeper and a whole treasure trove of hidden gems is just waiting to be discovered. The Isle of Wight, as even the most casual of visitor will tell you, is a place of such diverse attractions, that while major events jostle for world-wide acclaim and attention, a number of The Isle of Wight Festival, Cowes Week and Bestival are but smaller, but exquisitely formed festivals and get-togethers, a few examples of regular seasonal events with a national deserve some serious attention. and international draw, bringing in thousands of visitors to the Island year after year, as well as introducing new V-Dub Island generations to the world-class delights of the Wight.

V-Dub Island is an award-winning family festival held in a beautiful location just outside of Newport offering a fun packed weekend for everyone that enjoys camping, music and fun with a laid back vibe.

Regular visitors to the Isle of Wight will no doubt be familiar with the Island’s varied and astounding calendar of events.

The family camping festival will give you a whole heap of music and entertainment with fun for all ages. Bands and DJ's from across the UK host three stages including the Air-Cooled Stage, Grace Café and the Sunset Café with the arena hosting an amazing collection of entertainment from morris dancing to chilli and pie eating competitions. Don’t forget your fancy dress – this year’s theme is Disco Safari.

Strawberry Fair

VW Beetle at V-Dub Island

WIGHTLIFE.COM

If the success of BBC television’s The Great Pottery Throw Down has whetted your appetite for all things ceramic, you won't want to miss Chessell Pottery’s Strawberry Fair, due to return for its fourth year. The initial idea came about for the free entry festival when café staff at the working pottery, based between Calbourne and Freshwater on the west of the Island, were preparing an incredible amount of locally grown strawberries for Chessell’s homemade jam. Dedicating the weekend to the Great British strawb, the fair has strawberries on the menu via delicious home

White & bleed

OFF THE BEATEN TRACK

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27

SELF-CATERING

Short breaks from £99

TOURING & CAMPING Pitches from £5 per night

GLAMPING Knights on horseback at full tilt at the Medieval Jousting, Carisbrooke Castle

from £19 per night

baking, sparkling bellinis and award-winning cream teas with plenty of jam and clotted cream. If inspired, visitors can paint the studio’s ceramic plates and jam pots, listen to music and soak up the atmosphere. For kids, there are games and face painting to ensure fun for all the family.

Medieval Jousting For those on the lookout for events with more horsepower, English Heritage-supported Carisbrooke Castle in the heart of the Island near Newport, hosts a pageant of medieval jousting. It comes complete with horse-mounted knights in armour ready to do battle, historical re-enactment camps, traditional English Folk music, falconry displays and entertainment fit for kings and queens.

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28

OFF THE BEATEN TRACK

Newport Jazz Weekend The Newport Jazz Weekend hosts a fantastic line up of local, national and international musical talent over multiple venues including the Apollo Theatre, Quay Arts Centre, Medina Theatre and Mountbatten Hospice.

Established in 2012, the event has grown year on year, with 2016’s festival offering Jazz tuition on the first day of opening, including a scheduled concert for tutors and students. Jim Thorn, Event Director of the Jazz Weekend said: “It was important for us to set up a self-funded festival run by volunteers and musicians which brought together everyone from the vibrant local jazz scene, and also introduced some of the best names in UK jazz with a few international stars too.”

Queen Victoria and Prince Albert pose with servant Abdul Karim at Victoria's Fete

Hooten Tennis Club performing at last year's Ventnor Fringe

Ventnor Fringe

Victoria’s Fabulous Fete Osborne is one of the Island’s most spectacular attractions, being home to Queen Victoria until her death on the Isle of Wight in 1901. The end of May sees Victoria’s Fabulous Fete at Osborne, a celebration to mark the monarch’s birthday date, with a sumptuous Victorian re-enactment, a full regal procession, food and drink and period-style entertainment with a circus theme. We guarantee… you will be amused!

If a trip up to Edinburgh this summer for a fix of Fringe Arts and Culture feels like a journey too far north, then look no further than the southern coast of the Isle of Wight. The Ventnor Fringe returns with a heady mixture of pop-up cinema screenings, music gigs in non-traditional venues, interactive and immersive events, as well as a range of watering holes. This eclectic festival encourages work from all over the world, from already established and emerging artists. As one of the Isle of Wight’s most vibrant arts festivals, Ventnor Fringe was established in 2010 by a team of local students and young people. Since then, it has attracted awards and plaudits, attracting over 300 performers and artists.

Jack Whitewood, Director of Ventnor Fringe said: "The Fringe is quite unlike any other event. Where else could you catch a ventriloquist show in a launderette, a midnight cellist concert in an 11th-century chapel or a late night swing party in a network of abandoned cellars? This year we've got a host of new spaces for people to explore, from a new secret music venue to an outdoor cinema so you can take in a film under the stars, as well as the return of old favourites like our transformation of the Harbour into a 360 degree cocktail bar.”

So, this summer season why not take the road less travelled on the Isle of Wight? There is a wealth of unique events and festivals just waiting for you to discover. Get exploring, get involved and get inspired.

By Geoff Westby

Performers at Newport Jazz Weekend

WIGHTLIFE.COM

B I G C AT F E E D I N G / E N R I C H M E N T C H I L D F R I E N D LY A N I M A L E N C O U N T E R S DA I LY M E E T T H E M E E R KAT S & WA L L A B I E S

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30

THE PERFECT PICNIC

The perfect picnic ...

Is there a better way to spend an afternoon enjoying the sunshine, than sharing a picnic with friends and family in a beautiful spot?

Even if the weather turns, it’s never enough to dampen the British spirit and tradition of claiming your pitch and setting down the checkered rug, cracking open the Tupperware, and enjoying a spot of alfresco dining.

Stunning scenery and beautiful beaches On the Isle of Wight, you really are spoilt for choice for picnic-friendly locations. Take the miles of coastline surrounding us. You can literally take your pick from the sandy beaches at Ryde, Sandown and Shanklin, the pebbly paradises of Ventnor, Steephill and Gurnard, or the unspoilt rawness and dramatic cliff backdrop at Freshwater and Brook. All are perfect spots to set down the wicker basket and start munching.

If you would rather take an excursion inland, the rolling downs at Brading provide a perfect spot to park up and enjoy a panoramic view. Plus if you are really lucky, you might catch the world famous Minghella ice cream van in the car park − treat yourself to their legendary mint-chocchip, you won’t be disappointed.

Enjoy the Island’s designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (over half the Island was granted this status back in 1963) and patchwork quilting of countryside, with a trip up to the Longstone at Mottistone. Do a spot of bird watching at Newtown National Nature Reserve or settle down beside a carpet of woodland flowers in Borthwood Copse.

Enjoying a Bloody Mary or two with Tomato Stall tomato juice down at Bembridge

Bundles of local produce As for what to pack in your picnic basket, we have come a long way from sweaty sandwiches and packets of crisps.

With the diversity of the landscape, extra hours of sunshine and being surrounded by water, it is no surprise that the Isle of Wight has an abundance of locally grown produce on offer. Wherever you are on the Island, you are never too far from a producer, supplier, artisan, farmer or fisherman ready to cater for your picnic spread.

Picnic staples such as cheese, tomatoes and bread are one of the Island’s specialities. The Tomato Stall is an awardwinning producer and once you have tasted their piccolo tomatoes there is no going back. Pair these with The Isle of Wight Cheese Co’s soft cheese, a delicacy that bridges the gap between Brie and Camembert, and Island Biscuits’ Natural Spelt Crackers and you have the making of a legendary feast. You will easily win that coveted picnic preparer’s crown.

For meats, head to Brownrigg’s Farm Shop & Butchery, which specialises in poultry and pork. If you’re selfcatering, pre-cook their sausages the night before and eat them cold. Maybe dipped in The Garlic Farm’s Vampire Relish Hot Tomato Salsa, a sauce with some serious garlic undertones.

A selection of real ales from Goddards Brewery

WIGHTLIFE.COM

Salads will be enlivened by a drizzle of Wild Island’s dressings or balsamic vinegars; sandwiches invigorated with locally caught crab, fresh that morning from Ventnor Haven Fishery; and Hamilton’s Butcher’s will be your onestop shop for gala pies, scotch eggs and pork pies.

THE PERFECT PICNIC

31

p ip c k uf r e e y o ucro p y !

If the sun’s out Minghella’s ice cream is the perfect choice

For the perfect antidode to all that savoury, try a punnet of strawberries and cherries from Godshill Cherries topped with double cream from the Island’s award winning herd of Guernsey cows at Briddlesford Lodge Farm. Or go the whole quintessential English hog with scones, fresh out the oven from one of Graces Bakery’s five stores dotted conveniently around the Island.

local produce | fine dining | restaurants | pubs | bars | cafés

Of course a picnic would not be a picnic without a glass of something yummy. Adgestone Vineyard’s Dry White, with its kiwi and grapefruit notes would go down nicely. For ale lovers, Island Brewery recommends Wight Knight – yellow in colour and full of body, it’s a traditional English ale.

Goddard’s Fuggle-de-dum is another local favourite.

a @tasteIW b /tasteofthewight x @taste_of_the_wight

Pink’s Green Chilli Jelly with some blue cheese and crackers

Pack your picnic baskets after a trip to one of the Island’s farm shops such as Farmer Jack’s in Arreton, Briddlesford Lodge Farm in Wootton and The Dairy Deli in Shalfleet, all stuffed to the rafters with locally produced and sourced items. Isle of Wight produce features in some of the national supermarket chains too with the Southern Co-op Local Flavours dominating their new Freshwater store.

So head outside and get your Enid Blyton on. Just don’t forget the corkscrew!

By Lindsay Becker

YO U R L O C AL GU I DE TO FO O D & DRINK O N THE I SL E O F W I GHT tasteofthewight.co.uk WIGHTLIFE.COM

32

ISLAND HIDEAWAYS

island hideaways Woodside Bay, Wootton

Whether it’s an unrivalled sea view or a quaint countryside cottage, the Isle of Wight has a huge array of self-catering accommodation to choose from.

When you head back to your accommodation at the end of a busy day building sandcastles and swimming in the sea, you want a home-from-home to call your own.

Here’s a selection of Island hideaways that could enjoy:

Venice Lodge This delightful Georgian cottage is situated in the popular seaside town of Ryde, within easy walking distance of the beach, shops and local restaurants, making it the perfect location for a family seaside holiday.

The cottage is beautifully presented throughout with a lovely, fully enclosed garden and parking for two cars. The cosy interior has elegant features including four wood-burning stoves. It is set up to comfortably accommodate four guests.

Wight Locations 01983 617322 enquiries@wightlocations.co.uk wightlocations.co.uk

Woodside Bay Lodge Retreat Set in a secluded beachside location between Cowes and Ryde, the new Woodside Bay Lodge Retreat is perfect for a luxury break with the family.

Boasting its very own private beach, it’s ideal for a peaceful stay by the sea, with paddle boarding, kite surfing and windsurfing providing ample opportunity to explore the hidden coves that pepper the coastline.

Nestled in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and surrounded by woodland, the park is the perfect base for scenic walks and bike rides.

The five-star resort, featuring on-site Appletree Cottage spa treatment rooms and a multitude Appletree Cottage is a picture-postcard of seasonal restaurant offerings, has a thatched cottage with walls of Island range of two, three and four bedroom stone that sleeps up to seven people. lodges. All have open plan lounge and Grade II listed and dating back over kitchen with modern features, while 300 years, it has traditional features some include sea views and an outdoor that have been retained including hot-tub. For the more adventurous, wonderful exposed beamed ceilings. there’s also the unique tree house accommodation, tucked away in the tree tops.

A 3-night break for a family of four staying in a lodge with outdoor hottub costs from £395; a week costs from £695.

Situated in Brighstone, it is furnished and equipped to a high standard and also has a beautiful garden with views across adjoining fields to downs in the distance. Appletree Cottage is set amidst a wonderful walking and cycling area with both nearby downland tracks and the coastal path offering dramatic views in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, much of which is protected by the National Trust.

Island Cottage Holidays 01983 403377 mail@islandcottageholidays.com islandcottageholidays.com WIGHTLIFE.COM

Hoseasons 01983 617322 0345 498 6130 hoseasons.co.uk

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36

ISLE OF WIGHT BEACHES

Isle of Wight Beaches We all love a day or two on the beach while on holiday and whether it’s lazing in the sun or tackling the waves, the Isle of Wight’s miles of coastline can cater for all. Here’s our guide to the Island’s best beaches.

See our Island map on page 44 to locat e all beaches

The view from Compton Bay towards Freshwater's Tennyson Down

appropriately. Emergency equipment including life jackets are placed along the shore and the Inshore Rescue service is also on call at any time via the Coastguard.

Winner of Quality Coast Award.

Bembridge The town boasts several quiet beaches of pebble, rock and sand. Children are certain to love them, they can go crabbing, cockling and explore the natural surroundings.

These beaches are usually quieter than the main resorts and Bembridge is also home to one of the Island’s RNLI stations.

Swimming is not safe in the Harbour. Dogs welcome all year round.

Brook This attractive, mostly sandy beach is a popular spot with surfers and fossil hunters alike. The beach stretches for over a mile and below the cliffs near Hanover Point is a prehistoric fossilised forest that can be seen at low tide.

Take care of rock when swimming. Dogs welcome all year round.

Colwell Bay This small and sandy beach is tucked away on the quieter west coast of the Island with panoramic views of the Solent and Hurst Castle. The beach has a gentle slope and clear waters which make it a favourite with families. This is a beautiful location and provides easy access for the elderly and disabled. Water safety zoning is in place here to ensure that bathers and recreational users are separated

Compton Bay

Rock pools at Freshwater Bay

This sandy beach located beside the coast road between Freshwater Bay and Brook is a favourite for surfers, windsurfers and kite surfers due to it often experiencing high winds and waves. The area has toilet facilities and whilst there is no café, a refreshment van can be found there throughout the summer and at weekends. It's popular with fossil hunters and at low tide dinosaur footprints can be seen imprinted in the rocks.

Be aware of tides when swimming. Dogs welcome all year round.

Freshwater Bay Freshwater Bay is a small, sand and shingle bay with the backdrop of the tall cliffs at either end. Another popular beach for the family, this is located at the western end of the Island and adjacent to a bus route and car park. There are toilet facilities, cafés and Freshwater Bay Golf Course is close by. It's also one of the best spots for rockpooling.

Ryde & Appley

Playing on the shoreline at Appley Beach

WIGHTLIFE.COM

Accessible by foot, car or public transport, the six miles of beautiful golden sands extend from Seaview all the way round to Ryde Pier. A level walk runs between Ryde and Puckpool which passes cafés, gardens, childrens’ play areas and Appley Tower. The beaches are sandy and extend far out to sea at low tide. Care should be taken as the tide can

Rediscovering the great British seaside

The Island’s best fun for all the family attractions Open 9 til late 01983 867585 shanklinseafront.co.uk

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38

ISLE OF WIGHT BEACHES

come in very quickly. Lifeguards are based on Ryde beach throughout the summer months and safety equipment such as life jackets is located along the Esplanade.

Winner of Quality Coast Award.

Sandown Sandown is a sandy beach, arguably the best place to have fun beside the sea safely. The Esplanade is packed full of cafés, restaurants, bars, hotels and gift shops and the area is particularly popular with families as there is so much to keep the children occupied. The beach also has good toilet facilities. Stretching from Shanklin through to Yaverland, the beaches are some of the most popular on the Island.

Sandown Pier is open all year round with amusements, a café, pub and fishing facilities. There is also the Isle of Wight Zoo, Brown’s Golf Course, a skate park, Sandown Lawn Bowls Club, Crazy Golf and an excellent children's play area nearby.

Winner of Quality Coast Award.

on the water’s edge and the cove can only be accessed on foot, so there are no noisy cars to contend with. The easiest places to start your walk to Steephill Cove are from the Botanic Garden or Ventnor’s La Falaise car park. Be prepared for quite a few steps from either direction, but you will be rewarded by a tranquil and charming sight as you arrive. Best for rockpooling at low tide, a sun trap whenever the sun is shining, the sand and shingle bay really is an idyllic spot.

Dogs are welcome all year round.

Totland Bay Situated on the west side of the Island, families can enjoy the delightful beach which is a popular destination for leisure craft and yachts. Totland has a pier which is in the process of being restored and there is a café, pubs and restaurants nearby. This beach is never particularly crowded and is pebbly at the high water mark, with golden sand towards the sea.

Winner of Quality Coast Award.

Ventnor

Seagrove Bay

Seagrove This beach will remind you of holidays from days gone by.

Located between Seaview and St Helens with a view over Spithead, the shingle beach is gently sloping with clear waters as well as rocks for the children to explore. There is a café and toilet facilities for when you need a break.

Access is from Seaview village on foot. This is a good place to spot the occasional celebrity, attracted to the quiet beach and exclusive properties and hotels. The water at Seagrove beach is very calm and therefore safe for swimming.

Winner of Quality Coast Award.

Ventnor beach is predominantly a sandy beach and a natural sun trap. Here you have access to cafés, restaurants and pubs for refreshments. The backdrop of the town from the beach makes Ventnor Bay feel decidedly Mediterranean.

There is a boat haven at one end and rocks at either side of the bay for kids to go crabbing. Ventnor beach really is a great family area and definitely one not to miss out on.

Watersports are not suitable in this area due to hidden rocks.

Winner of Quality Coast Award.

Yaverland About a mile from Sandown, this is easily accessible by car or foot and there is ample parking. Yaverland, like the rest of Sandown Bay, is sandy with gently sloped beaches and safe bathing. There is a kiosk and toilet facilities as well as a yacht club. The area is great for families, walkers, water sport enthusiasts and dog walkers alike.

Winner of Quality Coast Award. Dogs are welcome all year round. (beyond the yacht club towards Culver Cliff).

Shanklin Shanklin beach forms part of Sandown Bay with its famous golden sands and safe bathing areas. The water is clear and the beaches descend gently to the water's edge. Like Sandown, there are facilities for refreshments, a pitch and putt and an amusement arcade. Cafés, restaurants and pubs span the Esplanade and the south east side of the Island is recorded to receive the highest levels of sunshine throughout the year. The beach is a popular site for water sports of all kinds and water safety zoning is in place to ensure bathers and recreational users are kept separate where necessary.

Children playing in the sea at Yaverland beach

Winner of Quality Coast Award.

Steephill Cove

Bringing your dog along too?

Tucked away between the Undercliff and Ventnor is Steephill, a delightful little cove where you can still see traditional fishermen at work as well as enjoying the fruits of their labour with a fresh crab sandwich from one of the beach cafés. There’s just a handful of buildings sat right

Between May and September, most beaches operate a no dogs policy but there are still a few which are suitable for dog walking including Compton in the West Wight, Whitecliff Bay in Bembridge and Steephill Cove on the south coast of the Island.

WIGHTLIFE.COM

Sail away with a taste of the Island Discover our Local Flavours range at our Afton Road, Freshwater store

aNd wiTH 9 OthEr stOrEs On thE IslANd, We’rE nEvEr ToO fAr awAy...

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Freshwater, Avenue Road Rookley, Main Road Ryde, 33-35 Somerset Road

The Southern Co-operative

Ryde, 61-62 West Street Sandown, 132 Avenue Road Shanklin, 42 Regent Street

40

GETTING AROUND

GETT ING AR OUND

Find m inform ore ation and fr e wight e maps at link.co .uk/do

The Island Breezer above Alum Bay

You’ll be delighted to find out how easy it can be to get around and explore the Isle of Wight.

Whether you’ve arrived without the car or would just like a break from driving, you are spoilt for choice in transport around the Island.

IW Steam Railway 01983 882204 iwsteamrailway.co.uk Five miles of traditional steam travel through stunning countryside to Wooton via its main station at Havenstreet.

Island Line 0345 6000 650 southwesttrains.co.uk A convienient way of travelling between Ryde Pier Head and Shanklin, calling at Brading, Sandown and Lake.

Southern Vectis 01983 827000 islandbuses.info Routes designed to help visitors enjoy the Island. Try the Shanklin Steamer, Island Coaster or Needles Breezer.

For a list of travel providers, including taxis see the Useful Numbers on page 112.

GO 1st Call Car, Van & Cycle Hire 15 Marsh Close, Sandown PO36 8EU 01983 400055 isleofwighthire.co.uk

RouteFifty7 Landguard Manor Road, Shanklin PO37 7LL 07491 000057 routefifty7.com

Your 1st call for transportation to get around the Isle of Wight.

Small cars to MPV’s from £21 per day. Accessories & bikes to suit all ages from MTB’s to Hybrids to Touring bikes & a whole lot more.

Hire bikes & ride through some of the most scenic countryside in Britain. Pedal through Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Esplanade Car Hire 9-11 George Street, Ryde PO33 2EB 01983 562322 esplanade.co.uk

Value Rentacar Marsh Close, College Close Industrial Estate, Sandown Car rentals from just £25 per PO36 8EU day. Whether you’re looking 01983 401333 for a hatchback, saloon, estate, cabriolet or seven & eight seater. value-rentacar.co.uk Child seats & satellite navigation A family-run self drive car hire available. company based in Sandown, offering car hire from £21 per day, with no hidden charges & Hire a Twizy free local pick-up. Vehicles to 9 Britannia Way, Cowes suit all your needs from a three PO31 7AR door hatchback to a seven seater 01983 626040 people carrier. hireatwizyisleofwight.co.uk New to the Isle of Wight for 2016. Unique two seater electric cars are now available for hire with charge points located around the Island. This is a new and fun way to explore.

Red Squirrel Electric Bikes The Guildhall, Newport PO33 1TY 01983 521555 nutsnotto.co.uk

Enjoy cycle routes accross the Island

WIGHTLIFE.COM

TAV Cycles 140 High Street, Ryde PO33 2RE 01983 812989 tavcycles.co.uk

Make cycling across the Isle of Wight a little easier. Day or half day hire available on the battery-powered bikes that give a subtle power boost.

Wight Cycle Hire Yarmouth Station, Station Road, Yarmouth PO41 0QT 01983 761800 wightcyclehire.co.uk Wight Cycle Hire are the Island’s cycle hire specialist with a great range of bikes including hybrids, trekking, mountain, road, electric, tandems & kids bikes. They offer an Island-wide delivery service.

VISITOR INFORMATION

41

V ISI T OR I N FO RM A T I O N Campervan parked at Compton Bay

While travelling around the Island, you will find Tourist Information Points, including the Guildhall in the county town of Newport where the friendly team of Travel Ambassadors will help you with inspirational ideas of things to do and see on the Isle of Wight.

