The Isle of Wight is a tried and tested destination, ideal for those seeking adventure and those looking for a classic British holiday. But away from the seaside, ice cream and walking trails, there are some unique and surprising attractions just waiting to be discovered. Here are six things to do on the Isle of Wight that you might never have thought to try.
1. Stay at Gunwharf Quays
For any good visit to the Isle of Wight, you’ll need more than just a day. The Holiday Inn Express at Gunwharf Quays literally couldn’t be closer to the shops and restaurants, with everything from your favourite Italian chains to a quirky cocktail bar where the panko halloumi is as good as the Screwball. The hotel is modern, clean, and has incredibly friendly staff. Little luxuries like Soak Superfood Skincare (hello, parsley stem hand wash and purple kale shampoo) and whisper-quiet air con make it more boutique than budget. Bonus: a complimentary breakfast to fuel your island adventure.
How to get there: Take a Southern train to Portsmouth & Southsea railway station, then it’s just a 15-minute walk to the hotel.
2. Hop on the hovercraft
Forget the ferry - board the Hovertravel service from Southsea and arrive in Ryde in just 10 minutes. It’s the easiest and fastest way to reach the island and a unique experience in its own right. It’s fun, exciting, and so smooth you can put away those sick bags. Plus, your Hovertravel crossing is included with your Southern railway ticket when you book a return to Ryde Hoverport.
How to get there: A free shuttle bus runs from Portsmouth & Southsea railway station to the Hovertravel terminal and takes only 10 minutes.
3. Explore Osborne House
Walk in royal footsteps at Osborne House, Queen Victoria’s beloved holiday home. From stunning drawing rooms to the surprisingly intimate Swiss Cottage built for her children, every corner has a story. The gardens and private beach are particularly lovely on a sunny day.
How to get there: From the Hovertravel terminal in Ryde, take the number four bus towards East Cowes and alight at Osborne House. It only takes 20 minutes.
4. Wander the Grounds of Quarr Abbey
Hidden away among woodlands and meadows, Quarr Abbey is a peaceful Benedictine monastery where you can slow down and soak up the serenity. Visit the working farm and coo at the cute little piglets, grab a chunky biscoff blondie from the tea shop, or just enjoy the quiet tranquillity of the abbey itself. The farm shop is well worth a visit, stocked with local artisanal produce, including a chocolate liqueur you won’t be able to stop thinking about.
How to get there: From the Hovertravel terminal in Ryde, take the number nine bus or the Downs Breezer towards Newport via Medina and alight at Quarr Abbey. It takes just 10 minutes.
5. Visit the Model Village in Godshill
It’s not a British holiday without something charmingly kitsch. The Model Village in Godshill is a nostalgic delight, with beautifully detailed 1/10th scale versions of real Isle of Wight villages as they were in the 1920s and 30s. Plus, bonsai trees that are actual trees in miniature. It’s irresistibly whimsical in the best possible way, and many visitors leave saying it’s the best model village they’ve ever seen.
How to get there: From the Hovertravel terminal in Ryde, take the number two bus towards Newport via Shanklin and alight at Griffin. It takes just over an hour, or you can hail a taxi which will get you there in 25 minutes.
6. Indulge your taste buds at The Garlic Farm
Yes, garlic gets its own attraction on the Isle of Wight. The Garlic Farm is a foodie haven where you can try everything from garlic beer to garlic ice cream. Walk around the grounds to see the garlic as it grows, then have lunch at the restaurant where you can sample unusual and exciting flavours like black garlic chocolate brownie or even smoked garlic scones with garlic jam. Then visit the shop to stock up on garlicky goodies to take home - just maybe take a swig of mouthwash afterwards.
How to get there: Take a taxi which will get you from the Hovertravel terminal in Ryde to The Garlic Farm in just 15 minutes.