Summer Wightlife 2017

FREE GUIDE

Summer 2017

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THE GREAT WIGHT OUTDOORS

DRIVE LESS – SEE MORE INSPIRATIONAL

VICTORIA’S SECRET LOCAL GUIDE

ISLE OF WIGHT BEACHES

GO.STAY.DO! Wightlink’s essential guide to the Isle of Wight attractions | eating out | island map | accommodation | travel guide | wightlink.co.uk

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.

Delicious hot and cold snacks

Watch our craftsmen at work

4D Film Experience Spectacular fireworks

Get close to the Needles Rocks

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 and Magic in the Skies, open late every Thursday in August for a non-stop party of games, live music and street entertainment with a finale of amazing fireworks, spectacular day and evening out for all the family

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 Bay

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

glassmakers, as well as learning all about how traditional

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

WELCOME Welcome to the summer edition of Wightlife magazine, Wightlink’s essential guide to the Isle of Wight.

I love the Island and all it has to offer us in the summer season. From beautiful beaches and classic seaside family fun to being able to immerse yourself in history, culture and nature alike.

There’s no shortage of great places to go, things to see and fun-packed attractions to visit, as well as some excellent locally-grown produce to taste, see our article on page 16. Some of which you may have heard of before and some that we’re delighted to introduce you to.

Wightlink is thrilled to be your gateway to the Isle of Wight and help you discover all the fantastic things that are on offer here. We have recently invested £45 million in a new ship and port improvements that will transform cross-solent travel into an even more enjoyable experience for you.

We always welcome your feedback and there are many ways you can get in touch with us. See page 93 for more details, including information on how to sign up to our newsletter.

We love to see what you’ve been up to, and how much you’ve enjoyed your holiday on the Isle of Wight, so please send us your favourite holiday photographs. Enter our photography competition on page 113 and you could win your next luxury short break to the Isle of Wight, on us!

We hope you enjoy your holiday from beginning to end and thank you for choosing Wightlink.

Chief Executive Officer

C O N TR I B U TO R S Lindsay Becker Lindsay is a regular contributor to Wightlife magazine and works in marketing and PR at Solent. She’s also the editor of Taste of the Wight, the Island’s local food and drink guide.

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 Isle of Wight fan.

Ian Boyd A director of Arc Consulting, an ecological and environmental specialist. Founder of the conservation charity Gift to Nature, Ian loves bug hunting, photography and playing guitar. He admits that in his head he’s still 10 years old exploring, playing and being distracted.

Julia Stovold Originally from the Isle of Wight, but following a stint abroad, Julia Stovold moved back to the UK and settled in Lymington. She runs a small company and enjoys mooching about in the New Forest and on the Solent.

Zoe Stroud As manager of the Isle of Wight’s Local Sustainable Transport visitor project, Zoe is well placed to advise on how to enjoy the Island without the need for a car. She is passionate about encouraging visitors to ‘drive less and see more’.

Enjoying the view out across Freshwater Bay.

WIGHTLINK.CO.UK

10

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CONT E NTS

24 F A R A WA Y, SO C LOSE Whoever said romance was dead clearly hasn’t been to the Isle of Wight recently: our guide to the most romantic spots.

A relaxing stop just outside Yarmouth.

12 THE C HINES The Island is famous for its beautiful and characterful Chines. Learn how our dramatically changing landscape has formed these wild coastal canyons.

20 ISLA ND HIDEA WA YS Your ‘home-from-home’ will make your holiday or short break. Here are our top picks of the Island’s hidden gems.

30 DRIVE LESS, SEE MORE Who wants to be stuck in a car when they should be enjoying what’s special about the Island? Find out just how much more you see when you drive less.

36 ISLE OF WIGHT BEA C HES Our guide to the best beaches the Island has to offer you this summer.

8 VI CT O R I A ’ S S ECRET

Osborne was the jewel in the crown for Queen Victoria and features on the silver screen this September. Discover the story of Victoria and Abdul.

42 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.

44 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.

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

96 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.

16 WIGHT TASTE Discover all of the delicious local Island products on offer in our onboard shop and across the Isle of Wight.

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113 WIGHTLIF E PHOTOGRA PHY C OMPETITION Your chance to win a luxury short break to the Island.

Find m o inform re a t ion and fre wightl e maps at ink.co.u k/do

St Catherine’s Lighthouse at sunset

DESTINATION G UIDES

NORTH NORTH E AST

44 NORTH EA S T

W E ST CE NTRAL

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

E AST

SOUTH

54 E AS T

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

64 SO UTH

‘Back of the Wight’ following the rugged southern coastline from Luccombe and Bonchurch to Niton, featuring the town of Ventnor.

70 W E ST

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

D ESI GNE R Thea Welsford PR O D UC T IO N M A N A G E R Christie-Lee Booth AR TW O R KE R Luke Nesbitt AD V ERT IS IN G S A L E S David Brooks, Rob Hull, James Rolfe D I STR I BU T IO N M A N A G ER Brian Curd

CONT RIBUT ORS Lindsay Becker, Ian Boyd, Geoff Westby, Zoe Stroud, Julia Stovold PHOT OG RAPHY Neil Southwell, Julie Blake, Julian Winslow, Karen Roe, Julie-Ann Gylaitis, Jason Swain, Les Lockhart, Nicole Jackson, Tim Addison, Martin Robinson, Andrew Sassoli-Walker, Benjamin Woodford, English Heritage, New Forest National Park Association and special thanks to Visit Isle of Wight.

PRINT Precision Colour Printing

78 NORTH

The northern part of the Island includes Cowes, East Cowes and Northwood looking out toward the busy shipping lanes of the Solent.

8 2 C E N T R AL

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

35 Orchard Street, Newport, Isle of Wight, PO30 1JZ 01983 556844 | 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 2017). Wightlink is a partner of Visit Isle of Wight and works closely with it to promote the Isle of Wight.

WIGHTLINK.CO.UK

THE ISLANDS UNIQUE SHOPPING ATTRACTION WITH A COFFEE SHOP AND FREE PARKING

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MONDAY - SATURDAY 9AM TO 5.15PM / SUNDAYS 10.30AM TO 4.30PM

COFFEE SHOP OPEN DAILY UNTIL 4.30PM

5%

discount Excludes Coffee shop / In store only Cannot be used on sale or reduced items

OASIS, CARPENTERS ROAD, BRADING, ISLE OF WIGHT, PO36 0QA

TEL: 01983 613760 • WWW.OASIS-IOW.COM

Expires 30th September 2017 T&C’s at www.oasis-iow.com Wightlife 2017 Summer

8

VICTORIA’S SECRET

Victoria’s Secret

The Indian-inspired Durbar room at Osborne.

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VICTORIA’S SECRET 9

We thought we knew nearly all there is to know about Queen Victoria, one of England’s most famous monarchs. A new feature film will shed light on an unlikely friendship struck in her later years, much of it played out here on the Isle of Wight...

The Island’s history is rich and varied and the amount of famous names with a claim to the Island is long, but perhaps none with as much prestige as that of Queen Victoria. In 2016 an international cast and film crew descended onto the Isle of Wight and the royal residence of Osborne.

Popularity for Queen Victoria has increased dramatically in the past few years. The image of the monarch dressed in black, habitually mourning the death of her beloved Albert, seemed to have seared itself into our national consciousness. However, recent dramatisations such as ITV’s Victoria in 2016 where the Queen is depicted in her younger years, played

by Jenna Coleman of Dr Who fame, has done much to challenge this stereotype.

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

The nation’s appetite for a more human and real side to the Queen shows little sign of waning and Stephen Frears’ Victoria and Abdul feature-length film is set to bridge the gap when it is released in September.

Carisbrooke Castle

osborne

osborne

Queen Victoria and her Indian servant Abdul Karim, 1893.

The film stars acting royalty, Dame Judi Dench, who is reprising her role as Queen Victoria, nearly 20 years after her Oscar-nominated and BAFTA-winning performance as the Queen in Mrs Brown alongside Billy Connolly.

Victoria and Abdul charts the extraordinary true story of an unexpected friendship in the later years of Queen Victoria’s remarkable rule. When Abdul Karim (played by Ali Fazal), a young clerk, travels from India to participate in the Queen’s Golden Jubilee, he is surprised to find favour with the Queen herself. As she questions the constrictions of her long-held position, the two forge an unlikely and devoted alliance with a loyalty to one another that her household and inner circle attempt to destroy. According to producers, the film shows their friendship deepening and the Queen beginning to see a changing world through new eyes and joyfully reclaiming her humanity in the final 15 years of her life.

This is where the Island can sit proudly as a metaphorical jewel in the crown with Osborne firmly in

yarmouth Castle

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.

WIGHTLINK.CO.UK

IS

10 VICTORIA’S SECRET

The Osborne Estate from the sea.

the limelight. The Queen’s former seaside residence is the only one of her home’s to be used as a location for filming.

Previous scenes from Mrs Brown were filmed in the grounds but this is the first time that the interior of Osborne has been shown on the silver screen.

The influence India had on Victoria is nowhere more apparent than at Osborne, where a new ‘Indian’ wing was added to the main house and new kitchens were built specifically for spices to be prepared for the Queen’s curry luncheons.

The Indian inspired Durbar room (named after the Indian word for state reception) with its elaborate ceiling designed

by Lockwood Kipling (father of the famed author Rudyard) and one of his former students, the architect Bhai Ram Singh, is breathtaking in its intricacy and needs to be seen to be truly believed. It was the room where Queen Victoria entertained European royalty in the later part of

her reign, and designed as a state setting. The room was restored in 2015 to be an exact replica of how it would have been during the Queen’s time and visitors can now view it through her eyes, with a banquet table laid up exactly as it would have been in the 1890s. Ornate carpets sit around the huge dining table complete with fine crockery and the many Indian artefacts on display, given as gifts during her reign, set the scene.

Every surface is richly embellished from the ceiling to the white walls. The decoration includes the Indian symbols of Ganesha - the Hindu elephant God of good fortune and a peacock over the chimney piece. 26 craftsmen worked on the chimney piece and overmantel with over 500 hours spent on producing the peacock alone, which was equivalent to one man working solidly for ten weeks!

Also seen on-screen for the first time is the Grand Corridor with its ornamental decorative Minton tiles and sculptures; and the Yellow Drawing Room, decorated with luxurious upholstery and drapes (in yellow, obviously). The grand Italianate architecture of the house and its stunning grounds and far-reaching views will also be showcased.

The setting impressed Dame Judi Dench so much so that she has recently taken up a role of as patron of Osborne, commenting “We had a wonderful time filming at Osborne and everyone there was absolutely wonderful. I am delighted to be able to continue the association, although I cannot promise to be a very frequent visitor.”

But why wait to see it on screen when it is here in all its glory for you now? If you only have a limited time to see some of the Island’s historical buildings, then Osborne should be top of your list. As Queen Victoria herself said “It is impossible to imagine a prettier spot.”

Victoria and Abdul is set for release on 15 September 2017.

There’s so much to be discovered on a trip to Osborne, be sure to visit during your stay.

WIGHTLINK.CO.UK

By Lindsay Becker

12

THE CHINES

THE CHINES To search for Island chines, our wild coastal canyons, you must first find their rivers. Open up a map of the Island, wrestle with a real one or swipe a screen and take a look.

There’s the Eastern Yar (literally eastern river), the Western Yar (you’ve guessed it... western river), and running through the centre is the Medina (yep... middle).

Not a huge amount of imaginative effort has gone into naming Island rivers.

Look below the Island’s chalk spine and you will see, running south-west and south-east, clusters of smaller streams making their short journeys from The Downs and greensand hills to the sea.

These are the chine-makers, their valleys are the chines and they are still telling the story of the birth of the Island. If you were stood, 200,000 years ago, with your Palaeolithic ancestors, looking out over what is now the Atherfield Plain, the land would have stretched away for another 30 miles. Those southern streams curved to the east to join the river Solent and you certainly wouldn’t have been able to see the sea.

Over time the sea levels rose, land was swamped and eroded away, and finally, some 8,000 years ago the river

This year Shanklin Chine is celebrating 200 years as the Island’s oldest visitor attraction.

Solent itself flooded, cutting us away from the mainland and creating the Isle of Wight. With no larger river to feed, the southern headwaters ran straight to the sea. Now a distance of just a few miles, they suddenly become entire rivers in their own right, cutting rapidly down into the soft sandstone and clay to complete their short journey from springline to beach. These deep valleys are the chines.

Such dramatic changes to the Island’s geomorphology happened very quickly in geological time and still continue today. The fascinating thing is that the Isle of Wight is still responding to becoming an Island. Its ecology and its landscape are still changing and the chines are a wonderful example of this dynamic evolution.

Chines continue to come and go. The original chine valley at Blackgang is now lost completely to intensive coastal erosion and unstable geology. All that remains is a small stream cascading over the cliff face. Near Chale, a brook running to the sea formed Ladder Chine, but as the cliffs eroded, the water found an easier route creating Walpen Chine to the east. Now both of these chines are largely dry, the water having formed another opening in the cliff still further east, known as New Chine.

Sunset at Whale Chine, looking out to sea.

WIGHTLINK.CO.UK

The Island’s chines have probably always been a draw to both people and wildlife seeking fresh water and food.

Mesolithic flint tools, the bones of elk and oxen and hearths of burnt earth and flint have all been found in the chine valleys and tell the story of the lives of the Island’s earliest nomadic settlers. Bronze Age pots, Roman wine jugs and tableware and Saxon boat-landings all followed, before safer villages and harbours supplanted the chine communities and left them to the shipwrecks and the smugglers.

THE CHINES

13

REAL PUBS GREAT LOCATIONS

Today the 15 or so accessible chines are once again a hub of activity as visitors appreciate their unique character, drama and variety. From the perfectly preserved Victorian hanging gardens of Shanklin Chine to the sheer cliffs of Whale Chine, there is a world of discovery out there.

At Shepherd’s Chine look out for the Island’s famous butterfly, the Glanville Fritillary, a species at the very northernmost part of its European range here and found nowhere else in the country. The black caterpillars appear in early Spring, dotted about the grassland, wrapped in their silk webs. The chines provide a wide range of special coastal habitats for other scarce insects too, including over 100 species of bee and one of the UK’s rarest species, the aptly named Chine Beetle.

The steep valley walls and clifftop rabbit holes of many of the chines provide safe nesting places for kestrels and little owls. You might see ravens and peregrines overhead where the deeper valleys create turbulent uplift from an onshore wind.

The chines are also great places to enjoy spectacular displays of Island wildflowers. Billowing pink drifts of thrift, sea spurrey and restharrow; clusters of yellow kidney vetch and birdsfoot trefoil; bee orchids, samphire and wild carrot, all alive with butterflies and day-flying moths.

Traditional countryside pub with old world charm, Arreton.

01983 539361 = PO30 3AA arretonbarns.co.uk

Characterful pub overlooking the Medina river at Newport Quay.

01983 525828 = PO30 5BS bargemansrest.com

The Island’s Glanville Fritillary butterfly.

There is an irresistible wildness and grandeur to the Island’s chines. They are living reminders of a lost landscape and the builders of the next. Together they offer the visitor a unique collection of beautiful and memorable landmarks. Why not take on the Chine Challenge and walk them all? Make it your mission to scale one of the Island’s steeper chines, picnic in peaceful Grange Chine and find the elusive Widdick Chine.

You can find out lots more about our wonderful Island chines right here iwchines.org.uk

By Ian Boyd

Unparalleled panoramic views from Shanklin Esplanade.

01983 862641 = PO37 6BS thesteamer.co.uk

THE

SPYGLASS

INN

FREEHOUSE

Arguably the Island's best seaside location, Ventnor.

01983 855338 = PO38 1JX thespyglass.com

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16 WIGHT TASTE

Wightlink staff enjoying some Island Roasted coffee and fresh-baked pastries.

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WIGHT TASTE 17

Heading on holiday is a time of excitement, full of promise and expectation. One thing that many of us look forward to is the food and drink we will enjoy whilst we’re busy relaxing and unwinding...

Good food is key to a great break, with many of us looking to consume as locally as possible when visiting somewhere new and the Isle of Wight is no exception.

Thanks to our mild climate, extra hours of sunshine and just general love of the ‘good life’, this little piece of land produces more than you probably realise.

Certainly more than enough to see you through your holiday. But instead of waiting to step onto terra firma and visiting a local farm shop or a good pub for your fix, you can begin your local foodie journey right here.

Your holiday starts as soon as you step onboard and wave the mainland goodbye. The Island is in view, so why not make the most of your crossing time and discover some of our best in local produce before you even step foot on dry land? Thanks to the opening of Wight Taste, our brand new onboard shops, you can now purchase a wide range of items all made or supplied by Isle of Wight companies.

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FOOD SERVED ALL DAY

BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER

A selection of local ales from Island Brewery.

Wightlink has long supported local producers and suppliers, sponsoring key events such as the Royal Isle of Wight County Show and the charity initiative ‘Bite the Wight’, but this is the first time we have really been able to shout about the Island’s amazing food and drink and share it with you. It’s great to be able to showcase more of what the Island has to offer.

So whether it’s stocking up on the way here or grabbing your favourites on the way home to give as presents (to yourself as well as others), we’re proud to boast a brilliant selection of the Isle of Wight’s best local produce right here. Here are just some of the people behind the products you can find in our Wight Taste shops: Island Roasted – Dan Burgess and wife Viviana live and breathe coffee and with Viviana being Italian, it has to be made just right. The family business was born from a lack of support for the specialty coffee industry when they started out in event catering nearly 20 years ago, so they began roasting their own. Today, many of the coffee shops and cafés that you frequent on your visit to the Island will be serving up a blend of Dan’s specialty roasts, or you could pop into his own café, Caffe Isola or his new store in Newport. Chat to the man himself – over a cup of coffee of course.

TEA & CAKE / DAILY SPECIALS / FRESH SEAFOOD / SNACK MENU / SHARING PLATTERS / CASK ALES / LIVE MUSIC / SEA VIEWS / FREE WIFI

The Waterfront Inn Esplanade | Shanklin | PO37 6BN Telephone: 01983 863023 Web: waterfront-inn.co.uk

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18 WIGHT TASTE

Island Roasted Coffee, one example of great local Island produce available to buy onboard St Clare.

The Garlic Farm – set in the picturesque village of Newchurch, you can smell The Garlic Farm before you can see it and that is no bad thing. Home to everything garlic, the family behind the pungent bulb have been growing garlic in our fertile soils for over 40 years. A true family business headed up by father Colin Boswell, daughter Natasha who has written several books on cooking with garlic and son Hugo and daughter Jo who head up their ‘Field Kitchen’. A trip here is a treat for the tastebuds.

Island Brewery – another onboard favourite, Island Brewery have recently extended its range available onboard. Brewed

by Island people, head brewer Chris Coleman ensures the beers represent some of the finest available anywhere. With names such as Wight Gold, Wight Knight and Yachtsman’s Ale you can guarantee a true taste of the Island.

Goddards Brewery – a truly local brewery that uses Isle of Wight hops handpicked from Ventnor Botanic Garden and local barley in their range of beers. The team behind the beers are as enthusiastic about the Island as they come, showcased in some of their unique names such as Duck’s Folly and Starboard! A popular choice to drink onboard and you can now buy some to take home with you, if they last that long.

Wight Crystal Water – all water you see carrying the Wight Crystal logo has been drawn locally on the Island at Knighton Spring. Not only good for you, by drinking this water you are actually helping an Island charity as all profits help to fund care services, employment and lifeenhancing opportunities for people with a range of disabilities.

Goddards‘ head brewer Nigel Eldridge picking hops at Ventnor Botanic Garden.

Calbourne Classics – you can’t go wrong with cake, it goes hand in hand with a cup of tea and always makes everything better, the girls at Calbourne Classics know this for sure. Sisters Louise and Jenny work at Three Gates Farm, a traditional 400 acre dairy farm where 200 cows live, with over 70 producing milk for the extensive range of award-winning ice creams, cakes, yoghurts, clotted cream and much more.

Full Spread Sandwiches – a range of sandwiches, wraps and baguettes can found onboard all made by Sue and Tony from Full Spread who have been filling hungry tummies for over 18 years. A range of sandwiches can be found including favourite flavours such as tuna, egg, ham and cheese as well as changing specials including lemon chicken, sweet chilli chicken and brie, plus some gluten-free options.

The Isle of Wight Biscuit Company – baked in the heart of the Island’s countryside at Rew Valley, biscuits are handmade in small batches using the finest ingredients, locally sourced whenever possible. Traditional farmhouse cookies come in beautiful drums and kids will love the red squirrel shapes that taste even better than they look.

Artisinal onion marmalade from The Garlic Farm; perfect in your cheese sarnie.

WIGHTLINK.CO.UK

Our first Wight Taste shop opened on St Clare and will be arriving in more locations during 2017.

Cows Express

Squawk Birds

E

REL SQURIURN * TH

Falconry Shows

Colossus

r new fo 2017

Squirrel your way through a spiralling mesh tube suspended around our Canopy Skywalk, high up in the tree tops...

Just don’t look down!

Toboggan Run

Canopy Skywalk

A full day’s fun for all the family www.robin-hill.com tel. 01983 527352 See website for additional school holiday activities. For Sat Nav use PO30 2NU

Save w ith a Joint Par k ticket w ith

* Artist impression

20

ISLAND HIDEAWAYS

island hideaways Shanklin Beach, just a short walk from Badgers Set

From unique and quaint countryside cottages to chic apartments with unrivalled sea views, the Isle of Wight has a wealth of self-catering accommodation for you to choose from.

Sea Whispers

Sea Whispers is a stunning newly built contemporary property offering one ground floor bedroom and two luxurious en suite bedrooms with a master suite on the first floor.

Furnished and decorated to a very high standard and with a state of the art kitchen and open plan living/dining area, it’s ideal for families to spend an enjoyable evening together.

Finding the perfect place for your home away from home is the most important part of planning your holiday adventures. We have pulled together our top picks across our beautiful Island for you and your family to enjoy.

Badgers Set

Badgers Set cottage sleeps five guests.