Visitor Information Centre The Guildhall, High Street, Newport, PO30 1TY 01983 521555 Mon–Fri 9.30-3.30 / Sat 10.00–2.30

South Ventnor – Seasons Newsagents 8-10 High Street, Ventnor IW, PO38 1RY

West Brighstone – Seven Main Road, Brighstone, IW, PO30 4AH Yarmouth – Yarmouth Harbour Office The Quay, Yarmouth, IW, PO41 0NT Freshwater – Dimbola Museum and Galleries Terrace Lane, Freshwater Bay, IW, PO40 9QE

North East

North

Havenstreet – Isle of Wight Steam Railway The Railway Station, Havenstreet, IW, PO33 4DS

East Cowes – Valu-4-u Castle Street, East Cowes, IW, PO32 6RD

Bembridge – Bembridge Community Library Church Road, Bembridge, IW, PO35 5NA

Cowes – Aqua Marine Gifts 60 High Street, Cowes, IW, PO31 7RL

East

Central

Shanklin – Vernon Cottage 1 Eastcliff Road, Shanklin, IW, PO37 6AA

Newport – County Press Shop 123 Pyle Street, Newport, IW, PO30 1ST

Brading – Brading Railway Station/Heritage Centre Brading, IW, PO36 0EB

Newport – Quay Arts Sea Street, Newport, IW, PO30 5BW

Sandown – The Holiday Shop 37 High Street, Sandown, IW, PO36 8DE

Godshill – Godshill Village Store The Post Office, High Street, Godshill, IW, PO38 3HH

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Hire an electric bike on holiday.

Our friendly Visit Isle of Wight Travel Ambassadors are here to help visitors with inspirational ideas of days out on the Isle of Wight.

For great car-free ideas call on 01983 521555 or go to www.visitisleofwight.co.uk

GUILDHALL

Visit Isle of Wight Ltd The Guildhall High Street NEWPORT Isle of Wight PO30 1TY @IOWTravelAMB

WE’RE OPEN MONDAYSATURDAY in the heart of Newport

www.facebook.com/IWTravelAmbassadors

Cover much more ground than you might be able to on conventional bicycle, giving you more time to explore this wonderful Island!

SQUIRREL

ELECTRICBIKES

Red Squirrel Electric Bikes www.nutsnotto.co.uk

@redsquirrelbike

facebook.com/redsquirrelbikes

WIGHTLIFE.COM

42

DESTINATION GUIDE

DEST I NA T I O N GUIDE S Our destination guides start here and take you on a tour through the many towns and villages of the Isle of Wight providing invaluable insights into what you can see and do.

Wightlife has invited Taste of the Wight to provide a selection of eating and drinking venues accross the Island. Look for the listings in each of our destination guides.

NO R TH NORTH EAST WE S T CE NT R A L

SOUTH

EAST

46 NORTH EA S T

7 4 W E ST

Ryde, Bembridge, Seaview & St Helens

Freshwater, Totland, Alum Bay, Brighstone & Yarmouth

58 E AS T

8 0 N O R TH

Sandown, Shanklin, Yaverland, Brading & Lake

Cowes, East Cowes, Northwood, Thorness & Fishbourne

68 SO UT H

8 4 C E N TR AL

Ventnor, Wroxall, Niton, Whitwell, Chale & Blackgang

Newport, Arreton, Godshill & Rookley

Your must have guide for the Isle of Wight W IGH TLI FE . C O M

Visit your local Morrisons Kids eat free everyday in our Café One free kids meal with any adult meal over £3.99 from 3pm everyday Subject to availability. One free 'Just for kids' meal with any adult meal over £3.99. See full T&Cs in our Café.

Newport & Sandown Morrisons Newport South Street Newport PO30 1JQ

Store opening times: Mon – Sat 7.00am – 9.00pm Sun 10.00am – 4.00pm

Yarmouth Freshwater

Cowes Ryde

Morrisons Newport Morrisons Lake Shanklin

Ventnor

Morrisons Lake Newport Road Sandown PO36 9PA

Fishmonger

Butcher

Oven Fresh

Store opening times: Mon – Sat 7.00am – 9.00pm Sun 10.00am – 4.00pm

Deli

Café

Bakery

Cake Shop

Petrol Station

Free Parking

Bembridge Sandown

44

ISLAND MAP

N O RT H NO RTH E AST

For rainy day inspiration visit wightlink.co.uk/rainyday

WEST C E N T RA L

E A ST

SO U T H

Gurnard Gurnard Bay Bay C Southern Co-operative

Lymington

Thorness Thorness Bay Bay

M Morrisons A Aldi

Lymington to Yarmouth car/passenger ferry 40 mins

Newtown Newtown Bay Bay

Hamstead Hamstead Sconce Sconce Point Point

Yarmouth

The The Needles Needles

4

Yaarr Y

05 A3

Ningwood Ningwood

Thorley Thorley

Scratchells Scratchells Bay Bay

NORTH EAST Oasis p6-7

Land of Roses p53

Isle of Wight Zoo p29

Ryde District Heritage Centre p107

Dinosaur Isle p63

Goodleaf Tree Climbing p108

Sandown Pier p61

Rosemary Vineyard p19

Shanklin Seafront p37

Sharon Orchard p49

Shanklin Chine p67

Waltzing Waters p53

Shanklin Theatre p107

Wight Karting p53 Bembridge Windmill p15

DD oo

Hulverstone Hulverstone Brook Brook A3 05 Brook Brook 5 Bay Bay

B rr ii gg B

hh ss tt

oo

Bowcombe Bowcombe Do

n Ch C heverto

New Do

Mottistone Mottistone Brighstone Brighstone

Shor Shor

Yafford Yafford Brighstone Brighstone Bay Bay

WEST Isle of Wight Pearl p3 Mottistone Gardens p15 Calbourne Water Mill p77

Dimbola Museum & Galleries p79

Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary p73

The Needles Battery p15

Owl & Falconry Centre p69

The Needles Landmark Attraction, Inside front cover

The Cabin p105

Fort Victoria Country Park p75

Lilliput Antique Doll & Toy Museum p107

Ventnor Botanic Garden p71

Yarmouth Castle p9

Rectory Mansion p63

St Catherine’s Lighthouse

West Wight Alpacas p79

Adgestone Vineyard p65

Blackgang Chine p34

Newtown Town Hall & Nature Reserve

Bembridge Fort p15

EAST

Atherfie Atherfie Green Green

Atherfield Atherfield Point Point

Tapnell Farm p79

SOUTH

wn

5

Goodyears Outdoors p108

Chessell Chessell

nn ee

05

Brading Roman Villa p65

Quarr Abbey p21

Calbourne Calbourne

A3

Isle of Wight Steam Railway p16

Newbridge Newbridge

Wellow Wellow

Freshwater C Freshwater Totland Totland Down son Alum Alum y n Bay Te n Bay Freshwater Bay Bay Freshwater Freshwater Freshwater Bay Bay Compton

Porchfield Porchfield

Shalfleet Shalfleet

A30

Riivveerr R

Totland Totland Bay Bay

Newtown Newtown

Cranmore Cranmore

54

Colwell Colwell Bay Bay

N N

w nn w

Supermarkets

Chale Chale Bay Bay

ISLAND MAP

45

Portsmouth

Northwood Northwood

Portsmouth to Ryde passenger catamaran 22 mins

Osborne Osborne Bay Bay

dina R Me

A

East East Cowes Cowes

Whippingham Whippingham

21

A3020

0 A3

Fishbourne Fishbourne Binstead Binstead

Ryde

Appley

C

Spring Vale Spring Vale Seaview Seaview

A3054

A3

05

4

Parkhurst Parkhurst 4

A305

Carisbrooke Carisbrooke

Newport Shide Shide Downend Downend Blackwater Blackwater

A rr rr A

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C

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Arreton Arreton Langbridge Langbridge

Adgestone Adgestone

Brading Brading

0

02

Godshill Godshill

e e Chale Chale

yy D Do ow w nn

Niton Niton

S tt ee S

Whitwell Whitwell

Niton Down

nn bb uu rr

Chale Chale Green Green

St St Lawrence Lawrence

M Lake Lake

Apse Apse Heath Heath Whiteley Whiteley Bank Bank

C

C

Sandown Sandown Bay Bay

Shanklin

CENTRAL Carisbrooke Castle p9 Monkey Haven, Back cover Robin Hill Country Park p35

Wroxall Wroxall

Luccombe Luccombe Bay Bay

Wroxall Down

Bonchurch Bonchurch

Arreton Barns p91 The Garlic Farm p89 Amazon World Zoo Park p24 House of Chilli p89

Steephill Cove

Ventnor

The Old Smithy p85 Island Gems p55

Blackgang Blackgang St Catherine’s Catherine’s Reeth St Reeth Point Point Bay Bay

Culver Culver Cliff Cliff

Sandown

St Martins Down

Isle of Wight

eld eld nn

A3

6

Chillerton Chillerton

05

Rookley Rookley A3

rwell rwell

C

Yaverland Yaverland

C

A3

Gatcombe Gatcombe

Alverstone Alverstone

Merstone Merstone

Whitecliff Whitecliff Bay Bay

Morton Morton

05

ee

wbarn own

Priory Bay Priory Bay

Nettlestone Nettlestone

Seagrove St Helens Helens St Bembridge Bembridge

5

M

C

A3055

S

Wootton Wootton Bridge t e Bridge am Havenstreet Havenstreet Ra ilw ay

PCGraphics (UK) Limited, Isle of Wight. pcgraphics.uk.com

Cowes

yy

Portsmouth to Fishbourne car/passenger ferry 45 mins

The Model Village p89 Allendale Equestrian Centre p89

NORTH

PORTSMOUTH

Wight Military & Heritage Museum p83

The Emirates Spinnaker Tower p95

Osborne p9

Gunwharf Quays p96

46

NORTH EAST

NORTH EAST

This part of the Isle of Wight is packed with things to do in the loveliest of settings.

The land undulates making it fantastic for walks, rides and views, the beaches are sandy and all is brushed with historic intrigue. You can quaff wine or ride the railways, climb trees or chill in the sun.

The streets of the Victorian town of Ryde offer happy little eccentricities.

You’d probably expect to find a fish and chip shop on the seafront but a Chocolate Apothecary? As well as chocolate therapy in many delicious forms, all produced by the on-site master chocolatier, this elegant tribute to the cacao bean serves some of the best coffee on the Island and of course, hot chocolate that just can’t be missed.

As you stride up the hilly Union Street in the centre of

town (it is presumed Ryde residents are fitter than the norm) you’ll find the shops range from the sublime – the sensual feast that is Land of Roses with its rose oil-based soaps and cosmetics, to the ridiculous – the Donald McGill Postcard Museum, where giggles-worthy postcards of days gone by are lovingly housed by the Historic Ryde Society.

There’s no denying that Ryde is indeed a seaside town and an all-time favourite beach is Appley. Identified by its landmark, Appley Tower, the beach is soft golden sand with a stunning view across the Solent over to Portsmouth.

Settle down on the sand and watch the boats and ferries come and go.

Slightly further along the Esplanade towards Seaview is Puckpool. Its huge expanse of soft sand fringed by woodland provides the perfect spot for a day on the beach.

Swimming at The Seaview Regatta

WIGHTLIFE.COM

NORTH EAST

47

No need to pack sandwiches either - the Dell Café, right on the sea wall, is one of a new breed of beach cafés that sets huge store on quality and locality.

Eating and drinking is a big part of any holiday – sometimes the main event – and the pretty town of Bembridge has made it a bit of an art form. Isle of Wight crab is legendary with locals and visitors alike, so try it with all the trimmings at The Best Dressed Crab in Town, floating, almost, in pretty Bembridge Harbour. The Crab & Lobster Inn is another seafood delight, offering stunning views out to sea and freshly caught shellfish as a speciality.

If you’re looking for a traditional pub, The Old Village Inn is notable for its food, service and regular events.

As for staying in the Island’s north east, there is something to suit all people and all pockets, from elegant self-catering caravans in sweeping Whitecliff Bay with its own secluded beach which is a hot spot for surfers, to being cossetted in the Island’s famous boutique hotel, The Seaview. Places to visit are just as varied. Quarr Abbey, still the home of a community of monks, is a fascinating stop for all. Stare in awe at the impressive architecture, meet the pigs or see the art exhibition and be sure to visit the on-site farm shop where you can purchase products made with fruit and vegetables from the Abbey’s very own allotments.

Thanks to The National Trust we can see how Bembridge Windmill worked for its keep, and how Bembridge Fort was prepared to hold back the French in more hostile times. In the neighbouring village of St Helens, you’ll find The Duver which offers watersports, walking and cycling – a surprise if travelling through from the large village green in the centre of the town.

There is indoor entertainment to enjoy, too. At Waltzing Waters, water, music and light combine to put on a remarkable show. For a bit more action, try the nearby Wight Karting course which offers great family fun for ages eight and up.

Appley Tower on Ryde Esplanade

At Goodleaf Tree Climbing, you can dangle from the branches and enjoy stunning views, supervised and harnessed for maximum enjoyment. Some, though, would say nothing beats the timeless delight of travelling by steam aboard the Isle of Wight Steam Railway at Havenstreet.

Look out for special events such as their Isle of Wight Steam Show and Real Ale Festival.

Here are some other gems you might just stumble across. Just off the road from Brading to Ryde is Oasis, an emporium for globally-sourced goods you just won’t have seen elsewhere and the friendly coffee shop gives you thinking time mid-browse. Be sure to visit Rosemary Vineyard, which offers guided tours and wine tastings – you can even bring your caravan and wake up to the view of rows of vines.

Sharon and Joe of Sharon Orchard also welcome visitors to see how they make their delicious cider, apple juice and cider vinegar from 4,000 trees they planted themselves.

The coffee shop with pretty patio is licensed, and you can purchase some produce in the shop to take home with you too.

If you’re travelling over on foot by Wightlink’s passenger catamaran service from Portsmouth Harbour to Ryde Pier Head and looking for some wheels to get you around, Esplanade Car Hire has a great selection of quality Volkswagens just waiting to help you explore the Island’s roads.

The IW Steam Railway is well worth a visit – the perfect way to see the north east countryside

WIGHTLIFE.COM

48

NORTH EAST

Aerial view of Bembridge lifeboat station

GO Bembridge Windmill High Street, Bembridge PO35 5SQ 01983 873945 nationaltrust.org.uk/isleofwight This picturesque, 300-year-old windmill is one of our best loved Car rentals from just £25 per landmarks. Dating from around day. Whether you’re looking 1700, it is the only surviving for a hatchback, saloon, estate, cabriolet or seven & eight seater. windmill on the Island & has Child seats & satellite navigation much of it’s original machinery intact. Cared for by The National available. Open seven days a Trust, it also has a kiosk selling week April–September. hot & cold drinks, ice cream & gifts.

DO Esplanade Car Hire 9-11 George Street, Ryde PO33 2EB 01983 562322 esplanade.co.uk

Bembridge Fort Bembridge Down PO36 8QY 01983 741020 nationaltrust.org.uk/isleofwight This Victorian fort is unrestored & access is by guided tour only on Tuesdays from April to October. Group tours may be available on other days. Booking is essential, please telephone.

WIGHTLIFE.COM

Goodleaf Tree Climbing Appley Park, Ryde, PO33 1ND 0333 800 1188 goodleaf.co.uk Take a trip up a tree & create some fantastic family memories!

Tree climbing is great for ages 8-80 & the friendly, expert instructors will teach you the ropes before you ascend into the canopy of a magnificent oak tree. Enjoy beautiful views, swing around in the canopy or simply unwind in a special tree top hammock.

IW Steam Railway Havenstreet PO33 4DS 01983 882204 iwsteamrailway.co.uk An experience of the history of railways on the Isle of Wight.

Locomotives & carriages dating back to 1864 immaculately restored. Thrill to the sight of powerful steam engines, breathe in the evocative smells of a real steam railway & enjoy quiet rural stations. The fascinating story is also told in an interactive £1.2million Train Story Discovery Centre.

Land of Roses 2 Union Street, Ryde PO33 2EA 01983 472501 landofroses.co.uk Natural cosmetics with Bulgarian Rose oil – the ‘liquid gold’.

Discover the most precious essential oil in the world, a true elixir for the skin with more than 300 invaluable ingredients & a unique, divine fragrance.

Oasis Carpenters Road, Brading PO36 0QA 01983 613760 oasis-iow.co.uk This is a unique shop selling teak furniture, cushions, candles, flowers, homeware & much more. Oasis has featured in many publications over the years enhancing customers homes with unique & sometimes very interesting products sourced from all around the world. If you are an independent person who is fed up with boil-in-the-bag shopping, you will enjoy it here.

Quarr Abbey Binstead Hill, Ryde, PO33 4ES 01983 882420 quarrabbey.co.uk A working Benedictine Monastery & home to a community of monks who dedicate their life to prayer, contemplation & community life. With free entry to the grounds, you can visit the church, pilgrim chapel, art gallery & monastery shop or explore the woodland walk. Enjoy the tranquility of the tea shop & Farm shop which makes the most of the Abbey’s own fresh produce.

The Island’s Heritage Cider Centre

AWARD-WINNING • FAMILY FRIENDLY STUNNING SEA VIEWS

Discover how the delicious ciders and juices are made on the entertaining guided tours held on Saturday & Sunday at 12pm & 3pm or during all opening hours take a self-guided tour at your own pace.

Relax and enjoy the fully licensed coffee shop and browse the Cider Press Shop.

Ciders ~ Juices ~ Wines ~ Liqueurs ~ Jams ~ Honey Marmalades ~ Chutneys ~ Relishes ~ Pickles Mustards ~ Vinegars Plus seasonal specials and much more An all-weather attraction. Open all year (10:00 - 17:00) Closed Mondays except Bank Holidays Smallbrook Lane, Ashey, Ryde, Isle of Wight PO33 4BE

Tel 01983 564595

www.sharonorchard.com

There’s an extensive menu with all the pub favourites alongside an ever-changing specials board. The menu is also great for seafood lovers with fresh lobster which is brought direct to our kitchen by local fishermen.

The bar is dog-friendly too so no need to leave your pooch at home

There’s also five en-suite bed & breakfast rooms available which provide the perfect seaside location for a relaxing escape.

FREE WIFI • BOOKING ADVISABLE 32 Forelands Field Road, Bembridge, PO35 5TR 01983 872244 • info@crabandlobsterinn.co.uk

CRABANDLOBSTERINN.CO.UK WIGHTLIFE.COM

Discover the spirit of Bali at

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le

Oasis was founded by Alan and Bridget Southwell who were looking for unique products at very affordable prices for their customers. They hit on the idea of Bali and paid their first visit in 1988 and, there and then, made their first order.

Committed to environmentally sound and fair trading principles, they decided to work directly with small scale suppliers in villages across the island, cutting out the middleman and ensuring the manufacturers received a fair price for their goods.

f ro m Bali to th

How it began

ht Wig f o

The people

strongly believe in magic and the power of the spirits and base their beliefs around this.

The Balinese have strong spiritual roots and despite the large influx of tourists over the years, their culture is still very much alive. They worship a unique blend of Hindu, which is partly made up from Buddhist, Javanese and ancient indigenous beliefs. Balinese people

Bali

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r ip et

East Java

T

Bali - nicknamed the Island of the Gods is approximately 7,550 miles from the Isle of Wight and the journey takes 23 hours. It’s an island with a population of 4,000,000 and most people live in tight village communities with large extended families.

Singapore

Bali is situated between Java and Lombok and boasts a tropical climate with just two seasons (wet and dry) with an average temperature of 28Ëšc.

Unique crafts Local artists started to develop their own individual styles and are equally adaptable and innovative in tackling new ideas. Oasis has influenced them in redesigning or adapting pieces to suit its UK customers.

Just some of the unique creations available in-store...

From Bali to you, a unique journey “The craft people have traditionally worked for themselves, they are masters in their respective arts and use materials from renewable sources and fashion them with regard to the environment.”

Traditionally, arts and crafts from Bali followed strict aesthetic and religious guidelines, but with the arrival of European artists at the beginning of the 20th century, this soon began to change.

Alan and Bridget have formed close personal ties with these people and take pride in building up strong relationships.

“The people we purchase from are paid directly by us which ensures all money goes directly to them.”

Teak root furniture is made from the waste of the tree and these pieces combine simplicity, style and environmental consciousness. For those who seek a piece of furniture that will undoubtedly become a talking point, reclaimed teak is hand-crafted using wood reclaimed from buildings, old furniture and such, and embodies the traditional methods and modern design.

Alan and Bridget Southwell on location in Bali

Carvings made from Suar wood are also available - from dolphins to elephants, abstract men to Buddhas, the designs are always changing. There are many paintings available at Oasis, created using acrylic or oil paints on canvas.

Metalware is hand-crafted into models and styles and painted in a range of colours to complement your home.

Bali also produces a lot of beachwear including sarongs and scarves as well as Java fishing boat furniture is made using shrugs, beads and custom jewellery. reclaimed wood and is simply bold and beautiful. This captures a spirit of dynamic creativity and modern design, while being a functional a piece of art.

The journey Alan and Bridget, pay a packing team to wrap, box and pack the sea container which is shipped over land to Surabaya, where it is loaded onto a feeder vessel, which docks at Singapore.

It is then loaded onto a container ship bound for the south coast on England.

The container is then off loaded and brought to Oasis. The full journey takes approximately 28 days with a container arriving every five weeks – the staff are always excited at the arrival of new stock.

Shop in-store and online at www.oasis-iow.com

52

NORTH EAST

Swans on Ryde Canoe lake

DO Rosemary Vineyard Smallbrook Lane, Ryde PO33 4BE 01983 811084 rosemaryvineyard.co.uk Rosemary Vineyard is one of the largest producers of English Wine, covering 30 acres, it is ideally placed to make the most of the mild Island climate. All english wine, liqueurs, juices & ciders are made on the estate from grapes / apples grown on the estate. Relax & enjoy a taste of the good life in this peaceful setting.

Ryde Arena – Ice Skating (check website for opening date) Quay Road, Ryde PO33 2HH 01983 615155 rydearena.co.uk

Ryde District Centre Royal Victoria Arcade, Union Street, Ryde, PO33 2LQ 01983 717435 historicrydesociety.com

Sharon Orchard Smallbrook Lane, Ryde PO33 4BE 01983 564595 sharonorchard.com

Ryde District Heritage Centre shows the history of Ryde & its Royal connections, with hundreds of items & thousands of pictures. It’s also home to the famous Donald McGill ‘Saucy Seaside’ Postcard Museum. See & buy the cards then banned in the 1950’s! Whether for halfan-hour or half a day, it’s superb value, priced at only £3 for adults and free for under 16’s.

This family owned orchard offers a very warm welcome to its delightful Coffee House & Cider Press Shop. Stocking a wide range of artisan ciders, juices, liqueurs, jams, chutneys & mustards giving you an opportunity to buy genuine Island Products made on the farm. Self guided tours of the Cidery are available during the week with entertaining free guided tours on weekends.

Ryde Superbowl The Esplanade, Ryde PO33 2EL 01983 617070 rydesuperbowl.com

Waltzing Waters Brading Road, Ryde PO33 1QS 01983 811333 waltzingwaters.co.uk Live on stage! An entertainment spectacle enjoyed by all ages – the world’s most elaborate water, light & music show.

WIGHTLIFE.COM

Tons of water explode into the air, illuminated by rainbows of colour, alive & dancing with music. 40 minute show, on the hour, every hour, seven days a week. Comfortable, indoor theatre – shows rain or shine.

Gift shop & Coffee lounge.

Waterside Pool The Esplanade, Ryde PO33 1JA 01983 563656 rydepool.co.uk Wight Karting Ltd Westridge, Brading Road, Ryde PO33 1QS 01983 565366 wightkarting.co.uk Open seven days a week in school holidays, bring the kids to our Junior Track Days on Tuesdays & Wednesdays. Dont miss the Dads & Lads event on Father’s Day.

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Texture

White & bleed

Blue & Bleed

Book

FREE WIFI

Holiday Park

Large, secluded sandy beach Family activities & entertainment On-site Bar & Restaurant Indoor & outdoor heated pools

FREE PARKING

HOLIDAY HOMES FROM £19,995

BRAND NEW PITCH DEVELOPMENT WITH STUNNING VIEWS

Call 01983 872 671 | www.awayresorts.co.uk

open 7 days a week | H illway Road, Bembridge, Iow P035 5PL

mpfi

FREE ENTRY

AGES 8-88

JUNIOR TRACK DAYS IN SCHOOL HOLIDAYS (8-15 YRS)

WHITECLIFF BAY

escape

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Online

ALL WEATHER DESTINATION

TO YOUR VERY OWN HOME FROM HOME

IC

01983 565366 EA THER DESTINATION FOR Heli ALL W rs i

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copte www.wightkarting.co.uk FLOODLIT TRACK FOR NIGHT DRIV FREE WIFI • FREE ENTRY • FR EE

JUNIOR TRACK DAW G HSC TLIFE.COM YSI IN HOOL HOLIDAYS

54

NORTH EAST The Crab and Lobster Inn 32 Forelands Field Road Bembridge, PO35 5TR 01983 872244 crabandlobsterinn.co.uk

STAY Nodes Point Holiday Park Lower Green Road, St Helens PO33 1YA 0843 561 1668 park-resorts.com A short stroll from St. Helen’s Beach and the stunning Priory Bay at the bottom of the Park, Nodes Point is a highly popular holiday destination on the Isle of Wight. Boasting beautiful views, an idyllic location and fantastic facilities, this leisurely Park offers an indoor fun pool, adventure playground, horse riding and lively entertainment.

The Seaview Hotel High Street, Seaview PO34 5EX 01983 612711 seaviewhotel.co.uk This famous hotel has 20 rooms & suites, including dog-friendly accommodation. Located in the sailing village of Seaview, it’s renowned for good food, especially fish & seafood.

Choose to eat & drink in the cosy Pump Bar or the stylish main restaurant which has a Michelin Bib Gourmand.

Whitecliff Bay Hillway Road, Bembridge PO35 5PL 01442 50 88 50 awayresorts.co.uk With its own secluded beach, this is the perfect spot for a family holiday. The park has a wide range of accommodation to suit all tastes, from camping, glamping & vintage caravans to holiday homes & luxury lodges.

There are outdoor & indoor heated pools, children’s play areas inc. soft play area, places to eat & a full programme of entertainment.

Appley Manor Appley Road, Ryde PO33 1PH 01983 564777 appley-manor.co.uk

The Boat House Springvale Road, Seaview PO34 5AW 01983 810616 theboathouseiow.co.uk

Attached to the hotel is The Manor Inn Restaurant. A wide selection of food is available, as well as an extensive menu, the chefs prepare many daily specials.

Quality dining by the sea in a pub environment, matched with superb ales & an extensive wine selection.

The Barrow Boys 154-155 High Street, Ryde PO33 2HT 01983 566636 If you are looking for variety, quality, & service with a smile, the Barrow Boys has to be the best place to buy your fruit & veg.

The Best Dressed Crab Embankment Road, Bembridge PO35 5NS 01983 874758 thebestdressedcrabintown.co.uk Situated in Bembridge preparing the most delicious crab & lobster direct from the fishing boat.

Enjoy dressed crab in its shell, tubs of crab, whole crabs, whole lobsters, prepared lobsters, giant crab claws & spider crab claws.

When in season, Bembridge prawns are available, as are local whelks. Come & eat in the lovely floating cafe, enjoy the fantastic views of Bembridge Harbour.

Briddlesford Lodge Farm Briddlesford Road, Wootton PO33 4RY 01983 884650 briddlesfordlodgefarm.com The Griffin family have been farming on the land at Briddlesford since 1923 & have a herd of award-winning Guernsey cows. They produce arguably the Island’s best-quality milk & cream which can be purchased, along with other local delights, in the Farm Shop on site. Or if you’d like to try some of the meat (veal is their speciality), visit Bluebells Café.

The Cedars 2 Station Road, Wootton PO33 4QU 01983 882593 cedarsisleofwight.co.uk With a lovely garden dominating two sides of the pub, The Cedars in Ryde isn’t short on outdoor space.

Chocolate Apothecary 7 Esplanade, Ryde PO33 2DY 01983 718292 chocolateapothecary.co.uk Situated on Ryde’s seafront, opposite the pier, the cafe serves award winning hot chocolates & a wonderful range of cakes & petit fours. The chocolate bars, ganache cups & cakes are all hand-made in store. The perfect place to enjoy a coffee or choose a gift for a loved one.

Lobster linguine, using the finest local produce, The Seaview Hotel

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This family friendly pub in Bembridge is a real treasure.

It has spectacular views of the Solent & offers an extensive menu, from traditional pub favourites to locally caught lobster & mouth-watering seafood platters. There is something to appeal to every taste. Compliment the fine fare with a glass or two from the great selection of real ales & fine wines.

Dan’s Kitchen Lower Green Road, St Helens PO33 1TS 01983 872303 danskitcheniow.com With chef Dan Maskell at the stoves, & wife Carla out front, expect some equally smart cooking backed by personal service.

The Dell Café Puckpool Sands, Seaview PO34 5AR 01983 812947 dellcafe.com Situated on the eastern end of Appley Sands with views down the Solent, the café has a lovely sun terrace set over the sea where you can take in the views & spectacular sunsets. It has an innovative menu & regular changing specials board. The café is fully licensed & offers tapas nights on weekend evenings with a selection of small dishes from around the world.

Ganders Upper Green Road, St Helens PO33 1UQ 01983 872014 ganders.co.uk The restaurant is in an idyllic setting overlooking St Helens Green, 10 minutes walk from Bembridge Harbour & St Helens Duver.

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Our Chef has created a menu for you, fresh from the Village, to our Kitchen to your plate. Relax & enjoy traditional dishes with a twist. Something you don’t get at home. All from our local suppliers Woodford’s Butchers, Jane’s Farm Shop, Captain Stan’s & Denny the Local Fisherman

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NORTH EAST

Ryde Pier in the evening sunlight

This famous hotel has 20 rooms & suites, including dog-friendly accommodation. Located in the sailing village of Seaview, it’s renowned for good food, especially fish & seafood.

Choose to eat & drink in the cosy Pump Bar or the stylish main restaurant which has been awarded a Michelin Bib Gourmand.

The Lifeboat View Lane End Road, Bembridge PO35 5TB 01983 875568 Situated on Bembridge beach, the Lifeboat View Cafe boasts spectacular views. Serving fresh local produce including crab & lobster.

Oasis Coffee Shop Carpenters Road, Brading PO36 0QA 01983 613760 oasis-iow.co.uk Open seven days a week serving locally caught crab available in sandwiches & more. Their new menu introduces homemade food using the finest ingredients.

The Old Fort Bar Café The Esplanade, Seaview PO34 5HB 01983 612363 oldfortbarcafe.com Situated in a sea front location, The Old Fort offers stunning views across the Solent.

The Old Village Inn 61 High Street, Bembridge, PO35 5SF 01983 872616 yeoldevillageinn.co.uk In the heart of Bembridge High Street, this quirky traditional style public house has been serving since 1787. Resident Landlords Kelly & Jay continue WIGHTLIFE.COM

this fine tradition, sourcing real ales from across the UK to ensuring an ever-changing selection. The newly refurbished public house boasts an amazing casual dining area. Private parties up to 150 catered for.

Puckpool Park Tea Gardens Puckpool Hill, Seaview PO34 5AR 01983 615766 puckpoolteagardens.com Puckpool Tea Gardens is situated within Puckpool Park, which was once a Victorian Fortification Battery used to guard the Solent.

Quarr Abbey Café Quarr Road, Ryde PO33 4ES 01983 882420 quarrabbey.org Visitors will enjoy the tranquillity of the popular tea shop that offers freshly made food using local produce. The farm shop offers a variety of local island products along with Quarr Abbey’s own unique range of products which include ale, jams, chutneys & honey, all made with Quarr Abbey’s own allotment – grown produce which is also available to buy.

The Seaview Hotel High Street, Seaview PO34 5EX 01983 612711 www.seaviewhotel.co.uk

Shêd 4 High Street, Bembridge PO35 5SD 01983 873555 shedbembridge.co.uk Tapas restaurant, coffee & wine bar. Shêd serves a selection of boldly & distinctively unique dishes from all around the world.

The Spinnaker 1 Steyne Road, Bembridge PO35 5UH 01983 873572 thespinnakeriow.co.uk The Spinnaker is proud to use the best quality local produce available from the ‘Garden Isle’.

Three Buoys Appley Lane, Ryde PO33 1ND 01983 811212 threebuoys.co.uk A relaxed dining atmosphere by the sea. Three Buoys is a locally run restaurant which serves lunch & dinner all year round.

The Vineleaf Coffee Shop Smallbrook Lane, Ryde PO33 4BE 01983 811084 rosemaryvineyard.co.uk The Coffee Shop is ideally situated to enjoy the superb views overlooking the estate at Rosemary Vineyard. There is freshly ground coffee available

with an extensive choice of freshly prepared sandwiches, baguettes & light lunches along with a large selection of tempting, mouth watering homemade cakes, cream teas & tea cakes.

The White Hart Inn Main Road, Havenstreet PO33 4DP 01983 883485 Beautiful & traditional village pub offering a range of dishes, many homemade as well as an extensive specials board.

Supermarkets The Co-operative Food Sherbourne Street, Bembridge PO35 5SB 01983 872571 thesouthernco-operative.co.uk The Co-operative Food 61-62 West Street, Ryde PO33 2UH 01983 562469 thesouthernco-operative.co.uk The Co-operative Food 33-35 Somerset Road, Elmfield, Ryde PO33 1BU 01983 562779 thesouthernco-operative.co.uk Tesco Extra Brading Road, Ryde PO33 1QS 0345 024 9560 tesco.com

Fisherman’s Wharf, Embankment Road, Bembridge, PO35 5NS

ESSED DR ED STIMIT E B L T HERAB C 01983 874758

Chocolate Apothecary

‘The Island’s only floating seafood café and shop’.

Enjoy lunches with the freshest, finest seafood straight from the boat.

Try our speciality seafood platter for two. Fully licensed.

Visit us at: www.thebestdressedcrabintown.co.uk

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Beautiful sunsets Homemade cakes Innovative tapas nights Gourmet burgers Fresh seafood Daily specials menu Fully licenced

Open all year round, from 9am daily during the summer season

The Dell Cafe, Puckpool Sands, Seaview, PO34 5AR 01983 812947 www.dellcafe.com

7 Esplanade, Ryde, PO33 2DY Opposite Ryde Pier 01983 718292 chocolateapothecary.co.uk

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EAST

The East is where the action is. Sea and sandcastles, dinosaurs and tigers, the east coast of the Isle of Wight has all the ingredients to make your family holiday perfect.

There is still a nostalgic whiff of the stripy bathing costume about Sandown, the sandy seaside resort, with its beach hotels, bustling town and Tardis-like pier. With rides, adventure world golf, classic arcade games and ball parks, Sandown Pier offers hours of good old-fashioned fun.

Top all that fun off with a bite to eat at The Beach Shack, just a few yards down the Esplanade. It is right on the beach and serves up excellent locally-caught seafood. If you’re craving an ice cream after that, Muzza’s Ice Cream Parlour makes Italian-recipe ices from Isle of Wight milk and lots of love.

Refreshed, visit the magnificent Isle of Wight Zoo, famed for its big cat collection and ever-entertaining families of monkeys and birds. The talks and tours never fail to surprise and delight. The creatures next door at Dinosaur Isle are pretty animated, too. The purpose-built museum has some excellent interactive displays and life-sized examples of the dinosaurs that once inhabited our Island.

Time for lunch? Caulkheads (meaning true Islanders) is traditionally pubby in feel, but offers a full cocktail list while catering expertly for children. As for the evening, Royal China really lives up to its name – a great place for a celebration Chinese meal.

A short hop away is Shanklin, the seafront like an amusement pier on dry land. Its 18-hole crazy golf course, Jungle Jim’s Adventure Trail, Pirates’ Cove crazy golf and summer arcade provides fun for all ages.

Sunrise one morning at Sandown Bay

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As for staying in Shanklin, a family-run hotel will remind you of the style of yesteryear. The Channel View is known for great food and excellent service, as well as the broad vista and unrivalled sunsets. The Aqua bed & breakfast overlooks the English Channel and prides itself on quality service, superb food and a friendliness that comes from 33 years of experience.

Live the indoor/outdoor life at one of the superior holiday parks. Cheverton Copse and Fort Holiday Park offer luxury mobile homes, and are set in unspoiled countryside. And if you haven’t packed for all weather contingencies, pop along to Goodyears Outdoors, where this family firm is happy to recommend the right waterproof, rucksack or enamel mug for you.

For entertainment, stars from stage and TV comedy fill the bill at Shanklin Theatre, so book up as soon as you arrive for a fantastic night out. Not forgetting your pre-dinner supper. One of the standout restaurants on Shanklin High Street is Morgan’s, lauded by its customers as the fine dining find that completes their holiday. And when it’s a takeaway day, discover Mr T’s Pizza Shack, where your food (not just pizza) is not only cooked fresh it can also be delivered. How’s that for service?

Casper the white lion at Isle of Wight Zoo

The Steamer Inn, further along the Esplanade, overlooks the sweep of the seafront and its family dining, friendly service and live music has made this a definite destination pub.

Then stop, breathe, and visit Shanklin Chine, a leafy, tranquil ravine with sounds of birdsong and a relaxing waterfall. Evening illuminations, exhibitions of art and history and a squirrel-watching hide make this place magical.

Classic English summer down on Small Hope Beach, Shanklin

There’s a lot going on inland in the East, too. Brading is a town that really brings history to life, the pinnacle being Brading Roman Villa. This is an imaginative reconstruction of those times in Britain, with a spacious café and fine views (and the chance to don Roman sword and helmet should the moment take you).

Nostalgia abounds, too, in the Lilliput Antique Doll and Toy Museum, the home of toys of a more recent era. At Rectory Mansion you can even enjoy coffee and cake or full meals while watching the master chocolatier at work in the beautifully-restored listed building. Or for good pub food, suitable for the whole family, try the characterful Bugle Inn. Just outside Brading is Adgestone Vineyard which introduces you to the finer points of wine tasting before you buy. Children love to wander with the chickens and even find treasure – and doesn’t everyone love a good cream tea?

Thatched cottages of Shanklin Old Village

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GO 1st Call Car, Van & Cycle Hire 15 Marsh Close, Sandown PO36 8EU 01983 400055 isleofwighthire.co.uk

Brading Roman Villa Morton Old Road, Brading PO36 0EN 01983 406223 bradingromanvilla.org.uk

Your 1st call for transportation to get around the Isle of Wight.

Small cars to MPV’s from £21 per day. Accessories & bikes to suit all ages from mountain bike’s to Hybrids to Touring bikes & a whole lot more.

This is one of the finest roman sites in the UK. The award-winning Visitor Centre & Museum offer a unique insight into Roman life, from beautifully preserved mosaic floors to an extensive collection of Roman archaeology, there’s plenty to see. An exhibition gallery showcases a changing programme from national & international collections.

RouteFifty7 Landguard Manor Road, Shanklin PO37 7LL 07491 000057 routefifty7.com Hire bikes & ride through some of the most scenic countryside in Britain. Pedal through Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, see spectacular chalk ridges, wooded bridleways, ancient forests, bronze age burial sites & red squirrels. Based in Shanklin, in the heart of island cycling country & located directly on the Island’s most famous trails.

Value Rentacar Marsh Close, College Close Industrial Estate, Sandown PO36 8EU 01983 401333 value-rentacar.co.uk We are a family run self drive car hire company based in Sandown, offering car hire from £21 per day, with no hidden charges & free local pick-up. Vehicles to suit all your needs from a three door hatchback to a seven seater people carrier.

DO Adgestone Vineyard Upper Road, Brading PO36 0ES 01983 402882 adgestonevineyard.co.uk Adgestone, the place of beauty where you can relax with the whole family. Take an audio tour & go underground into one of the oldest commercial wine cellars in England. Impress your friends with your new wine tasting skills. Enjoy something to eat in the modern café with a light lunch, cream tea or delicious sharing platter.

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Dinosaur Isle Culver Parade, Sandown PO36 8QA 01983 404344 dinosaurisle.com In a spectacular, pterosaurshaped building, just over the sea wall, this is Britain’s first purpose-built dinosaur attraction. It’s a unique destination, where you walk back through a fossilised time tunnel to the period of the dinosaurs, 120 million years ago. In this attraction, you’ll find life-sized models of the Island’s famous five dinosaurs including an animatronic Neovenator.

Goodyears Outdoors College close, Sandown PO36 8EB 01983 408181 goodyears.co.uk

Bluebells on Brading Down

Lilliput Antique Doll & Toy Museum High Street, Brading PO36 0DJ 01983 407231 lilliputmuseum.co.uk This internationally acclaimed museum contains one of Britain’s finest private collections of antique dolls & toys, with over 2000 exhibits on display dating from c2000BC to c1950.

The collection has been widely exhibited on TV & includes antique German & French Bisque dolls, teddy bears, “steam” trains, tinplate vehicles, dolls houses, old puzzles & games & many unusual rare toys.

Rectory Mansion 46-48 High Street, Brading PO36 0DQ 01983 300828 rectorymansion.co.uk

Independent outdoor retailer established in 1995 selling tents, camping equipment, awnings, caravan accessories, outdoor clothing, waterproofs, walking boots, rucksacks & Ammo frozen sea-fishing bait.

Reputedly the oldest building on the Isle of Wight & now a licenced restaurant that also offers a range of retail experiences, from local produce to home interiors. Indulge yourself at the Chocolate Factory & Shop before taking an historical walk to discover the history of the ancient town.

Isle of Wight Zoo Yaverland Road, Sandown PO36 8QB 01983 403883 Isleofwightzoo.com

Sandown Pier The Esplanade, Sandown PO36 8JT 01983 404122 sandownpier.co.uk

The ‘Zoo on the beach’ delivers an inspirational wildlife experience. The friendly atmosphere is perfect for getting to know the animals, from tigers & white lions to lemurs & monkeys. There are daily tours and big cat enrichment / feeding demonstrations, while younger children will love making new friends during the animal encounters. Visitors can return within a week for just £1.

All year round entertainment for the whole family includes Lost World indoor golf adventure, ten pin bowling Magic Island play area where children’s parties are a speciality. The end of the pier opens from Easter & has rides for everyone, fishing is available from Easter onwards. There is a cafe, ice cream kiosk, burger bar & Scruffy Jack’s sports bar.

Shanklin Chine Chine Hill, Shanklin PO37 6BW 01983 866432 shanklinchine.co.uk Visit this famous leafy gorge, much loved by poets, artists & writers. The steep-sided winding path is a magical place, full of rare plants, woodland, wildlife & enchanting waterfalls. Relax in the Tea Garden & browse in the Gift Shop. On the beach below, The Fisherman’s Cottage offers a superb choice of excellent food & real ale.

Shanklin Seafront Esplanade, Shanklin PO37 6BG 01983 867585 shanklinseafront.co.uk Re-discover the great british seaside at Shanklin Seafront.

Indulge yourself with traditional seaside family fun whatever the weather. Open daily from 9am, five family attractions keep you busy, hot & cold food is available across a range of eateries serving up all the seaside favourites.

Shanklin Theatre Prospect Road, Shanklin PO37 6AJ 01983 868000 shanklintheatre.com Shanklin Theatre offers great entertainment from top household names in popular music such as Russell Watson, Lesley Garrett & Lee Mead, comedians ranging from Al Murray & Alan Davies, to Joe Pasquale & top productions of touring plays, there is also a summer show of The Best of the West End & popular pantomime.

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STAY The Aqua Hotel 17 Esplanade, Shanklin PO37 6BN 01983 863024 theaqua.co.uk

Fort Holiday Park Avenue Road, Sandown PO36 8BD 01983 402858 fortholidaypark.co.uk

With over 20 bedrooms & located in a prime position on Shanklin seafront, The Aqua provides everything today’s visitors need to enjoy their stay in Shanklin. The hotel has been owned & managed by the same family for the past 35 years & is refined and redecorated annually to maintain the standards expected by today’s travellers.

A small family run caravan park of 45 caravans, only 400m from Sandown beach & town centre. one to three bedroom caravans sleeping up to eight people.

Holidays from one night only.

Car ferry discounts available.

Prices from £230 to £699 for seven nights.

The Channel View Hotel Hope Road, Shanklin PO37 6EH 01983 862309 channelviewhotel.co.uk Set on the cliff top, this familyrun, three-star hotel offers many rooms with coastal and sea views. Friendly and efficient staff welcome you to a range of facilities that include lovely en-suite accommodation, an indoor heated pool, lift & free wifi. Enjoy excellent food & the licensed bar, there’s also entertainment on some evenings. This is a hotel for all ages.

Cheverton Copse Scotchells Brook Lane, Sandown PO36 0JP 01983 403161 chevertoncopse.com A family-run park set in four acres of safe & attractive grounds, only 1.5 miles from the seaside towns of Sandown & Shanklin. 57 caravans provide a variety of grades & prices to suit all budgets & all come equipped with TV, fridge, gas cooker, microwave, shower & WC.

Landguard Holiday Park Manor Road, Shanklin PO37 7PJ 0843 5611666 park-resorts.com Landguard Holiday Park on the Isle of Wight has a friendly relaxed atmosphere and sits in a beautiful woodland area. The Park is just a stone’s throw away from the buzzing seaside resort of Shanklin, with its popular golden sandy beaches.

Lower Hyde holiday Park Landguard Road, Shanklin PO37 7LL 0843 561 1667 park-resorts.com Located on the Isle of Wight’s east coast, near the fantastic seaside resort of Shanklin.