This three bedroom stone cottage was previously part of Upper Chine School, built 1928. The cottage offers excellent family accommodation and a good sized kitchen diner. The open-plan living area, perfect for enjoying down-time with the family, has access through French doors leading to a patio.

The Sea Terrace

The Sea Terrace is a charming cottage in an unrivalled beachfront position, on the promenade of the seaside resort of Shanklin. The wonderful long sandy beach is only a few steps away.

Perfect for swimming, paddling and sandcastles. The cottage is in a quiet location near Shanklin Chine.

All facilities are free to use during your stay. They include a heated indoor swimming pool, spa, games room for all ages, fitness area and tennis court.

The property boasts spectacular views over the Solent on both floors. The patio, at the rear, is fully enclosed with gated access onto Seaview’s playing fields, perfect for younger children to play safely and a picturesque walk to the idyllic Priory and Seagrove Bay. There is parking for two vehicles off road or a boat if needed.

Upper Chine Cottages 01983 867900 stay@upperchinecottages.co.uk upperchinecottages.co.uk

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

There are beautiful views across the bay towards Culver Cliff from all of the main rooms. Also there are two delightful terraces, with open sea views, where visitors can relax and enjoy meals in the sunshine.

Island Cottage Holidays 01983 403377 mail@islandcottageholidays.com islandcottageholidays.com WIGHTLINK.CO.UK

ISLAND HIDEAWAYS

floors. The ground floor comprises of a lounge, kitchen (with family dining area) utility room, cloakroom and two double bedrooms, both with their own en suites. Upstairs is the master bedroom with separate dressing area and en suite. There is also a spacious twin bedroom, again with its own en suite. Lastly, a useful multi-purpose room is great for a little ‘quiet time’ or somewhere to put the kids with their games consoles.

21

views across the open countryside to Chillerton Down. For dinner you can fire up the barbecue and watch the wildlife. See if you can spot any pheasants, birds of prey or rabbits, just a few of the regular visitors!

Wight Island Escapes 01983 303303 info@wightislandescapes.com wightislandescapes.com

For those lazy days, why not just relax on the patio, taking in the panoramic

Chillerton Farm Barns

Chillerton Farm Barns is situated in rural countryside, where lovely walks within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty are quite literally on your doorstep. Why not take a stroll into the village of Shorwell for a bite to eat and a drink at the Crown Inn. Being conveniently located towards the centre of the Island, Chillerton also allows access to the many other lovely locations and attractions in the surrounding area.

The comfortable, family-sized accommodation is arranged over two

KARTING TRIP ADVISOR #1 Family Action Attraction

www.wightkarting.co.uk

01983 565366

1/2 PRICE MEMBERSHIP Online Purchase Only with this code: WL50% Please check website for T&C’s

Wight Karting, Brading Road, Ryde, IOW, PO33 1QS, WIGHTLINK.CO.UK

island roasted artisan coffee from the isle of wight

Leading the way in Island artisan coffee...

This family business started out over 15 years ago launching the I.O.W Espresso Co. to fill a gap in the Island’s speciality coffee market, and in 2006 opened Caffe Isola in Newport as a flagship outlet. “That’s when we started to explore roasting coffee” explains Dan Burgess (owner) and, after much research and practice, their first shop roaster went into production at Caffè Isola in 2010.

Since then demand for their “Island Roasted” artisan coffee has grown considerably, with a second larger roaster going into production in 2013 at their roastery just down the road from the café, and Wight Marque status being awarded in 2014.

2017 will see expansion into an exciting new site in Upper St James Street, an area which has become a real hub for local businesses. “Caffè Isola has long been at the forefront of the Island’s speciality coffee scene and the historic former Beavis building, which was originally a church lecture hall, is perfect for us to expand our artisan roastery café and incorporate even more local retail products,” says Dan. The menu reflects the marriage of local produce with Italian heritage led by Dan’s Sicilian wife, Viviana, all freshly prepared on site. Offering panini and traditional hand cut sandwiches, salads and soups and, of course, plenty of homemade cakes.

Enhanced breakfast and kids menus and authentic Italian pasta specials will also be added. Apart from a large retail range of Island Roasted coffee,

which customers can watch being hand roasted and packed, a large selection of leaf teas and great local produce will be available, bringing some of that farm shop excellence to the town center. The first floor gallery will house a retail area which will showcase some of the Island’s great “cottage industry” producers as well as, of course, an extensive range of coffee and tea equipment.

“Roasting coffee is as much an art as it is a science - it comes from experience.

We hand roast our coffees in small batches using drum roasters to allow the coffee time to develop its true flavour”, explains Dan. The latest technology is used to visualise and meticulously record all aspects of the roast so that it can be referred back to, ensuring consistency for future batches. The highest quality coffees are sourced, “ethical and sustainable coffees are premium and exactly what we look for as a craft roaster”, “Direct

Trade” routes are used where possible, ensuring the producer gets the highest price for their dedication.

Producing a range of high quality espresso blends used by cafes, restaurants and attractions across the Island as well as onboard Wightlink’s St Claire ferry, the Company is now also expanding into the mainland market. They also produce a range of seasonal single origin coffees more often used by retail customers using home brewing methods such as filter, aeropress, and cafetiere, which are available at Caffè Isola or through the website www.islandroasted.co.uk.

www.islandroasted.co.uk

Caffe Isola

st 17 es il 20 m r ja ap t s w ning e artisan n e op e sit

cafe, roastery & independant retail

Newport, Isle of Wight

Tel: 01983 524800

Independantly different...

!

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.

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

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

● 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.

● VISUAL DISPLAYS

We have many different informative displays showing the winemaking process.

● 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 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

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

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

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FAR AWAY, SO CLOSE

Far away, so close...

Whoever said romance was dead clearly hasn’t been to the Isle of Wight anytime recently. It may well be known as the perfect destination for a family holiday with the kids, but with stunning and varied scenery, it can soon capture your heart.

Think rugged and wild clifftops, picturesque secluded bays and a variety of romantic, historic buildings and quaint villages, the Island certainly rises to the challenge of an ideal romantic getaway. Whether it’s a long weekend or an extravagant holiday, the Island is second to none when it comes to spending quality time with your nearest and dearest.

Food plays an important role in most romantic breaks and dining here does not disappoint. Head to The Royal Hotel in Ventnor for an indulgent meal for two in their award winning restaurant, where the food has been awarded two AA Rosettes for over 18 years. If the sun is shining, book the Riviera Terrace for undoubtedly one of the best al fresco eating destinations on the south coast, the view is to die for.

Take in the beautiful surroundings of Shanklin Old Village with a romantic stroll through the chine and finish off with a meal for two in Morgan’s, one of the Island’s best-loved restaurants, known for their use of local produce.

If a pub lunch with a roaring fire is more your idea of romance, then a visit to The Buddle Inn or the Pointer Inn is not to be missed. The latter can be approached through a nature reserve, Martin’s Wood, and provides a picturesque view across Newchurch, Brading and beyond.

A romantic summer’s evening cycle ride along the coastal path at Norton Spit.

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FAR AWAY, SO CLOSE

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For DIY romantics, take a picnic packed full of local produce to one of the Island’s many pretty beaches or enjoy a meandering walk to a local landmark such as St Catherine’s Oratory (or the Pepperpot as it is more fondly known). As the sun goes down, share a traditional fish and chip supper sat on a sea wall watching the waves roll in.

For the ultimate in romance, the setting of the Isle of Wight is perfectly fitting for a wedding - as Billy Idol says “it’s a nice day for a ‘Wight’ wedding”.

With Oscar-nominated actor Benedict Cumberbatch choosing to marry his girlfriend Sophie Hunter in Mottistone Church on Valentine’s Day, the Island has cemented its place on the map as a hotspot for tying the knot. On the Island, your wedding can be framed by some of the most beautiful scenery in the world, with wild beaches, stunning countryside and clear skies every which way you look. For suitable venues you are spoilt for choice. Imagine getting married in a royal residence, a subtropical garden, an 18th century sail loft or in dramatic isolation in the middle of the Solent - the Isle of Wight has them all, and more!

For royal romance, it has to be Osborne, the holiday home of Queen Victoria and her beloved Prince Albert, built in 1845. For the first time in over 150 years, you can now follow in the footsteps of Princess Alice, the couple’s third child. Here, she married Prince Louis of Hesse in the July of 1862.

Today, there are plenty of options for tying the knot at Osborne, from small intimate ceremonies in The Duchess of Kent Suite (George V and Queen Mary honeymooned here) to larger scale gatherings in the walled garden where the door to the original house still stands (this Georgian mansion was knocked down as was deemed too small). The Lower Terrace Garden offers such stunningly sweeping views, that many a couple have booked it on the spot when visiting. From the exclusivity of the Durbar Room where only three ceremonies can be carried out a year, to the seclusion of Queen Victoria’s very own private beach, Osborne is truly an iconic local landmark that will give any wedding the “wow factor”.

For a more unusual and quirky experience for yourself and your guests, why not say your vows onboard No Man’s Fort in the middle of the Solent. Beautifully secluded and remote, you have no chance of bumping into Joe Bloggs public here. Exchange rings under the skies and stars with the spectacular glass roof of the atrium and enjoy one of the best views of the Solent in the luxurious Lighthouse Suite. You can only arrive here by boat so the adventure starts well before you even say “I do!”

If it is classic grandeur you are after then Appuldurcombe House, an 18th century English Baroque mansion was once the grandest house on the Isle of Wight. Now a partly-restored shell (that looks stunning by candlelight) it offers one of the most picturesque settings on the Island. With beautiful rolling grounds, enhanced by one of the most famous landscape gardeners of all time – “Capability” Brown, guests can enjoy the striking splendour of the 11 acres and you can dance the night away under the stars.

A perfect place to visit all year round •

Free admission - to Abbey and Grounds

•

Abbey Church - with regular services open to all. Church & pilgrim chapel open from 5.00am - 8.30pm

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Licenced teashop & Gardens - open daily: lunches, refreshments, etc

•

Farm Shop - Quarr Abbey and other Island products

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Monastery Shop - for literature, devotional items and souvenirs

•

Pilgrim Chapel - for prayer and meditation

•

Art Gallery - displaying work by Island artists

•

Guest House - retreats offered

•

Visitor and Exhibition Centre - interpreting the life and history of Quarr

•

Tours - book a place on a visit to the Abbey.

- First Tuesday of every month at 11.00am - Every Tuesday during July and August

Summertime opening hours Monday to Sunday 10.00am - 5.00pm, Sundays 11.15am - 5.00pm Wintertime opening hours Monday to Saturday 10.00am - 4.00pm, Sundays 11.15am - 4.00pm

Near Ryde, on the main Newport Road, Isle of Wight, PO33 4ES T.01983 882420

www.quarrabbey.org WIGHTLINK.CO.UK

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FAR AWAY, SO CLOSE

The ‘Picture Perfect’ view from Isle of Wight Pearl, available for your reception.

If paradise to you means a tropical island, then the natural beauty of the subtropical gardens at Ventnor Botanic Garden with its 22 acres of wild and wonderful species, could be the stuff of dreams. Underground Victorian cellars, secret tunnels to the sea and over 6,000 plant, shrub and tree species from every continent, make for a very special setting and some fabulous photo opportunities. Your guests could be forgiven for thinking they have been transported to a Mediterranean island with the garden’s unique microclimate, as it always seems that little bit warmer and sunnier here.

For those with their sea-legs why not add a nautical twist? With venues such as the Sir Max Aitken Museum

in the heart of Cowes, the famous pink building is an 18th century sailmakers’ loft and full of his personal artifacts.

The views from the large veranda offer some of the best across the busy harbour, providing on-water entertainment.

Yarmouth’s Royal Solent Yacht Club has been recently licensed, ideal for a maritime marriage.

Manor houses are plentiful on the Island, each offering something unique. Some only have a few dates per year where they offer weddings. Weston Manor in Totland commands unspoilt views over the rugged west, as farreaching as Hurst Castle across the Solent. It even has its own chapel (unconsecrated) for blessings after the civil service in the manor house. Morton Manor in Brading is set in walled gardens, with a licensed gazebo set under a weeping willow tree and ample space for a marquee or two. Hasley Manor is a 14th century historic manor set in stunning grounds in Arreton. With only a few weddings held per year, you need to get in early to book. Barton Manor, listed in the Domesday Book in 1086 as held by King Edward of Bolla, also offers a limited amount of weddings in one of the most private venues on the Island.

Northcourt House is the largest of the Island’s Jacobean manor houses, built in 1615 on the site of a monastic building, it’s a perfect location for a reception with a church and country pub a stone’s throw away.

If it is a view to die for that you are after, then look no further than Isle of Wight Pearl who, for the first time this year, have a dedicated pop-up ‘Picture Perfect’ land hire available for your reception. With truly stunning views across the Channel – on a clear day you can see beyond Tennyson Down to Poole and Weymouth to the west, and the infamous Blackgang Chine in the east. Throw in ample parking and no neighbours to disturb and you can have yourself the ultimate party.

One of the best things about getting hitched on the Isle of Wight has got to be the fact that you start your honeymoon pretty much as soon as you say “I do”. With some stunning places to stay, complete with breathtaking views, fourposter bed romance and secret gardens, you can continue your wedding celebrations without having to go back to the realities of life too soon. Here, you can get away from it all and fall in love all over again.

Be transported to the Mediterranean with Ventnor Botanic Garden’s unique microclimate.

WIGHTLINK.CO.UK

By Lindsay Becker

Discover the freshest aisles of Wight With 15 food stores on the Island we're never too far away

-Bembridge Lane End (Welcome) PO35 5UE -Bembridge Sherbourne St PO35 5SB -Cowes Mill Hill Rd PO31 7EL -Carisbrooke High St PO30 1NR -East Cowes Wells Rd (Welcome) PO32 6SP

-Freshwater Afton Rd (supermarket) PO40 9UH -Freshwater Avenue Rd PO40 9UU -Newport Royal Exchange (Welcome) PO30 2HW -Ryde Somerset Rd PO33 1BU -Ryde West St PO33 2UH

-Sandown Avenue Rd (Petrol Station) PO36 9AN -Sandown Avenue Rd (Welcome) PO36 8BN -Shanklin Arthurs Hill (Welcome) PO37 6EZ -Shanklin Green Lane (Welcome) PO37 7JF -Shanklin Regent St PO37 7AA

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CARNIVAL ISLAND

Carnival Island Which distant, far-flung destinations do you conjure up when you think of sunshine party processions and carnivals?

Rio de Janeiro? The Caribbean Islands perhaps? Maybe even London’s Notting Hill Carnival? Well, the good news is a wide range of colourful and family-friendly outdoor festivals and carnivals are set to take place closer than you might think: on the Isle of Wight.

With nearly 20 individual outdoor public events scheduled for this summer season, the Island is set to burst into life between July and September. Hosting a whole range of fun and free processions, street parades and carnivals.

Many of the carnival events actually date back to the latter half of the 19th century, and yet are still going strong, year after year. This is thanks to a special blend of local support and organisation, participation and attendance of holidaymakers and visitors to the Isle of Wight.

Historic Roots The Island’s longest running summer event is the Ryde Illuminated Carnival. Initially held in honour of Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee in 1887. The original date was 28 July, when Victoria, then aged 68 and in her 50th year as reigning monarch, visited the town of Ryde from her Isle of Wight home, her beloved Osborne. The Isle of Wight County Press newspaper and contemporary archives report how the streets, houses, shop fronts and Town Hall were decorated with flags and banners to welcome the royal party, alongside music supplied by a band of pipers playing patriotic favourites. The famously taciturn Victoria even bestowed “smiling looks” to well-wishers who lined the streets to see her pass by. As dusk fell, a torchlit procession of revellers in fancy dress filed down the High Street, led by the volunteer band. News reports from the summer of 1887 describe how the establishment of Messrs

The spirit of carnival on the Isle of Wight is infectious. Be sure to get involved this summer.

Gibbs and Gurnell was the staging point for many of the instrumentalists and Gustav Mullins’ grand attraction an illuminated transparency portrait of Queen Victoria.

The co-owner of the Royal Photography Studio at 60 Union Street, Gustav was a portrait photographer and holder of a Royal Warrant of Appointment.

The following year, in 1888, saw William Gibbs and Mullins collaborate on the organisation of the first proper carnival in August of that year, in honour of the auspicious royal reception. The carnival date may have changed (it’s now held at the end of the summer season and this year’s is on Saturday, 2 September), but the Gibbs and Gurnell building still stands on Union Street, operating as an NHS dispensing chemist. The passion for the vibrant torchlit carnival has not diminished through the years, with community groups, schools, families and individuals taking part. With live music and elaborate costumes, dancing and carnival floats attracting thousands of spectators, the Ryde Illuminated Carnival acts as the grand closing event for the Isle of Wight’s extensive carnival summer season.

So why not join them this year and witness this genuinely spectacular and memorable event for yourself?

Passing on the Carnival Torch Ryde’s Illuminated Carnival igniting an interest in public participation and outdoor events and it wasn’t long before other towns on the Isle of Wight were catching the carnival fever. Shanklin, on the Island’s east coast, had an active carnival running by 1890, with Ventnor, in the south following suit the year after. Due to the increase in scale and participation, by 1935, there was a call to create an official Carnival Association to plan and curate the events, with each town organising and overseeing their own summer carnival.

The carnival scene has come a long way since 1887 with events across the Island this summer.

WIGHTLINK.CO.UK

White & bleed

CARNIVAL ISLAND

Blue & Bleed

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Taking Part The Isle of Wight carnival scene has come a long way since its conception in 1887, with annual outdoor events taking place in Ryde, Ventnor, Shanklin, Sandown, Cowes, Newport and St Helens between 22 July and 2 September this year.

Mardi Gras Parade – Sat 1 July, 3.00pm a one-off event in Ryde to mark 70 years since the independence of India.

Newport Main Carnival – Sat 22 July, 7.00pm Cowes Main Carnival – Wed 26 July, 7.00pm Sandown Children’s Carnival – Fri 28 July, 3.00pm

HOLIDAY HOMES FROM

Sandown Main Carnival – Sat 29 July, 7.00pm

£16,995

Shanklin Children’s Carnival – Tues 1 Aug, 2.00pm Shanklin Main Carnival – Wed 2 Aug, 7.00pm Shanklin Illuminated Carnival – Sat 5 Aug, 9.15pm

SELF-CATERING

Ventnor Children’s Carnival – Wed 9 Aug, 12.00 noon

Short breaks from £99

Ventnor Main Carnival – Wed 9th Aug, 7.00pm Ventnor Illuminated Carnival – Sat 12 Aug, 9.00pm Newport Illuminated Carnival – Sat 19 Aug, 9.00pm

TOURING & CAMPING

Cowes Illuminated Carnival – Sat 26 Aug, 9.00pm

Pitches from £4 per night

St Helens Carnival – Mon 28 Aug, 6.30pm Sandown Illuminated Carnival – Wed 30 Aug, 8.30pm

GLAMPING

Ryde Children’s Carnival – Wed 30 Aug, 3.00pm

from £23 per night

Ryde Main Carnival – Thurs 31 Aug, 7.00pm Ryde Illuminated Carnival – Sat 2 Sept, 8.30pm

Glam ping

Whether visiting the Island for just a day, or staying over for a longer summer vacation, you can’t help but get involved in one of the carnival events. So join the party and make an Isle of Wight carnival part of your holiday experience this year, they are diverse, uplifting community-led celebrations of summer.

two pools Large, secluded sandy beach Tonnes of Family activities & entertainment On-site Bar & Restaurant

our beac h

Indoor & outdoor heated pools Raw Samba are just one of the bands you’ll see – so get ready to dance!

Nowadays, the Carnival Association for each participating town is responsible for fundraising activities to support the running of the large-scale summer events, as well as the design and creation of the carnival floats that head up the parades. This requires engineering skill as well as artistic flair. The carnivals also provide an opportunity to collect invaluable charitable donations to the Island’s network of public and community services, yet another feel-good factor in carrying on the carnival tradition!

By Geoff Westby

Crazy golf & soft play area Brand new tribeca available

Introducing

the

TriBeCa

*T&Cs apply

Call 01442 50 88 50

awayresorts.co.uk Hillway Road, Bembridge, IOW P035 5PL

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30

DRIVE LESS SEE MORE

DRIVE LESS SEE MORE

Paddle boarding off The Needles.

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DRIVE LESS SEE MORE 31

The Isle of Wight is an island like no other: striking, welcoming and full to the brim with things to do...

One of the features we are most proud of on the Island is just how easy it is to get around, with an extensive bus network and over 500 miles of cycleways and footpaths to get your boots stuck into, you just don’t need your car. We want to show you just how simple it is to make the most of the Isle of Wight using sustainable transport – in fact, you will make so much more of your trip to the Island because you see so much more. Let us give you an idea of that unforgettable feeling when you get out of the car and into the true holiday experience…

On that bright and cheery morning onboard the catamaran to Ryde Pier Head, less than half an hour from the bustle of Portsmouth, think about all the places you can visit. After that first rush of holiday excitement, hop off the ferry and onto a train. At the wet end of a pier the familiar shape of a London Underground tube train, rehomed in the fresh sea air, is there waiting to welcome you off the boat and take you all the way along to Shanklin. Here you can step right into the nostalgia of Great British seaside holidays gone by: a rock shop, where sweets are handed out in paper bags; a theatre, where the roars of laughter fill the red velvet seats; and the beach, where you can spend hours in the arcades and mini-golf courses. Hop on the Shanklin Steamer with a rover ticket for a ride down to the esplanade, and get some sand between your toes – a stone’s throw from home but a world away!

If only there was an open top bus that could take you further… well there is! Catch the Island Coaster with your unlimited rover ticket from the beachfront and enjoy the gorgeous views as you make your way through Ventnor – why not stop off and enjoy some freshly caught crab? Carry on to Blackgang Chine, Land of Adventure where you can spend the day and receive a return ticket to Robin Hill Country Park for free. Cruise along the Military Road to Freshwater and Yarmouth where you can stop off along the way at Isle of Wight Pearl, Mottistone Gardens and Tennyson’s Monument for some unforgettable moments, all the while making the most of that unlimited bus pass.

A must-see on any visit to the Isle of Wight is our iconic landmark, The Needles. The striking rock formation can be enjoyed from the Old Battery, which is only a ride away on the Needles Breezer. Here you can take in the history and importance of the site, and take a peek at the famous lighthouse. Want to get even closer? Head on down the chairlift at Alum Bay for an up-close look at the coloured sands that make your favourite souvenirs. Then get out onto the water with The Needles Pleasure Cruises – taking you on a remarkable trip around the lighthouse itself.

So, where next? Will you go onto Yarmouth, visiting the ornate pier, or head over to Freshwater for an afternoon at the Dimbola Museum and Galleries? Both are easily accessible by bus, but two wheels are lots of fun too. Hire a bike from Wight Cycle Hire from the old train station in Yarmouth and go out and explore the beautiful unspoilt landscape that cultivates West Wight. If you’re bored of dry land, speak to the guys at Adventure Activities, Tapnell Farm, and they can help you out with some coasteering, paddleboarding or kayaking – we are after all the adventure isle!

The Island’s largest arts & crafts centre... > See skilled artisans at work > Range of independent shops > Interior furnishings & accessories > Designer hawndbags, gifts & jewellery OPEN 7 WEEK Y DA S A

FREE N& ADMISSIO !

PARKING

THE

DAIRYMAN’S DAUGHTER

Enjoy home cooked food, fine wines & real ales at our freehouse pub.

Main Road, Arreton, PO30 3AA > 01983 528353

arretonbarns.co.uk WIGHTLINK.CO.UK

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DRIVE LESS SEE MORE

Climb aboard the Isle of Wight Steam Railway.

If this holiday is more about winding down than gearing up, then the gentle roll of the Island’s countryside is a stunning backdrop for some of the best walks in Britain.

Tread the Tennyson Trail all the way to Newport for some spectacular views over Brighstone Down and a well-earned rest stop at Carisbrooke Castle’s tea room. Learn about the rich history of the Isle of Wight and the dramatic escapades of King Charles I while he was imprisoned here.

From Newport, Cowes is only a short bus ride away.

Explore the long-standing history of sailing in the town with the Cowes Boat Trail. This takes you along the streets that, during Cowes Week, are bursting with people. Use the ‘floating bridge’ to get to East Cowes. Follow in the footsteps of royalty at Queen Victoria’s holiday home, Osborne. The private beach is a must see, as well as the many acres of reigning woodland, and you will come to see why Queen Victoria was so enamoured with her Island spot.

The hills of Ryde are forever encouraging you to head down to the beach, with the flat and never-ending shoreline it’s a glorious sight for eager children with buckets and spades in hands. In nearby Havenstreet, you can find the Isle of Wight Steam Railway, an award winning attraction taking you back to a bygone era when steam was the order of the day. The Isle of Wight Steam Railway line connects with the Island Line at Smallbrook station making your journey easier to Brading where the welcoming staff can offer you snacks and refreshments, as well as the opportunity to look inside a working signal box.

If you have some little monkeys with you on your holidays, feel free to drop them off at – I mean, take them to visit – one of the many animal sanctuaries such as the Isle of Wight Zoo, Monkey Haven or Amazon World. The latter, in particular, does some fantastic work in supporting the conservation of the rainforest in South America. At any of these spots you can organise an up close and personal encounter with some of their most famous inhabitants – but don’t expect to see tigers being walked along Sandown beach, at least, not anymore!

So, what if you have your own four-legged pal? They deserve a holiday too! Dogs are welcome to travel for free on the ferries, trains and buses on the Isle of Wight, and you will be surprised by just how many dog-friendly establishments there are to spoil your pooch when you come to visit. We do hope your dog has a pawesome time.

Whether you’re young or old, up for adventure or down to relax, no matter what language you speak (or bark), there is always a fantastic car-free holiday waiting for you on the Isle of Wight. Come and visit us, ask us what makes the Island so special and we will all say the same thing: “It’s like no other place in the world”. From the top deck of a bus, you can see what we mean. You would never get those views from a car, because when you drive less, you see so much more.

Find out more at wightlink.co.uk/do/drive-less-see-more

By Zoe Stroud Why not try leaving the car behind and explore on two wheels instead of four?

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All Weather Attraction Open All Year Round Amazing Views & Surroundings

INDOOR & OUTDOOR PLAY

FARM PARK CAFÉ

PLUS...

New

YOUNG

E X PLO RER S

for 2017 season!

HANDS-ON ANIMAL EXPERIENCES

Take part in our exciting activities, trails and challenges to learn, discover, conquer and explore!

www.tapnellfarmpark.com Tapnell Farm, Newport Road, Yarmouth, Isle of Wight, PO41 0YJ • 01983 758722

RESTAURANT AND BAR

Delicious, freshly cooked food* Stunning Surroundings • Local Ales Fine Wines • Cocktails • Milkshakes Hot & Cold Drinks • Free Wifi Regular Evening Events *Booking recommended

Tapnell Farm, Newport Road, Yarmouth, PO41 0YJ • 01983 758725

www.thecowco.com

A SPECIAL DAY OUT

Isle of Wight Steam Railway, Havenstreet, Nr. Ryde, Isle of Wight, PO33 4DS Tel: 01983 882204 | iwsteamrailway.co.uk

EAST COWES

WOOTTON BRIDGE

The charm of quiet rural stations, the friendliness of traditionally uniformed staff and the range of activities on offer, will leave you with memories that last a lifetime.

RYDE

FISHBOURNE

A

Be sure not to miss Haven Falconry Bird of Prey Centre, boasting the Island’s largest bird of prey collection.

COWES

EDIN RM

Explore and discover Train Story and bring 150 years of railway history to life through interactive activities and stunning displays.

We are open everyday from July through to late September, most days between April and June and various days during October and December.

Full timetables can be found on our website iwsteamrailway.co.uk

BINSTEAD

WOOTTON

I II S T

NEWPORT

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EA IIII M I R A I I HAVENSTREET I LW I I I AY I I I II

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SMALLBROOK

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For an exciting and adventurous day out for all the family, look no further than the Isle of Wight Steam Railway.

Packed full of fun things to see and do, step into years of heritage as you start your journey at Havenstreet, the heart of our railway.

RAILWAY OP E RATING DAYS

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AWA R D W I N NI N G FAMILY ATT R ACT I O N

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ASHEY

Shide

Downend

Arr

eton Down

Brading Do wn

SPE CIAL E VE NTS 2017 We have an exciting year of special events lined up and there is something for everyone to enjoy, including: 14th - 17th April – Easter Fun Crafts, Easter treasure hunts & an Easter bonnet parade.

29th, 30th April & 1st May – 12th Annual Real Ale Festival 21st May – The Isle of Wight Festival of Transport 27th – 29th May – Spring Gala A rare opportunity to see as many of our locomotives in operation as possible.

1st & 2nd July – The 1940’s Experience 30th, 31st July & 1st August – The Railway Folk 5th & 6th August – Victorian Weekend 25th - 28th August – The 43rd Island Steam Show This action packed show and great family day out will make your Bank Holiday a weekend to remember.

29th, 30th September & 1st October – Diesel Gala 23rd – 27th October – Wizard Week A full list of events can be found online iwsteamrailway.co.uk/events

36

ISLE OF WIGHT BEACHES

Isle of Wight Beaches Enjoying an evening swim at Colwell Bay.

Whether you are looking for a traditional bucket-and-spade family day out at the Great British seaside; a beautiful spot to lay back in the sand and relax as your cares and worries melt away; or a seaside stroll with your favourite four-legged friend, there is a beach for you.

We've put together our guide to the Island’s best beaches – so you can explore them all.

Alum Bay

Famed for its beautiful multi-coloured sandy cliffs and stunning views across the Solent, Alum Bay is situated on the most westerly point of the Island. During the summer months you can catch the chairlift from The Needles Landmark Atrraction down to the bay. Alternatively you could take the footpath to the bay from Alum Bay Chine.

Try a boat tour around The Needles which leaves from the beach.

Bembridge

The village boasts several quiet beaches of pebble, rock and sand. Children are certain to love these beaches as they can safely 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.

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 firm family favourite. 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 appropriately.

Winner of Quality Coast Award & Marine Conservation Award.

Compton 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 good waves. The area has toilet facilities and whilst there is no café, a refreshment van can be found there throughout the summer and during the winter months at weekends. The beach at Brook is popular with fossil hunters and at low tide dinosaur footprints can be seen imprinted in the rocks.

Be aware of strong tides and currents when swimming.

Dogs welcome all year round. Winner of the Marine Conservation Award.

Gurnard

Gurnard is a small pleasant resort to the west of Cowes, where there are toilet facilities, an excellent café and a pub. It is a particularly good location to watch the Brighstone Bay liners and large ships entering Southampton water and is very popular with dinghy sailors. Whilst the beach is This relatively untouched stretch of predominantly shingle predominantly pebbles, it is an excellent vantage point beach is a popular spot with surfers and fossil hunters alike, with very good views. Access to the sea wall, a level walk well known as a spot to find a dinosaur bone or two! The between Cowes and Gurnard is extremely good for the beach stretches for over five miles from Chilton Chine in disabled and elderly. the north-west to Atherfield Point in the south-east.

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

Be aware of strong tides and currents when swimming.

Winner of Quality Coast Award.

Ryde & Appley 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, children's play areas, beach huts and Appley Tower. The beaches are all sandy and extend far out to sea at low tide. However, care should be taken as the tide can come in very quickly.

Lifeguards are based on Ryde beach throughout the summer months.

An array of fishing floats at Steephill Cove.

WIGHTLINK.CO.UK

Be aware of fast moving tides.

Winner of Quality Coast Award & Marine Conservation Award.

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ISLE OF WIGHT BEACHES

there are facilities for refreshments, crazy golf and a large 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.

Winner of Quality Coast Award.

St Helens Accessed either by foot or by car, there are particularly good café and restaurant facilities and the children will love the chance to explore the rock pools during low tide. Like Bembridge and Ryde beaches, St Helens looks out across busy shipping lanes and there is something to keep the whole family occupied. With the Duver behind it, the beach is popular for birdwatchers, swimming and walking alike.

Winner of Marine Conservation Award. Dogs welcome all year round.

Steephill Cove

Sun setting over Seagrove Bay.

Sandown With gently sloping beaches, Sandown beach is sandy and there are good toilet facilities available. 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. Stretching the length 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 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 all in easy reach.

Winner of Quality Coast Award & Marine Conservation Award.

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

Located between Seaview and St Helens with a view over the eastern Solent, the beach is gently sloping and has clear waters. There is a café and toilet facilities and rocks for the children to explore. Access is from Seaview Village on foot. However, once there, you will have a very enjoyable day and this area 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 & Marine Conservation Award.

Shanklin Shanklin beach forms part of Sandown Bay with its famous golden sands and safe bathing areas. The water is clear and the beaches slope gently into the sea. Like Sandown, WIGHTLINK.CO.UK

Tucked away between the Undercliff and Ventnor is Steephill Cove, a beautiful and picturesque 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 on the water's edge and the cove can only be accessed on foot. The easiest places to start your walk to Steephill Cove are from the Botanic Garden or Ventnor's La Falaise car parks. Be prepared for quite a few steps from either direction, but you will be rewarded by a tranquil and charming sight as you arrive. A real sun trap, you are sure to return time after time.

Dogs 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 motor cruisers and yachts. Totland has a pier and there is a café, pub and restaurants nearby. This beach is never particularly crowded and is pebbly at the high water mark, with golden sand towards the clear sea.

Winner of Quality Coast Award & Marine Conservation Award.

Ventnor 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.

Bringing your dog along too?

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, St Helens near Bembridge and Steephill Cove on the south coast of the Island.

Cowes A3020

Ryde A3055

Yarmouth

A3054

A3054

Bembridge

NEWPORT

Freshwater

Sandown A3

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Shanklin

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Ventnor

Morrisons. Your one stop holiday shop.

For all your holiday essentials and good quality fresh food at great prices.

Morrisons Newport South Street Newport PO30 1JQ Tel: 01983 822419

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

Morrisons Lake Newport Road Sandown PO36 9PA Tel: 01983 401441

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

FOR YOUR NEAREST MORRISONS STORE PLEASE VISIT WWW.MORRISONS.COM OR TELEPHONE 0345 611 6111

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ISLAND MAP

Supermarkets

N O RT H NO RTH E AST

Southern Co-operative

WEST C E N T RAL

E A ST

Morrisons Aldi

SO U T H

Gurnard Gurnar Bay Bay

Lymington Lymington Thorness Thorness Bay Bay Newtown Newtown Lymington to to Yarmouth Yarmouth Lymington Bay Bay car/passenger ferry ferry car/passenger 40 mins mins 40 Hamstead Hamstead Porchfield Porchfield Newtown Newtown

Yarmouth Yarmouth

Cranmore Cranmore Shalfleet Shalfleet

AA3300 5544

A3

River Yar

05

4

Colwell Colwell Bay Bay Totland Totland Bay Bay

Thorley Thorley

Ningwood Ningwood Newbridge Newbridge Wellow Wellow Calbourne Calbourne

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Freshwater Freshwater Totland Totland The The Needles Needles

Alum Alum Bay Bay

Scratchells Scratchells Bay Bay

wnn Doow oonn D s s y y Freshwater Freshwater Bay Bay nnnn TTee Freshwater Freshwater Bay Bay Compton Compton

NORTH EAST

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Sconce Sconce Point Point

Chessell Chessell Hulverstone Hulverstone Brook Brook AA33 0055 Brook Brook 55 Bay Bay

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Bowcombe Bowcombe wwnn o o DD

Mottistone Mottistone Shorwell Shorwell Brighstone Brighstone

New New Do Do

Oasis p6-7 Isle of Wight Steam Railway p34-35

Yafford Yafford Sandown Pier p39

Goodleaf Tree Climbing p105

Isle Jump p63

Rosemary Vineyard p23

Shanklin Seafront p37

Waltzing Waters p49

Shanklin Chine p61

Wight Karting p21

Shanklin Theatre p104

WEST

Brighstone Brighstone Bay Bay

Isle of Wight Pearl p3 & p73 Mottistone Gardens p41 Calbourne Water Mill p77

Bembridge Windmill p41

Tapnell Farm p33

Bembridge Fort p41

Dimbola Museum & Galleries p75

Atherfield Atherfield Point Point

The Needles Battery p41

SOUTH

The Needles Landmark Attraction, inside front cover

Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary p67

Fort Victoria Country Park p71

Owl & Falconry Centre p69

Yarmouth Castle p9

Adgestone Vineyard p57

Ventnor Botanic Garden p65

Yarmouth Gallery p104

Brading Roman Villa p57

St Catherine’s Lighthouse

West Wight Alpacas p75

Isle of Wight Zoo p111

Blackgang Chine p11

Newtown Town Hall & Nature Reserve p41

EAST

Atherfie Atherfie Green Green

5

Land of Roses p47

05

Dinosaur Isle p63

A3

Quarr Abbey p25

Chale Chale Bay Bay

ISLAND MAP

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Portsmouth Portsmouth

Cowes Cowes

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Portsmouth Portsmouth to to Fishbourne Fishbourne car/passenger car/passenger ferry ferry 45 45 mins mins

East East Cowes Cowes

Portsmouth Portsmouth to to Ryde Ryde passenger passenger catamaran catamaran 22 22 mins mins

Osborne Osborne Bay Bay Whippingham Whippingham

Ryde Ryde

Fishbourne Fishbourne Binstead Binstead

A3 1 02

A3020

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Northwood Northwood

Appley Appley Spring Vale Vale Spring Seaview Seaview

A305 A30544

Parkhurst Parkhurst 44 AA330055

Seagrove Seagrove A3055

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Wootton Wootton Bridge ttee Bridge aam Havenstreet Havenstreet m RRaa iillww aayy

Nettlestone Nettlestone Priory Priory Bay Bay

Newport Newport Shide Shide Downend Downend Blackwater Blackwater

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Arreton Arreton Langbridge Langbridge

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Alverstone Alverstone

Merstone Merstone 05

Lake Lake 0 02 A3

Chillerton Chillerton

Godshill Godshill

Ste nbur y Down

Isle of Wight Chale Chale Green Green

Chale Chale

Apse Apse Heath Heath Whiteley Whiteley Bank Bank

Culver Culver Cliff Cliff

Sandown Sandown Bay Bay

Shanklin Shanklin

Niton Niton

Monkey Haven p89 & back cover Island Riding Centre p105

Wroxall Wroxall

Luccombe Luccombe Bay Bay

Wroxall Wroxall Down Down

Bonchurch Bonchurch

Robin Hill Country Park p19 Arreton Barns p31 The Garlic Farm p87

Steephill Cove Cove Steephill

St Lawrence Lawrence St

CENTRAL Carisbrooke Castle p9

St St Martins Martins Down Down

Whitwell Whitwell

Niton Niton Down Down

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Yaverland Yaverland

Sandown Sandown

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Rookley Rookley

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Whitecliff Whitecliff Bay Bay

Morton Morton

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Gatcombe Gatcombe

Adgestone Adgestone

Brading Brading

A3 05 5

Carisbrooke Carisbrooke

St Helens Helens St Bembridge Bembridge

Ventnor Ventnor

Amazon World Zoo Park p14 –15 Holliers Park and House of Chilli p91 The Old Smithy p85

Blackgang Blackgang

Island Gems p87

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

NORTH

The Model Village p90 The Cow Shed p87

Wight Military & Heritage Museum p104 Whippingham Church p104 Osborne p9

PORTSMOUTH Gunwharf Quays p95

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NORTH EAST

NORTH EAST

Street, with its boutique bars and shops such as Land of The north-east of the Island has it all, from the hustle and bustle of Ryde, the Island’s largest town, Roses. A veritable feast for the nose — all the rose oil used is extracted from the Damask Rose which takes more than to miles of unspoilt beaches, both golden and three tonnes of rose petals to extract just one kg of Rose oil. pebbly, that hug the coastline round to the stunning cliffs of Whitecliff Bay. When you reach the top of Union Street, In the summer months the sands here are lined with striped deckchairs and beach towels, frisbees and beach balls fly through the air with abandon. Meanwhile the doors to the colourful beach huts of Appley and Bembridge are flung open and the smell of BBQ’s waft through the air.

Once you have your ticket to Ryde, you might not want to leave. If you can tear yourself away from the beach, why not take a stroll up the (quite steep) main drag, Union

be sure to turn around for a fab photo opportunity and a great view of Ryde Pier. Built in 1813 it is the oldest pier in England, one of the longest, and is the home to Wightlink’s passenger catamaran service to Portsmouth.

Further along the flat Ryde Esplanade (perfect for bikes, scooters, hoverboards or any other form of kiddie transport designed to bruise mum and dad’s shins) towards Puckpool you’ll find the Dell Cafe, overlooking the stretch of beach and benefiting from stunning views out towards Portsmouth.

Quarr Abbey’s majestic profile across the wild flowers.

WIGHTLINK.CO.UK

NORTH EAST

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Sit outside with a coffee or enjoy a tapas style lunch inside the ‘Orla Kiely meets beach hut chic’ style interior. The panoramic views provide a stunning backdrop and is just a stone’s throw from a popular park for younger members of the family.

A trip on a steam train at the Isle of Wight Steam Railway gives you feelings of nostalgia, of days gone by when trains were the only means of transport from the city to seaside.

Summer flowers pepper the forest as you pass through from Havenstreet to Ashey in a cloud of steam. Jump off at Isle of Wight Steam Railway where you can easily spend a day enjoying the award-winning train story, watch engines being renovated or relax in the licensed tea rooms.

Heading out of Ryde towards Ashey you could be forgiven for thinking this is a boozer’s paradise with a vineyard and distillery all right next to each other. Rosemary Vineyard is home to award-winning English wines and with its 30 acres, is one of the largest vineyards in the country.

If wine or cider is not your thing then you must be a gin drinker and if so, your luck is in. The Island’s first and only distillery opened here in 2015 and has gone from strength to strength ever since. Wight Mermaids Gin is stocked on the shelves of many an Island pub and bar and you can guarantee it will be on the menu at The Seaview Hotel too. A supporter of local food and drink, The Seaview Hotel is the only place on the Island to currently hold a Bib Gourmand award from Michelin recognising the high quality and value for money offered all year round.

Stay here a while and take in the pretty village of Seaview.

Buzzing with holidaymakers and second homers, there are regattas galore (well this is a sailing town) and the sea is busy with mermaid boats and kitesurfers.

A treasure trove of homewares and gifts at Oasis.

Round the corner, before you hit the most easterly tip of the Island you will pass through the village of St Helens, known for its large village green that forms the centre. On the outskirts towards Brading, Oasis is well worth a trip.

Family owned and run, this treasure trove is packed full of interesting and original items for the home all handpicked in Bali, as well as a coffee shop where the cakes are worth a visit alone!

Continue east to reach the town of Bembridge which claims to be the largest village in England with some 4,000 residents. Bembridge is home to two of the Island’s most recognisable pieces of architecture from the Island’s only surviving windmill, built in the 1700s to the more recently completed Bembridge Lifeboat Station in 2010. There is much here for all the family with some excellent walks through the Duver, an art gallery and plenty of houseboats to admire.

Whitecliff Bay Holiday Park just on the outskirts of Bembridge, has one of the most enviable locations with its own beach right below the cliffs - it’s the perfect spot to watch the surfers brave the waves or lay back and relax in the sunshine.

Victorian folly, Appley Tower looks over the stretches of sandy beaches at Ryde.

The parish of Fishbourne might be mistaken for nothing more than a place to get on and off the Island at Wightlink’s car ferry terminal, but to overlook it is to miss a trick. With a pretty little beach tucked past a small green, it is the ideal place to start a walk to neighbouring Quarr Abbey. Quarr Abbey as it is now was built next to the ruins of the original Abbey in 1911. There are beautiful grounds to enjoy with pigs to feed and chickens to watch. The tea shop does a great ploughmans and stocks all the Abbey’s own produce from honey to ale.