This park is the perfect choice for families, holidaymakers and lovers of the great British seaside. Thanks to the Island’s small size, you are only a short trip away from many of its popular tourist attractions.

The Beach Shack Western Esplanade, Sandown PO36 8JS 01983 401392 beachshackbar.co.uk

The Culver Haven Inn Culver Down Road, Nr Sandown, PO36 8QT 01983 406107 culverhaven.com

The Beach Shack is a licensed, award-winning seafood cafe which boasts stunning views of the Bay & which has stylish indoor seating, tables by the sea wall & a sheltered terrace to the side. Its the perfect place to relax with a drink or a meal & watch the world go by on the beach!

Located at one of it’s highest points, The Culver Haven Inn boasts some of the best views on the Isle of Wight.

The Bugle Inn 56-57 High Street, Brading PO36 0DQ 01983 407359 buglebrading.co.uk Fresh from a full refurbishment, now open & serving an all new menu – The Bugle Inn prides itself in bringing you wholesome & traditional home-cooked great food using the best seasonal products cooked to perfection.

“We hope you enjoy eating them as much as we enjoy making them!”

The Caulkheads 42-44 Avenue Road, Sandown PO36 8AY 01983 405080 caulkheads.pub The Caulkheads is a family pub frequented by locals & tourists alike. It has recently benefitted from a full refurbishment programme to include the external decoration, new toilet facilities & a complete internal overhaul. A rustic nautical theme has been introduced which reinforces where the name ‘Caulkheads’ is derived from.

The Corner Grill House & Brasserie 33-35 High Street, Shanklin PO37 6JJ 01983 300335 thecornershanklin.co.uk

Crazy golf course at Shanklin Seafront

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The Corner offers high quality food at fantastic value, accompanied by the very highest level of service.

Driftwood Beach Bar 37 Culver Parade, Sandown PO36 8AT 01983 404004 driftwoodbeachbar.com The bar on the beach! A hub for all beach goers Islandwide, who love great food, refreshing drinks & cocktails & the cream of Island entertainment.

Fisherman’s Cottage Shanklin Chine, 3 Chine Hill, Shanklin PO37 6BW 01983 863882 shanklinchine.co.uk This unique thatched pub on the beach at the foot of Shanklin Chine dates back to 1817. It is the ideal place for the family to relax & sample the varied menu & try our great real ales.

The Forum Café Brading Roman Villa, Morton Old Road, Brading PO36 0EN 01983 406223 bradingromanvilla.org.uk The Romans were renowned for their love of fine food & feasting so there is nowhere more perfect to sate a hungry stomach than in the ancient Roman grounds at Brading. The Forum Café is privy to some stunning panoramic views over Sandown Bay & serves up a great range of lunches, snacks, cakes & drinks.

RECTORYMANSION.CO.UK 01983 300828 OPEN ALL YEAR 7 DAYS A WEEK 9am-5pm

Waxworks Cafe Restauran t serving breakfa st, lunch & dinner

Workshops Interior design, Mosaic, Print making Historical Walks Exploring the history of Brading

WORLD RENOWNED FOSSIL COLLECTION Licensed Coffee Shop Homemade cakes, scones and savory pastries

Culver Parade, Sandown, Isle of Wight, PO36 8QA (01983) 404344 www.dinosaurisle.com

Courtyard Tea Garden Cream teas Chocolate Factory & Shop Chocolate making, Luxury chocolate gifts and more Local Produce Shop Fresh and delicious Large Carpark Nearby Ticket refundable

Homes & Gardens / Interiors Shops Fiona Eaton Interiors Bramble & Berry

46-48 High St, Brading, Sandown, Isle of Wight PO36 0DQ

~ Royal China ~ 16 High Street, Sandown PO36 8DE Chinese Restaurant A wide selection of Peking, Cantonese & Szechaun dishes.

Fine food, cool décor, a smart, stylish bar & amazing authentic cuisine.

Food is all freshly prepared by a master chef with over 25 years’ experience.

You’ll be well looked after from the moment you step inside the door.

Lunch: 12noon - 2.15pm Evening: 5.30pm - 11.30pm Open till midnight Fri & Sat 7 days a week, all year round Authentic cuisine freshlyincluding prepared Bankfood Holidays

dinosaurisle

• Working laboratory • Interactive displays • Extensive gift shop • Family tickets available • All weather attraction open all year

Deal get a 10% discount off your admission to our neighbours the Isle of Wight Zoo if visiting on the same day terms and conditions apply

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

Takeaway available with delivery 5.30pm - 11pm

2287 ETL 1/15 LF

prepared by our master chef

Tel: 01983 401128 or 402777 www.royalchinaiow.co.uk WIGHTLIFE.COM

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The Hideaway St Boniface Cliff Road, Shanklin PO37 6ET 01983 864145 hideawayshanklin.co.uk

Children are also welcome to enjoy homemade pizzas, fresh seafood, pasta, crab & lobster & meat dishes.

Shanklin’s best kept dining secret. Hilltop dining on the cliff above Shanklin. Gaze out to see whilst enjoying freshly cooked local produce - the best on the Island. Stop by for ice creams, cream teas & hot drinks.

Morgan’s Restaurant High Street, Shanklin PO37 6JY 01983 864900 morgansofshanklin.com

Keats Cottage 76 High Street, Shanklin PO37 6NJ 01983 639661 keatscottage.co.uk Keats Kitchen which is inspired by the poet John Keats, is a unique place offering lovely homemade food.

Kynges Well 10 High Street, Brading PO36 0DG 01983 408776 kyngeswell.co.uk At Kynges Well, you will get full table service. So whether you go to dine or to just enjoy a coffee by the open fire, they do their best to make your experience one to remember.

Legends by the Sea 46 High Street, Sandown PO36 8AE 01983 404634 legendsbythesea.co.uk Located right on Sandown seafront with panoramic sea views. Legends has bags of atmosphere, whether you want a relaxing meal or just a cool drink with friends on the spectacular sun terrace.

Mamma Mia 55 High Street, Shanklin PO37 6JJ 01983 861162 medasrestaurants.co.uk Mamma Mia focuses on the best regional Italian cuisine using only the finest in Italian products.

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Morgan’s pride themselves in using the finest quality Isle of Wight produce, including Ventnor Bay seafood and shellfish and Godshill pork and duck. Alongside their extensive menu Morgan’s host a seasonal daily special board.

The restaurant caters for families providing a children’s menu.

Mr T’s Pizza Shed 46 Atherley Road, Shanklin PO37 7AU 01983 863361 mrtspizzashed.co.uk Established over 25 years, Mr T’s offer a variety of freshly baked pizzas & a wide selection of chargrills including burgers, steaks & BBQ ribs. Also available are lamb donner & chicken kebabs. Free home delivery available. Kids & vegetarians catered for.

Muzza’s Kitchen 26 High Street, Sandown PO36 8DE 01983 407595 A small, friendly, local cafe which specialises in home cooked food, Italian coffee & artisan Gelato made on the premises. Offering all day breakfasts, lunches, afternoon tea, & of course exotic ice-cream flavours such as Eton Mess, Ferrero Rocher chocolate, strawberry cheesecake & many others. Open later during the summer months for evening meals. Gluten free & vegetarian options available.

Young centurians at Brading Roman Villa

Passionate about ‘buying local’ Tim Morgan is Head Chef and owner of Morgan’s, a chic restaurant noted for its seafood and local produce in his home town of Shanklin. After completing training at the Isle of Wight College, he spent a number of years working in London, first for Marco Pierre White, then at The Ivy and J Sheekey, which is where he gained his seafood knowledge.

Using local produce is high on Tim’s agenda and he loves the ease of popping in to visit suppliers and seeing what they’ve got to offer rather than ordering produce from miles away.

“99% of what we offer comes from the Isle of Wight. It’s lovely to be able to go to Ventnor each day to choose my wet fish and shellfish. All our chickens, ducks and eggs come from Brownrigg Farm in Godshill too,” says Tim. Morgan’s is a modern, cosy, friendly restaurant with an extensive specials board that changes daily. Tim talks about which dishes are the best-sellers: “A particular favourite among customers is the Ventnor Bay crab with tiger prawn linguine and the steaks and pork belly are a big hit.”

Adgestone Vineyard England’s oldest commercial vineyard

Vineyard Tours Wine Tasting Licensed Café Local Produce Tourism Award winner 2015 IW Chamber of Commerce

B&B Available

Live Music every Sunday all Summer !

Open 7 Days 10.00 - 17.30 April-October, 10.00-16.00 Nov-March (closed Mondays, check web for xmas closure)

Upper Rd, Nr Sandown, PO36 0ES. 01983 402882 www.adgestonevineyard.co.uk

BRADING

ROMAN

VILLA

One of the finest Roman sites in the UK Award winning Museum & Visitor Centre offers a unique insight into Roman Life in Britain Beautifully preserved mosaic floors & an extensive collection of archaeology The new exhibition gallery showcases a changing programme of exhibitions from national and international collections Interactive displays • Extensive grounds Roman garden & meadow trail • Licensed café • Shop

Brading Roman Villa, Morton Old Road, Brading, PO36 0PH

01983 406223 bradingromanvilla.org.uk

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EAST

The Old Corner Bank 61 High Street, Sandown PO36 8AA 01983 405432 theoldcornerbank.co.uk

Royal China 16 High Street, Sandown PO36 8DE 01983 401128 royalchinaiow.co.uk

Our restaurant/bar is built on the principles of serving quality, home cooked meals, fresh to order at affordable prices.

Royal China has a number of loyal fans & it’s not hard to see why! They offer first rate Pekinese, Cantonese & Szechuan cooking & are open 7 days a week. Free home delivery service & special take away menu available if you want to take your noodles to the beach.

The Reef The Esplanade, Sandown PO36 8AE 01983 403219 thereefsandown.co.uk This restaurant & bar has a contemporary seating area inside & a spacious decking area at the front, perfectly positioned to see the stunning views of Sandown Bay.

The Salix Small Hope Beach, Shanklin 07772 056204 thesalixcafe.co.uk New owners Mari and Mark offer a warm welcome at their

friendly, licensed beach side café on Small Hope Beach, with spectacular views of Sandown Bay and Culver Cliff. The Salix offers freshly cooked food, top quality Island-roasted coffee and clotted cream ice cream too.

Supermarkets

The Steamer Inn Esplanade, Shanklin PO37 6BS 01983 862641 thesteamer.co.uk

Morrisons Newport Road, Sandown PO36 9PA morrisons.com

A quintessential traditional seaside pub, The Steamer Inn sits opposite the beautiful sandy beach of Shanklin, offering the ideal spot for a family meal.

The terrace offers the perfect place to soak up the views & treat yourself to the legendary Seafood Platter. Stay in one of the eight en-suite rooms offering bed & breakfast.

The Co-operative Food 132 Avenue Road, Sandown PO36 9AN 01983 408800 thesouthernco-operative.co.uk

Aldi (opening September) Spithead Business Centre, Newport Road, Lake PO36 9PH aldi.co.uk

The Co-operative Food 42 Regent Street, Shanklin PO37 7AA 01983 868039 thesouthernco-operative.co.uk

Vernon Cottage 1 Eastcliff Road, Shanklin PO37 6AA 01983 865411 vernoncottage.co.uk Vernon Cottage is located in Old Shanklin Village & renowned for its fabulous homemade food.

N ew ! in Sa nd ow n H ig h St ICE CREAM

N HE TC KI

PARLOUR

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NEW!

ARTISAN GELATO

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Licensed cafe with terraces Locally sourced seafood Freshly prepared food Open 7 days a week

HANDMADE ON OUR PREMISES TO AN ITALIAN RECIPE FROM DELICIOUS ISLE OF WIGHT MILK. LOTS OF FLAVOURS TO ENJOY IN OUR PARLOUR OR ON THE BEACH!

WE A

ALL DAY BREAKFASTS

OPEN R E YEARALL !

• •

HOME COOKED CUISINE BAGUETTES

FRESHLY COOKED, & FILLED

• •

HOMEMADE SOUPS VEGETARIAN & GLUTEN FREE OPTIONS

•

ITALIAN COFFEE

AND HOT CHOCOLATE MENUS

•

LICENSED

FREFEI WI

Visit us at: 26 High Street Sandown, Isle of Wight, PO36 8DE | Tel: 01983 407595 Design: claire@clairesp8design.co.uk

WIGHTLIFE.COM

01983 401392 or 07886 959192 Western Esplanade, Sandown, PO36 8JS

Enjoy the stunning beauty of the Island’s original chine attraction A marvel by day - A wonder by night

Julia Margaret Cameron’s unseen ‘Island Landscapes’ photography collection.

William Daniell’s Exhibition Pluto & Royal Marine Commando display The Island’s original home made cream tea & delicious lunches.

“The most enchanting place to enjoy tea & cake with friends”

24th March to 26th May: Open daily, 10am to 5pm 27th May to 11th September 10am to 10pm (with Chine Lumière*) 12th September to 21st October, 11am to 4pm

Enjoy our pub on Shanklin’s sandy beach, Fishermans Cottage

22nd to 30th October 10.30am to 8.30pm (with Chine Lumière*)

Open April to October.

NEW day & evening tickets available for our magical Chine Lumiére season - Summer & October

(Illumination after dusk subject to weather conditions. Terms and conditions apply)

01983 866432

• 3 Chine Hill, Shanklin, Isle of Wight PO37 6BW

10%

off all orders with this voucher

Valid until 30 Nov 2013. One per customer.

Collection only. No photocopies accepted

01983 863361

For your convenience, we now accept card payments over the phone. Minimum transaction £10

www.mrtspizzashed.co.uk

46 Atherley Rd, Shanklin

01983 863361

Fresh baked pizzas and tasty chargrills Free local delivery service, specialising in holiday parks and self-catering.

Free pizza deal every Tuesday (see website for details)

46 Atherley Road, Shanklin www.mrtspizzashed.co.uk

• www.shanklinchine.co.uk

Open since 1817 • Follow us on

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SOUTH

SOUTH

The wonderful thing about the South of the Island is that each generation thinks they have discovered it for themselves. The steep coves and meandering lanes have an intimate, ‘getting to know you’ feel while the eateries, holiday venues and attractions are constantly adapting to ensure they give the very best experience.

The highlight of so many Isle of Wight holidays, for generations, has been a trip (or several) to Blackgang Chine. Today the excitement is unsurpassed as the fondlyremembered dinosaurs have now come to life.

Beware ‘Restricted Area 5’ if you’re of a nervous disposition. Let the kids’ imaginations run wild as they venture on a journey of discovery to fight pirates, become sheriff of their own cowboy town or experience the magic of being a fairy princess.

The clear air and open vistas of the south attract plenty of birds of prey to the Island. Henry VIII came here to indulge in the sport of falconry, and at the Owl & Falconry Centre at Appuldurcombe House, you can get a flavour of this royal pastime for yourself. Displays of the resident eagles, owls and falcons thrill the crowds.

Next stop, the Island’s Donkey Sanctuary, is another attraction that has grown up with its visitors. Today there are special events such as Concerts in the Courtyard, Dog Shows and markets to enjoy while visiting the much-loved residents.

From here it is a short hop to the seaside town of Ventnor. Historic and quirky, warm and welcoming, this almost mountainous town meanders from the sheltering undercliff of the St Boniface Downs steeply down to the bay.

The view from a Victorian beach hut on the beach at Ventnor

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Stripy beach huts line the front – some are actual Victorian bathing machines – and you can still hire deckchairs from the same family who hired them to your grandparents.

While the seafront retains a nod to the past, there is nothing last century about the shops and restaurants.

Themed cafés appeal to our love of nostalgia, ice cream kiosks serve crafted recipes with an array of flavours and bistros bring an elegance to the seaside experience.

At either end of the front there are notable landmarks.

The art deco Winter Gardens overlook the fishing boats supplying the blue hut from which emerges some stunningly good fish and chips. And opposite children paddle in the map-shaped pool. Then at the far end is The Spyglass Inn, its generous good family food, live local music and glorious sunsets draw people back again and again. Under the same ownership for over 25 years, the pub has a wealth of heritage and is a must-visit for anyone looking for a hearty meal.

It’s hard to define that thing called ‘atmosphere’ but the 16th-century Buddle ‘Smugglers’ Inn, in nearby Niton, has it in spades. With its flagstone floors and beamed ceiling, snugs and roaring fires, it’s a popular choice for locals and visitors too. The food is cooked to perfection making every visit an occasion to remember.

And then there’s The Royal Hotel. Whether you’re coming for dinner, afternoon tea or staying as a resident, this refined, elegant and luxurious hotel also boasts stunning grounds and gardens. Yet it is not austere or rarefied and every guest is made to feel at home.

Ventnor has a long history of being a spa town thanks to its mild climate and pure sea air. If you’re looking for that extra bit of relaxation, The Cabin, perched high on the cliff, offers organic spa treatments with stunning views for pure tranquility.

That is also the promise of The Leconfield in Bonchurch, overlooking the sea. Beautifully appointed with no detail overlooked, utter peace is the result. From this family-run adult-only hotel – as guests can gaze out over the water, take drinks on the terrace or simply relax.

When you’ve got the family with you the idea of relaxing changes somewhat. Children need space and safety, and farm holidays provide the answer. Award-winning Nettlecombe Farm is a collection of lovingly restored farmhouses and barns offering all the home comforts with the freedom to explore and meet the animals, including reindeer, on site.

Breathtaking views of St Catherines Lighthouse can be found from the cliff path above

If your ultimate holiday is to be away with all your family and friends in your dream home, The Hermitage in Ventnor is the answer. A country house with 10 bedrooms set in stunning grounds, it is available to hire in its entirety. Why not call in some local caterers? That would surely make your stay in this spectacular part of the Island complete.

If you are visiting the South of the Island and looking for a quirky day on the beach, try going slightly out of town to explore Steephill Cove. Only accessible by foot, the cove is beautifully peaceful and ideal for some traditional seaside fun. There are cafés, restaurants and shops to explore, too.

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DO Blackgang Chine Land of Imagination Chale, Nr Ventnor PO38 2HN 01983 730330 blackgangchine.com An enchanting experience like no other. Let your imagination run wild as you venture on a journey of discovery where you can fight pirates on-board your own ship, discover life size moving dinosaurs, become sheriff of your own town, round up the outlaws & lock’ em up or experience the magic of being a fairy princess in your own castle!

The Cabin Esplanade, Ventnor PO38 1JX 01983 629179 thecabin-ventnor.co.uk VOYA Spa & massage treatments on Ventnor seafront.

Relax to the sound of the sea in the exclusive hideaway with stunning views over the Channel.

This August they are opening the exclusive wellness suite located WIGHTLIFE.COM

STAY right on Ventnor seafront & ideal for couples.

IW Donkey Sanctuary St Johns Road, Wroxall PO38 3AA 01983 852693 iwdonkey-sanctuary.com The Sanctuary is currently home to 90+ donkeys. You can sponsor one for £20 a year.

In return, you’ll receive an Adoption Certificate featuring a photograph of your chosen donkey. Great gift & coffee shop.

Donkey experience afternoons, grooming & walking sessions & events most weeks. Open all year round.

Owl & Falconry Centre Appuldurcombe Farm, Wroxall PO38 3EW 01983 852484 appuldurcombe.co.uk This unique attraction offers a fun day out for all ages. There’s a play barn, excellent cafe & gift shop, plus the chance to

feed & cuddle baby animals, enjoy tractor rides & explore the historic Appuldurcombe Estate. The Centre offers themed flying displays with owls, eagles & vultures. There are around 300-acres designed by Capability Brown to explore.

Ventnor Botanic Garden Undercliff Drive, Ventnor PO38 1UL 01983 855397 botanic.co.uk Set in the heart of Ventnor Undercliff, explore 22 acres of sub-tropical gardens with over 6,000 species of plants, shrubs & champion trees. Visit the new garden Hub, plus enjoy delicious cuisine at Edulis restaurant made with garden grown & Island produce. Look out for Kids Discovery Days in the school holidays & daily tours of the secret garden tunnel.

The Hermitage St Catherine’s Down, Dolcoppice Lane, Whitwell PO38 2PD 0333 122 3231 thehermitageiow.co.uk A beautiful 10 bedroom country house set within 11 acres of private grounds, now available for holiday rental.

The Hermitage is surrounded by attractive countryside, designated as an AONB, with excellent walks & riding accessible directly from the house.

The Leconfield Hotel 85 Leeson Road, Ventnor PO38 1PU 01983 852196 leconfieldhotel.com Situated on St Boniface Down, overlooking the historic village of Bonchurch, the 5-star awardwinning hotel has spectacular panoramic views from most rooms, the garden, conservatory & the dining room. A warm welcome, comfortable, luxury

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LET’S DISCOVER...

AN INNOVATIVE BOTANIC GARDEN FOR THE 21ST CENTURY, 6000 PLANT SPECIES IN TWENTY SUBTROPICAL ACRES, A TRANQUIL PLACE TO WANDER, DINE, RELAX AND ESCAPE, EXOTIC PLANTS, FLOWERS & TREES FROM EVERY CONTINENT, INCREDIBLE WALL LIZARDS, SECRET TUNNEL TOURS, GIANT AMAZONIAN WATER LILIES, ULTRA FRESH CUISINE IN edulis RESTAURANT, A TROPICAL HOUSE & WATERFALL, CHILDREN’S PLAYGROUND, THE ART STUDIO & GALLERY, BOTANIC ALE & HOP YARD, LOOSE LEAF TEAS IN THE ELEGANT PLANTATION ROOM, MUSHROOMS FRUITING IN AN UNDERGROUND CHAMBER, A VICTORIAN HERITAGE EXHIBITION, FREE GARDEN PARKING, VBG RARE PLANTS, SEEDS, GARDEN PRODUCE & GIFTS, GUIDED TOURS, AN OFFICIAL LIZ EARLE STOCKIST, KID’S DISCOVERY DAYS & MORE...

SO MUCH TO EXPERIENCE: IN AND OUT, RAIN OR SHINE Ventnor from the sea during the Round the Island Yacht Race

Accommodation consisting of three new luxury beach houses, each sleeping up to ten across four bedrooms. Crab Cottage, Herring House & Lobster Lodge all enjoy stunning panoramic views across the English Channel & are perfectly situated just yards from Ventnor seafront & the beach itself!

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EN £1 T O TH R FF IS A VO N UC CE H

Ventnor Seafront Esplanade, Ventnor PO38 1JP 01983 855010 ventnorseafront.co.uk

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A working farm nestled in the heart of the Island’s rolling countryside offering luxurious self-catering holiday accommodation & coarse fishing. The farm buildings have been converted to provide comfortable & modern cottages.

During April – September you can also join the farmer on the morning feeding tours & meet all the full-time residents including reindeer, donkeys, alpacas, goats & many more!

Built in 1832, the Royal Hotel is one of the finest hotels on the Island. Following its modern day touch, this luxury hotel shares the rare privilege of being one of the only 30 establishments to be listed in every Michelin Guide since it was first published in 1911 & has 2AA stars for excellent food for over 16 years.