WIGHTLINK.CO.UK

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NORTH EAST

Stargazing at Bembridge Windmill.

GO Esplanade Car Hire 9-11 George Street, Ryde PO33 2EB 01983 562322 esplanade.co.uk Car rentals from just £25 per day. Whether you’re looking for a hatchback, saloon, estate, cabriolet or seven & eight seater.

Child seats & satellite navigation available. Open seven days a week April–September.

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

Bembridge Windmill High Street, Bembridge PO35 5SQ 01983 873945 nationaltrust.org.uk/bembridgewindmill WIGHTLINK.CO.UK

This picturesque, 300-year-old windmill is one of the Island’s best loved landmarks. Dating from around 1700, it is the only surviving windmill on the Island and has much of its original machinery intact. Cared for by The National Trust, it also has a kiosk selling hot and cold drinks, ice cream and gifts.

Goodleaf Tree Climbing Appley Park, Ryde, PO33 1ND 0333 800 1188 goodleaf.co.uk Tree climbing is a brilliant outdoor adventure that takes place in one majestic oak tree near the beach in Ryde. It’s great for ages eight to eighty and the friendly, expert instructors will teach you the ropes before you ascend into the canopy of the oak tree. Enjoy beautiful views, swing around, or simply unwind in the special tree top hammock.

IW Steam Railway Havenstreet PO33 4DS 01983 882204 iwsteamrailway.co.uk This award-winning railway will charm, engage and captivate, leaving you with lasting memories.

Settle back in beautifully restored carriages and discover an idyllic view of the Island’s unspoilt countryside. Keep an eye out for red squirrels as you pass through ancient woodland.

Land of Roses 2 Union Street, Ryde PO33 2EA 01983 472501 landofroses.co.uk Natural cosmetics with Bulgarian Rose oil - ‘liquid gold’. Discover the most precious essential oil in the world, a true elixir for the skin with more than 300 invaluable ingredients and a unique, divine fragrance.

Oasis Carpenters Road, Brading PO36 0QA 01983 613760 oasis-iow.co.uk Oasis is a treasure trove of unique items sourced from around the world. Teak furniture,

cushions, candles, flowers, homeware and more are available to enhance your home.

Be sure to visit the coffee shop after your spot of retail therapy.

Quarr Abbey Binstead Hill, Ryde, PO33 4ES 01983 882420 quarrabbey.co.uk A working Benedictine Monastery with free entry to the grounds so you can visit the church, pilgrim chapel, art gallery and monastery shop or explore the woodland walk. Enjoy the tea shop and the farm shop both of which make the most of the Abbey’s produce.

Rosemary Vineyard Smallbrook Lane, Ryde PO33 4BE 01983 811084 rosemaryvineyard.co.uk One of the largest producers of English wine, covering 30 acres, this vineyard is ideally placed.

All wine, liqueurs, juices and ciders are made from grapes and apples grown on the estate. Tour the vineyard and relax in the coffee shop.

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

ESSED DR ED STIMIT E B BL E H T RA C 01983 874758

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

AFE DELL C P u ck p o o l S a n d

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

Try our speciality seafood platter for two. Fully licensed.

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Visit us at: www.thebestdressedcrabintown.co.uk White & bleed

Family-run Cosmopolitan vibe Relaxed atmosphere Island roasted coffee & Island produce

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Beautiful sunsets Secluded location Homemade cakes Gourmet burgers Fresh seafood Daily specials menu Fully licenced Look out for summer evening dining

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

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

Blue & Bleed

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

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NORTH EAST

View the Island’s countryside by steam with Isle of Wight Steam Railway.

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

the music. Watch a 40 minute show every hour, seven days a week.

Waterside Pool The Esplanade, Ryde PO33 1JA 01983 563656 watersidepool.co.uk Wight Karting Ltd Westridge, Brading Road, Ryde PO33 1QS 01983 565366 wightkarting.co.uk

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 and music show!

Tons of water explode into the air, illuminated by rainbows of colour, alive and dancing with WIGHTLINK.CO.UK

Open every weekend and 7 days a week in school holidays. Fun for ages 8-88. Send the kids for a ‘parent-free’ half day on Junior Track Days, Tuesday and Wednesday during holidays.

Unlimited karting on Sundays, and special events all year. Book online for discounts. New for 2017 ‘Family Fridays’ where mums get free hot drinks all evening.

STAY Isle of Wight Campervan Holidays Unit 2 Fishbourne Quays, Ryde PO33 4EY 01983 642143 isleofwightcampers.co.uk Take to the open road in a classic 70’s VW campervan and enjoy all that the Isle of Wight has to offer. Joining the fleet for 2017 is a modern T5 VW campervan which is available for hire on the Island or for mainland use by Islanders looking to travel further afield.

All of the campervans come fully equipped with everything you need for a great holiday.

Nodes Point Holiday Park Lower Green Road, St Helens PO33 1YA 01983 872401 parkdeanresorts.co.uk A short stroll from St Helen’s beach and with 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 and suites, including dog-friendly accommodation. Located in the sailing village of Seaview, it’s renowned for good food, especially fish and seafood.

Choose to eat and drink in the cosy pump bar or the stylish main restaurant which has been awarded a Michelin Bib Gourmand.

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WHERE EVERY “VISITOR IS A

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NORTH EAST

STAY Whitecliff Bay Hillway Road, Bembridge PO35 5PL 01442 508850 awayresorts.co.uk Perfectly placed next to its own beautiful, secluded beach, it makes for the ideal holiday base and for exploring all the Island has to offer. Choose from a range of self-catering accommodation or find your perfect pitch, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

EAT The Best Dressed Crab Embankment Road, Bembridge PO35 5NS 01983 874758 thebestdressedcrabintown.co.uk Situated in Bembridge preparing the most delicious crab and lobster direct from the fishing boat. Enjoy dressed crab, tubs of crab, prepared lobsters and much more. When in season, Bembridge prawns are available, as are local whelks. Eat in the lovely floating café and enjoy the fantastic views of Bembridge Harbour.

Boats moored off Seaview

homemade food using the finest of ingredients.

The Dell Café Puckpool Sands, Seaview PO34 5AR 01983 812947 dellcafe.com Situated on the eastern end of Puckpool Sands with views down the Solent, the café has a lovely sun terrace set over the sea where you can take in the views and spectacular sunsets. It has an innovative menu and regular changing specials board.

Fully licensed and offering evening dining.

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 and more - it is homemade at its best. The brand new menu introduces WIGHTLINK.CO.UK

Quality dining by the sea. The Boathouse prides itself on offering quality dining in a pub environment, matched with superb ales and an extensive wine selection. Since opening in 2010 The Boathouse has built up an enviable reputation for consistently prepared meals backed by friendly, attentive service and a passion for using local produce, especially fish.

Quarr Abbey Tea Shop Binstead Hill, Ryde PO33 4ES 01983 882420 quarrabbey.org Visit and enjoy the tranquillity of the popular tea shop offering 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.

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

The Fishbourne is situated just along from the Wightlink car ferry terminal, near Ryde.

They pride themselves in offering quality dining in a pub environment, with superb ales and an extensive wine selection.

AA Dining Awards 2011 to 2015

The Old Village Inn 61 High Street, Bembridge, PO35 5SF 01983 872616 yeoldevillageinn.co.uk Nestled in the heart of Bembridge High Street, this quirky, traditional style public house has been serving since 1787. Resident landlords Kelly and Jay continue this fine tradition, sourcing real ales from across the UK to ensure an everchanging selection. The newly refurbished public house boasts an amazing casual dining area for everyone.

The Fishbourne Fishbourne Lane, Fishbourne PO33 4EU 01983 882823 thefisbourne.co.uk

NORTH EAST

51

Playing in the summer sunshine on Appley beach.

The Spinnaker 1 Steyne Road, Bembridge PO35 5UH 01983 873572 thespinnakeriow.co.uk

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

The Vineleaf Coffee Shop Smallbrook Lane, Ryde PO33 4BE 01983 811084 rosemaryvineyard.co.uk

The Spinnaker is proud to use the best quality local produce available from this ‘Garden Isle’.

The Isle of Wight has become a real gastronomic destination due to the dedication and passion of local producers, suppliers and chefs. They are proud to be at the forefront of this movement and to support local producers.

Located in the sailing village of Seaview, it’s renowned for good food, especially fish and seafood.

Choose to eat and drink in the cosy pump bar or the stylish main restaurant which has been awarded a Michelin Bib Gourmand.

This 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, panini’s and light lunches along with mouth watering homemade cakes, cream teas and teacakes.

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, Ryde PO33 1BU 01983 562779 thesouthernco-operative.co.uk

Looking out over Ryde Pier at sunrise.

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Discover the spirit of Bali at

IN THE BEGINNING Alan and Bridget wanted a WOW factor, a UNIQUE type of product, so decided to directly import crafts from another country.

They looked at Mexico, Thailand, India and Bali. In 1999 they took their first trip to Bali - the Island of the Gods - and at first this was full of challenges and cultural differences. The Balinese have strong spiritual roots and worship a unique form of Hindu, which is partly made up of Buddhist, Javanese and ancient indigenous beliefs.

The Balinese people strongly believe in the power of magic, the moon and the spirits and base their beliefs around this. Alan and Bridget were open to the challenge and showed the local people that they were committed to environmentally sound and fair trading; working directly with small scale suppliers in villages across the Island. By cutting out the middle man and ensuring the crafts people receive a fair price for their goods and were paid on time. This led to trust between them which has resulted in a sea container, carrying an assortment of arts, crafts and furniture, travelling the 7,750 miles to the UK approximately every five weeks. There is not the editorial space available to write about all the many unique and wonderful crafts you will find at Oasis, so come and visit and enjoy the shopping experience. Below are several items that

OASIS

you may be interested in. Remember for those big and bulky items we can deliver throughout the UK mainland.

NEW THIS YEAR New for 2017 at Oasis we have an Hawaiian area. On a recent visit to Bali, Alan and Bridget noticed that there were several family groups producing products for export to Hawaii. Brightly coloured and beachthemed they thought that these products might well be suited to “our” Island and include carved and brightly painted birds, masks and signs. These products will help to create a relaxed “beach” theme for your home; colourful, funky and amusing, choose these products to give your home the “paradise” look.

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

From Bali to you, a unique journey

FISHING BOAT RECYCLE Furniture made from boat wood has history and style. Wonderful, interesting and unique are some of the words that customers use when seeing the recycled boat wood for the first time! Oasis now use three producers for these items, each using their self-taught skills to make new uses for these damaged fishing boats.

The fisherman who until recently had no “market” for their damaged boats other than to use them as fire wood.

“By purchasing the damaged boats, we give them an added income. We have been working closely to change the designs and give our customers a greater choice. Chairs and dining tables, cabinets and benches, all bursting with colour and character; these pieces have been sailing the Indian Ocean for many years. Every piece is shaped and influenced over decades by the sea, making each piece individual and unique.”

POLISHED TEAK ROOT

GLASS MOSAIC ART

OASIS

Glass is painted and then cut into shapes and mounted on wood and terracotta.

This is a delicate form of art requiring good eyesight and nimble fingers. “We regularly change our colours and designs to keep this item fresh and up to date. At Oasis, we can offer a set of three square bowls at £15 and coasters for just £1.50.”

New for this year is a great range of shapes used for wall coverings. These are made by applying small shapes of handpainted glass and mirror to a wooden back, this forms a beautiful piece for your wall at an incredible price.

This furniture is made from teak root, the base of the tree and is much harder and heavier than other parts of the tree. Normally it is highly polished with a natural wax finish. From vases to dining tables, mirrors to coffee tables and recently, due to customer requests, we have increased our range of these products. No two pieces are alike, with differences in colour, size and shape, they make good contemporary pieces of furniture. Often called by our customers “teak root art”, prices start from £85 for an occasional table.

Visit the Oasis for a unique shopping experience and you will be amazed by the collection of products at very affordable prices.

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

54

EAST

EAST

The east coast of the Island is famed for its seemingly endless sandy beaches. Think deckchairs, ice cream cones melting in your hand and the sound of children’s screams of laughter carrying through the air.

Here you will find some of the Island’s most recommended walks including the Alverstone route through 2 miles of unspoilt nature reserve. If walking along the beach appeals more, then make a stop at The Waterfront Inn, Shanklin.

Sitting right opposite the sands, it’s the perfect place for a break from the beach and some welcome shade thanks to the terrace.

If you are looking to stay a while, you would be hardpushed to find a better location than The Aqua. The name alone says it all and the views across the English Channel

are unrivalled. Weekly entertainment and renowned cuisine make for a memorable break.

The east side boasts several of the best family attractions on the Island. In Sandown, Dinosaur Isle is a fun and imaginative interactive museum. Here everything (bar the staff) is prehistoric, with even the building designed to be shaped as a giant pterodactyl. Book onto one of the fossil walks that take place throughout the year and find out more about when dinosaurs walked on the Isle of Wight.

Yaverland Beach is a great place to start your own fossil hunt with the dramatic backdrop of the white Culver Cliff.

Fully immerse yourself in history at Brading Roman Villa. An interactive experience, children will love the chance to dress up as a Roman soldier complete with sword. Enjoy wide open spaces to run free and some of the most beautiful mosaic floors you are likely to see outside of Italy.

Deckchairs on Shanklin Beach.

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EAST

55

Sandown is home to one of the four piers on the Island but is the only traditional pleasure pier. Even on a rainy day it provides a great escape and is sure to keep the family entertained with penny slot machines, indoor crazy golf, ten-pin bowling and Magic Island play area. After all that excitement, relax in Scruffy Jacks Sports Bar or the café and watch the waves crash underneath.

If none of this wears the kids out, then you still have one final trick up your sleeve in the form of Isle Jump. An indoor trampoline park consisting of 40 interconnecting trampolines, there are foam pits, giant air bags, basketball hoops and more. Kids (over 5) and adults alike can’t fail to enjoy it - you will be jumping for joy!

When on holiday, food is never far from the top of the agenda and the east side of the Island has some notable places to eat. If it is a special occasion, Royal China situated on the High Street in Sandown is a great venue. Colourful and with welcoming staff this could be the ideal place for a family meal. If you fancy a dinner in the comfort of your own holiday home but without the cooking, then why not try Mr T’s? Specialising in pizzas, burgers and tasty salads, it has all of the taste with none of the washing up.

Sandown’s neighbouring town of Shanklin is a traditional

Meet the meerkats at IW Zoo in their ‘daily meerkat encounters’.

Pop into the popular Forum Café with its stunning views across Sandown Bay for a snack and cooling drink.

Brading itself is well worth a stop. Once a major port on the Island, you can still see evidence of this with the architecture in the main town. Rectory Mansion is housed in what was known for a long time as Osborne-Smith’s Wax Museum. Now a café and local produce shop, as well as a store dedicated entirely to chocolate, you can treat yourself to something sweet.

2017 sees Shanklin Chine celebrating its 200th anniversary.

seaside destination with charming style. Visit the Old Village for thatched pubs and maybe catch a show at Shanklin Theatre, which has featured nights from visiting comedians and musicians to summer shows. Why not visit Shanklin Chine, the Island’s oldest attraction, this year celebrating its 200th anniversary. What trip to the seaside would not be complete without visiting a traditional sweet shop? The Rock Shop specialises in sticks of rock and old fashioned sweets and is sure to delight all, both young and old.

Sunrise over Sandown Pier.

Nestled in the surrounding countryside, award winning Adgestone Vineyard is one of the country’s oldest working vineyards and was renovated by its current owners in 2013. The chalky south-facing slopes and almost frost-free microclimate makes for an advantage seen in very few English counties. You’d best take a trip and buy a bottle to check it out for yourselves!

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56

EAST

DO Arty Shakes Falcon Cross Rd, Shanklin PO37 7LA 01983 716580 Artyshakes.co.uk

Islejump Unit D1, Spithead Business Centre Newport Road, Lake PO36 9PH 01983 400444 islejump.co.uk

Entertainment for all the family all year round, you can choose and paint your own pottery.

They will turn your favourite chocolate bar into a Milkshake that you’ll keep going back for.

Try the homemade waffles.

Go and bounce! Islejump is the Island’s new and exciting indoor trampoline park. Set over 10,000 square feet with 40 wall-towall trampolines including a dodgeball court, slam dunk basketball hoops, giant air bag and coffee shop now serving hot food. Parking available.

Adgestone Vineyard Upper Road, Brading PO36 0ES 01983 402882 adgestonevineyard.co.uk

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

Adgestone, the place of beauty where you can relax with the whole family. Take an audio tour and 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.

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

Brading Roman Villa Morton Old Road, Brading PO36 0EN 01983 406223 bradingromanvilla.org.uk One of the finest Roman sites in the UK, this award-winning visitor centre and museum offers a unique insight into Roman life in Britain. There are beautifully preserved mosaic floors and an extensive collection of Roman archaeology. On-site licensed café and shop.

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 the Ice age and ancient oceans to 120 million years ago. Please phone or check website for opening times.

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Sandown Pier The Esplanade, Sandown PO36 8JT 01983 404122 sandownpier.co.uk All year round entertainment for the whole family. Includes Lost World indoor golf adventure, ten pin bowling and Magic Island play area where children’s parties are a speciality. The end of the pier opens from Easter and has rides for everyone.

Fishing is available from Easter onwards. There is a café, ice cream kiosk, burger bar and Scruffy Jack’s Sports Bar.

Enjoying the sun in front of the beach huts on Small Hope beach, Shanklin.

Shanklin Chine Chine Hill, Shanklin PO37 6BW 01983 866432 shanklinchine.co.uk

Shanklin Theatre Prospect Road, Shanklin PO37 6AJ 01983 868000 shanklintheatre.com

This year celebrating its two hundredth anniversary as the Island’s oldest visitor attraction.

Visit this famous leafy gorge, much loved by poets, artists and writers.

The steep-sided winding path is a magical place, full of rare plants, woodland, wildlife and enchanting waterfalls. Relax in the tea garden and browse the gift shop.

Open all year round offering great entertainment from top household names in popular music such as Russell Watson, Lesley Garrett and Lee Mead. Comedians ranging from Al Murray and Alan Davies, to Joe Pasquale. Along with top productions, there is also a summer show of The Best of the West End and a popular summer pantomime.

Shanklin Seafront Esplanade, Shanklin PO37 6BG 01983 867585 shanklinseafront.co.uk Re-discover the Great British seaside on Shanklin Seafront.

Indulge yourself with traditional seaside family fun whatever the weather. Open daily from 9am, there are family attractions to keep you busy. Hot and cold food is available across a range of eateries, serving all the seaside favourites.

The Rock Shop 91-93 High Street, Shanklin PO37 6NR 01983 862950 therockshopiow.co.uk Specialists in rock sweets, chocolates, handmade fudge, biscuits, sticks of rock and many more types of sweets, no holiday is complete without a visit to The Rock Shop. Kids young and old will enjoy a trip to this traditional sweet shop.

Explore the 10 acre vineyard and our cellars on a self-guided tour.

Only £7.50 for adults and under 18’s free.

Wine tasting lesson with our expert wine-maker.

Come & Enjoy THE GRAPE TO GLASS EXPERIENCE Why not stay the night in our peaceful Bed and Breakfast?

Local produce SHOP

The Snug B&B

Licensed CAFE

Isle of Wight

e Chamber of Commerc

TOURISM AND HOSPITALITY

UKVA ENGLISH WINE AWARD WINNER 2016

Live MUSIC Serving sharing platters, light lunches, traditional cream teas and drinks.

Newly refurbished with reclaimed vineyard materials.

Adgestone’s own English and Country Wines, Liqueurs, Arson Fire Jams & Chutneys, as well as the finest local cheeses, biscuits and pestos.

Live music on the terrace, Sundays 1pm-3pm, July to September.

THE OLDEST COMMERCIAL VINEYARD IN ENGLAND STILL OPERATING.

Winner 2015

Upper Road, Sandown PO36 OES | bookings@adgestonevineyard.co.uk | 01983 402882 | 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 Interactive displays • Extensive grounds Roman garden & meadow trail • Licensed café • Shop Open 7 days a week from 10am - 5pm

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

01983 406223 bradingromanvilla.org.uk

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60

EAST

Feeding the ducks and swans by Dinosaur Isle.

EAT The Beach Shack Western Esplanade, Sandown PO36 8JS 01983 401392 thebeachshack-isleofwight.co.uk

The Caulkheads 42-44 Avenue Road, Sandown PO36 8AY 01983 405080 caulkheads.pub

The Caulkheads is a landmark family pub frequented by locals and tourists alike. The pub has recently benefitted from a full The Beach Shack is a licensed, refurbishment programme to award-winning seafood café include the external decoration, with stunning views of the bay and boasts stylish indoor seating, new toilet facilities and a complete internal overhaul. A tables by the sea wall and a rustic nautical theme reinforces sheltered terrace to the side. where the name ‘Caulkheads’ is The atmosphere is chilled and informal, it’s the perfect place to derived from. relax with a drink or a meal and watch the world go by on the beach.

The Bugle Inn 56-57 High Street, Brading PO36 0DQ 01983 407359 buglebrading.co.uk The Bugle Inn prides itself in bringing you wholesome and traditional home-cooked great food using the best seasonal produce cooked to perfection.

They hope you enjoy eating them as much as they enjoy making them.

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 and feasting so there is nowhere more perfect to than in the ancient Roman grounds at Brading. The Forum Café is privy to some stunning panoramic views over Sandown Bay serving up a great range of lunches, snacks, cakes and drinks.

Morgan’s Restaurant 36-38 High Street, Shanklin PO37 6JY 01983 864900 morgansofshanklin.com Morgan’s pride themselves in using the finest quality Isle of Wight produce, including Ventnor Bay seafood and shellfish and Godshill duck.

Alongside the extensive menu Morgan’s host a seasonal daily special board. The restaurant caters for families providing a children’s menu.

Fisherman’s Cottage Shanklin Chine, 3 Chine Hill, Shanklin PO37 6BW 01983 866432 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 and try the great real ales.

The Fisherman’s Cottage sits on the beach at the foot of Shanklin Chine.

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Muzza’s Cafe and Ice Cream Parlour

ARTISAN GELATO

HANDMADE ICE CREAM ON OUR PREMISES TO AN ITALIAN RECIPE! Licensed cafe specialising in hot & cold home cooked food and Artisan Gelato!

LL NA OPE AR! YE

26 High Street, Sandown, PO36 8DE Tel: 01983 407595 www.muzzas-iow.co.uk Advertising by www.iwdesignandprint.co.uk

Much more than just rock…

~ 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.

Rock sweets ◆ Chocolates ◆ Handmade fudge Homemade biscuits ◆ Sticks of rock

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

Lunch: 12noon - 2.15pm Evening: 5.30pm - 11.30pm

Over 60 years’ experience producing some of the most delicious and creative confectionary.

Open till midnight Fri & Sat 7 days a week, all year round including Bank Holidays

Open 7 days a week

Takeaway available with delivery 5.30pm - 11pm

91-93 High Street, Shanklin, PO37 6NR 01983 862950 | www.therockshop.co.uk

Tel: 01983 401128 or 402777 | www.royalchinaiow.co.uk WIGHTLINK.CO.UK

60

EAST

Feeding the ducks and swans by Dinosaur Isle.

EAT The Beach Shack Western Esplanade, Sandown PO36 8JS 01983 401392 thebeachshack-isleofwight.co.uk

The Caulkheads 42-44 Avenue Road, Sandown PO36 8AY 01983 405080 caulkheads.pub

The Caulkheads is a landmark family pub frequented by locals and tourists alike. The pub has recently benefitted from a full The Beach Shack is a licensed, refurbishment programme to award-winning seafood café include the external decoration, with stunning views of the bay and boasts stylish indoor seating, new toilet facilities and a complete internal overhaul. A tables by the sea wall and a rustic nautical theme reinforces sheltered terrace to the side. where the name ‘Caulkheads’ is The atmosphere is chilled and informal, it’s the perfect place to derived from. relax with a drink or a meal and watch the world go by on the beach.

The Bugle Inn 56-57 High Street, Brading PO36 0DQ 01983 407359 buglebrading.co.uk The Bugle Inn prides itself in bringing you wholesome and traditional home-cooked great food using the best seasonal produce cooked to perfection.

They hope you enjoy eating them as much as they enjoy making them.

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 and feasting so there is nowhere more perfect to than in the ancient Roman grounds at Brading. The Forum Café is privy to some stunning panoramic views over Sandown Bay serving up a great range of lunches, snacks, cakes and drinks.

Morgan’s Restaurant 36-38 High Street, Shanklin PO37 6JY 01983 864900 morgansofshanklin.com Morgan’s pride themselves in using the finest quality Isle of Wight produce, including Ventnor Bay seafood and shellfish and Godshill duck.

Alongside the extensive menu Morgan’s host a seasonal daily special board. The restaurant caters for families providing a children’s menu.

Fisherman’s Cottage Shanklin Chine, 3 Chine Hill, Shanklin PO37 6BW 01983 866432 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 and try the great real ales.

The Fisherman’s Cottage sits on the beach at the foot of Shanklin Chine.

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visit the island’s enchanted tree-lined gorge attraction IN OUR 200th anniversary year

A marvel by day - A wonder by night enjoy our new 2ooth anniversary exhibition savour the island’s favourite cream tea’s see our magical illuminations

Open daily in 2017 from:

save £’s with a combined day & evening return ticket

ADMIT ONE

01983 866432 • Entrances at Shanklin Esplanade and Old Village • www.shanklinchine.co.uk •

•

DAY / EVEN ING CHINE LUMIÈ RE

(7 DAYS TO RE TURN)

ADMIT ONE

7th April ~ 25th May 10am-5pm 26th May ~ 29th Sept 10am-10pm Closed 1st-20th October 21st ~ 29th October 10am-8pm (half term)

The Aqua Beachfront bed & breakfast

Same ownership for the last 37 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

l l l l

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

Open from April to October 17 The Esplanade, Shanklin, Isle of Wight, PO37 6BN 01983 863024 www.theaqua.co.uk

01983 401392 or 07886 959192 Western Esplanade, Sandown, PO36 8JS WIGHTLINK.CO.UK

62

EAST

Shanklin Beach at dawn.

EAT Mr T’s Pizza Shed 46 Atherley Road, Shanklin PO37 7AU 01983 863361 mrtspizzashed.co.uk Mr T’s offer a wide range of tasty chargrilled options including locally produced beef burgers, IW reared ribeye steaks and BBQ ribs. Why not try the legendary freshly baked pizzas?

Kids and vegetarians are catered for. Free home delivery to self-catering and holiday camps.

Muzza’s Kitchen 26 High Street, Sandown PO36 8DE 01983 407595 A small, friendly, local café specialising in home cooked food, Italian coffee and artisan gelato made on the premises.

Offering all day breakfasts, lunches, afternoon tea and of course exotic ice-cream flavours such as Eton Mess, Ferrero Rocher and many others. Open later during the summer months for evening meals. Gluten free and vegetarian options available.

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

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

Royal China has a number of loyal fans and it’s not hard to see why. Offering first rate Pekinese, Cantonese and Szechuan cooking in this top restaurant that’s open seven days a week. Free home delivery service and special take away menu available if you want to take your noodles to the beach.

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 panoramic views and treat yourself to the legendary seafood platter. Live local music is on offer most weekends. Stay in one of the 8 en suite rooms.

The Salix Small Hope Beach, Shanklin PO37 6ES 07772 056204 thesalixcafe.co.uk The Salix is a friendly, licensed beach side café on Small Hope Beach, with spectacular views of Sandown Bay and Culver Cliff.

Offering freshly cooked food, top quality Island-roasted coffee and clotted cream ice cream too.

The Waterfront 19 Esplanade, Shanklin PO37 6BN 01983 863023 Waterfront-inn.co.uk This guest house, bistro and bar is situated in a superb location right on Shanklin seafront, with panoramic sea views. They offer a wide selection of Isle of Wight ales, lagers, wines and spirits, together with a varied menu that features local seafood and sharing platters. Featuring live music at the weekends.

Supermarkets Aldi Spithead Business Centre, Newport Road, Lake PO36 9FT 0800 0420800 aldi.co.uk

Morrisons Newport Road, Lake PO36 9PA 01983 401441 morrisons.com

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

The Co-operative Food 42 Regent Street, Shanklin PO37 7AA 01983 863941 thesouthernco-operative.co.uk

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

01983 400444

www.islejump.co.uk

dinosaurisle

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 Established since 1990, Mr T’s is the first choice for quality takeaway

• 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.

food. We offer a wide range of tasty chargrilled options including Why not try our legendary freshly baked pizzas? Also available, our delicious chicken and doner kebabs. Kids, gluten free and vegetarians are catered for. Free Home Delivery to self catering and holiday camps.

Free pizza deal every Tuesday (see website for details)

2287 ETL 1/15 LF

locally produced beefburgers, IOW reared ribeye steaks and BBQ ribs.

46 Atherley Road, Shanklin www.mrtspizzashed.co.uk WIGHTLINK.CO.UK

64

SOUTH

SOUTH

The south of the Island offers a different side to the Isle of Wight. The southern point has its own distinct feel, partly due to the unique microclimate and partly to do with the artistic heritage that is still in full swing today.

Visit Ventnor, a real mini-Mediterranean town, that bustles with pavement cafés, as people sit and take in the views of the English Channel with a glass of vino or ice cold beer. Zig-zag roads with Victorian terraces lead down to one-off shops, from antique emporiums to jewellers, and plenty of independent eateries using local produce, the town has a distinct artisan vibe. Being close to the sea, seafood is of course a local speciality. Watch the fisherman come in on their boats and then pick up the day’s catch, or enjoy a classic lobster salad as you watch

the waves from the terrace of The Spyglass Inn. Take a stroll along the Esplanade to get your fill of sea air or sit in a deckchair on the beach and watch the world go by.

A perfect place to enjoy your summer break could be Ventnor Seafront Beach Houses and Apartments, which enjoy an enviable spot right opposite the bay.

Beautifully decorated and with dedicated parking, they are a perfect fit for couples and families alike.

Eat, stay and relax in old school luxury at The Royal Hotel. Built in 1832, The Royal is one of the oldest hotels on the Island and shares the rare privilege of being one of only 30 establishments to be listed in every Michelin Guide since it was first published in 1911. On a sunny day, you would be hard pushed to find a better spot than its Riveria Terrace overlooking all of lower Ventnor and across the Channel.

Victorian ‘upcycled’ bathing machines on Ventnor beach.

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SOUTH

65

The unique microclimate of the south is perhaps best experienced with a trip to Ventnor Botanic Garden. Here you will find an unrivalled selection of subtropical and exotic plants and flowers set in 22 acres. A restaurant, playground and galleries make this a place unmissable.

One of the oldest settlements on the Island, Bonchurch is a quintessential English village with stone cottages, a duck pond and an 11th century church. You will feel like you have been transported back in time. A stay at The Leconfield benefits from spectacular panoramic sea views and is perfect for your peaceful break.

A trip down south would not be complete without a visit to The Wight Mouse Inn, a historic pub with links to a shipwreck at Chale Bay in 1836. Take the scenic route along the Military Road and enjoy home-cooked food in a stunning location. If you can’t bear to leave, then stay in one of its en suite rooms.

One of the Island’s most famous attractions, Blackgang Chine, aptly called the ‘land of imagination’, has been making memories since 1842. Fast forward to today and the anticipated opening of their latest addition - ‘Underwater Kingdom’ featuring an underwater cave, coral reef, sunken shipwreck and colourful animatronic creatures. During the holidays, the fun steps up a gear with ‘Magical Mondays’ featuring dragons and magicians; or ‘Big Night Out Firework Extravaganza’ each Wednesday, complete with a BBQ, music and a firework display off the cliff-edge.

SPEND THE SUMMER IN BRITAIN’S HOTTEST GARDEN!

EXPLOR E 22 AC SUB-TR RES OF OPICAL PARADIS E OUTDOOR PLAYGROUND

Every Tuesday & Thursday throughout the school holidays • • • •

Butterfly & Lizard Safaris Kids Nature Workshops Herbs for Hospitals Walk Outdoor Cinema & Theatre Shows • Tasty Family Friendly Food

ACTIVIT

Y TRAIL

HUB TROPICAL HOUSE &

DAILY TOUR S & SECRET TUNNEL WAL KS DISCOVER OUR SECRET GARDENS

YOUR DON’T FORGET

Kids will love a trip to the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary where everyone is welcome including well-behaved dogs.

Funded entirely by donations, meet 80 donkeys along with 25 horses and ponies then enjoy some time in the café.

Rugged beaches, steep cliffs and beautiful walks, the south coast has it all, it’s no wonder it has inspired a few famous names over the years, including Charles Dickens who wrote several chapters of David Copperfield in Bonchurch.

KIDS ACTIVITY DAYS

PAS.5S0 MER SUM ILD £7 CH T £12.75 / ADUL

UNLIMITED

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CESS 26TH JULY - 3RD SEPTEMBER

passport sized Please bring a pass holder. photo for each

OPEN DAILY FROM 10AM

All activities subject to weather and change at short notice.

01983 855397 | botanic.co.uk | Follow us here

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Big Night Out Fireworks Extravaganza, every Wednesday at Blackgang Chine.

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Ventnor Botanic Garden, Undercliff Drive, Ventnor, Isle of Wight PO38 1UL

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Steephill Cove in Ventnor.

DO Blackgang Chine Land of Imagination Nr Ventnor PO38 2HN 01983 730330 blackgangchine.com

donkey. There is also a great gift and coffee shop.

hand decorated in a variety of designs – all drawing their inspiration and influences from the exceptional beauty of the surrounding landscapes.

Owl & Falconry Centre Appuldurcombe Farm, Wroxall PO38 3EW 01983 852484 An enchanting experience like no appuldurcombe.co.uk other. Let your imagination run wild as you venture on a journey This unique attraction offers a of discovery where you can fun day out for all ages. There’s a fight pirates onboard your own play barn, excellent café and gift ship, discover life size moving shop, plus the chance to feed dinosaurs, become sheriff of and cuddle baby animals. Enjoy your own town, round up the tractor rides and explore the outlaws and lock’ em up or historic Appuldurcombe Estate. experience the magic of being a Offering themed flying displays fairy princess in your own castle! with owls, eagles and vultures.

Ventnor Botanic Garden Undercliff Drive, Ventnor PO38 1UL 01983 855397 botanic.co.uk IW Donkey Sanctuary Tregear Pottery St Johns Road, Wroxall High Street, Niton Set in the heart of Ventnor PO38 3AA PO38 2AZ Undercliff, explore 22 acres 01983 852693 01983 731523 of subtropical gardens with iwdonkeysanctuary.org tregearpottery.co.uk over 6,000 species of plants, shrubs and champion trees.

The sanctuary is currently Situated on the rugged Visit the new garden Hub, plus home to 80 donkeys. You can southcoast, Tregear Pottery enjoy delicious cuisine at edulis sponsor one for £20 a year. produces a beautiful range of restaurant made with garden In return, you’ll receive an handmade stoneware pottery. grown and Island produce. adoption certificate featuring Each piece is made from a fine a photograph of your chosen white stoneware clay and is WIGHTLINK.CO.UK

STAY The Leconfield Hotel 85 Leeson Road, Ventnor PO38 1PU 01983 852196 leconfieldhotel.com Situated on St Boniface Down, overlooking the historic village of Bonchurch, this 5-star awardwinning hotel has spectacular panoramic views from most rooms, the garden, conservatory and the dining room. Excellent freshly prepared food using local produce is on offer.

Nettlecombe Farm Holidays Nettlecombe Lane, Whitwell PO38 2AF 01983 730783 nettlecombefarm.co.uk A working farm nestled in the heart of the Island’s rolling countryside offering luxurious self-catering holiday accommodation and coarse fishing. The farm buildings have been converted to provide comfortable and modern cottages.

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, with spectacular views to The Needles and beyond.

Come and visit us! www.iowdonkeysanctuary.org

• Live music twice a week

• Food served all day

• Outdoor childrens’ play area

• En-suite bedrooms

• Large sunny garden

• Large car park

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

Masala Bay Contemporary indian dining & tapas bar.

Over 80 donkeys Adopt a donkey Gift shop & café Entry & parking FREE Disabled access Groups & coaches welcome Donkey walking, donkey grooming and shetland strolling activities 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 10AM

Looking for a new and exciting dining experience?

Come and visit Masala Bay fine Indian dining and tapas bar, located in Ventnor, the islands most popular eating out destination.

9 Contemporary Indian dining 9 Take aways 9 Tapas 9 Large seating area 9 Separate bar area 9 Come in for coffee, drinks and cocktails.

Open 7 days a week, 12 - 2pm and 5 - 11pm.

Masala Bay, 9-11, Pier Street, Ventnor, PO38 1ST 01983 854600/ 01983 852264 www.masalabayventnor.co.uk

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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

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STAY The Hambrough Hambrough Road, Ventnor PO38 1SQ 01983 856333 thehambrough.com The gorgeous bar with its amazing sea views is open from 11.30am Tuesday to Saturday.

Enjoy coffee and cake, cream tea or a traditional afternoon tea with a glass of bubbles.

The Essex High Street, Godshill, PO38 3HH 01983 840909 theessex.co.uk The Essex rate atmosphere, service, food and choice as equals when it comes to dining out. You will always be greeted with a warm hello and offered a table to suit. It is a family run restaurant, which is evident from the relaxed atmosphere and fluid chat of the staff with customers.

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

The Plantation Room Ventnor Botanic Garden, Undercliff Drive, Ventnor PO38 1UL 01983 855397 botanic.co.uk

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 and has 2 AA stars for excellent food for over 16 years.

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 café provides a wonderful retreat for customers who are looking for a hot drink and catch up with friends.

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

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, with carefully matched wines.

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 and historic inns frequented by locals and tourists alike. As soon as you step into this historic inn you will be taken back in time.

The Spyglass Inn Esplanade, Ventnor PO38 1JX 01983 855338 thespyglass.com Edulis Restaurant Ventnor Botanic Garden, Arguably the best location on Undercliff Drive, Ventnor the Island. The Spyglass Inn sits PO38 1UL at the western end of Ventnor 01983 855397 Esplanade, you couldn’t get botanic.co.uk much closer to the sea. Known for its excellent food, much is Edulis, means edible in Latin. sourced locally. Live music is a The relaxing space boasts huge key feature with bands on most picture windows that bring nights. You can also stay in one the lovely surroundings of the of the ensuite rooms.

Mediterranean garden inside The chefs work their magic creating ultra fresh cuisine sourced locally & picked fresh from the Garden.

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Ventnor is a great place to spend the day at the beach.

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. Its location makes it the perfect place to stop off on the way to the beach or to put your feet up after exploring the town centre.

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 and beyond with homecooked food, local ales and

ten letting rooms. They have a large garden with children’s outdoor play area and are very popular with walkers and cyclists exploring the Island. Live music twice a week and a monthly quiz.

The iconic Ventnor Winter Gardens will be reclaiming its art deco glory Days A pristine white and black facade houses a totally new-look first floor events room complete with decked balcony. Enjoy our Sunset Rum cocktails alongside our new & improved menus.

The Winter Gardens is the ideal place for that special occasion, gathering or just to relax and enjoy the views. Look out for our new events, bringing top names to the Island.

OPEN DAILY FROM 10am | BRASSERIE | BAR | THEATRE & EVENT SPACE

P I E R ST R E ET | V E N T N O R | P O 3 8 1 SZ 0 1 9 8 3 8 5 7 7 5 7 | T H E V E N T N O RW I N T E RG A R D E N S . CO M

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“Go West” they say, and there’s good reason for this. Open space, unspoilt landscapes and rugged coastline, plus lively pubs, artisan markets and independent shops. The west side of the Island has a romance about it that pulls you in.

As soon as you step off the ferry in Yarmouth, one of England’s smallest towns, you get a real sense of the hustle and bustle of this historic harbour.

Containing some of the Island’s oldest architecture, including the 16th century Yarmouth Castle, the last addition to King Henry VIII’s coastal defences and now managed by English Heritage, Yarmouth makes a great day out. If you are visiting the Island between the 2 and 4 June, a trip to Yarmouth is not to be missed as the biannual Old Gaffers Festival takes place and the harbour

will be filled with the colourful spectacle of the visiting gaff rigged vessels, bedecked with flags.

It is easy to see why the west of the Island has inspired many an artist over the years including Julia Margaret Cameron, pioneering art photographer and Alfred Lord Tennyson, Poet Laureate during Queen Victoria’s reign. You can get your culture fill with a trip to Dimbola Museum & Galleries at Freshwater Bay, former home of Julia Margaret Cameron with a gallery dedicated to her work as well as contemporary exhibitions from around the world.

Take a walk from here up to the Tennyson Monument and then back down to The Highdown Inn for a well-deserved bite to eat and drink. They’re noted for their seafood and shellfish and are popular with walkers and cyclists.

A view of The Needles from Headon Warren.

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No trip over to this side of the Island would be complete without a visit to the iconic landmark of The Needles.

Rising out of the sea, the three chalk stacks and classic red and white striped lighthouse are synonymous with the Isle of Wight, adorning many a picture postcard. Make sure to take a chairlift ride down to Alum Bay, counting the many colours of sand on your way. The Needles Landmark Attraction has plenty to keep the kids busy too, including firework displays during the school Summer holidays.

If you’re looking for ways to keep the children entertained, a visit to Tapnell Farm Park is a must. With an indoor play area, animal park, restaurant and giant outdoor jumping pillow, the options are endless for young and old kids alike.

The west side has more than its fair share of Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty with Newtown perhaps being the jewel in the crown. A village built on the site of a medieval borough and a nature reserve make for a great day out. Spot local red squirrels, egrets and even Hebridean sheep as you take the trail around the estuary.

Wellow is often overlooked as a place to visit, but is well worth a stop while you are over this way. The Hamstead Trail (a walk traversing the Island from north to south) cuts straight through the home of West Wight Alpacas.

The clue is in the name as to what you might find here but apart from the 70 plus friendly wooly alpacas, you will find llamas, chickens, donkeys and many other animals. Take a walk around the farm then stop for a cool drink in their suntrap of a café.

ending at Freshwater Bay, this is the most spectacular road on the Island. Stop off along the way at Isle of Wight Pearl in Brighstone for some of the most impressive views of the English Channel. A treasure trove dedicated to pearls catering for all styles and tastes, you can even pick your own oyster and discover the jewel inside.

Calbourne is home to the only working water mill on the Island dating back to the Domesday Book. Calbourne Water Mill is set in 35 acres of stunning rural landscape with an abundance of nature including peacocks, geese and fish in the lake. Pedalos and punts bob along the river and there is crazy golf and a clay-play area.

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Gaze at the breathtaking views of high cliffs, seas and sky with a drive along the Military Road. Starting in Chale and

The biennial Yarmouth Old Gaffers Festival takes place this summer between 2 and 4 June.

A great family day out come rain or shine!

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H, UNCH Y, SMOOT CHOCOLATE

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ESTO FLAVOURS

Find us at farm shops & destination sites across the Island such as Southern Co-op Freshwater, Farmer Jacks, Osborne House, Quarr Abbey.

FOLLOW US @PINKSFOODS

WWW.PINKSFOODS.CO.UK

Sunken Secrets* Verdi’s Café Model Railway* Planetarium* PLUS nature trail, woodland and beach Westhill Lane · Yarmouth · IW · PO41 0RR

www.fortvictoria.co.uk

See website for opening times, charges and special events.*There is a charge for some attractions.

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GO Wight Cycle Hire Yarmouth Station, Station Road, Yarmouth PO41 0QT 01983 761800 wightcyclehire.co.uk Wight Cycle Hire is 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. The hire centre is at the beautifully restored Yarmouth Station, on the Yarmouth to Freshwater cycle way which follows the River Yar. DO Calbourne Water Mill Newport Road, Calbourne PO30 4JN 01983 531227 calbournewatermill.co.uk The last fully working water mill on the Island, milling for over 1,000 years with so much to do, including war museum, rural museum and fire station. There’s also a dragon adventure golf, pedalo punting, fun family clayplay, croquet and petanque. The café serves fresh home cooked food, delicious cakes and cream teas. Along with flour, oats and muesli, freshly baked breads and pottery all available to buy.