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Nettlecombe Farm Holidays Nettlecombe Lane, Whitwell PO38 2AF 01983 730783 nettlecombefarm.co.uk

The Royal Hotel Belgrave Road, Ventnor PO38 1JJ 01983 852186 royalhoteliow.co.uk

*For T&Cs please see website for details

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accommodation & excellent freshly prepared food using local produce is on offer.

Undercliff Drive, Ventnor, Isle of Wight PO38 1UL FOLLOW THE A3055 FROM VENTNOR

visit www.botanic.co.uk for news & events 01983 855397 |

Follow us here

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SOUTH The Hambrough Hambrough Road, Ventnor PO38 1SQ 01983 856333 thehambrough.com This bar has amazing sea views & is open from 11.30am Tuesday to Saturday. Enjoy coffee & cake, traditional cream tea or traditional afternoon tea with a glass of bubbly.

The Ale & Oyster The Esplanade, Ventnor PO38 1JX 01983 857025 thealeandoyster.co.uk The Ale & Oyster Restaurant & Bar is located on Ventnor Esplanade with wonderful views of Ventnor Bay. The Beach Shack Steephill Cove, Ventnor PO38 1UG 07815 542277 thebeachshack-ventnor.co.uk This beach cafe is situated at the English Channel from its picturesque terrace. The Beach Shack serves a wide selection of freshly prepared sandwiches & salads, together also with pints of juicy prawns & homemade cakes.

The Bistro 30 Pier Street, Ventnor PO38 1SX 01983 853334 In the heart of Ventnor only a few yards from the sea you’ll find The Bistro. See, hear & smell what’s going on in the open kitchen serving traditional bistro style dishes.

The Buddle Inn St Catherines Road, Niton PO38 2NE 01983 730243 buddleinn.co.uk

Located in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty at the Island’s most southerly point, the Buddle Inn is commonly known as one of the Island’s most popular & historic inns frequented by locals & tourists alike. As soon as you step into this historic inn you will be taken back in time.

Cantina 20 High Street, Ventnor PO38 1RZ 01983 855988 cantinaventnor.co.uk Cantina is a café, restaurant, bakery & kitchen in the heart of sunny Ventnor. Cantina has its own bakery, where bread & pastries, sweet & savoury, are baked daily.

Edulis Restaurant Ventnor Botanic Garden, Undercliff Drive, Ventnor PO38 1UL 01983 855397 botanic.co.uk Edulis, means edible in Latin.

The relaxing space boasts huge picture windows that bring the lovely surroundings of the Mediterranean Garden inside The chefs work their magic creating ultra fresh cuisine sourced locally & picked fresh from the Garden.

The Plantation Room Ventnor Botanic Garden, Undercliff Drive, Ventnor PO38 1UL 01983 855397 botanic.co.uk The Plantation Room Café is open daily from 10am. Located on the top level of the Garden, this cosy café has a sheltered outdoor terrace which overlooks the historical Palm Garden. With free parking, the Plantation Room Café provides a wonderful retreat for customers who are looking for a hot drink & catch up with friends.

The Royal Hotel Dining Belgrave Road, Ventnor PO38 1JJ 01983 852186 royalhoteliow.co.uk Award-winning food open to everyone. Whether enjoying a light lunch in the beautiful conservatory or an intimate dinner for two in the romantic, lofty Royal Hotel Restaurant you will feast on exquisite local food, carefully matched wines & enjoy some well-deserved pampering.

The Spyglass Inn Esplanade, Ventnor PO38 1JX 01983 855338 thespyglass.com

end of Ventnor Esplanade, you couldn’t get much closer to the sea! Known for its excellent food, much is sourced locally from Island fishermen, farmers & growers. Live music is a key feature with bands on most nights. Stay in one of the comfortable apartments.

Ventnor Haven Fishery Eastern Esplanade, Ventnor PO38 1JR Ventnor is renowned for it’s quality crab & lobster, but Geoff & his team serve up a whole selection of daily catches which varies with the seasons & is prepared in the Fishery seven days a week.

Ventnor Winter Gardens Pier Street, Ventnor PO38 1SZ 01983 857757 theventnorwintergardens.com Situated high above the bay, Ventnor Winter Gardens commands some of the best views on the Island.

The Wight Mouse Inn Church Place, Chale PO38 2HA 01983 730431 wightmouse.co.uk The Wight Mouse is a family run freehouse with spectacular views out to the Needles, Tennyson Down & beyond with homecooked food, local ales & 10 letting rooms. They have a large garden with children’s outdoor play area & are very popular with walkers & cyclists exploring the Island. Live music twice a week & a monthly quiz.

Enjoying arguably the best pub location on the Island, The Spyglass Inn sits at the western

St Catherine’s Oratory

WIGHTLIFE.COM

Come and visit us! www.iowdonkeysanctuary.org

Over 80 donkeys Adopt a donkey Gift shop & café Entry & parking FREE Disabled access Groups & coaches welcome Free house

Andy & Cheryl welcome you to their family run 17th century coaching inn situated in the idyllic village of Chale on the Island’s most southerly point

Groom a donkey, donkey walking, donkey experiences can be booked. For information on regular weekend events, please see our website.

LL OPEN A UND O R R A YE 0PM .3 4 M 10A

these tside of (call ou be able ay m e w times e mmodat to acco you)

• Live music twice a week • Outdoor childrens’ play area

• • • •

Spectacular views Food served all day En-suite bedrooms Large car park

Church Place, Chale, IW, PO38 2HA 01983 730431 info@wightmouse.com www.wightmouse.co.uk

Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary Lower Winstone Farm, St John’s Road, Wroxall, Isle of Wight, PO38 3AA (Bus route 3) 01983 852693 info@iwdonkey-sanctuary.com

ba Free Entry All donations gratefully received

WIGHTLIFE.COM

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WEST

WEST

The West Wight is known for its uninterrupted views, miles of unspoiled countryside and expanses of the crashing sea below protruding cliffs.

The Wightlink ferry arrives in Yarmouth, a charming little harbour town where visitors meander as if there were no roads at all. The High Street consists of one delightful shop after another, culminating in Yarmouth Gallery, where artist Anne Toms displays fine art and craft, jewellery and greetings cards from locals as well as artists further afield.

Yarmouth has coffee shops for every mood and pubs around every corner. The atmospheric Bugle Coaching Inn at the town’s heart is roomy yet cosy, serving wholesome meals and local ales.

Children will be itching to get out and explore. Fort Victoria, just down the road is home to the most unexpected entertainment including a Planetarium, no less, as well as Sunken Secrets, a porthole to the world of wrecks and underwater landscapes. Train fans of every age will love the massive Model Railway, too.

Head along to Freshwater Bay to the home of pioneering photographer Julia Margaret Cameron. Now Dimbola Museum & Galleries, it tells the story of photography, as well, unexpectedly, as paying homage to the Isle of Wight Festival. Witness the unlikely presence of Jimi Hendrix in the garden of her Victorian home.

Just opposite the site of that original Festival is Tapnell Farm. There is indoor fun and jumping pillows, adventure sports and bike hire, all surrounding

Fishing from the sea wall at Freshwater Bay

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The Cow Co, the restaurant that celebrates the cow – after all, this is still a working farm.

You can stay at Tapnell Manor (with 20 of your closest friends) or in one of the safari tents, cabins or eco pods that come under the auspices of Tom’s Eco Lodge.

For all the acres of space in the west there aren’t too many campsites, but right on the stunning south west coast is Grange Farm with its own sandy beach and even a bizarre collection of animals, including micro-pigs and water buffalo. Or, handy from the Wightlink ferry, is Heathfield Farm, Freshwater, a well-landscaped, pretty site that makes the perfect base for exploration.

A gentle start might be at Calbourne Water Mill – so old it is mentioned in the Domesday Book. See flour ground, buy bags to take home, eat scones made from it and get creative in the Pottery Barn. New for 2016 is the crazy golf course so give that a go too while you’re there.

That trip to The Needles Landmark Attraction at Alum Bay, home of the famous coloured sands, won’t be far down on your itinerary. Children can walk on water or take a chairlift ride to the beach – or how about a boat trip?

Close by, overlooking the iconic Needles rocks, is the scene of secret wartime rocket testing, a modern usage of the Victorian coastal defences now in the hands of the National Trust. The Needles Old Battery and New Battery make for a fascinating visit.

displays turns pearl shopping into an experience. What’s more, you’ll be surprised at how reasonably priced these gems are. While you are deciding on what to purchase why not visit the café which has lovely views of the wild seas? Nearby there are welcoming pubs such as The Sun Inn at Hulverstone – thatched and inglenooked and the Highdown Inn, where the clue to the location is in the name.

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These are great stops or starts for lovely walks, and a trip to Mottistone Gardens, run by the The National Trust, combines the rugged scenery of the Downs with the exquisite beauty of formal gardens. The one morphs into the other, with rambling woodland on the way. These National Trust gardens sum up the mixture of everything on offer in the wild West.

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ENFR E e Co T E un R tr Y y

A short drive along the south coast road brings you to Isle of Wight Pearl, which with its well-informed staff and

The chairlift down to Alum Bay at The Needles Landmark Attraction

to

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A short walk or bus ride from Yarmouth

an all weather destination

Combined Attractions & Café Ticket

£10

Sunken Secrets • Model Railway • Planetarium • Robert Hooke Exhibition Verdi’s Café • Solar System Trail • Woodland Walks • Country Beach Fort Victoria Country Park , Westhill Lane, Yarmouth, PO41 0RR

www.fortvictoria.co.uk | 01983 761555 Please see our website for details and opening times

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GO the UK. Continental & British trains weave their magic through towns & villages. Working models. Shop for model rail enthusiasts. Suitable for all ages & disabled. Well behaved dogs permitted. Check website for Wight Cycle Hire are The Island’s opening times.

Cycle Hire Specialist with a Great Range of bikes including Isle of Wight Pearl Hybrids, Trekking, Mountain, Military Road, Brighstone Road, Electric, Tandems & Kids PO30 4DD Bikes. They offer an Island wide 01983 740352 delivery service. The hire centre iowpearl.com is at the beautifully restored Yarmouth Station, on the Discover classic & contemporary Yarmouth to Freshwater cycle way which follows the River Yar. collections with the Crown & Signature range. Explore beautiful, exclusive designer pearl jewellery; find bespoke designs from Isle of Wight DO student Naomi Spencer & the Chilton Collection, which uses Isle of Wight sand sourced just Calbourne Water Mill 50 yards from the showroom.

Newport Road, Calbourne While you’re there enjoy a PO30 4JN delicious lunch in the Pearl Cafe, 01983 531227 with homemade cream tea calbournewatermill.co.uk a speciality.

Wight Cycle Hire Yarmouth Station, Station Road, Yarmouth PO41 0QT 01983 761800 wightcyclehire.co.uk

The last fully working Watermill on the Island. Milling over 1,000 years. War museum, rural museum, fire station, new for 2016 Dragon Adventure Golf, pedalo & punting on the Mill stream, fun family clay-play, croquet, petanque. The Café serves fresh home cooked food, delicious cakes & cream teas.

They sell flour, oats, & muesli, freshly baked breads & pottery in the Café.

Dimbola Museum & Galleries Terrace Lane, Freshwater PO40 9QE 01983 756814 dimbola.co.uk Dimbola has been described as an ‘unexpected delight’ & the ‘best kept secret on the Isle of Wight’. There’s lots to see & do with permanent displays about the celebrated Victorian photographer, Julia Margaret Cameron, a programme of contemporary photography exhibitions & even a memorial to Jimi Hendrix in the garden.

There is also a delightful tearoom & gift shop.

Fort Victoria Model Railway Fort Victoria Country Park, Westhill Lane, Yarmouth PO41 0RR 01983 761553 fortvictoriamodelrailway.co.uk One of the largest model railways, open to the public, in WIGHTLIFE.COM

Mottistone Gardens Mottistone, Near Brighstone PO30 4ED 01983 741302 nationaltrust.org.uk/isleofwight A magical garden with colourful herbaceous borders, shrub-filled terraces & views to the sea.

Families can explore the garden with a Discovery Trail & also search for the hidden flowerpot men. National Trust tea garden, gift shop & plant sales, plus delightful walks on to the Downs & to the coast.

The Needles Landmark Attraction Alum Bay PO39 0JD 01983 752401 theneedles.co.uk The Isle of Wight’s best value family attraction with world famous coloured sand cliffs that overlook the Island’s famous landmark, The Needles Rock & Lighthouse. Offering guests free entry & a range of ‘pay as you go’ attractions, only pay to park your car. There is a variety of children’s activities from a traditional Victorian carousel, to the 4D family cinema.

The Needles New Battery West High Down, Alum Bay PO39 0JH 01983 754772 nationaltrust.org.uk/isleofwight The New Battery features the fascinating underground rooms which are home to the extraordinary exhibition about the top secret rocket-testing programme that was carried out here during the 1950s & ‘60s as part of Britain’s Race for Space during the height of the Cold War. It is now cared for by the National Trust. There’s also a refreshments kiosk.

The Needles Old Battery West High Down, Alum Bay PO39 0JH 01983 754772 nationaltrust.org.uk/isleofwight A spectacular cliff-top fort overlooking the Needles. Built in 1862, it is now cared for by the National Trust. The Battery’s amazing story is told in a series of newly recreated, atmospheric rooms, whilst cartoons by artist Geoff Campion illustrate the part it played in the history of modern Britain. Visit the 1940s style tea room.

Island Planetarium Fort Victoria Country Park, Westhill Lane, Yarmouth PO41 0RR 01983 761555 fortvictoria.co.uk Go on a journey through time & space in the full dome immersive theatre. Take some time before & after the show to explore the Space & Astronomy exhibition.

The Robert Hooke Exhibition celebrates Freshwater’s genius son, a great British scientist born in 1635. Please visit the website for details of shows, evening events, stargazing & opening times.

Sunken Secrets Fort Victoria Country Park, Westhill Lane, Yarmouth PO41 0RR 01983 761214 sunkensecrets. maritimearchaeologytrust.org Travel beneath the waves to find out about sunken secrets from the past. Our exhibitions tell stories about shipwrecks, battles at sea & human settlements previously on land but now hidden deep under

the surface. Come in to explore how divers work underwater, hear the history of a famous Island shipwreck & enjoy real archaeological artefacts rescued from the seafloor.

Tapnell Farm Newport Road, Yarmouth PO41 0YJ 01983 758722 tapnellfarm.com Tapnell Farm is a diversified working farm located in the beautiful West Wight countryside, where a range of attractions & accommodation are being opened. On site you will find The Cow Co Restaurant, Tapnell Farm Park, Tapnell Gallery & Gift Shop & Isle of Wight Adventure Activities, with places to stay at Tom’s Eco Lodge, Tapnell Manor & Tapnell Farm Cottages.

West Wight Alpacas Main Road, Wellow PO41 0SZ 01983 760900 westwightalpacas.co.uk 23-acres of picturesque countryside are home to a wonderful herd of unique suri alpacas & wooly & suri llamas.

Come trekking with these adorable animals, drop into the farm cafe & shop or simply take a leisurely stroll around the farm & watch alpacas roam. The award-winning breeders really know a thing or two about these rare animals.

Yarmouth Gallery Forresters Hall, High Street, Yarmouth PO41 0PL 01983 761424 yarmouthgallery.com A stylish contemporary art gallery just a short stroll from the harbour in Yarmouth High Street. Showing a rolling exhibition of British Craft with an emphasis on work by Island makers, alongside paintings & prints by resident artist Anne Toms & featured guest artists. The ethos is relaxed & welcoming & it has a great little card shop. Open all year.

THE LAST WORKING WATER MILL ON THE ISLE OF WIGHT Milling at 3pm daily except Saturday

FREE G IN PARK

ALL return visits FREE

PEDALOS & PUNTS PUTTING & PETANQUE POTTERY, CLAY PLAY COUNTRY MUSEUMS LOTS OF ACTIVITIES DISABLED ACCESS COME AND JOIN THE FUN!

LICENSED CAFE & GIFT SHOP

NEW FO R 2016 Advent ure Go lf

PO30 4JN 01983 531227 Open daily March - November, 10am - 5pm, under 5s FREE

www.calbournewatermill.co.uk

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The Bugle Inn The Square, Yarmouth PO41 0NS 01983 760272 thebugleinn.co.uk The Bugle Coaching Inn is a charming 16th century Hotel situated in the very heart of Yarmouth’s market square and a stone’s throw from the sea, harbour & Wightlink ferry port.

From the moment you step into this charming inn it’s like stepping back in time.

Chessell Café Brook Road, Yarmouth PO41 0UE 01983 531248 chessellpotterybarns.co.uk Awarded best Island Cream Tea for several years running.

your meal from the daily blackboard specials, & enjoy an excellent meal either at a table in the bar or in our sumptuous restaurant.

The Horse & Groom Main Road, Ningwood PO30 4NW 01983 760672 horse-and-groom.com This popular family pub has a characterful lounge & dining area, a large conservatory, pretty garden & children’s play area with climbing frame, bouncy castle & crazy golf. It offers an exciting menu that makes use of local produce. Food is served all day, including quality breakfasts from 9am. Great family pub approved by the Good Pub Guide.

The Cow Co Newport Road, Yarmouth PO41 0YJ 01983 758722 tapnellfarm.com

Julia’s Tearoom Dimbola Museum & Galleries, Terrace Lane, Freshwater Bay PO40 9QE 01983 756814 dimbola.co.uk

Beef & dairy specialist restaurant, serving a range of steaks, burgers, pies, seasonal salads, local ice creams & specialist cheeses.

Renowned for high-quality locally sourced food, tempting homemade cakes, delicious cream teas & traditional Sunday lunches.

The George Hotel Quay Street, Yarmouth PO41 0PE 01983 760331 thegeorge.co.uk Whichever of the two restaurants you dine in, you can be assured of the freshest & finest ingredients.

The Highdown Inn Highdown Lane, Totland PO39 0HY 01983 752450 highdowninn.com Set in outstanding natural Isle of Wight surroundings complimented by a rich history across the West of The Isle Of Wight. Mingle with the locals in our friendly bar whilst selecting WIGHTLIFE.COM

The Llama Tree West Wight Alpacas Main Road, Wellow PO41 0SZ 01983 760900 westwightalpacas.co.uk The Café Bistro has a wide range of coffees using beans from Peru & roasted on the Island, teas & cold drinks. Entry to the Café is free.

Macaroni’s Tearoom The Needles, Alum Bay PO39 0JD theneedles.co.uk Enjoy a refreshing cup of tea or speciality coffee, a range of sinful cakes & pastries & an extensive selection of soft drinks, cold beers & alcoholic beverages.

The New Inn Main Road, Shalfleet PO30 4NS 01983 531314 thenew-inn.co.uk

The Three Bishops Main Road, Brighstone PO30 4AH 01983 740226 threebishopspub.co.uk

Experience a traditional pub ambiance with attentive service.

The pub is proud to boast the use of fresh local produce, & an extensive list of wines & beers.

Off the Rails Station Road, Yarmouth PO41 0QT 01983 761600 offtherailsyarmouth.co.uk Railway restaurant situated perfectly beside the beautiful Mill Copse.

The Pearl Cafe Isle of Wight Pearl, Military Road, Brighstone PO30 4DD 01983 740352 iowpearl.com Settle down in the comfortable cafe & take in the stunning panoramic views across the English Channel.

PO41 Coffee House The Old Post Office, Quay Street, Yarmouth PO41 0PB 01983 761105 The former Post Office offers artisan coffees, luxury teas & scrumptious homemade cakes.

Sorenna Forresters Hall, High Street, Yarmouth PO41 0PL 01983 761413 sorenna.co.uk A dining experience that is sophisticated & fun, a seasonally changing menu & friendly service.

The Sun Inn Main Road, Hulverstone PO30 4EH 01983 741124 sunhulverstone.co.uk Set in beautiful countryside near Brook Chine on the South-West coast of the Isle of Wight. We have a huge beer garden & an outstanding view of the English Channel. We’re just minutes from the popular beach at Compton Bay & set in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The perfect stop-off point for walkers, cyclists & nature lovers!

Supermarkets The Co-operative Food Afton Road, Freshwater PO40 9UH 01983 758710 thesouthernco-operative.co.uk The Co-operative Food Avenue Road, Freshwater PO40 9UU 01983 754443 thesouthernco-operative.co.uk STAY Grange Farm Military Road, Brighstone PO30 4DA 01983 740296 grangefarmholidays.com Situated on the beautiful south-west coast with sea & countryside views and direct access to the local beach. The site is ideal for cycling, walking, fishing & fossil hunting. This is a small, family-run farm with friendly animals, including alpacas, pigs, goats, sheep, horses, donkeys, poultry, small pets & water buffalo.

Heathfield Farm Heathfield Road, Freshwater PO40 9SH 01983 407822 heathfieldcamping.co.uk A small family-run park in the rural West Wight, less than two miles from Yarmouth ferry port. The park is level & has 75 generously spaced marked pitches. The separate playing field is ideal for ball games & has two barbecue areas with picnic tables.

Tom’s Eco Lodge Newport Road, Yarmouth PO41 0YJ 01983 758722 tapnellfarm.com One of the Isle of Wight’s original glamping experiences, with luxury safari tents, wood cabins and cosy pods, all nestled in beautiful surroundings.

JULIA MARGARET CAMERON TR UST

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10% off

entry with this advert!

MUSEUM & GALLERIES

Home & workplace of pioneering Victorian photographer Julia Margaret Cameron Photography Exhibitions & Displays Victorian Dressing-up Room

FUN FOR ALL THE FAMILY

Isle of Wight Festival History Tearoom & Gift Shop

H A N D S - O N

ANIMAL ACTIVITIES

Reg. Charity No. 1026339

Grange Farm

AA 4 Pennant Holiday Park & Accommodation

Grange Farm, Brighstone Bay, PO30 4DA

David Bellamy Gold Award

INDOOR AND OUTDOOR PLAY

NEW FARM CAFÉ Tapnell Farm, Newport Road, Yarmouth, Isle of Wight, PO41 0YJ Come & stay at this beautiful farm on the stunning south west coast the perfect base for cycling, walking and fishing.

Choose from either centrally heated static caravans, camping pods or converted barns. Family-run with unusual, friendly, farm animals.

01983 740296 www.grangefarmholidays.com

www.tapnellfarmpark.com 01983 758722

Also at Tapnell Farm… The Cow Co Restaurant, Adventure Activities, Gallery & Gift Shop, Unique Places to Stay WIGHTLIFE.COM

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The North is surely the best-known part of the whole Island. Sometimes it seems visitors just stop here and don’t explore the rest.

For this is the home of sailing – and, of course, the royal retreat of the Isle of Wight’s most renowned resident of all, Queen Victoria.