Dimbola Museum & Galleries Terrace Lane, Freshwater PO40 9QE 01983 756814 dimbola.co.uk Home and workplace of the pioneering Victorian photographer Julia Margaret Cameron, set in the stunning Freshwater Bay. Renowned for her portraits of ‘famous men and fair women’, many of which were created at Dimbola. See displays celebrating Julia’s life and work. See the website for details and information about special events. Tea room and gift shop.

Fort Victoria Country Park Westhill Lane, off Halletts Shute, Norton Yarmouth PO41 0RR 01983 760860 fortvictoria.co.uk WIGHTLINK.CO.UK

A historic Victorian fort set in 20 hectares of coastal and woodland walks with enclosed picnic area, free parking and toilets. Attractions include a large model railway, modern digital planetarium with the Robert Hooke Exhibition, and an interactive Archaeology Discovery Centre. Verdi’s café offers meals and has a seascape patio. Occasional countryside ranger, seashore and woodland walks can be pre-booked. Free entry and open throughout the year.

Island Planetarium and Robert Hooke Exhibition Fort Victoria Country Park, Yarmouth PO41 0RR 01983 761555 thestarattraction.uk Go on a journey through time and space in the full dome immersive theatre. Take some time before and after the show to explore the Space and Astronomy exhibition.

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

Isle of Wight Pearl Military Road, Brighstone PO30 4DD 01983 740352 iowpearl.com Discover classic and contemporary collections with the Crown and Signature range.

Explore beautiful, exclusive designer pearl jewellery; find bespoke designs from Isle of Wight student Naomi Spencer and the Chilton Collection, which uses Isle of Wight sand sourced just 50 yards from the showroom. While you’re there enjoy a delicious lunch in the Pearl Café, with homemade cream tea a speciality.

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

Families can explore the garden with a discovery trail and also search for the hidden flowerpot men. National Trust tea garden, gift shop and plant sales, plus

delightful walks onto the Downs and to the coast.

The Needles Landmark Attraction Alum Bay PO39 0JD 01983 752401 theneedles.co.uk

whilst learning about animals, and enjoying delicious food and snacks with some of the best views on the Island. Meet the friendly group of animals, and get “hands-on” with daily activity sessions. Go wild exploring the many activities, which include a huge soft play zone, jumping pillow, pedal go-karts, bugs and beasties zone and toddler soft play area.

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 and Lighthouse. Offering guests free entry and 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 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 and ‘60s, as part of Britain’s Race for Space during the height of the Cold War. You can now explore one of the control rooms. 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. You can explore the gun carriages and visit the 1940s style tea room.

Tapnell Farm Park Newport Road, Yarmouth PO41 0YJ 01983 758722 tapnellfarmpark.com Tapnell Farm Park is the perfect place for indoor and outdoor fun

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 and wooly and suri llamas. Come trekking with these adorable animals, drop into the farm café and shop or simply take a leisurely stroll around the farm and watch alpacas roam.

The award-winning breeders really know a thing or two about these 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 and prints by resident artist Anne Toms and featured guest artists. The ethos is relaxed and welcoming and it has a great little card shop. Open all year.

Uninterrupted views | Daily lunch specials Homemade cakes and cream teas

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

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The chairlift down to Alum Bay.

STAY Grange Farm Military Road, Brighstone PO30 4DA 01983 740296 grangefarmholidays.com Situated on the beautiful south-west coast with sea and countryside views and direct access to the local beach. The site is ideal for cycling, walking, fishing and fossil hunting. This is a small, family-run farm with friendly animals, including alpacas, pigs, goats, sheep, horses, donkeys, poultry, small pets and water buffalo.

Tom’s Eco Lodge Newport Road, Yarmouth PO41 0YJ 01983 758729 tomsecolodge.com

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

The Highdown Inn Highdown Lane, Totland PO39 0HY 01983 752450 highdowninn.com

One of the Isle of Wight’s original glamping experiences, with five luxury safari tents, two wood cabins and two cosy pods, all nestled away in the beautiful surroundings of Tapnell Farm.

Ideal for families, couples and group holidays. With stunning sea views, sandy beaches, space to roam and lots of things to do, it creates the perfect place to stay.

Beef and dairy specialist restaurant, serving a range of steaks, burgers, pies, seasonal salads, local ice creams and specialist cheeses. Set in a converted Swiss barn at the heart of Tapnell Farm. The restaurant bar is fully licensed, serving local ales, alcoholic drinks, specialty coffees and teas and other refreshments throughout the day. Gluten free menu available.

Set in outstanding natural Isle of Wight surroundings complimented by a rich history across the west. Mingle with the locals in the friendly bar while selecting your meal from the daily blackboard specials.

Enjoy an excellent meal either at a table in the bar or in the sumptuous restaurant.

EAT Heathfield Farm Heathfield Road, Freshwater PO40 9SH 01983 407822 heathfieldcamping.co.uk

The Bugle Inn The Square, Yarmouth PO41 0NS 01983 760272 thebugleinn.co.uk

Café Verdi Fort Victoria Country Park Yarmouth PO41 0RR 01983 761777 fortvictoria.co.uk

A small family-run park in the rural West Wight, less than two miles from Wightlink ferry terminal. The park is level and has 75 generously spaced marked pitches. The separate playing field is ideal for ball games and has two barbecue areas with picnic tables.

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

Sit and relax in the dog friendly café, or out on the patio overlooking the sea to the mainland. All day breakfasts, meals and snacks are served all day. Enjoy local beers and wines or just an ice cream. Open from 9.30am daily from late March to end of October.

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The Horse & Groom Main Road, Ningwood PO30 4NW 01983 760672 horse-and-groom.com This popular family pub has a characterful lounge and dining area, a large conservatory, pretty garden and children’s play area with climbing frame, bouncy castle, football pitch and crazy golf. It offers an exciting menu that makes use of local produce.

Food is served all day, including quality breakfasts from 9am. A great family pub approved by the Good Pub Guide.

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.

Treat yourself to a well deserved break and enjoy evenings in our cosy Inn. Walkers and cyclists welcome.

Tennyson Tearooms Traditional English cream teas and homemade cakes available.

Open daily throughout the season until October so pop in for a delicious cream tea and say hello!

Highdown Lane, Totland PO39 0HY 01983 752450

highdowninn.com

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10% OFF EN TRY W THIS ADVEITH RT!

Home & workplace of pioneering Victorian photographer Julia Margaret Cameron, set in the stunning Freshwater Bay

Exhibitions & Displays

Gift Shop

Tea Room & Garden

Terrace Lane, Freshwater Bay, PO40 9QE | 01983 756814 | www.dimbola.co.uk

Grange Farm Grange Farm, Brighstone Bay, PO30 4DA

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

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The colourful beach huts at Colwell Bay.

Julia’s Tearoom Dimbola Museum & Galleries, Terrace Lane, Freshwater Bay PO40 9QE 01983 756814 dimbola.co.uk Dimbola Museum & Galleries, former home of pioneering Victorian photographer Julia Margaret Cameron, is home to Julia’s Tea Room. Renowned for tempting light lunches, homemade cakes and delicious cream teas served in the characterful tea room or sunny garden overlooking Freshwater Bay. Available to hire, fully licensed.

The Llama Tree West Wight Alpacas Main Road, Wellow PO41 0SZ 01983 760900 westwightalpacas.co.uk WIGHTLINK.CO.UK

Browse the yarn barn shop and take a walk around the farm to visit the Alpacas. This café Bistro has a wide range of coffees, using beans from Peru and roasted on the Island, teas and cold drinks. Also serving light bites, paninis, mains and cakes, plus a children’s menu.

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

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

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, it has a huge beer garden and an outstanding view of the English Channel. They’re just minutes from the popular beach at

Compton Bay and set in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The perfect stop-off point for walkers, cyclists and 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

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!

NEW FO R 2017 Advent ure Go lf LICENSED CAFE & GIFT SHOP PO30 4JN 01983 531227 Open daily April - November, 10am - 5pm, under 5s FREE

www.calbournewatermill.co.uk

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The north of the Island is home to perhaps the most well-known town on the Isle of Wight. The Mecca for all things nautical, Cowes is famous around the world for its international sailing events.

A summer stroll from Cowes town to the neighbouring village of Gurnard is the perfect way to spend an afternoon. Gurnard is a pretty little village with a couple of pubs, post office cum coffee shop and a smattering of beach huts lining the esplanade.

Heading out of Cowes you will pass by The Wight

Military and Heritage Museum. The museum holds an interesting mix of tanks, artifacts, other vehicles, small arms and a range of uniforms from the 1940s to the present day. Guided tours are available from ex-service volunteers.

The north of the Isle of Wight is split almost straight down the middle by the largest river on the Island, the River Medina.

The river flows all the way down to Newport, separating Cowes and East Cowes. Not to be mixed up, East Cowes is quite different from its namesake. Home to Osborne, former summer home of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, it is clear to see why royalty made this their holiday home (albeit possibly the most splendid holiday home ever).

A bird’s-eye view of the Osborne Estate.

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The beach huts at Gurnard catching the last of the evening light.

Built between 1845 and 1851 in a quintessential Italian Palazzo style, complete with sweeping terraces, towers and stunning formal gardens, you can get a real sense of how the Royal Family would have enjoyed time spent here. Visit the children’s Swiss Cottage complete with its own gardens or head down to the private beach and enjoy an ice cream looking out across the water to Portsmouth – well if it was

good enough for Queen Victoria! If the royal experience appeals, then a stay at Albert Cottage could be just the ticket. Once part of the Osborne estate, this Grade II listed building has been transformed into a ten-bedroom boutique hotel set in two acres of manicured gardens. Popular with couples getting married, it could well be the perfect setting for a romantic break.

Mermaid statue on the rocks outside the Royal Yacht Squadron in Cowes

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Watching the yachts go by in Cowes.

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Osborne York Avenue, East Cowes PO32 6JX 01983 200022 english-heritage.org.uk/osborne

Thorness Bay Holiday Park Thorness Lane, Thorness PO31 8NJ 01983 523109 parkdeanresorts.co.uk

Once Queen Victoria’s seaside home where she spent time with her large family, the house was designed by her beloved husband, Prince Albert and is a must-see 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, and a museum where the royal children once played.

Located in the Isle of Wight countryside, Thorness Bay is a huge hit with all those who stay.

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.

Come and enjoy the military exhibits in the museum halls. Relax in Churchills, the museum café, decorated with memorabilia and enjoy a coffee and a selection of light snacks.

Phone for details of vehicle rides during 2017.

Situated in the heart of Cowes, next door to the Yacht Haven and above Beken photography shop is a large townhouse available for short-term rent. With views over the Medina and Solent, it sleeps from 6 up to 11 people with a large kitchen/diner, separate sitting room and outside deck. robsorr@barwight.com or www.quaymanagement.co.uk (ref 126)

Supermarkets EAT

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

BEKEN HOUSE COWES

The Yachtsman The Parade, Cowes PO31 7QS 01983 299618 characterinns.co.uk

Aldi Newport Road, Cowes PO31 8BF 0843 5047263 aldi.co.uk

The Co-operative Food 155 Mill Hill Road, Cowes PO31 7EL 01983 289868 thesouthernco-operative.co.uk

Located on the promenade in Cowes, The Yachtsman is a landmark character pub. It offers the finest surroundings morning, noon or night - with CAMRA real ales and a large terrace overlooking the Solent & mainland beyond.

There is a great cycle route between Newport and Cowes, so why not explore on two wheels?

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At the heart of the Island lie several quaint villages as well as the Island’s capital town of Newport.

Here you will find a mixture of high street stores with a peppering of independent boutiques thrown in. The town itself centres around two main squares, then stretches down to the historic Quay. The Bargeman’s Rest pub sits on the water’s edge and is the perfect place to watch the boats bobbing on the river, with a nice cold drink in hand.

For heritage, look no further than Carisbrooke Castle. Steeped in history that can be traced back as far as the 11th century, the castle’s story makes for an interesting one. Having warded off Spanish and French raids, perhaps the most famous inhabitant was King Charles I who was imprisoned here during the Civil War between 1647-1650. Visit the donkeys who still draw up the water from the well house, then climb the

keep to the flag for a fabulous view across the surrounding village and countryside. From here, a trip to The Cow Shed which is situated a couple of minutes drive away, is a treasure trove of reclaimed and upcycled furniture all housed in a beautiful old barn. Make sure you have your purse as you are bound to make a great find here.

Wootton, on the outskirts of Newport, is home to Briddlesford Lodge Farm, a working dairy farm complete with farm shop and café as well as host to an award-winning herd of 140 Guernsey cows. It is the ideal place to stop off and stock up on an array of Isle of Wight food and drink.

If you hear some strange singing on your way out of town, it could well be the gibbons, lemurs or monkeys housed at Monkey Haven.

St George’s Church, near Arreton Barns.

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Lar Gibbons hanging around at Monkey Haven

This primate rescue centre won gold in the 2016 Beautiful South Awards for Small Visitor Attraction as well as the Visit England Gold Award and a trip here soon reveals why. Meet owls and meerkats, monkeys galore and then relax with a bite to eat in the on-site café.

Arreton Valley on the main road out of Newport is home to Robin Hill Country Park, 88 stunning acres packed with plenty for all the family to do – from the legendary toboggan run, to a record-breaking tree sculpture, standing a lofty 57ft high! A drive through Arreton takes in Arreton Barns, the Island’s largest centre for arts and crafts.

Traditional crafts are mixed in with more contemporary artisans. Watch woodturners, leatherworkers and even world famous glassblowers at the internationally recognised Isle of Wight Studio Glass, all based here on this historic site. Throw in a pub serving plenty of real ales, a farm shop packed to the rafters with local produce and The Corn Exchange – one of the leading interior stores on the Island, and you can keep the whole family happy. The fact that it is free to enter and park just seals the deal.

1087, so not quite so new anymore) is home to one of the Isle of Wight’s most famous exports - garlic. The Garlic Farm is home to everything you could possibly imagine relating to the pungent bulb, and even more. Take a tour of the farm, spot red squirrels and peacocks roaming around and then relax with a bite to eat in the café. Try the garlic mushrooms – legendary.

Passing through Rookley, if you have not yet booked your accommodation or are already thinking ahead to next year’s break, then take a look at Rookley Country Park. Set in acres of beautiful parkland, the park provides fantastic accommodation options as well as a full range of facilities and activities, perfect for the active.

Heading out of Arreton you would be well-placed to visit Amazon World, the largest exotic animal attraction on the the Island. See ocelots, yellow armadillos and emerald doves to name but a few. Get “hands-on” with the penguins then wear the kids out in the themed play area. For something a bit unusual, House of Chilli is well worth a stop. As the name suggests, this place pays homage to the hot stuff with several varieties to try, as well as lots of other produce.

There is also ice cream for the kids or those that need a cool down after trying Psycho Juice Scorpion Pepper!

Newchurch, aptly named after its new church (built in Clambering through the Squirrel Run at Robin Hill Country Park.

A trip to Godshill delivers the quintessential English village with some of the oldest architecture on the Island.

Traditional tea rooms line the street next to picture-perfect thatched cottages. The Old Smithy, once the old village blacksmiths, is now home to a range of stylish shops centred around a café serving some of the tastiest cakes around. Find kitchenalia alongside designer clothes as well as local artworks and trinkets for small ones.

There are many exotic animals to be discovered at Amazon World.

The Model Village is a truly unique experience and one that is bound to delight. Look out for the streaker running across the pitch or even Father Christmas hiding out here for his summer holiday! When hunger strikes, you are in luck in Godshill as it offers two pubs, plenty of cafés and a restaurant. The Essex offers Sunday carvery with local meats and is well-known with locals for their popular themed cream tea. Choose from Alice in Wonderland to Star Wars.

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Knight in armour at Carisbrooke Castle.

DO

in the traditional Dairyman’s Daughter pub.

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

Arreton Barns Main Road, Arreton PO30 3AA 01983 528353 arretonbarns.co.uk Arreton Barns is the Island’s largest centre for arts and crafts.

Home to over 10 art and craft studios, open seven days a week with free parking. Showcasing some of the best in local artists and artisan craftspeople.

Browse local shops to find interesting and individual gift ideas, then enjoy locally sourced homemade food, fine wines and real ales WIGHTLINK.CO.UK

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 and 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 they were used to turn the treadwheel in the well house in the 17th century. There are interactive displays and virtual tours.

The Cowshed Froglands Lane, Carisbrooke PO30 3DU 07973 617376 thecowshed.co.uk The cowshed can be found on Froglands Farm in Carisbrooke off Whitcombe Road. It has a huge range of antique pine, rustic and industrial style items as well as reclaimed doors and garden furniture. Bespoke furniture is also made to order.

Well worth a butchers hook!

In the centre of the Isle of Wight’s county town, Newport, the Minster towers above all other 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.

Colwell Bay Holiday Cottages l Rookley Country Park l St Helens Holiday Park

3 Award Winning Holiday Parks Holida from jusyts

Island View

£7 9 *

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At Island View Holidays our parks are perfect for relaxing 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

Large Gift & Fashion Shops · Landscaped Gardens

STYLE INTERIORS - www.styleinteriors.co.uk

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

call : or visit :

01983 897047

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COFFEE SHOP - Homemade Cakes & Lunches - delicious!

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l Low site fees l Open all year round* New & pre-loved homes l Free use of park facilities

Find out more at: www.islandviewholidays.co.uk/own-your-own or talk to our Holiday Homes team on:

01983 898360

Tel: 01983 840364

www.theoldsmithy.com WIGHTLINK.CO.UK

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A beautiful summers day down at Newport Quay.

DO Island Gems The Cottage, High Street, Godshill PO38 3HZ 01983 740493 island-gems.co.uk Island Gems offers a range of natural fossils, gemstones, amber and jewellery. With prices starting at just 50p, they have something to suit every pocket.

The multi award-winning fossil hunting trips are available all year round. Trips are two hours and everything found can be kept. Spaces are limited so book in advance.

The Garlic Farm Mersley Lane, Newchurch PO36 0NR 01983 865378 thegarlicfarm.co.uk 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 produce of all varieties chutneys, relishes, garlic beer and garlic ice cream. Discover everything you ever wanted to WIGHTLINK.CO.UK

know about garlic, enjoy free tastings and incredible food in the restaurant.

non-invasive and minimally invasive solutions right through to surgical options.

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

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. Also for sale is an astonishing range of chilli products including sauces, snacks, dried mixes, chutneys, fudge, vodka and even beer.

Families are encouraged to experience the shop together.

Free parking.

Redhouse Spa 97 High St, Newport PO30 1BQ 01983 822291 theredhousespa.com Redhouse Spa is one of the UK’s first medical spas, a one-stop location providing intelligent skincare, face and body treatments, ranging from

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

The Model Village High Street, Godshill PO38 3HH 01983 840270 modelvillagegodshill.co.uk

The Old Smithy High Street, Godshill PO38 3HZ 01983 840364 theoldsmithy.com

This unique attraction takes you back to the halcyon days of Island life. Faithful recreations are painstakingly crafted with little Islanders adding a touch of humour. Take the family quiz challenge or spot the squirrels hidden around the garden, there is plenty to see. Open daily from March to October.

The Old Smithy boasts a variety of well-stocked gift shops, including fashion brands and home interiors. Browse in the Old Forge and Cottage, stroll through the landscaped garden with its pixie and fairy grottos (which have seen the return of the Godshill Witch) and enjoy lunch or mouth-watering cakes in the coffee shop.

Multi Award Winning

FOSSIL BEACH TRIPS Felicity (Flick), the Fossil Guide, and team invite you to discover a prehistoric world of fossil trees and dinosaur footprints on Brook beach.

2 hour beach trip| guided by an expert | keep what you find Book via phone, online or pop into our Fossil and Gem Shop at

The Cottage, High Street, Godshill, IoW, PO38 3HZ 01983 740493 www.islandgems.co.uk

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

The Crown Inn is set in the pretty village of Shorwell in picturesque West Wight. Log fires, antique furniture, and a friendly female ghost who disapproves of card playing complete the picture of this traditional family run-pub. The pub was awarded ‘Cask Marque Accreditation’ for the quality of 6 real ale beers which include an Island brew. You will also find them in ‘CAMRA’S Good Beer Guide. All food is homemade and they offer a wide selection within the menu for all tastes.

For visitors of all ages looking for great family experiences and adventure. The Island’s favourite award-winning country attraction boasts a whole day of entertainment. With great rides, engaging falconry displays, and adventure play, plus relaxing woodland gardens, ponds and walks for discerning adults to enjoy. New for 2017 squirrel your way through a spiralling mesh Caffe Isola tube suspended around 59 Pyle Street, Newport our Canopy Skywalk.

PO30 1UL 01983 524800 islandroasted.co.uk EAT Briddlesford Lodge Farm Briddlesford Road, Wootton PO33 4RY 01983 884650 briddlesfordlodgefarm.com Briddlesford Lodge Farm is a commercial dairy farm that has developed to include a farm shop, café and heritage centre.

The creamy gold top milk and delicate rose veal from the 150 pedigree Guernsey herd, is served to you with food metres rather than miles in mind.

Sample the cheese, butter and clotted cream in the café.

The Bargeman’s Rest Little London Quay, Newport PO30 5BS 01983 525828 bargemansrest.com Sitting on Newport harbour 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 and pictures.

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

The Crown Inn Walkers Lane, Shorwell, PO30 3JZ 01983 740293 thecrowninnshorwell.co.uk WIGHTLINK.CO.UK

Caffe Isola has long been regarded as one of the Island’s finest artisan coffee stops. Run

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

Golden sweetcorn crops near Godshill.

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. 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 and beautiful pond. The menu of home-cooked dishes showcases the produce fresh from Arreton Valley. Live music is on offer most nights of the week plus weekly quiz and folk music nights.

STAY One Holyrood B&B 1 & 2 Holyrood Street, Newport PO30 5AU 01983 521717 oneholyrood.co.uk Newly licenced, stay in this Grade II listed B&B in the heart of Newport. All the rooms have been individually designed with quality, luxury, character and comfort as a priority. The tea rooms serve a wide range of delicious home cooked cakes, a variety of lunches, salads, sandwiches and a delicious traditional afternoon tea.

Rookley Country Park Main Road, Rookley PO38 3LU 01983 897331 islandviewholidays.co.uk At Island View Holidays there is a range of holiday parks to suit every kind of holiday maker.

Take your pick of luxury selfcatering caravans at Rookley

Country Park or St Helens Holiday Park, or for that home from home feel there’s a host of two and three bedroom cottages at Rookley Country Park and Colwell Bay.

Supermarkets The Co-operative Food Main Road, Rookley PO38 3NY 01983 721326 thesouthernco-operative.co.uk

The Co-operative Food 52 High Street, Carisbrooke PO30 1NR 01983 521131 thesouthernco-operative.co.uk

Morrisons South Street, Newport PO30 1JQ morrisons.com

The Island’s Premier Laser & Aesthetics Clinic Welcome to the 8-point face lift, Lisa Noble provides this exclusive procedure at the Red House Spa and Laser Clinic. The latest technology in fillers means that results now last around 18 months, compared to the six to 12 months of old fillers, and there are ongoing skin benefits – ‘fillers increase the skin’s volume over time and tighten it.

Laser Hair Removal | Thread Vein Treatments | Sunspot Removal | Facial Peels | Microdermabraison | Laser Resurfacing | Skin Tightening | Laser Tattoo Removal Mesotherapy (No Needle Therapy) | Led Photo Rejuvenation Caci | Semi-Permanent Make Up IPL | Injectable Treatments| Beauty Treatments | Massage | Facials | Gift Vouchers | Elemis Spa Therapy

Hand crafted spirits that capture the essence of the Isle of Wight isleofwightdistillery.com

97 High Street, Newport, IW, PO30 1BQ (01983) 822291 | www.theredhousespa.com

THE ESSEX You will always be greeted with a warm welcome, we are a family friendly restaurant, with a relaxed atmosphere. The Essex delivers an experience which will not only fulfil your taste buds but will leave you planning your next visit before you’ve left the building.

A pretty thatched cottage, The Essex at Godshill claims a history stretching back a thousand years to the very first dwellings recorded in the Doomsday Book. A favourite of Queen Victoria, the charming exterior hides a bright modern interior which still has some of its original features At The Essex we are committed to the philosophy that food choices should be celebrated and food is about sharing whatever your choices. We are happy to adapt our menu where ever possible to accommodate you.

Light lunches Evening Dining Sunday Carvery Vegan Menu Gluten free Menu Parties

Cream teas Themed Afternoon teas - Alice in wonderland - Willy Wonka - Star Wars

Weddings

CONTACT The Essex, High St, Godshill, Isle of Wight, PO38 3HH Phone: 01983 840909 | Email: info@theessex.co.uk OPENING HOURS 10am till late, Tuesday - Saturday and a Carvery for Sunday Lunch from 12.30

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Antiques|Arts & Crafts|Local Produce|Tea Room

Open 7 days a week

Holliers Farm, Branstone, PO36 0LT 01983 866313 - hollierspark.co.uk

A GREAT EXPERIENCE FOR ALL THE FAMILY

CHILLI SAUCES, SNACKS, PLANTS, CHUTNEYS, JAMS & BALSAMICS FROM THE ISLE OF WIGHT AND AROUND THE WORLD. AMAZING GIFT IDEAS FOR ALL THE FAMILY. TASTING TABLES: TRY A WIDE RANGE OF PRODUCTS FROM MILD TO WILD AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN.

houseofchilli.com

HOUSE OF CHILLI - HOLLIERS FARM - BRANSTONE - PO36 0LT che@houseofchilli.com 01983 866313 WIGHTLINK.CO.UK

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PORTSMOUTH

PORT S M OU T H

Southsea Castle.

The second largest city in Hampshire, Portsmouth is energetic and vibrant and packed with great reasons to visit - not just pass through on the way to the ferry. Next time you visit the Isle of Wight, be sure to allow time to explore this south coast city.

Family-friendly activities If you fancy seeing what lies in the sea off the coast of Portsmouth, the Blue Reef Aquarium is the perfect underwater adventure just waiting to be discovered. Enjoy close encounters with sharks and rays then stroll among

the colourful inhabitants of a coral reef in the underwater tunnel. There are more than 50 living displays bringing the wonders of the south coast aquatic world to life, alongside tropical creatures from across the globe.

For those looking for higher ground, the Emirates Spinnaker Tower lets you view things from 170 metres up. Whilst enjoying one of the best views available in the British Isles, come rain or shine, discover a fascinating seascape, spanning 23 miles and steeped in 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 is 150 metres above the harbour and offers a great selection of food and drink to enjoy with stunning views of the city and across the Solent to the Isle of Wight.

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 passenger and vehicle ferries to the Isle of Wight, it 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 famous brands including Reiss, Michael Kors, Hackett London and Coast, Gunwharf Quays also 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, 24-hour fitness club, contemporary art gallery, nightclub and casino.

Portsmouth is home to the Emirates Spinnaker Tower.

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If independent shopping is more your thing then head to Southsea which is packed with antique stores, vintage clothing and has a true bohemian feel.

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We’d love to hear from you Pyrotechnic display at the end of the Victorious Festival.

A treat to eat This year, Southsea has been at the heart of food and drink in Portsmouth. With more local businesses stepping into the limelight such as Pie and Vinyl, a brilliant collaboration of music and food, Monty’s in Castle Road which serves delicious seasonal local produce, and Southsea Beach Café’s fresh seafood barbecues by the sea. There are many characterful pubs, fabulous cocktail bars and independent coffee shops to discover.

Culture and the Arts Famously known as the birthplace of the great writer, Charles Dickens, Portsmouth provides visitors with numerous events and a great selection of attractions. Why not treat yourself to a night at the theatre? Portsmouth has two major theatres as well as a range of smaller venues.

The Kings Theatre in Southsea plays host to touring West End productions and a varied programme of opera, ballet and drama. Groundings Theatre is an exciting arts venue offering some of the most unique shows in the city including murder mystery nights, dinner theatre and cultural festivals. If you are in Portsmouth during August, grab yourself a ticket for Victorious Festival which takes place on Southsea Common. With with a whole host of legendary headline acts such as The Stereophonics, Madness, Elbow and Feeder, you’re guaranteed a weekend you won’t forget.

We always welcome your feedback which helps us to improve your experience of travelling with Wightlink.

If you have any suggestions, compliments or complaints about your trip with us please visit

wightlink.co.uk/feedback You can also keep in touch via social media...

b Don’t forget to leave TripAdvisor comments on the places you’ve enjoyed whilst visiting the Island.

Sign up to receive our popular email newsletter at wightlink.co.uk and make sure you receive all the latest on what’s happening as well as offers.

Gunwharf Quays is home to over 90 premium retail outlet stores.

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PORTSMOUTH

Rich maritime heritage Portsmouth is steeped in maritime history with its proud naval heritage. One of the best ways to trace the origins of the Royal Navy is by visiting Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. Situated within the working Naval Base, the Historic Dockyard is home to HMS Victory and HMS Warrior, two of the most famous ships ever built. Tread the boards of both vessels and learn what life was like for sailors back in the day. The dockyard also features a number of interactive museums and tours, all with opportunities to learn more about the history of the naval city.

The Royal Marines Museum in Southsea continues the maritime theme. Learn about the Marines’ globe-trotting exploits, how you could become a Royal Marine and experience for yourself the barrack conditions they once lived in. Learn more about the battles they took part in, including the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805 and D-Day in WW2.

Visitors to and from the Isle of Wight are certainly missing out if Portsmouth is simply seen as the place to catch a ferry. With so much to see and do in this vibrant city, why not take a couple of days to explore what it has to offer?

Discover more about Portsmouth at visitportsmouth.co.uk

A close-up of the HMS Victory and the detailing on the stern.

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PREMIUM OUTLET SHOPPING

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TO

OF

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LYMINGTON & THE NEW FOREST

LYM I NG T O N & TH E NEW F O R E S T

Walking in the New Forest.

Lymington, the ferry port for the Wightlink service from Yarmouth, is a pretty Georgian town with a backyard of 150 square miles of the New Forest National Park. With links to smuggling, sailing and salt production this small town and its surrounding area has much to offer the visitor, especially in the Summer.

Its charter market, on every Saturday rain or shine, has been established since 1250. It runs nearly the full length of the High Street and has 90 or more stalls. Here you can buy everything from street food to antiques and bric-abrac, plants, pet supplies, hats, slippers and of course all the usual food stalls including butchers, game dealers, fishmongers, bakers, greengrocers, and florists.

Travel around the culinary world in Lymington just by walking, with restaurants from Italy, France, Scandinavia, India, Thailand and more, all within a square mile. There are plenty of tea rooms, coffee houses, sandwich shops and takeaways too, so anytime of the day you can find a delicious treat.

With stomachs full it’s time for some exercise with a visit to the The Sea Water Baths. A fabulous pebble-lined pool, 110m long and filled with seawater, as its name suggests.

It has been a feature of Lymington since 1833 and in 2012 gained a Grade 2 listing. Open from May to September it has a great programme of activities including 120 metres of inflatable obstacle courses, water zorbs, stand up paddle boards, kayaks and aqua jousting and, of course, just plain old-fashioned swimming.

Exploring the New Forest by bike.

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If you don’t fancy getting wet, hop on the train from Lymington town, or straight from the ferry terminal at Lymington Pier, and head over to New Forest Cycles in Brockenhurst. They have bikes to suit everyone, from tandems and child trailers, to all-ability and high-tech.

Their pre-designed routes are well thought out and they supply rucksacks, maps and a toolkit to cover you for every eventuality. For larger groups they will even come and pick you up at the end of your ride.

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For a gentler afternoon, try the Walhampton 9 hole golf course, it’s an easy walk from the ferry terminal and has beautiful views of the river estuary.

St Barbe Museum is well worth a visit too, perhaps on a rainy day. Since opening in 1999 it has become a highly regarded Museum and Art Gallery. It is undergoing a huge renovation project and is set to re-open in July 2017, with extended museum and gallery space and a new café. It’s a great community building with activities, collections and exhibitions to interest all ages.

As you cross the Solent you cannot fail to notice Hurst Castle as you look west. Perched on a shingle bank that extends for 1.5 miles into the Solent and built by Henry VIII between 1541 and 1544 to defend the western approach to the Solent. It later became a prison for Charles I in 1648.

During WW2 soldiers were posted there to help protect British waters. You could always follow in their footsteps and visit the Gun Inn in Keyhaven, to sample the beer in its old world walled garden with outside bar.

For a bracing walk or a leisurely amble, depending on the weather, there is a footpath from Lymington along the sea wall to reach Hurst Castle. It is a fabulous route for seabird watching, and there are bird hides situated along the sea marshes. Those with tired legs may be grateful to know there is a bus service back to Lymington from Milford on Sea. With plenty of other forest towns to visit, why not book a stay at one of the many overnight options in Lymington and the surrounding areas? They are numerous and range from camping and glamping, to bed and breakfasts and boutique hotels. So next time you disembark from the ferry in Lymington… Stay awhile… you never know what you might find!

By Julia Stovold

The New Forest boasts 40 miles of coastline to be enjoyed.

The old market town of Lymington has an array of boutiques and eateries to be discovered.

WIGHTLINK.CO.UK

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 b

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.

Four stunning

Isle of Wight holiday parks...

Thorness Bay Holidays & ownership

Holidays & ownership

Holidays & ownership

Lower Hyde

Landguard

PO31 8NJ

PO33 1YA

PO37 7LL

PO37 7PJ

Nodes Point

Holidays only

Our award winning parks include^ • Heated indoor & outdoor swimming pools • Superb bars and restaurants • All weather sports courts and playgrounds • The best coastal locations • Dazzling entertainment • Fantastic choice of quality accommodation • Caravan and lodges available to own • 12 months season for owners+

For holiday enquiries call 0333 207 6755 For ownership enquiries call 0808 164 3295 Visit: parkdeanresorts.co.uk Images are for illustration purposes. Calls cost 7p per minute, plus your phone company’s access charge. ^Facilities vary by park, please check when booking. +Owners can holiday as often as they like within their specified holiday season and pitch agreement. Parkdean Resorts holiday parks are not residential parks and holiday homes cannot be occupied as a permanent residence. Facilities and entertainment will be available from time to time at the discretion of Parkdean Resorts.

For more information visit us in the Caravan & Lodge Sales Enquiry Centre on park today or call us on: 01983 874 704 or visit: www.parkdeanresorts.co.uk/own-nod *Terms and conditions apply, please enquire for further details.

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EVENTS CALENDAR

E VEN T S CA L E N D A R

etails More d e at onlin co.uk ink. wightl Strawberry Fields at the annual Isle of Wight Festival.

Jack Up The 80s

International Classic Car Show

11 – 13 August jackupthe80s.co.uk

16 – 17 September isleofwightclassiccars.co.uk

A family feel-good festival celebrating one of the greatest decades – the 1980s! This year there will be more great music from a variety of original chart stars including Jason Donovan, Alexander O’Neal and The Real Thing, with many more names still to be announced. Now in its fifth year, the purpose of Jack Up The 80s remains the same, aiming to raise valuable funds and awareness for local Island charities and good causes.

Now in its 16th year, the Isle of Wight Charity Classic Car Extravaganza (to give the event its full title) will be attracting historic cars and motorcycles from across Europe. As well as the incredibly diverse range of British classic cars, there’s always a great contingent of European models and impressive American cars. The two day show will be located at Newport Quay on Saturday, 16 September and moves to Ryde Esplanade on Sunday,

Jack Up The 80s – a family feel-good festival celebrating the 1980s.

Attendees to the festival embrace the 80s theme and as the past years have shown, there is a real passion for reliving the good times of Frankie Says and Choose Life T-shirts, fluorescent headbands, leg warmers, legendary blockbuster movies and of course great music and acts.

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Super rare 1961 Auto Union 1000 SP at the Classic Car Show.

17 September. It’s a favourite for classic car fans and owners it’s completely free of charge so be generous and make a donation.

Anyone wishing to show vehicles must register with the organiser in advance.

EVENTS CALENDAR

April 9 April Heritage Goods Day iwsteamrailway.co.uk A great opportunity to view the railway’s diverse collection of rare rolling stock alongside a scheduled passenger service.

It’s an extraordinary look into the re-creation of the heyday of steam on the Island.

12 April Make a Pocket Rocket nationaltrust.org.uk Design, make and launch your own ‘fizzy’ rocket at the Highdown rocket site. £1 per rocket kit. Meet at the Needles New Battery refreshment kiosk.

Dogs on leads welcome.

13 April Rocket Site Tours nationaltrust.org.uk Look back at 60 years of the High Down Rocket Testing Site with an introduction to the exhibition, followed by a short walk to the site of the rocket gantries. Meet at the New Battery refreshment kiosk. Dogs on leads welcome.

14 – 17 April Cadbury Egg Hunt nationaltrust.org.uk Bembridge Windmill, Needles Old Battery and Mottistone Gardens. Find the clues hidden to solve the puzzle and claim your chocolate prize. Supported

by Cadbury. £1.50 per trail sheet.

Normal admission charges apply.

29 – 30 April Isle of Wight Challenge 2017 isleofwightchallenge.com

18 May Spring Wildlife of Bembridge nationaltrust.org.uk

24 June A Midsummer Night’s Steam iwsteamrailway.co.uk

Walk, jog, or run around the Isle of Wight! The 100km coastal path heads out from Chale past the famous Needles and through areas of outstanding natural beauty with spectacular coastlines, dramatic white cliffs and sandy beaches.

Enjoy some strenuous walking on our guided walk around the Downs looking out for birds and other spring wildlife. There will be some steep slopes and narrow paths. Meet at Bembridge Fort car park.

Celebrate Midsummer Eve with an evening service of steam trains. Take ‘The Sundowner’ for a relaxing trip through the evening countryside and book a table in the Calbourne Room for a special two course carvery supper.

29, 30 April & 1 May 12th Annual Real Ale Festival iwsteamrailway.co.uk

21 May Festival of Transport iwsteamrailway.co.uk An array of railway and road vehicles of all shapes and sizes, if you love cars and heritage transport then this is the event for you. There’s a full two train service, reminiscent of Island transport in days gone by.

This festival features beers sourced from breweries all over the country, including beers brewed right here on the Isle of Wight. There will also be a range of hot and cold food available with a full service of steam trains in operation. Admission to the festival is free.

27 – 29 May Spring Gala iwsteamrailway.co.uk May 1 May Beach, Bugs and Bones 2017 arc-consulting.co.uk Join Arc, Artecology and Eccleston George at Sandown Bay from 10:30am –12:30pm, for a packed morning of beach art, bug hunting and fossil finds.

13 May Dawn Chorus Magic 2017 arc-consulting.co.uk Set your alarms and come with us to hear the songbird symphony as the sun rises. It’s unforgettable stuff and well worth the pain. It’s a 4.30am start (yes, really!) until 6.30am approx.

14 – 17 April Easter Fun iwsteamrailway.co.uk

13 May Riverfest footprint-trust.co.uk

The Railway is bursting with great things to do this Easter.

Children’s entertainment, colouring, crafts PLUS an Easter Treasure Hunt - can you find the Golden Duck? Bring your own Easter bonnet and join our parade each day at 1:15pm.

A fun, family event at Newport Quay with activities, entertainment and local food.

There’s no parking so leave the car at home and take the bus.

16 April Easter Egg Hunt at Arreton Barns arretonbarns.co.uk

A great opportunity to view The Railway’s diverse collection of rare rolling stock alongside a scheduled passenger service.

It’s an extraordinary look into the re-creation of the heyday of steam on the Island.

Hunt the barns and find all the coloured counters to collect your chocolatey treat on Easter Sunday at Arreton Barns.

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14 May Heritage Goods Day iwsteamrailway.co.uk

A rare opportunity to see as much of the rolling stock in operation as possible with a goods service working alongside an intense passenger schedule.

28 – 29 May Mottistone Manor House Open Day nationaltrust.org.uk Take this rare opportunity to see inside the family home which is only open to the public two days of the year. There is a charge for entry to the house for non-National Trust members in addition to the garden entry price.

27 May – 4 June Gatcombe and Chillerton Scarecrow Festival gatcombeandchillerton scarecrows.co.uk The festival is a week-long event raising funds for both Gatcombe and Chillerton communities.

Come and see the scarecrows.

June

25 June Royal IW County Show riwas.org.uk Enjoy a fantastic day out for all the family – so much to see and do. A chance to experience the Island’s wonderful farming heritage and local produce first hand in a day that combines entertainment and fun.

July 1 July Round the Island Race roundtheisland.org.uk The annual round the Island race, is a one-day yacht race around the Isle of Wight. The race regularly attracts over 1,600 boats, making it one of the largest yacht races in the world. Spectators can find many vantage points across the Island.

1 – 2 July 1940s Experience iwsteamrailway.co.uk Relive the hustle and bustle of a country railway station where wartime activities collide with everyday rural life. Be ‘wowed’ by the stunning music, try the hairstyles and fashions of the day.

14 – 16 July Rhythmtree Festival rhythmtree.co.uk The original, fun-filled, festival returns to Calbourne for its 8th consecutive year. Rhythmtree brings together a diverse, rich mix of high quality music and family entertainment from a wide range of musicians from the Island, UK and beyond.

3 June Fun Dog Show arretonbarns.co.uk

15 July Isle of Wight Pride iwpride.org

Westie gathering and fun dog show for West Highland terriers and their canine friends.

Registration at 1pm. All proceeds to Wight Westie Walkers Rescue supporting Island Westies.

Taking place on the streets of Ryde, this is the first Isle of Wight Pride.

Set to be an inclusive day out for all the family, who will be able to enjoy the parade and help to celebrate diversity and community.

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EVENTS CALENDAR

IsleWalk17 29 April – 14 May isleofwightwalkingfestival.co.uk The popular Isle of Wight walking festival returns as IsleWalk17.

Local and visiting walkers of all ages and abilities will be setting off on trails across the Island’s picturesque landscape. Get up close and personal with the stunning scenery from rolling green hills to chalky white cliffs.

Yarmouth Old Gaffers 2 – 4 June yarmoutholdgaffersfestival.co.uk Yarmouth town and harbour are set for a fun-filled weekend.

The harbour will be filled with the colourful spectacle of the visiting gaff-rigged vessels, some of which will race in The Solent on Saturday. There is also a Sunday morning race from the Royal Solent Yacht Club with the Queen’s Jubilee Race.

Isle of Wight Festival of Running 2 – 4 June visitisleofwight.co.uk Brand new for 2017. Hosted by the West Wight Sports and Community Centre, this fantastic outdoor event gives fitness fanatics and first time runners the chance to see the best of the Isle of Wight’s beautiful scenery.

V-Dub Island Festival 11 – 13 August v-dubisland.com A family-friendly camping festival offering a fun-packed weekend for Volkswagen enthusiasts and music lovers alike. With over 80 bands and DJs across four stages you’re guaranteed a fun-filled weekend. Taking place at South Fairlee Farm from Friday 11 until Sunday 13 August 2017.

Isle of Wight Classic Buses, Beer & Walks Weekend 14 – 15 October iwbeerandbuses.co.uk The fourth annual Beer and Buses event returns to the Island with around 80 buses touring the Island across the weekend. Vintage buses take sightseers and drinkers on tours of the Island, with plenty of opportunities to stop off at pubs on the way.

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15 July Some Like It Hot Outdoor Cinema nationaltrust.org.uk Join us as the sun goes down to watch ‘Some Like It Hot’ under the stars in a beautiful setting.

Adult tickets £10, child £9 from travellingfilmshow.co.uk (tickets more on the door). Meet at Mottistone Gardens PO30 4ED. 22 July Dying for Love Murder Mystery nationaltrust.org.uk A murder mystery evening set in the psychedelic 1960s. With a murder to be discovered, will you be able to piece together the clues to work out ‘whodunnit’?