If they’ve heard of nowhere else on the Island, visitors have always known about Cowes. If you’re a first-timer be sure to come via Gurnard, through the little community of wooden huts on the water, stopping for coffee or a delicious meal and enter Cowes as she should be approached, along the seafront.

Lions rampant and miniature cannons herald your entry and you know you’ve arrived at somewhere quite special.

Cowes is the hub of the sailing community thanks to the annual jamboree that is Cowes Week. For that week sailors and their yachts of all sizes and classes race on the Solent, and the streets bustle with visitors, pop-up shops and stalls, music and parties.

Those who only know Cowes Week, though, don’t really know Cowes. It is true designer heaven.

There are shops that specialise in quality and individuality, be it household goods, children’s books or jokey stationery.

Then there are interior design shops for zany pieces or understated shapes and colours; historic chandlers where you can almost see the ghosts of the customers of the past as well as a myriad outdoor clothing, footwear and sailing gear stores.

Where there are sailors there will be bars, and recent newcomers include a superior burger bar, The Harbour

The annual Round the Island Yacht Race which starts out from Cowes

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The elegant fountain in the grounds of Osborne

Kitchen that specialises in beers, bourbon and burgers, The Coast Bar & Dining Room serves locally-sourced seasonal food in a relaxed and welcoming setting, and recently awarded ‘Restaurant of the Year’ in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight… The Little Gloster.

Cowes is a town divided by the river that flows to the Island’s middle, and that split is charmingly bridged by a chain ferry. Here the giant hammerhead crane that dominates the harbour is just one reminder of the heavy industry on which Cowes was built.

The floating bridge is the quickest way to get to explore the rest of the region from East Cowes. Stop at the parish church of Whippingham and you start to get a feel,

from the warm tributes to her departed servants, of the overarching presence that was Queen Victoria.

Osborne, the house and grounds designed by Prince Albert for Queen Victoria is a must-visit for all. Once the couple’s summer home and country retreat, there is so much to do and see here that it shouldn’t be rushed. A tour of the house brings the loving royal couple to life, and the guides are knowledgeable and full of fascinating stories. Wander through the formal Italianate gardens – one of many fashions propagated by the royal couple – that reflect the original planting from Victoria’s time.

But there’s so much more. A fascinating insight into the lives of the princes and princesses can be found at the Swiss Cottage, a superior Wendy house if ever there was one, and the barracks where the princes played soldiers. And then there is the Queen’s own beach, from which she rolled out in her bathing machine to swim. The beach is now open to all, but it’s not just at Osborne that you can experience your own touch of the grand life. The Albert Cottage Hotel was once a part of the royal estate and this 10 bedroom property has all the sumptuous grandeur that you’d expect as one of her majesty’s entourage. Book a suite for the family, explore the delightful grounds and relish the peace – just as Queen Victoria did.

If you’re looking for some traditional family-friendly accommodation, Thorness Bay is a great self-catering park with entertainment for all. The private beach also provides the perfect spot for a day of paddling, swimming and beach games.

The famous Cowes Week fireworks

The North of the Isle of Wight is also home to Wightlink’s main vehicle service from Portsmouth to Fishbourne. The port is the perfect gateway to the rest of the Isle of Wight, ideally situated for exploring far and wide.

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St Mildred’s Church, Whippingham St Mildred’s is potentially the church on the Isle of Wight with the strongest connection to Royalty, which is hardly surprising considering it’s proximity to Osborne. The plans for the church that stands today were drawn up by Queen Victoria’s husband, Prince Albert to replace the 19th Century church that stood on the site originally.

The church overlooks the River Medina and is arguably the most famous of Isle of Wight churches. It draws visitors to see its host of Royal treasures including Battenberg Chapel, a shrine to Prince Battenburg who is buried at the church with his wife, Princess Beatrice, Queen Victoria’s daughter.

Another interesting treasure is the Royal Pew, Queen Victoria’s original chair which is surrounded by memorial tablets that the Queen placed herself to honour relatives.

The Anchor is situated in the heart of Cowes town centre & its bustling yachting scene.

It is the ideal place to relax after a hard day on the waves.

The Anchor offers good hearty food, traditional ales & a warm welcome all year round.

GO Hire a Twizy 9 Britannia Way, Cowes PO31 7AR 01983 626040 Hireatwizyisleofwight.co.uk New to the Isle of Wight for 2016. Unique 2 seater electric cars are now available for hire with charge points located around the Island. This is a new and fun way to explore the Isle of Wight.

DO Osborne York Avenue, East Cowes PO32 6JX 01983 200022 english-heritage.org.uk/osborne Once Queen Victoria’s seaside home where she spent time with her large family, the house was designed by her beloved husband, Prince Albert & is a must-visit attraction. There is so much to see, from the sumptuous Royal Apartments, taking a glimpse at royal family life, to the magnificent walled kitchen garden, & a museum where the royal children once played.

The Wight Military & Heritage Museum Newport Road, Cowes PO31 8QU 01983 632039 iow-charm.org.uk WIGHTLIFE.COM

The Anchor Inn 1-3 High Street, Cowes PO31 7SA 01983 292823 theanchorcowes.co.uk

Come & enjoy the military exhibits in the museum halls.

Relax in the licensed Mess Bar, decorated with RAF memorabilia. Enjoy a coffee or a selection of beers & wines.

STAY Albert Cottage Hotel York Avenue, East Cowes PO32 6BD 01983 299309 albertcottagehotel.com Once part of Queen Victoria’s Estate, the Grade II listed building is now a stylish ten bedroom boutique hotel, ideal for quiet getaways, business trips & as a base for exploring the Island. The hotel & restaurant is a perfect venue for weddings, celebrations, meetings & conferences.

Thorness Bay Holiday Park Thorness Lane, Thorness, Cowes PO31 8NJ 0843 561 1669 park-resorts.com Thorness Bay is a huge hit with all those who stay there. Spread out across fields, the Park is framed on one side by the sea with stunning views. Enjoy a relaxing stroll to the bottom of the Park and you’ll find the bay; perfect for watching the boats sail by.

The Fishbourne Fishbourne Lane, Fishbourne PO33 4EU 01983 882823 thefisbourne.co.uk The Fishbourne is situated just along from the Wightlink, Fishbourne – Portsmouth Ferry Terminal, near Ryde on the east side of the Island. They pride themselves in offering quality dining in a pub environment, matched with superb ales & an extensive wine selection. AA Dining Awards to 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014 & 2015.

The Lifeboat Inn Britannia Way, East Cowes PO32 6UB 01983 292711 thelifeboatcowes.co.uk Food at The Lifeboat is a speciality. They’ve created the perfect balance of modern contemporary cuisine from around the world. The menu, alondside daily specials, offer diners a wealth of options to suit all tastes.

The New Holmwood Hotel Queens Road, Cowes PO31 8BW 01983 292508 newholmwoodhotel.co.uk

Situated on the water’s edge the Best Western New Holmwood Hotel & Restaurant enjoys spectacular sea views of both sailing & the famous sunset off Egypt Point. The restaurant offers panoramic views of the Solent & all the ships that sail it. Open to non-residents as well for luncheon & dinner, the produce superb, freshly cooked cuisine using locally sourced produce where possible.

The Yachtsman Osborne Court, The Parade, Cowes PO31 7QS 01983 299618 characterinns.co.uk The latest addition to the Character family of pubs located on the promenade in Cowes , The Yachtsman is a landmark character pub - fully refurbished and open early May 2016. It offers the finest surroundings morning, noon or night - with CAMRA real ales and a large terrace overlooking the Solent & mainland beyond.

The Yachtsman is highly recommended.

Supermarkets Aldi Newport Road, Cowes PO31 8BF aldi.co.uk The Co-operative Food 155 Mill Hill Road, Cowes PO31 7EL 01983 289868 thesouthernco-operative.co.uk Marks & Spencer Simply Food Terminus Road, Cowes PO31 7XH marksandspencer.com

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Relax in the licensed Mess Bar decorated with RAF memorabilia & enjoy our speciality coffees & a selection of beers & wines.

Check us out on iow-charm.org.uk, follow us on Facebook or call 01983 632039 for more details registered charity 1159529

Northwood Camp, 490 Newport Road, Cowes, PO31 8QU

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www.albertcottagehotel.com York Avenue, East Cowes PO32 6BD • Tel: 01983 299309

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Bang in the centre of the Island is Newport, the compact county town built on The River Medina.

Thanks to its watery position the town retains a relaxed atmosphere amidst the bustle.

Watch the swans and seagulls from the Quay, or pop in for a drink at The Bargeman’s Rest, known for good food, well-kept beer and good local entertainment. On a hot summer’s day, the patio overlooking the river is perfect for a spot of lunch.

Amid the expected stores and cafés in the town, there are plenty distinctive to Newport. Caffé Isola could be lifted straight from Italy; the coffee and atmosphere are authentic. Small hotels can be found, too, and Grade II listed One Holyrood, a B&B in a quaint part of town, oozes atmosphere with its period detail.

So if you’ve come to the Isle of Wight hoping to step back in time, the Centre of the Island certainly won’t disappoint.

Remember days out when there was something for all ages? Well, at Arreton Barns in the delightful Arreton Valley there are shipwrecks and sweets, real crafts being demonstrated, and The Corn Exchange store for remarkable niche gifts. There is even an on site ‘local’, The Dairyman’s Daughter, for food prepared from local ingredients, many from the farm shop on site.

Another must-visit just outside Newport is the Island’s famed Garlic Farm. Getting there is a little adventure in itself, down a narrow swoopy road where the farm is truly gorgeous in its rusticity. The experience of eating in the award-winning restaurant and shopping for products that push the culinary boundaries cannot be beaten. It really is a garlic-lover’s paradise.

Looking down on St Thomas Square at the heart of Newport

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The wealth of history and heritage that the Island has to offer often surprises visitors and English Heritage-owned Carisbrooke Castle is just one of the historical buildings waiting to be explored. The castle once kept King Charles I prisoner – he tried to escape but was thwarted – and while walking the grounds children can try on chainmail or even climb the walls while all ages love the walled garden.

For a family day out with a true sense of the gentle beauty of the Island visit Robin Hill Country Park. Set in 88 acres of beautiful countryside, Robin Hill boasts a whole day of entertainment and more. With great rides – including the quarter mile toboggan, falconry displays from the UK’s most experienced falconry teams, and adventure play for fun-loving families and children, plus relaxing woodland gardens, ponds and walks for discerning adults to enjoy – there’s something for everyone.

OPEN ALL YEAR SHOPS OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK · LARGE FREE CAR PARK

Large Gift & Fashion Shops · Landscaped Gardens

STYLE INTERIORS - www.styleinteriors.co.uk Thatched cottages in Godshill

A favourite day out for all is at the Monkey Haven, which this year is celebrating the Chinese year of the monkey with special events and promotions. Started simply as a rescue centre for primates and owls, it is now an awardwinning attraction thanks to its sensitive response to the needs of its inhabitants and visitors alike. Staying with the animal theme, Amazon World Zoo Park is home to around 200 different species and the clever layout that leads you inside and out means you can’t help but get up close and personal to birds, mammals and reptiles.

If looking, or even touching, is not enough, will riding make your holiday complete? The Allendale Equestrian Centre offers lessons for all from beginners to experienced riders. Its position on a bridleway means visitors are immersed in beautiful surroundings.

Adjacent is the pretty traditional village of Godshill – one which is even more delightful when seen in miniature at The Model Village. You may need to plan your exit strategy though as little ones are notoriously hard to drag away from the working miniature trains.

Perhaps an ice cream would do it. Or cake. Pubs and cafés are abundant in the village and The Old Smithy’s café is never without a mouth-watering display of oversized meringues and gateaux. Its on site shops have a wealth of out of the ordinary gifts, stunning homeware and quality branded clothing.

COFFEE SHOP - Homemade Cakes & Lunches - delicious!

And if you’re looking for some locally produced food to take home, drop into House of Chilli for products that could well blow your mind: ‘Psycho Juice’ surely comes with a health warning? Milder jams and chutneys are available too for those who aren’t so used to the heat.

Let’s face it, being on holiday is all about eating and drinking. The Chequers Inn in Rookley is known for its character, food and its cellar. Stay for B&B and the rooms are olde worlde with mod cons. This is a great centre for walks, too, so grab your map at the bar, and explore.

Tel: 01983 840364

www.theoldsmithy.com WIGHTLIFE.COM

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Arreton Barns Craft Centre and St George’s church

DO Allendale Equestrian Centre Newport Road, Godshill PO38 3LY 01983 840258 allendale-ec.co.uk

Arreton Barns Main Road, Arreton PO30 3AA 01983 528353 arretonbarns.co.uk

In the heart of the Isle of Wight this riding centre is perfectly situated on a bridle path, enabling you to ride for miles off-road, on bridleways & along country lanes. It offers pub & picnic rides, lessons from novice to experienced riders, introductory 30/30 sessions for beginners/improvers & a weekend riding club perfect for ages 7–17.

Arreton Barns is the Island’s largest centre for arts & crafts. Home to more than 10 art & craft studios, open 7 days a week with ample free parking. Showcasing some of the best in local artists & craftspeople. Browse local shops to find interesting & individual gift ideas, then enjoy local homemade food, fine wines & real ales in the traditional Dairyman’s Daughter pub.

Amazon World Watery Lane, Arreton PO36 0LX 01983 867122 amazonworld.co.uk Amazon World Zoo Park is the Island’s largest collection of exotic animals with more mammals, birds, fish, reptiles & insects than anywhere else on the Isle of Wight. This multiaward winning zoo offers you animals, fauna & flora, a large Jurassic Playground, café & snack shack, making this is a great day out come rain or shine.

WIGHTLIFE.COM

Carisbrooke Castle Castle Hill, Newport PO30 1XY 01983 522107 english-heritage.org.uk/ carisbrooke This storybook castle is steeped in history. Once the prison of Charles I & the official residence of the Island’s Governor, the castle is now a fascinating historical attraction. It is also home to the Carisbrooke Donkeys, who happily demonstrate how donkeys turned the treadwheel in the well house in the 17th century.

There are interactive displays & virtual tours.

Newport Minster In the centre of the Isle of Wight’s county town, Newport, the Minster towers above all over buildings in the pedestrianised St Thomas’ Square. A striking Victorian church built in 1854, the Minster sits on a site that has been a place of worship for over 800 years.

After King Charles I’s execution, it is said that his daughter, Princess Elizabeth, who at the time was imprisoned at nearby Carisbrooke Castle, died of a broken heart and was buried in the Chancel of Newport Minster. When the church was rebuilt, a white marble memorial to the Princess in the shape of a tomb was place in the North Aisle where it still lies today.

A country pub in the heart of the Isle of Wight - Traditional character with modern facilities

For the children On selected days we have a bouncy castle.

Extensive outside play area, games room, pool table & arcade games

Stay with us Owners Sue & Richard Holmes offer three stunning bedrooms for bed & breakfast, perfect for that cosy getaway or a well needed family holiday.

1 Family room • 2 Double rooms All rooms ensuite • Breakfast included

Our food We have an extensive menu, as well as daily specials. All steak & beef dishes are made using meat from our own Angus herd and other local farms where possible. Look out for our lamb and goat weekends.

Our carvery Our famous carvery is served: Monday to Friday 12 - 2pm Wednesday & Thursday 6 - 9pm Saturday 12 - 3pm Sunday 12 - 9pm

Standard Carvery £8.95 Small Carvery £7.45

Call 01983 840314 to book a table or enquire about B&B Facebook “f ” Logo

Niton Road, Rookley, Isle of Wight, PO38 3NZ chequersinn-iow.co.uk

CMYK / .eps

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/The-Chequers-Inn

@ChequersInnPub

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The Garlic Farm Mersley Lane, Newchurch PO36 0NR 01983 865378 thegarlicfarm.co.uk

Monkey Haven Staplers Road, Newport PO30 2NB 01983 530885 monkeyhaven.org

Get the full garlic experience at the home of the UK, garlic set in a wonderful location tucked into the foot of the Mersley Downs.

The farm shop overflows with garlic of all varieties - chutneys, relishes, garlic beer & garlic ice cream! Discover everything you ever wanted to know about garlic, enjoy free tastings & incredible food in the restaurant.

There’s lots of fun for everyone at Monkey Haven. It’s a happy home to gibbons, capuchins, meerkats, birds of prey & many more exotic creatures. Monkey Haven is a Gold Award-winning attraction, with plenty for you to see & do. Plus you’ll love the daily keeper talks, animal feeds, play areas & tea room. Your ticket will be valid for seven days! Swing by & see them soon.

House of Chilli Holliers Farm, Branstone PO36 0LT 01983 866313 houseofchilli.com A hothouse of chilli inspired creativity. Visitors can sample a wide range of products, from mild to wild. They also have for sale an astonishing range of chilli products including sauces, balsamics, snacks, dried mixes, chutneys, fudge, chocolate, vodka & even beer. Families are encouraged to experience the shop together. There is ample free parking.

The Old Smithy High Street, Godshill PO38 3HZ 01983 840364 theoldsmithy.com In the heart of Godshill, The Old Smithy boasts a variety of well-stocked gift shops, including fashion brands & home interiors.

Browse in the Old Forge & Cottage, stroll through the landscaped garden with its pixie & fairy grottos (which have seen the return of the Godshill Witch) & enjoy lunch or mouthwatering cakes in the coffee shop.

Island Gems The Cottage, High Street Godshill, PO38 3HZ 01983 740493 island-gems.co.uk

Robin Hill Country Park Downend, Nr Newport PO30 2NU 01983 527352 robin-hill.com

Island Gems offers a range of natural fossils, gemstones, amber & jewellery. With prices starting at just 50p, we have something to suit every pocket.

The multi award-winning fossil hunting trips are available all year round. Trips last two hours & everything found can be kept.

Spaces are limited so we do recommend booking in advance to avoid disappointment.

Robin Hill, including the ‘Electric Woods’, is the destination for visitors of all ages looking for outdoor fun, adventure & great family experiences. This award-winning attraction boasts a whole days entertainment with great rides – including the quarter mile downhill toboggan, falconry displays, adventure play & relaxing woodland gardens.

Don’t miss our entertaining Squawk birds!

Fun for all can be had at Bestival – held at Robin Hill Country Park

STAY One Holyrood B&B 1 & 2 Holyrood Street, Newport PO30 5AU 01983 521717 oneholyrood.co.uk

Rookley Country Park Main Road, Rookley PO38 3LU 01983 721606 islandviewholidays.co.uk

Stay in this Grade II listed B&B in the heart of Newport. All the rooms have been individually designed with quality, luxury, character & comfort as a priority. The Tea Rooms are open serving a wide range of delicious home cooked cakes, salads, sandwiches & a delicious traditional Afternoon Tea.

At Island View Holidays they’ve a range of holiday parks to suit every kind of holiday maker.

Take your pick of their luxury self-catering caravans at Rookley Country Park or St Helens Holiday Park, or for that home from home feel we have a host of small Cottages at Rookley Country Park & Colwell Bay.

The Model Village High Street, Godshill PO38 3HH 01983 840270 modelvillagegodshill.co.uk New for 2016 – RHS Partner Garden. This unique attraction takes you back to the halcyon days of Island life. Our faithful recreations are painstakingly crafted with little Islanders adding a touch of humour. Take the Family Quiz challenge.

Open daily from 7th March –29th October.

Restored warehouses on Newport Quay

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The Bargeman’s Rest Little London Quay, Newport PO30 5BS 01983 525828 bargemansrest.com Sitting on Newport Quay overlooking the River Medina, The Bargeman’s Rest is one of Newport’s few Island family run free-houses. The walls of the pub are loaded with maritime memorabilia & pictures.

Traditional home-cooked food with a focus on local produce where possible. Many events throughout the year including live music, ale festivals & even pub theatre!

Blacksmiths Arms Calbourne Road, Newport PO30 5SS 01983 529263 blacksmiths-arms.co.uk The Blacksmith’s Arms is a traditional family-run Freehouse with an Island-wide reputation for excellent food & drink. The pub is located just outside the village of Carisbrooke. It benefits from panoramic views stretching across miles of open countryside to the Western Solent. You can even enjoy these breathtaking views whilst sampling our menu in the restaurant.

The Breeze Island Harbour, Mill Lane, Newport PO30 2LA 01983 533388 The Breeze Restaurant & Bar is set within the beautiful surroundings of Island Harbour Marina. Offering a wide selection of delicious home-cooked foods, all of which can be enjoyed either inside the restaurant or outside on the heated veranda.

Open daily, serving breakfast, lunch & dinner, using locally sourced produce to ensure quality & taste.

Traditional hand-made pies made from Brownrigg meat & poultry – grass fed & free range. Tasty, filling & local Island provenance individual, pasties & pie mash n’ liquor made at Brownrigg Farm Shop & Cafe.

Caffé Isola 59 Pyle Street, Newport PO30 1UL 01983 524800 caffe-isola.co.uk Caffé Isola has long been regarded as one of the Island’s finest artisan coffee stops. Run

by Dan Burgess & his Sicilian wife Viviana, the coffee bar is centred around their “Island Roasted” brand which Dan roasts by hand & Viviana’s authentic Italian influenced food, based on Italian Panini Bar ethos. They also offer a wide range of retail products.

The Chequers Inn Niton Road, Rookley PO38 3NZ 01983 840314 chequersinn-iow.co.uk This country pub at the heart of the Island has many modern facilities, yet still retains its traditional character. The chefs provide good home-cooked food all day, every day including a very popular carvery. All steaks & beef dishes are produced using meat from the landlord’s own Angus herd when available. It is family friendly with activities for children.

The Dairyman’s Daughter Arreton Barns, Main Road, Arreton PO30 3AA 01983 539361 arretonbarns.co.uk

The Dairyman’s Daughter sits in the heart of the ancient village of Arreton with its 12th century church & beautiful pond. Village memorabilia decorate the walls Isle of Wight Pies & the menu of home-cooked Brownrigg’s Farm Shop, Newport dishes showcases the produce Road, Godshill fresh from Arreton Valley. Live PO38 3LY music is on offer most nights of 01983 840191 the week plus weekly quiz & folk music nights.

WIGHTLIFE.COM

Island Roasted The family business, the Isle of Wight Espresso Company, was started over 15 years ago to fill a gap in the Island’s speciality coffee market. Dan Burgess opened Caffé Isola in Newport in 2006 with an emphasis on advising customers from first hand experience. “That’s when we started to experiment with roasting our own coffee,” explains Dan. The first batch went into production in 2010 and since then, the demand for ‘Island Roasted’ coffee has grown considerably.

“Roasting coffee is as much an art as it is a science,” says Dan. “We hand roast our coffees in small batches using drum roasters to allow the coffee time to develop its true flavour.” The latest technology is used to visualise and meticulously record all aspects of the roast so that is can be referred back to, ensuring consistency for future batches.

The family source only the highest quality coffees: “Ethical and sustainable coffees are premium and exactly what we look for as a craft roaster. Direct trade routes are used where possible, through specialist suppliers ensuring the producer receives the highest price for their dedication.”

There is a range of high quality espresso blends which can be sampled in cafés and restaurants all across the Island with the option of private label for customers seeking something bespoke.

Dan and his team are passionate about supporting other local businesses too: “We work closely with other Island companies like Briddlesford Lodge Farm whose milk is great for latte art and Goddards who produce a Mocha Stout using our Mocha Espresso blend.”

Their coffee has even been awarded Wight Marque status, a scheme to highlight local products and venues that are genuinely produced here on the Isle of Wight.

3 Award Winning Holiday Parks Colwell Bay Holiday Cottages l Rookley Country Park l St Helens Holiday Park

Island View Holidays

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At Island View Holidays our parks are perfect for short breaks and fun family holidays. All of our parks are located in some of the most beautiful locations across the island with easy access to all ferry ports l Luxurious cottages l Restaurant & bars l Picnic & barbecue areas l Hot tub holidays l Heated swimming pools l Launderette l Spacious caravans l Open all year* l Pet friendly accommodation *Please note: opening times and facilities vary at each park * Terms & Conditions Apply

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01983 897047

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Find out more at: www.islandviewholidays.co.uk/own-your-own or talk to our Holiday Homes team on: 01983 898360

Caffe Isola

OPEN 7 WEEK Y DA S A

FREE N& ADMISSIO !

PARKING

artisan coffee & italian panini bar

producing the islands finest coffees, homemade cakes & freshly prepared food large retail range of hand roasted coffee, leaf teas and equipment for home use scan to find us!

f

Caffe-Isola

@Caffe_Isola

www.islandroasted.co.uk

island roasted artisan coffee from the isle of wight

Newport, Isle of Wight, Tel 01983 524800

The Dairyman’s Daughter Free house, serving home cooked food, fine wines & real ale Main Road, Arreton, PO30 3AA � 01983 528353

arretonbarns.co.uk WIGHTLIFE.COM

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CENTRAL

Carisbrooke Castle

The Griffin High Street, Godshill PO38 3JD 01983 840039 thegriffiniow.co.uk The Griffin is a large stone-built inn that dates back to the 17th century. It is known for its great home-cooked dishes & for the trademark griffin-shaped maze set in its pleasant gardens.

The Pointer Inn High Street, Newchurch PO36 0NN 01983 865202 pointernewchurch.co.uk Whether you’re here for a beer or a bite to eat, you’ll always leave The Pointer with a smile.

WIGHTLIFE.COM

They’ve won numerous awards for fabulously fresh ales & gained a following through a different approach to pub food.

It’s the unique bartering system that helps us bring the Island’s best produce to our kitchen.

The Taverners High Street, Godshill PO38 3HZ 01983 840707 thetavernersgodshill.co.uk

The Co-operative Food 52 High Street, Carisbrooke PO30 1NR 01983 521131 thesouthernco-operative.co.uk

The Taverners is a real country pub that is popular with locals & tourists alike. They buy their produce daily depending on what is available at the markets & farms.

Morrisons South Street, Newport PO30 1JQ morrisons.com

Supermarkets The Co-operative Food Main Road, Rookley PO38 3NY 01983 721326 thesouthernco-operative.co.uk

Sainsbury’s Foxes Road, Newport PO30 5ZB sainsburys.co.uk

Table Table Seaclose, Fairlee Road, Newport PO30 2DN 01983 825082 tabletable.co.uk Medina Quay serves a seasonal menu of freshly cooked, classic pub food. Our pretty outside area offers serene views over the River Medina & is perfect for al fresco dining, while the inside is ideal for a relaxing meal with family or friends.

The Chequers Inn, Rookley

MEET THE

GRIVETS

‘When we saw the photos of these poor little creatures, our hearts melted’

Come and meet the adorable Grivets, playing happily in their new home at Monkey Haven. It’s hard to believe it, looking at them now, but these beautiful creatures, with their white tufty whiskers and cheeky little faces, have endured terrible suffering. alta is named after the airport where he was found, wrapped in a bag, having being smuggled in from his native Libya.

To prevent him from making any noise, he was bound up in cloth and tape. The other three Grivets have equally sad histories. Little Pepper has weak and crooked bones, from being kept in cramped conditions. Angèle was rescued from a small private zoo, following multiple complaints about her welfare. Soma is a former pet and lived in a tiny parrot cage, until she was confiscated by the Police. All four now display abnormal behaviours and personality defects that mean that they can never return to the wild.

A Dutch organisation, AAP, spent over three years working closely with the animals

M Malta was discovered bound up in a bag

to turn the frightened collection of Grivets into a sociable, functioning group. They asked Monkey Haven if they could provide them with a permanent home at their sanctuary on the Isle of Wight. Monkey Haven asked the public for support, as they are a charity and don’t receive any state funding.

Don Walser, Founder of Monkey Haven, commented: “A huge thanks to everyone who responded to 2015’s Grivet Appeal.

These special monkeys can now live the rest of their lives in a peaceful, enriched environment.

“When we saw the photos of these poor little creatures, our hearts melted – and to see them here now is a real joy. I hope you’ll come and visit us all soon!”

ey

ate

Staplers Road, Newport, Isle Of Wight, PO30 2NB Tel 01983 530885 monkeyhaven.org /monkeyhaven / MonkeyIOW

& celebr

2016 the Mo

nk

of

r

Monkey Haven is a registered charity for the rescue and recovery of primates in need. Please support their work by visiting Malta and his friends.

Yea

Monkey Haven is the #1 attraction on the Isle of Wight (TripAdvisor 2015).

Meet mischievous monkeys, beautiful birds, cheeky meerkats and reptiles.

There are daily keeper talks and animal feeds, where you can find out more about the Grivets and the other awesome animals.

Children will love the play areas plus there’s a café and gift shop.

Com e

SWING BY AND SAY HELLO

Registered Charity no. 1153254

94

PORTSMOUTH

P O RT S M O U T H

The Marie Rose Museum at The Royal Historic Dockyard

The second largest city in Hampshire, Portsmouth is dynamic, vibrant and packed with great reasons to visit. So whether you are on your way to or from the Isle of Wight or just fancy a day trip, be sure to allow time to explore this amazing South Coast city.

Rich maritime heritage Portsmouth is steeped in maritime history with its proud naval heritage and one of the best ways to trace the origins of the Royal Navy is by visiting Portsmouth Historic Dockyard.

Exhibiting over 800 years of naval history within the surroundings of its working docks you can visit Admiral Lord Nelson’s HMS Victory the world’s oldest commissioned warship, or discover the story of the Mary Rose which was raised from the seabed off the coast of Portsmouth in 1982.

The coast and seafront of Portsmouth have played a large part in national and international history. Here, you’ll find the D-Day Museum which is the UK’s only museum dedicated to the Normandy landings that took place during the Second World War. You’ll also discover Southsea Castle, built by Henry VIII, as well as many historic forts, follies, towers and the Royal Marines Museum.

Family-friendly activities One thing Portsmouth is not short of is great world-class attractions. Start with a superb view of the city and miles around from the top of the iconic Emirates Spinnaker Tower which stretches 170 metres high. While offering one of the best views available in the British Isles, come rain or shine, the Tower lets you discover one of the most fascinating seascapes, spanning 23 miles and over 1,700 years of history. If you’re brave enough, venture across the amazing glass Sky Walk with virtually nothing between you and the waves below. The Café in the Clouds, 150 metres above the harbour, offers a great selection of food and drink to enjoy with some stunning views of the city and across the Solent to the Isle of Wight.

The HMS Victory at The Royal Historic Dockyard

WIGHTLIFE.COM

Enjoy close encounters with sharks and rays and stroll among colourful inhabitants of a coral reef in the underwater tunnel at Blue Reef Aquarium or just enjoy the miles of waterfront and beaches.

PORTSMOUTH

95

NEW

VIEW

INTE

The view from the top of the Emirates Spinnaker Tower

A spot of retail therapy Perhaps you fancy exploring Portsmouth’s shopping potential? In which case, Gunwharf Quays is a great place to start. Just a short five minute walk from both the Wightlink passenger and vehicle ferries to the Isle of Wight, Gunwharf Quays is home to over 90 premium retail outlet stores and if you love to shop then there really is no better place. As well as the famous brands including Polo Ralph Lauren, Michael Kors, Hackett London and Coast, Gunwharf Quays has an array of bars, coffee shops and restaurants to choose from. If you want even more from your visit, there’s a cinema, Bowlplex, contemporary art gallery, nightclub and casino.

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20% OFF ADMISSION* *Travel ticket must be presented at Emirates Spinnaker Tower ticket desk within 7 days of travel date shown. Discount off standard admission tickets only.

Gunwharf Quays, Portsmouth PO1 3TT T: 02392 857520

WWW.SPINNAKERTOWER.CO.UK

If independent shopping is more your thing, then head to Southsea, which is packed with antique stores, vintage clothing and a true bohemian feel.

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Gunwharf Quays with a view of the Emirates Spinnaker Tower behind

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PORTSMOUTH

Culture and the arts Portsmouth has an amazing cultural offer with magnificent theatres, live music venues, contemporary art galleries, two cathedrals, a rich literary heritage, galleries, nightclubs, events and festivals throughout the year. Whatever your idea of culture is, Portsmouth has got it covered.

Treat yourself to a night at the theatre. Portsmouth has two major theatres and a range of smaller venues. The Kings Theatre in Southsea is one of the most complete Matcham Theatres in the country and plays host to touring West End productions and a varied programme of opera, ballet, drama and music. The New Theatre Royal is a majestic venue in the heart of the city, home to cutting edge dance, theatre, drama, music and comedy.

There’s an ever-changing programme of art exhibitions across the city in galleries, community centres and outdoor areas. Visit Aspex Gallery in Gunwharf Quays, offering an outstanding exhibition programme featuring works by contemporary artists from around the world. Showcasing the latest in contemporary art, Aspex is also a great place to see Portsmouth’s freshest artistic talent. Portsmouth Museum’s fine and decorative art gallery has changing displays mixing paintings, prints, sculptures, ceramics, furniture, glass and textiles, reflecting over 500 years of artistic creation.

Discover more about Portsmouth at visitportsmouth.co.uk

Inside The Kings Theatre, Southsea

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TO

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98

LYMINGTON & THE NEW FOREST

L YMING T O N & THE NEW F O R E S T

Walking in the New Forest

With beauty that rivals anywhere else in the UK, the New Forest is unbelievably charming and this vast space is evocative of a world gone by.

The New Forest National Park is vibrant and completely unlike anywhere else in Britain, so it’s the perfect spot for stopping off before or after your trip to the Isle of Wight.

Take the opportunity to drive along the woody roads, rattle over the cattlegrids and gaze longingly at the beautiful open landscapes while on your way to the Wightlink ferry that crosses the Solent from Lymington.

Explore the outdoors Possibly the ultimate playground whatever your age, the New Forest offers some excellent outdoor activities, allowing you to really make the most of the fresh, country air. Whether it’s a brisk walk along one of the many trails, an adrenaline-inducing cycle or even a horse ride, there’s an activity to suit all abilities.

There are over 100 miles of marked cycle tracks over these former Royal hunting grounds and, picnic in the pannier, water by the wheel, the whole family can be challenged to pitch between valleys and rises, or simply ride along quiet lanes where cars are limited to 40mph.

There are many cycle hire shops and one of the most prominent, stuffed full of every type of bike to buy or hire, is the New Forest Cycle Hire shop in Burley, the bustling village alive with intriguing shops and tea rooms right bang in the middle of the Forest. Or step off the train at Brockenhurst and pick up your bike at Cyclexperience.

Once in the saddle, off you go!

New Forest ponies

Kayaking up the Beaulieu River

WIGHTLIFE.COM

The New Forest ponies are something of a draw for visitors.

They roam freely along roads and through towns within the New Forest, some as large as Brockenhurst and have as much right to walk free as any human visiting the area.

The wildlife to be seen in the New Forest doesn’t stop at ponies. With huge areas of forest and grassland, there is a great selection of birds and animals to be spotted. If you’re visiting in autumn, you could even come across pigs that are turned out to graze on the acorns that are poisonous to ponies and cattle.

LYMINGTON & THE NEW FOREST

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A night under canvas For the best way to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the New Forest, try a few nights under canvas. There are 10 campsites within the New Forest National Park and while five are designed to encourage a true encounter with nature, the others offer abundant clean facilities and a civilised introduction for the hesitant-under-canvas.

Once the tent is set up, you’ve had a cup of tea and the sleeping bag is waiting to be clambered into at night, there is a wealth of activities and attractions to keep you going during the day.

Motor Museum If you think you may have pushed the children as far as they’ll go down the scenery route or historical place, then take some time out to visit Beaulieu Motor Museum.

Whether their interest is in vehicles old, new or bizarre – there’s a whacky Top Gear exhibition and a fun monorail too – there’s something for everyone. Beaulieu Palace House is also open to the public and the cream teas are not to be missed.

A Georgian market town Lymington, with a population of approximately 14,000, sits on the southern edge of the New Forest and is renowned as a sailing resort. The town is picturesque with its cobbled street leading from the harbour and if you’re visiting on a Saturday, market stalls will be lining both sides of the main street, selling everything from shabby-chic furniture to locally-produced meat.

Whatever day of the week it is, there is nothing everyday about Lymington. The shops are mainly higher-end chains with the odd independent, such as the stylish kitchen shop and a hand-built furniture store with its own café.

If you’re looking for something a little out of the ordinary, Lymington is home to the UK’s oldest lido. Holding up to 1.7 million gallons of water, it’s one of the largest and is a great way to spend an afternoon. If you’d prefer an indoor swim, the well-equipped leisure centre has a heated pool.

New Forest ponies grazing

Catch the train to Brockenhurst and beyond – or take the train to Lymington Pier and to the welcome sight of a Wightlink ferry that takes you to your next destination.

Lymington – the beautiful gateway to the Isle of Wight.

Plan your visit at thenewforest.co.uk

Cycling on the coastal paths around Lymington Harbour

WIGHTLIFE.COM

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EVENTS CALENDAR

More d wight etails at link.c o.uk

EVENT S CA L E N D A R V-Dub Island annual Drive Out as a part of the festival’s vast programme of events

Isle of Wight Walking Festival 30 April—15 May isleofwightwalkingfestival.co.uk The annual Walking Festival offers the opportunity for everyone to try one of over 200 organised walks. Whether it’s fossil hunting, wildlife, photography or even dating, there’s a walk for all comers, including walks suitable for kids and pushchairs.

V-Dub Island Festival 18—22 August vdubisland.com

Fans of all things VW can join V-Dub Island, which is a weekend of entertainment, live music & other shenanigans - perfect for the whole family to enjoy.

The Needles XC Half Marathon 29 May westwight.org.uk The Needles XC Half Marathon is one of the toughest and most scenic half marathons in the county. The 13.1 mile route will take you over the downs and heathland, past historic monuments and, of course, you’ll glimpse the most iconic landmark on the Isle of Wight – The Needles.

Festival of the Sea 18 June—3 July visitisleofwight.co.uk There’s a range of activities, events and promotions taking place – all revolving around the theme of the sea. These will include musical events, art displays, fishing, cookery displays and foodtasting, opportunities to charter boats, open days and talks.

Chale Show 6—7 August thechaleshow.co.uk This is one of the Island’s favourite summer events with something for all the family to enjoy and melds traditional village fete activities with big arena fun, all in one show.

Isle of Wight carnival dates 30 Jul - Sandown 4 Aug - Cowes 10 Aug - Ventnor 13 Aug - Ventnor Illuminated 13th - 20th Aug - Yarmouth Carnival Week 27 Aug - Cowes Illuminated 1st Sep - Ryde 31 Aug - Sandown Illuminated 3rd Sep - Ryde Illuminated

WIGHTLIFE.COM

Enjoying the sounds at The Garlic Festival

The Garlic Festival 20—21 August garlic-festival.co.uk The show is food and entertainment at its very best. A vast array of eats, treats, sights and sounds to suit all tastes and ages. There are huge garlic and food marquees, cooking demonstrations from top Island chefs in the all-new theatre kitchen, children’s entertainers, archery and a giant funfair.

From pasture to plate, Isle of wight food and Farming at its best!

Visit us today!

Bluebells Cafe

Farm Shop

Plus...

Visit our cows and touch the young calves Visit our Hop Kilns Heritage Centre for FREE Visit on Welly Wednesdays for a farm tour and watch the cows being milked

Find out more: briddlesfordlodgefarm.co.uk Visit us

Open Daily 7 Days a Week

Contact us

Cafe: 01983 882885 Shop: 01983 884650

Find us

Briddlesford Road Wootton PO33 4RY

Follow us

ba

The Aqua Find your perfect holiday escape on the Isle of Wight A wide range of self-catering holiday accommodation, from quirky cottages & converted barns in the country to contemporary apartments & old coach houses just moments from the sea.

Beachfront bed & breakfast

Same ownership for the last 35 years...

Located on the seafront Balconies with sea views Large public licensed bar Dine in the Brasserie restaurant and choose from a wide menu selection and daily specials boards Open from April to October 17 The Esplanade, Shanklin, Isle of Wight, PO37 6BN 01983 863024 www.theaqua.co.uk

Quaint cottages Family fun by the farm 01983 303 303 | Kynges House, Brading, PO36 0DN wightislandescapes.com | info@wightislandescapes.com WIGHTLIFE.COM

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EVENTS CALENDAR

Walk the Wight 29 May isleofwightwalkingfestival.co.uk This is a unique, long-distance sponsored walk across the Island.

Organised by and in aid of the Earl Mountbatten Hospice as part of the Isle of Wight Walking Festival, there’s a full 26.5 mile walk from the east to west coast of the Island or a 12 mile route if the whole thing is a little too daunting.

Newport Jazz Weekend 2—5 June newportjazzweekend.co.uk Newport Jazz Weekend will be even bigger this year featuring the best of UK jazz along with a good slice of local talent. This time, there’s a number of international names taking part too, so it’s definitely an event not to be missed in 2016.

Royal IW County Show 26 June riwas.org.uk Enjoy a fantastic day out for all the family – so much to see and do. This is the show where cattle, sheep, pigs and poultry come first. A chance to experience our wonderful farming heritage and local produce first hand in a day that combines entertainment and fun.

Shipwreck Isle 18—19 June visitisleofwight.co.uk A colourful swashbuckling weekend will transport you back to the 18th-century with an evening of pop-up cinema and food stalls on the 18th then lots of pirate fun for the kids on the 19th.

Rhythmtree Festival 15—17 July visitisleofwight.co.uk Another music festival, but a much smaller one than the Isle of Wight Festival – this one celebrates World Music. The first one was in 2009 and had the brilliant name of the DidgeHeadRadio Festival (primarily international didgeridoo players and bands).

Ventnor Fringe & Ventnor International Festival 9—14 August ventnorexchange.co.uk

Ventnor Fringe and its sister event, Ventnor International Festival, together create a wonderland of pop-up bars and boutique venues. Catch a ventriloquist show, a midnight cellist concert or a late night swing party.

WIGHTLIFE.COM

March 27 Mar—30 Sep Tractor Trailer Rides appuldurcombe.co.uk To celebrate the anniversary of Capability Brown, enjoy a tractor trailer ride around the stunning grounds of Appuldurcombe Estate. Every Sunday to Friday.

21 May Ryde Rowing Club Annual Regatta ryderowingclub.co.uk Watch racing in Coxed Fours, Coxless Pairs & Doubles & Single Sculls for men & women in various statuses over an 1800 metre course from Appley Beach, out towards Ryde Pier & return. Free to the public.

April 10 Apr Island Steam Days iwsteamrailway.co.uk Head back to the 1940s to discover how the railways provided all our daily transport & distributed goods from ports to towns.

30 Apr—2 May Isle of Wight Real Ale Festival iwsteamrailway.co.uk

22 May Concert in the Courtyard at the Donkey Sanctuary iowdonkeysanctuary.org 22 May Festival of Transport iwsteamrailway.co.uk 28—30 May Railway Gala iwsteamrailway.co.uk

Relax in the ambience of the station with a pint of your favourite tipple as you watch the trains go by..

June

30 Apr—1 May Isle of Wight Challenge isleofwightchallenge.com

5 Jun Open Farm Sunday at The Tomato Stall thetomatostall.uk

The Isle of Wight Challenge is back for its third year. Grab your boots or trainers & walk, run or jog the 25k, 52k or 106k route in aid of children & young people with cancer.

May

3—4 Jun The Garlic Farm Pop-Up Opera thegarlicfarm.co.uk

Visitors can tour a tomato growing glasshouse, taste & buy a wide variety of tomatoes. There will also be the opportunity to buy locally made products. Refreshments will be available.

1 May Isle of Wight Randonnee cycleisland.co.uk

18 Jun Shorwell Midsummer Fair shorewellmidsummerfair.org

Whether you’re completing the 55km or 100km route, every rider will see & enjoy the best of the Island’s scenery.

A traditional village fair in the grounds of Northcourt now in its 56th year. Enjoy a tea tent, falconry display, live music & arena events.

1–2 May Fairy Fling blackgangchine.com Fairy dust is in the air as Blackgang Chine hosts its annual festival, where would-be fairies are welcome to join the fun & celebrate all things magical.

21 May Riverfest footprint-trust.co.uk This free charity-run festival with a ‘village fete’ atmosphere, celebrates sustainability around the River Medina.

22–26 Jun Solitaire du Figaro lasolitairebompard.com The world’s leading annual solo sailing race, will be hosted in Cowes. This professional sailing race is not only a great event for sailing buffs, but also perfect for families who want to relax and enjoy the summer festival vibe provided by the bustling race village. This event is free.

25 Jun Armed Forces Day aremedforcesday.org.uk

EVENTS CALENDAR 25 Jun Isle of Wight Mardis Gras Inspired by the New Orleans Mardi Gras fused with Latin & Caribbean carnivals, this showcases the best of children & young people’s carnival experience.

July 2 Jul

Round the Island Race roundtheisland.org A one-day yacht race around the Island regularly attracting over 1,700 boats & around 16,000 sailors, making it one of the largest yacht races in the world.

7—12 Jul

Hooke Festival roberthooke.org 30 different events celebrating astronomer & microscopist Robert Hooke’s birthday in Freshwater.sculptured ceramics.

15—25 Jul

Isle of Wight Arts Open Studios Local artists & craftspeople open their studios, homes or public exhibition spaces to showcase their work.

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Rediscover a forgotten world of travelling theatre, Victorian maids, songs of the music halls & steam train travel.

6–13 Aug Cowes Week cowesweek.co.uk Mix of competitive sailing and social activities. The 8,500 competitors range from Olympic & world class professionals to weekend sailors with the traditional fireworks display as the highlight.