Bring a picnic, a bottle or two and come dressed for the Summer of Love. £14 per person. Mottistone Gardens PO30 4ED 29 July – 5 August Cowes Week cowesweek.co.uk A host of competitive sailing and social activities. The 8,500 competitors range from Olympic and world class professionals to weekend sailors with the annual fireworks display as the highlight.

30 July – 1 August The Railway Folk iwsteamrailway.co.uk For three days The Railway Folk are again taking over the running of the Steam Railway. Chaos is guaranteed as these quirky, crazy characters welcome visitors to their haphazard world. This fascinating and imaginative street theatre will appeal to children aged 2 to 102!

August 3 – 31 August Music & Magic in the Skies theneedles.co.uk The Needles Landmark Attraction is open late every Thursday throughout August.

For a non-stop party of games, live music and street entertainment for all the family with a spectacular pyro-musical finale, lighting up the skies above the iconic Needles landmark.

5 – 6 August Chale Show thechaleshow.co.uk

8 – 13 August Ventnor Fringe & Ventnor International Festival vfringe.ventnorexchange.co.uk Each year attracting more than 300 performers from across the world that together transform Ventnor into a wonderland of pop up bars and secret venues.

5 – 6 August Victorian Weekend iwsteamrailway.co.uk A living, breathing historical experience. Re-discover a forgotten world of travelling theatre, Victorian maids, songs from the music halls and steam train travel.

Come dressed in Victorian attire.

13 August 158th Annual Sandown Bay Regatta sandown-bay.co.uk Taking place along the beach and esplanade from 10am. Stalls, shore sports and lots more ending with a grand firework display.

19 – 20 August The Garlic Festival garlicfestival.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, children’s entertainers and a funfair.

20 August IW Half Marathon rydeharriers.co.uk Starting at the Ryde Rowing Club, the course covers the wider Ryde area.

25 – 28 August The 43rd Island Steam Show iwsteamrailway.co.uk An action-packed show and a great family day out! The stunning shows in the main arena will make you gasp, cheer and laugh.

Climb aboard the traditional fairground rides, marvel at the steam demonstrations, maintained traction engines and vintage cars.

25 – 28 August IW Scooter Rally bsra-uk.com

See the spectacle as thousands of scooters descend on Ryde as part of their annual get-together The 91st annual Chale Show has on the Island. Step back into everything needed for a great summer the mod-era and enjoy the day out for the whole family. atmosphere and music.

EVENTS CALENDAR

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September 2 – 3 September Wolverton Manor Garden Fair gardenfair.org.uk Packed full of fun and entertainment for all the family this traditional garden fair is the most popular of its kind on the Island.

3 September Morris Minor Rally iwsteamrailway.co.uk The ‘Moggy Minor’ is fondly remembered and is still a much-loved car. See a host of travellers, saloons, convertibles, vans, pick-ups and custom classics on display at Havenstreet Station.

9 – 10 September Eklectica Music Festival eklectica.live A brand-new, boutique music festival with an eclectic twist taking place at Robin Hill.

Experience a dynamic mix of music and entertainment.

16 – 17 September Songs of the Sea and Shanty Festival thespyglass.com Come dressed as a pirate, smuggler or seafarer and enjoy a weekend of free live, local music.

There’s a prize for the bestdressed, so get into the spirit of the weekend’s festivities.

23 – 24 September Cider and Cheese Weekend iwsteamrailway.co.uk The first ever Cider and Cheese Weekend at Isle of Wight Steam Railway. Relax with a pint of your favourite tipple as you watch the trains go by.

23 – 24 September Sweetcorn Fayre arretonbarns.co.uk A fun family event encompassing the whole of the Arreton Barns site. There will be live coverage from Isle of Wight Radio on the day and look out for the weekend’s programme in the County Press Weekender.

29, 30 September & 1 October Diesel Gala iwsteamrailway.co.uk There’s no steam this weekend!

Join us for our 2nd diesel gala, a rare opportunity to see diesels at work. All passenger services will be hauled by diesels.

See ou r of carn full list pages ivals on 28 & 2 9

30 September – 4 November Electric Woods electricwoods.co.uk Experience the ‘electric woods’. A stunning spectacle of light, colour and sound to celebrate the Festival of Light inspired by Diwali.

October 21 October – 4 November Blackgang Chine Illuminations blackgangchine.com

Isle of Wight Festival goers enjoying the music.

Isle of Wight Festival 8 – 11 June isleofwightfestival.com 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 taking place in June every year.

Blackgang Chine’s famous illuminations will once again light up half term! As the light begins to fade, enjoy the magical This year’s festival sees the legendary Rod Stewart performing experience of the famous centre stage along with Arcade Fire, Run DMC, David Guetta, evening illuminations.

George Ezra and Rag ‘n’ Bone Man. It’s a truly larger than life festival offering a wonderful diversity of musical talent across the 23 – 27 October three stages. You have to see it to believe it.

Wizard Week iwsteamrailway.co.uk See birds of prey, be amazed at the magic shows and tread through the enchanting woodland walk. Meet the friendly witches of Havenstreet and help with their magic spells and potions. Dress-up as a spooky character – prizes each day for the best costumes.

Shipwreck Isle

2 July visitisleofwight.co.uk A one day spectacular, this fun, family event returns to the Isle of Wight. Recapture the Island from the bad pirates, while dressed up as a good pirate, or perhaps vice versa, if that floats your galleon.

This delightfully bizarre pirate festival is completely free to attend, and we can promise that you will have a swash-buckling great time, whatever your age.

Sand sculpture workshops, pirate storytelling, children’s pirate entertainment, samba band, live pirate music and stunt action sword fighting only normally seen on the silver screen are just some of the piratical highlights awaiting your arrival to one of the Looking for something frightfully most stunning locations for a pirate festival. Located in Ryde and good to do with the children Appley Beach, it is an event not to be missed and free to attend. this half term week? There’s a week of spooky themed events waiting for you. The week will end with an amazing fireworks display at Arreton Barns.

23 – 27 October Halloween Half Term Fun arretonbarns.co.uk

28 October Fright Night iwsteamrailway.co.uk Dare you ride the ‘Train of Fright’? Dress-up as witches, wizards and ghouls. Lurk menacingly on the platform, then take the ‘ghost train’ through the Island’s deserted night-time countryside, passing darkened woodland, desolate fields and a haunted homestead!

Pirates on the beach at Shipwreck Isle.

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104

CLASSIFIEDS

ISLA N D C U LT U R E

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Queen Victoria’s Church ENTRY IS FREE Open April - October Mon - Thurs 10am - 4pm • • • • •

Guide on duty Exhibitions Coffee Shop Gift Stalls COACHES WELCOME

More information online St Mildred’s, Beatrice Avenue, Whippingham PO32 6LW

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Wight Military & Heritage Museum

...welcomes you to enjoy the wide range of exhibits on display including our 1940’s street scene and military vehicles.

The museum cafĂŠ “Churchillsâ€? is open daily where you can enjoy light refreshments and a selection of hot and cold drinks.

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

i Fix Local 101 High Street Sandown PO36 8DS 01983 403886 Stores in Sandown, Ryde & Newport, iFix Local is the Island’s biggest Mobile Phone, iPad, Tablet, PC, Laptop & Gadget repair company. A fast, reliable & friendly service, We Fix ALL Phones, Laptops, Tablets, iPads & PC’s.

Opening times are Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm | Sat 10am -2pm Sandown 01983 403886 Ryde 01983 638298 Newport 01983 716756 iFixLocal.co.uk

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SHANKLIN THEATRE ISLE OF WIGHT

Year round top quality entertainment, including star names.

Box Office (01983) 868000 www.shanklintheatre.com

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CLASSIFIEDS

G R E A T O U T DO O RS NETTLECOMBE FARM Self-Catering Cottages & Fishing Lakes

Award winning dog friendly self-catering cottages 3 coarse fishing lakes. Free to guests staying at Nettlecombe Farm or £5 per rod day tickets _____________________________________ www.nettlecombefarm.co.uk Nettlecombe Lane, Whitwell, Isle of Wight, PO38 2AF Tel: 01983 730783

_____________________________________

Goodleaf Wightlife 2017 ad 1ARTWORK.indd 1

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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

Family fun for all ages!

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Horseriding / Holiday Accommodation / New Equestrian Centre Island Riding Centre, Staplers Road, Newport, Isle of Wight, PO30 2NB

• Riding school • Individual or group lessons • Pony birthday parties • Riding Holidays • Bring your own horse • Own-your-own-pony day!

• Summer & winter pony camps • Accommodation for horses

Call 01983 214000 to book, visit islandriding.com or find us on Facebook and Twitter...

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106

CLASSIFIEDS

The

Leconfield • Luxury Country House accommodation • Stunning sea views throughout • Ideal location for walking • Adult only accommodation (over 16’s)

ACCOM MO D A T I O N

01983 852196 enquiries@leconfieldhotel.com 85 Leeson Road, Upper Bonchurch, Ventnor PO38 1PU www.leconfieldhotel.com

Unique bedrooms & delicious speciality food Open to public for breakfast, lunch & afternoon tea

01983 521717 www.oneholyrood.co.uk

Island Cottage Holidays Isle of Wight Cottages

Delightful holiday cottages in beautiful coastal & rural locations 01983 403377 www.islandcottageholidays .com

Ventnor seafront 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

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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.

ASK ABOUT REGULAR SPECIAL OFFERS ventnorseafront.co.uk 01983 855010 info@ventnorseafront.co.uk

ur ut o ck o aways e h C de d Hi n Islan ature o fe 0 2 e Pag

MORE THAN JUST A PUB

ARTY SHAKES The art of bringing together crafts, milkshakes and home-made Belgian waffles

FISHBOURNE  01983 882823 www.thefishbourne.co.uk Make memories that last a lifetime as well as tantalizing your tastebuds with our great range of toasties, homemade Belgium waffles and wide range of milkshakes. Enquire about our exciting children’s parties.

01983 716580 | b/ArtyShakesShanklin 6 Falcon Cross Road, Shanklin PO37 7LA

SEAVIEW  01983 810616 www.theboathouseiow.co.uk

THE HAMBROUGH ...the perfect Island escape

...seven gorgeous bedrooms

BEMBRIDGE  01983 872840 www.thespinnakeriow.co.uk

...and food to match

LUXURY 5 STAR ACCOMMODATION

DISTINCTIVE DINING IN OUR AA RATED 4 STAR INNS

Bar Open from 11 am

Coffee & Cake � Cream and Savoury Teas � Afternoon Teas Wines, Champagnes and Expertly Mixed Cocktails

Hambrough Road : Ventnor : PO38 1SQ

Enquiries and Bookings : 01983 856333

@TheHambrough : www.thehambrough.com

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ACCOMMODATION BOOKINGS 01983 873572 www.innsofdistinction.co.uk WIGHTLINK.CO.UK

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VISITOR INFORMATION

VISIT O R INFORM AT I O N Compton Bay, one of our many award-winning beaches.

Visitor Information Points Visitor Information Centre The Guildhall, High Street, Newport, PO30 1TY 01983 521555 Mon–Fri 9.30am–3.30pm Sat–Sun 10.30am–3.30pm For summer weekend opening please check our Facebook page facebook.com/IWTravelAmbassadors N ORTH East Cowes Valu-4-u Castle Street, East Cowes, PO32 6RD Cowes Aqua Marine Gifts 60 High Street, Cowes, PO31 7RL N ORTH E A S T Ryde Ryde Pier Head Catamaran Terminal, Ryde, PO33 2HF Havenstreet Isle of Wight Steam Railway The Railway Station, Havenstreet, PO33 4DS Bembridge Bembridge Community Library Church Road, Bembridge, PO35 5NA EA ST Shanklin Vernon Cottage 1 Eastcliff Road, Shanklin, PO37 6AA

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Brading Brading Railway Station Heritage Centre Station Road, Brading, PO36 0EB Sandown The Holiday Shop 37 High Street, Sandown, PO36 8DE SO U TH Ventnor Seasons Newsagents 8-10 High Street, Ventnor, PO38 1RY W E ST Yarmouth Yarmouth Harbour Office The Quay, Yarmouth, PO41 0NT

Wightlink Travel Information Whether you’re travelling by foot, train or car, getting to the Isle of Wight is easier with Wightlink.

• • • • •

The choice of three convenient routes – from Lymington and Portsmouth More sailings each day* than any other crossSolent 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 onboard facilities – spacious lounges, refreshments and sundecks

*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.

Find out more at wightlink.co.uk

Freshwater Dimbola Museum & Galleries Terrace Lane, Freshwater Bay, PO40 9QE Brighstone Brighstone Village Shop Main Road, Newport, PO30 4AH C E N TR AL Newport County Press Shop 123 Pyle Street, Newport, PO30 1ST Newport Quay Arts Sea Street, Newport, PO30 5BW Godshill Godshill Village Store High Street, Godshill, PO38 3HH

Watch the Island getting closer and closer as you make your way across the Solent.

The Salix offers a warm welcome at the licensed beach side cafe on Small Hope Beach.

FRESHLY COOKED FOOD ISLAND ROASTED COFFEE COSY WOOD BURNER LICENSED PREMISES DISABLED ACCESS DOGS WELCOME

Find your perfect holiday escape on the Isle of Wight

Small Hope Beach Shanklin, PO37 6BQ 07772 056204 www.thesalixcafe.co.uk bThe Salix-beach cafe

Countryside to seaside…

Quirky cottages to converted barns…

Home owners: Our portfolio is still open for this season…

Call now to discuss your requirements & our flexible service… wightislandescapes.com | 01983 303 303

Upper Chine Holiday Cottages

Real Ales

land ... from A Real Is The Isle of Wight Brewery, the brewer of Award Winning Island Ales offer a stunning core range of traditional real ales together with Seasonal beers introduced throughout the year.

Available in cask, bottles, polypins or mini casks which are ideal for parties or your own personal beer festival.

Free Island-wide delivery.

Heated indoor swimming pool & games room Open all year.

Ferry packages available. www.upperchinecottages.co.uk | Tel: 01983 867900 Old Village, Shanklin.

01983 821731

Dinglers Farm, Yarmouth Road,Shalfleet, PO30 4LZ

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USEFUL NUMBERS

USEF UL NU MB E R S Getting Around

Taxis

Wightlink 0333 999 7333 wightlink.co.uk

Alpha 01983 280280 alphaiow.co.uk

Isle of Wight Steam Railway 01983 882204 iwsteamrailway.co.uk With stations at Havenstreet, Wootton or via Island line at Smallbrook.

A.S.A.P Taxis 01983 244444 asaptaxis.co.uk

Island Line 0345 6000 650 southwesttrains.co.uk 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.

Cycle Hire 1st Call Cycle Hire 01983 400055 islecycle.co.uk Red Squirrel Electric Bikes 01983 521555 nutsnotto.co.uk RouteFifty7 07491 000 057 routefifty7.com Wight Cycle Hire 01983 761800 wightcyclehire.co.uk Car Hire 1st Call Van & Car Hire Sandown: 01983 400055 Cowes: 01983 299056 isleofwighthire.co.uk Esplanade 01983 562322 esplanade.co.uk Value Rentacar 01983 401333 value-rentacar.co.uk

Cowes Taxis 01983 294444 cowestaxis.com Ryde Taxis 01983 811111 rydetaxisltd.com Vectis Taxis 01983 639737 Ventnor Taxis 01983 855181 Emergency Services For urgent police, ambulance, fire or coastguard services, call 999 or 112.

Health Services The Beacon Health Centre Out of hours GP service from 8am-8pm, 7 days a week at St Mary’s Hospital 01983 821170 St Mary’s Hospital 01983 524081 Dental treatment For emergency dental treatment and unregistered patients on the Isle of Wight, 8.30am–9.30pm daily.

0845 0508345 Pharmacies Day Lewis Pharmacy Cowes 01983 293011 daylewis.co.uk Regent Pharmacy East Cowes 01983 717002 regentpharmacy.org.uk Boots Pharmacy Bembridge

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01983 872328 boots.com Day Lewis Pharmacy Ryde 01983 882473 daylewis.co.uk Seaview Pharmacy 01983 613116 seaviewpharmacy.com

Ventnor at sunrise.

The Mobile Vet 01983 212999 mobilevetsurgery.co.uk Pet Doctors Animal Hospital Newport: 01983 522804 Lake: 01983 408004 Ryde: 01983 562878 Cowes: 01983 281771 petdoctors.co.uk Leisure Centres

Day Lewis Pharmacy Sandown 01983 402050 daylewis.co.uk

The Heights Leisure Centre Sandown 01983 823881 1leisure.co.uk

Regent Pharmacy Shanklin 01983 863677 regentpharmacy.org.uk

Medina Leisure Centre Newport 01983 823882 1leisure.co.uk

Lloyds Pharmacy Ventnor 01983 852135 lloydspharmacy.com

Westridge Leisure Centre Ryde 01983 823883 1leisure.co.uk

Niton Pharmacy Niton 01983 730240

West Wight Sports Centre Freshwater 01983 752168 westwight.org.uk

Kemkay Pharmacy Freshwater 01983 752908 Yarmouth Pharmacy Yarmouth 01983 760260 Day Lewis Pharmacy Carisbrooke 01983 525216 daylewis.co.uk Day Lewis Pharmacy Newport 01983 522346 daylewis.co.uk Vets Green & Forster (Newport, Yarmouth, Freshwater, Ventnor) 01983 522822 greenandforster.com Medina Veterinary Group 01983 883955 medinavets.co.uk

Breakdown Recovery Stag Lane Motors 01983 522443 staglane-motors.co.uk Bartletts Service Station 01983 865338 bartlettsservicestation.co.uk James Garage Services 01983 521010 jamesgarageservices.co.uk The AA 0800 88 77 66 theaa.com D.H. Price Motors 01983 400247 dhpricemotors.com RAC Members: 0333 2000 999 Non-members: 0800 197 7815 rac.co.uk

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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Yaverland Seafront, Sandown, PO36 8QB

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112 WIGHTLIFE COMPETITION

C OM P E T I T I O N T I ME Share a photograph of your trip to the Isle of Wight in 2017 and you could win a luxury short break to the Island.

Prizes of a Wightlink voucher worth £50 will be awarded every month with the best overall entrant winning a prize of a luxury short break for up to four people to the Isle of Wight. Your winning photograph will also be published in a future edition of Wightlife magazine.

The theme this year is ‘beach life’. Feel free to interpret this and be as creative as you like. Being an Island there are beaches of all different shapes and sizes to be inspired by.

From the expanse of golden sand at Ryde and Sandown to picturesque coves and sleepy harbours.

You can submit up to three photographs every month, as there are prizes throughout the season from April to October, with a main prize awarded in November 2017.

Main prize package includes: • • • • • •

Wightlink return ferry travel for up to four people Luxury beachfront accommodation at Ventnor Seafront Meal out for four at The Spyglass Inn Meal out for four at a Character Inns Island pub Taste of the Wight local produce hamper Admission for up to four people at: Isle of Wight Steam Railway Osborne (English Heritage) Blackgang Chine Robin Hill

WIGHTLINK.CO.UK

Enter our competition by simply uploading your photographs online:

wightlink.co.uk/wightlifephoto Photographs should be at least 500kb and no larger than 3mb. All photographs should be taken on the Isle of Wight or whilst travelling to or from the Island with Wightlink.

You can also find our full terms and conditions online: wightlink.co.uk/wightlifephoto

DESTINATION GUIDES KEY

DESTINATION G UIDES KEY See our Island map on Pages 42 & 43 Our map provides an overview of the Isle of Wight with the main roads as well as visitor attractions, beaches and places of interest.

Our destination guides start on Page 44 We have divided the Island into six areas and provided an information-packed guide to each one so you can get the most out of your visit.

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More Routes...

More Ferries...

More Often Getting to the Isle of Wight is easier with Wightlink Ferries

NORTH NORTH EA S T WEST C EN T R A L

EA S T

S O UT H

Find these symbols in our destination guides: Dogs welcome WiFi available

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Suitable for a rainy day

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Hotel

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B&B / Guest house Holiday park / village

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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

Camping & Touring park Self-catering Fine dining Restaurant Pub / bar Cafe / tea room

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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.

WIGHTLINK.CO.UK

Welcome to Character Inns G))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))g M

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A collection of

Historic Pubs on the beautiful Isle of Wight • THE BUGLE INN • • THE YACHTSMAN • • CRAB & LOBSTER • H)))))))))h H)))))))))h H)))))))))h

ISLE OF WIGHT

• THE SUN INN • H)))))))))h

• THE BUGLE INN • H)))))))))h

• THE CROWN INN • • THE BUDDLE INN • • THE CAULKHEADS • H)))))))))h H)))))))))h H)))))))))h

You’re never far from a Character Inn G))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))g M

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Venues as unique as you G))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))g M

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THE

YAC H T S M A N COWES

Set in the heart of Yarmouth’s Town Square and a stone’s throw from the beautiful harbour. Yarmouth’s oldest pub, steeped in tradition.

A recent addition to the Character Inns family. Fully refurbished with a new al fresco heated dining terrace with stunning views of the Solent and beyond.

A beautiful thatched inn with stunning views of Tennyson Down and Compton Bay beyond. Perfect for those summer days!

As the name suggests, seafood is our speciality – caught locally every day and served fresh to your table, with stunning views of Bembridge Ledge from the clifftop garden.

Located in the charming village of Shorwell – with its very own fresh trout stream, dove house and resident ducks it’s a great place for all the family.

Having undergone a full refurbishment, this pub grill located in the heart of historic Brading village, serves burgers, ribs and steaks as well as all our Character favourites!

A 16th century smuggler’s inn with flagstone floors, nooks and crannies, inglenook beams and open fires. Located in an area of outstanding natural beauty and a stone’s throw from St. Catherine’s lighthouse.

Perfect for families with an indoor play area, outdoor ‘Captain Caulkheads’ pirate ship and so much more. A real favourite for families.

www.characterinns.co.uk

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Character Inns –Part of the Community G))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))g M

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