13 Aug Concert in the Courtyard iowdonkeysanctuary.org Enjoy a fabulous day with live music & a summer market.

13–14 Aug Jack up the 80s jackupthe80s.co.uk Celebrate everything that was great about the 1980s with performances from London Beat, Leo Sayer & From the Jam.

Isle of Wight Festival

21 Aug IW Half Marathon rydeharriers.co.uk

With its roots going back to the famous 1970 music festival that saw Jimi Hendrix playing to 600,000 people, the Isle of Wight Festival is now one of the Island’s best-known events and takes place in June every year.

9—12 June isleofwightfestival.com

Starting from the Ryde Rowing Club, the course covers the wider The Isle of Wight Festival returns for 2016 with a line-up of acts Ryde area. that few festivals can match. For four days in June the Island 21—24 Jul will become home to a surge of festival-goers as Seaclose Park in America’s Cup World Series 26–29 Aug lvacwsportsmouth.com Newport is filled with tents, tepees, caravans, yurts and PodPads.

Island Steam Show The best sailors, the fastest boats iwsteamrailway.co.uk The Festival was revived in 2002 at its current location and since & some great sailing provide This action-packed show is great then has gone from strength to strength with headliners from all excitement off the shores for all the family with live music, over the world such as The Rolling Stones, Fleetwood Mac, The of Portsmouth. entertainment & a whole host Foo Fighters and many more. of stalls & games.

23 Jul This year’s Festival sees the legendary Queen + Adam Lambert Dance on the Duver performing centre stage along with Stereophonics, Faithless, 26–29 Aug danceontheduver.co.uk Buzzcocks, Busted and Adam Ant. It’s a truly larger than life event IW Scooter Rally offering a wonderful diversity of musical talent across the three This annual event that raises See the spectacle of thousands stages. You have to see it to believe it. money for two nominated of scooters descend on Ryde as Island-based charities. Expect part of their annual get-together an evening of live music with on the Island. dancing, a bar, barbeque & a firework-finish to the evening.

27–28 Aug Victorious Festival 31 Jul—2 Aug victoriousfestival.co.uk The Railway Folk Held in Southsea, Victorious iwsteamrailway.co.uk features brilliant live music from The host of quirky characters some of the country’s top artists. rescue a train load of farm animals and busily set up home 27–29 Aug for them by the Railway!

Isle of Wight Zoo 40th Anniversary August isleofwightzoo.com 6–7 Aug Help the Zoo celebrate its 40th Victorian Weekend at Anniversary with all sorts of fun IW Steam Railway and games going on over iwsteamrailway.co.uk the weekend.

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EVENTS CALENDAR

September

October

3–4 Sep Cowes Classic Powerboat Race cowestorquaycowes.co.uk

6–10 Oct Harp on Wight Festival harponwight.com

The Cowes-Torquay Powerboat Race, also known as Cowes Classic, is a thrilling annual event with powerboats from the UK & beyond taking part.

Experience concerts, teaching courses, lectures & a wonderful exhibition of harps.

12–16 Oct Isle of Wight Literary Festival

An array of diverse events covering fiction, nonfiction, poetry, drama & music with a Now in its 15th year, this famous event promises to be the host of celebrity guests. biggest & best ever with vehicles from all over the UK & mainland Europe attending. Newport Quay on 17th, Ryde Esplanade on 18th.

17–18 Sep International Classic Car Show

17–18 Sep Songs of the Sea thespyglass.com

Bestival 8—11 September bestival.net Founded by Radio 6 DJ, Rob Da Bank, Bestival has become one of the country’s top music events and ends the UK festival season every year at Robin Hill Country Park and Gardens. Whether it’s listening to some of the world’s best music performers, watching some quirky comedy or enjoying a classic film in the woods, Bestival really is the festival for everyone.

September 2016 sees the return of the four-day, award-winning festival that’s expected to have 50,000 attendees and a host of acts from all over the world lining up to play. The Cure, Major Lazer, Hot Chip & Fatboy Slim are just a handful of the live acts who will be performing over the weekend, while Rob Da Bank himself, Diplo and Krept & Konnan are just three of the over 35 DJ sets that will take to the stage.

As well as the music to enjoy, there are food stalls galore and imaginative and intriguing bar areas to discover, along with fascinating side shows, dance hall, movie shows and much more.

Enjoy a weekend of folk, acoustic 15–16 Oct & shanty music, all with a splash Beer and Buses Weekend iwbeerandbuses.co.uk of saltwater.

The Isle of Wight branch of CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) 17 Sep–2 Oct & the IW Bus Museum invite Isle of Wight Cycling Festival you to tour the Island’s pubs in sunseaandcycling.com vintage busses.

Take to your saddle & enjoy miles of cycle paths, coastal 21–23 Oct roads & quiet country lanes.

Isle of Wight Autumn Walking Weekend isleofwightwalkingfestival.co.uk 18 Sep West Wight Triatholon A walker’s paradise with westwight.org.uk different guided walks to suit This popular triathlon is back everyone. with a cycle along the south west coast of the Island, 24–28 Oct followed by a run along the River Wizard Week at Yar, finishing with a swim at the IW Steam Railway West Wight Sports Centre. iwsteamrailway.co.uk 24–25 Sep Sweetcorn Fayre arretonbarns.co.uk Now in its 10th year. Experience all that corn has to offer with giant fritters, competitions, games, a bbq, craft stalls & so much more. This year they will be attempting another sweetcorn launch, sweetcorn speed eating as well as snail & terrier racing.

24—25 Sep Bembridge Harbour Food Festival bembridgeharbour.co.uk Feast on all that’s local from the Island’s land & sea. It’s a food & drink festival held in the villages of Bembridge & St Helens.

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In a puff of steam it’s wickedly wonderful halloween fun during October half term.

1 Oct–5 Nov Electric Woods: Festival of Light Inspired by Diwali electricwoods.co.uk Robin Hill’s Electric Woods presents the Festival of Light, a stunning spectacle of creatively themed light, colour, sound & entertainment inspired by the Hindu Festival of Diwali.

Make your retirement all about you...

Security, freedom, community.

Take your pick of our award winning retirement apartments on the Isle of Wight % 85 old S

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The Highdown Inn Local seafood restaurant Country family pub Bed and breakfast A beautiful example of a traditional country pub set in outstanding surroundings.

Select your meal from the daily specials board, and enjoy an excellent meal either in the bar, restaurant or patio garden. We’re noted for our local meat, seafood and shellfish.

Complement your meal with a wine from our extensive wine list, or a pint of real ale.

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The Salix offers a warm welcome at the licensed beach side cafe on Small Hope Beach.

Treat yourself to a seasonal break and enjoy evenings in front of our log fire. Walkers and cyclists welcome.

New for 2016 Tennyson Tearooms

FRESHLY COOKED FOOD ISLAND ROASTED COFFEE COSY WOOD BURNER LICENSED PREMISES DISABLED ACCESS DOGS WELCOME Small Hope Beach Shanklin, PO37 6BQ 07772 056204 www.thesalixcafe.co.uk bThe Salix-beach cafe

Traditional English cream teas and homemade cakes available.

Tennyson Tearooms is opening at Easter 2016 and will be open daily throughout the season until October so pop in and say hello!

Highdown Lane, Totland PO39 0HY 01983 752450

highdowninn.com

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CLASSIFIEDS

Ventnor seafront

ACCO MM O DA T I O N

Isle of Wight Family holidays

Stylish new 4 bedroom houses in a unique location directly on the beach.

Family homes for up to 10 people, also suitable for groups or just a couple.

A family park with countryside views in easy walking distance of Sandown’s facilities and beach.

ASK ABOUT REGULAR SPECIAL OFFERS

Discounted ferry prices available.

Short breaks - Playground - WiFi

ventnorseafront.co.uk 01983 855010 info@ventnorseafront.co.uk

Avenue Road, Sandown, IW, PO36 8BD 01983 402858 | fortholidaypark.co.uk

The

Leconfield • Luxury Country House accommodation • Stunning sea views throughout • Ideal location for walking • Adult only accommodation & dining (over 16’s)

01983 852196 85 Leeson Road, Upper Bonchurch, Ventnor PO38 1PU

Set cliffcliff top this popular 3 star Seton onthethe top, hotel offers all you could wish for; this popular 3 star hotel many rooms have wonderful coastal offerscomplimented all you could wish for... views by immaculate

ensuites with fluffy towels and super toiGreat within walking distance letries.location The hotel’s restaurant menu ofof lovely sandy and old villagefor fersthe delicious and beach sumptuous meals Beautiful coastaland views from all many of the both breakfast dinner served at your table by friendly and efficient attractive bedrooms staff. The lovely indoor heated pool, aromatherapy and holistic and treatments Delicious food for breakfast dinner add toatthe appeal of friendly this hotel. served your table by andFinish your with a relaxing drink in the bar effici day t staff or sitting on the terrace watching the sun go down over the bay.

Channel View Hotel Hope Road, Shanklin, PO37 6EH 01983 862309 www.channelviewhotel.co.uk

www.leconfieldhotel.com

Island Cottage Holidays Isle of Wight Cottages

Indoor heated swimming pool, aromatherapy and holistic treatments The beach, town and old village are

all within walking distance, with the Drinks served in theattractions bar or taken to the wonderful diverse and terrace sit looking todrive sea charmssoofyou thecan Island only a out short watching the ships go is the perfect away. Channel View choice.

All in all an excellent choice for all ages

Delightful holiday cottages in beautiful coastal & rural locations 01983 403377

wight_locations_advert_wightlife_duo marketing services 09/02/2016 15:13 www.islandcottageholidays .com

Happiness is a cottage holiday...

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Ce l e b r a t i n g Te n Ye a r s i n To u r i s m

For the very best rural and coastal holiday cottages on the Isle of Wight Call our island office on 01983 617322 or visit www.wightlocations.co.uk

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CLASSIFIEDS

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YARMOUTH

GALLERY

in High St, short stroll from ferry

I S L A N D C U LT U R E

resident artist Anne Toms

ART & CRAFT

guest artists from IW and UK plus a great OPEN DAILY

little card shop

SHANKLIN THEATRE ISLE OF WIGHT

CHINE PUBLISHING

Year round top quality entertainment, including star names.

Isle of Wight transport books

o ffice (01983) 868000 www.shanklintheatre.com

DL: ISLE OF WIGHT MOTOR VEHICLES 1896 – 1939 by Mark Chessell

Nostalgic coffee table book with 165 rare & fascinating images www.chinepublishing.co.uk Available from many local book and gift shops and museums

The Lilliput Antique Doll & Toy Museum ESTABLISHED OVER 40 YEARS

One of the most comprehensive private collections of old and antique dolls and toys in the UK. The collection was started in the 1960s and the award-winning museum has been widely praised by doll collectors from around the world.

HIGH STREET, BRADING, ISLE OF WIGHT, PO36 0DJ TEL: 01983 407231 WEB: LILLIPUTMUSEUM.CO.UK

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CLASSIFIEDS

Isle of Wight Independent Outdoor Retailer - Est 1995 www.goodyears.co.uk

TENTS & CAMPING EQUIPMENT AWNINGS & CARAVAN ACCESSORIES OUTDOOR CLOTHING • WALKING BOOTS GAS REFILLS • TRUMA & WHALE SPARES

G R E AT W I G H T OUT D O O R S

AMMO FROZEN SEA-FISHING BAIT College Close, Sandown, PO36 8EB 01983 408181

NETTLECOMBE FARM Coarse Fishing & Self-catering Farm Cottages

75 generously spaced marked pitches with separate playing fields ideal for ball games, barbeques & picnics.

Heathfield Road, Freshwater, PO40 9SH 01983 407822 web@heathfieldcamping.co.uk www.heathfieldcamping.co.uk

Nettlecombe Lane, Whitwell, nr Ventnor Isle of Wight, PO38 2AF _____________________________________ 3 lakes in stunning rural location Toilet facilities & parking • Coarse fishing Fishing day tickets £5 per rod _____________________________________ Contact: Mrs. J. Morris, Joliffes Farm Tel: 01983 730783 www.nettlecombefarm.co.uk

Family-run park in a relaxed rural setting, with a range of caravans to suit all budgets Scotchells Brook Lane, Sandown, PO36 0JP 01983 403161 holidays@chevertoncopse.com www.chevertoncopse.com

Goodleaf Wightlife 42x69 OUTLINED.indd 17/02/2016 1 21:07

RIDE IT LIKE YOU STOLE IT.

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PRO CYCLING APPAREL

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CLASSIFIEDS

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S...

YA EAS

CA R & B I K E HIRE

Just Arrived on The Island!

Our fleet of two seater electric cars are now available for hire right across the Isle of Wight.

A fantastic way to travel, have fun, explore and enjoy the delights of the island. Available for half, full day or longer periods.

If you live on the island or are coming to vist, simply hop into a Twizy. It makes a great day out...

Route information and free maps at:

So… what are you waiting for? Hire a Twizy. Just hop in and go… Easy as.

wightlink.co.uk/cycling

Available all year round To book please call

01983 626040 Members of

office@hireatwizy.co.uk www.hireatwizyisleofwight.co.uk

CAR & VAN HIRE

Twizzy IOW Ad.indd 1

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Sandown 01983 400055

01983 811111

www.ISLEOFWIGHTHIRE.CO.UK

01983 522222

Cowes 01983 299056

VALUE RENT-A-CAR CAR HIRE FROM £21 PER DAY

www.rydetaxisltd.com

CYCLE HIRE www.ISLECYCLE.co.uk

HIRES FOR ARE A FULL 24HR PERIOD

www.value-rentacar.co.uk Tel: 01983 401333

WIGHT CYCLE HIRE

Email: info@ value-rentacar.co.uk

College Close Industrial Estate, College Close, Sandown, IW PO36 8EU

Cowes 01983 299056

Sandown 01983 400055 WCH DL leaflet OUTLINED.indd 1

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WIGHTLIFE COMPETITION

C OM P E TI T I O N T I M E A family enjoys the Beach at the Woodside Bay Lodge Retreat

Win* a short break to the Isle of Wight worth up to ÂŁ2500, including Wightlink ferry travel, accommodation as well as places to visit, meals out and even electric car hire.

GO Ferry travel with Wightlink for a car and all passengers Two days Renault Twizy electric car hire

STAY Four night holiday break at the Woodside Bay Lodge Retreat, a luxury three-bedroom lodge complete with hot tub Taste of the Wight

DO Four person pass for Blackgang Chine Four person pass for Robin Hill Country Park Supersaver vouchers for The Needles Landmark Attraction Isle of Wight Pearl Design Experience and cream tea for four

Taste of the Wight Island produce hamper Meal for four at The Buddle Inn, Niton Meal for four at The Steamer Inn, Shanklin

Enter our exclusive competition online between 21 March – 30 November 2016 at:

wightlink.co.uk/wightlifecompetition *No purchase necessary. Competition terms and conditions apply. See website for full details before entering.

WIGHTLIFE.COM

More Routes...

More Ferries...

More Often Whether you’re travelling by foot or car, getting to the Isle of Wight is easier with Wightlink Ferries • The choice of three convenient routes – from Lymington and Portsmouth • More sailings each day* than any other cross Solent ferry operator • We’ve got the Island covered – Yarmouth in the West to Ryde and Fishbourne in the East • Crossings from only 22 minutes* • Great on board facilities – spacious lounges, refreshments and sundecks

The Isle of Wight is the place to be, let us take you there.

Book now at wightlink.co.uk *More sailings each day is based on the combined total of all three Wightlink routes. Number of sailings each day varies throughout the year. Portsmouth Harbour Station to Ryde Pier Head in 22 minutes. Portsmouth to Fishbourne in 45 minutes and Lymington to Yarmouth in 40 minutes.

112

USEFUL NUMBERS

USEF UL NU M B E R S Bembridge Windmill

Emergency Services For police, ambulance, fire or coastguard services call 111 for minor emergencies or call 999 for fatal emergencies.

Weather information bbc.co.uk/weather

Health Services The Beacon Health Centre (out of hours GP service available from 8am-8pm, 7 days a week at St Mary’s Hospital) 111 St Mary’s Hospital 01983 524081

Dental treatment For emergency dental treatment and unregistered on the Isle of Wight, 8.30am to 9.30pm daily 0845 0508345

Yarmouth Pharmacy 01983 760260 Day Lewis Pharmacy Cowes 01983 293011 daylewis.co.uk Regent Pharmacy East Cowes 01983 717002 regentpharmacy.org.uk Day Lewis Pharmacy Carisbrooke 01983 525216 daylewis.co.uk Day Lewis Pharmacy Newport 01983 522346 daylewis.co.uk

Vets

Pharmacies

Green & Forster (Newport, Yarmouth, Freshwater, Ventnor) 01983 522822 greenandforster.com

Boots Pharmacy Bembridge 01983 872328 boots.com

Medina Veterinary Group (Newport) 01983 883955 medinavets.co.uk

Day Lewis Pharmacy Ryde 01983 882473 daylewis.co.uk

The Mobile Vet 01983 212 999 mobilevetsurgery.co.uk

Seaview Pharmacy 01983 613116 seaviewpharmacy.com Day Lewis Pharmacy Sandown 01983 402050 daylewis.co.uk Regent Pharmacy Shanklin 01983 863677 regentpharmacy.org.uk Lloyds Pharmacy Ventnor 01983 852135 lloydspharmacy.com Kemkay Pharmacy Freshwater 01983 752908

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Pet Doctors Animal Hospital (Newport, Lake) Newport: 01983 522 804 Lake: 01983 408 004 petdoctors.co.uk

Leisure Centres The Heights Leisure Centre Sandown 01983 823881 1leisure.co.uk Medina Leisure Centre Newport 01983 823882 1leisure.co.uk Westridge Leisure Centre Ryde 01983 823883 1leisure.co.uk

West Wight Sports Centre Freshwater 01983 752168 westwight.org.uk

James Garage Services 01983 521010 jamesgarageservices.co.uk

Travel Providers

The AA 0800 88 77 66 theaa.com

Wightlink 0333 999 7333 wightlink.co.uk Southern Vectis 01983 827 000 islandbuses.info Island Line 01983 812591 southwesttrains.co.uk

Taxis Alpha 01983 280280 alphaiow.co.uk Asap Taxis Newport: 01983 244444 Freshwater: 01983 755555 asaptaxis.co.uk Cowes Taxis 01983 294444 cowestaxis.com Ryde Taxis 01983 811111 rydetaxisltd.com

Car Hire 1st Call Van & Car Hire 01983 400055 isleofwighthire.co.uk Esplanade 01983 562322 esplanade.co.uk Hire a Twizzy 01590 675 675 hireatwizy.co.uk Value Rentacar 01983 401333 value-rentacar.co.uk

Break Down Recovery Stag Lane Motors 01983 522443 staglane-motors.co.uk Bartletts Service Station 01983 865338 bartlettsservicestation.co.uk

D.H Price Motors 01983 400247 dhpricemotors.com RAC Members: 0333 2000 999 Non-members: 0800 197 7815 rac.co.uk

Cycle Hire 1st Call Cycle Hire 01983 400055 islecycle.co.uk Red Squirrel Electric Bikes 01983 521555 nutsnotto.co.uk RouteFifty7 07491 00 00 57 routefifty7.com Wight Cycle Hire 01983 761 800 wightcyclehire.co.uk

General Isle of Wight Council 01983 821000 iwight.com Island Roads 01983 822440 islandroads.com

For a fu of Tou ll list Inform rist a Po tion see paints, ge 41 .

Historic

qwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwe a d a d a d a d a d a d a d a d a Our Chefs Serve Fantastic Food d a ALL DAY, EVERY DAY d fully a USING LOCAL d refurbished character pub in cowes a PRODUCE d overlooking the Solent a d a d d a a d a d a Spectacular d Views of T he Island a d a CUSTOMER CAR PARKING d LIVE a EXTENSIVE SPECIALS BOARDS MUSIC d a CHAMPIONING LOCAL LIVE MUSICIANS d a d a d a d a d BUGLE INN THE SUN INN THE BUDDLE INN CAULKHEADS THE BUGLE INN a AnTHE d historic 16th Century Charming 600 yr old Smuggler’s Inn Perfect for the kids. Fully refurbished for Inn set in Thatched Inn just a with flagstone floors With indoor ball 2016. A beautiful Inn a theCoaching d heart of beautiful few minutes from and low ceilings close to park and outdoor full of Charm and Yarmouth.

Compton beach.

St. Catherine's Lighthouse. play facilities.

Character.

Tel: Tel: Tel: Tel: Tel: a d d a a d a Character Inns is a group of distinct, d T he Buddle Inn a family-owned traditional pubs in the “Best Oldy Worlde Pub Island Ales” d Isle of Wight Awards a beautiful Isle of Wight, serving great “BestMyPublic d House Garden 2015” Wight in Bloom a food, fine wine and superb real ales. d “Best Pub on The Island 2015” CAMRA Beer & Buses Weekend a d characterinns.co.uk zxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxc /characterinnsiow

Isle of Wight Pubs OPEN SPRING 2016

*

GPS: PO41 0NS

ENJOY WEEKLY

01983 760272 GPS: PO41 0NS

01983 741124 GPS: PO30 4EH

01983 730243 GPS: PO38 2NE

01983 405080 GPS: PO36 8AY

01983 407359 GPS: PO36 0DQ

with

*KIDS EAT FREE AT CAULKHEADS ONLY = 1 CHILDRENS MEAL FOR EACH MAIN MEAL ORDERED FROM THE MAIN MENU EXCLUDING STARTERS. 12NOON-5PM DURING ISLE OF WIGHT SCHOOL TERM TIME ONLY. NOT AVAILABLE IN CONJUNCTION WITH ANY OTHER OFFER. E&OE.

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TripAdvisor 2015

& celebr

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2016 the Mo

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#1 attraction

There’s lots of fun for everyone at Monkey Haven. We’re a happy home for singing gibbons, cheeky capuchins, birds of prey and many more exotic creatures. Swing by and say hello!

KEEPER TALKS

OW LS

DAILY

THE E K O R D ST COME AN

2016 NEW ARRIVALS

EASY TO FIND

West Cowes

• Sat Nav - PO30 2NB • 5 mins from Newport • Buses - Route 9 (Newport - Wooton - Ryde) • 15 mins from Fishbourne & East Cowes car ferries

East Cowes Fishbourne Ryde

Yarmouth Newport Bembridge Freshwater Sandown Brighstone Godshill Shanklin Ventnor

CAFE & GIFT SHOP

PICNIC & PLAY AREAS PICN IC

OPEN 10AM DAILY

monkeyhaven.org Tel 01983 530885 Staplers Road, Newport PO30 2NB

PRIMATE RESCUE CENTRE + BIRDS OF PREY RESCUE & RELEASE PROGRAMME

Registered Charity Number 1153254

7 DAY

RETURN PASS