If you’ve never visited the Isle of Wight before you might be wondering which are the best places to spend your time on the island. While the island is not the largest in scale, there are still plenty of picturesque villages and towns to visit during your days there.
From villages overlooking the sea to historical inland towns, you’re sure to find a destination to suit your tastes here. So, join us as we explore some of the best towns that the island has to offer and which are the perfect locations to visit on holidays to the Isle of Wight.
Ventnor
A popular destination for Victorian tourists and still just as much of a hotspot today, the town of Ventnor is a destination every visitor should make time for. A big part of the town’s appeal is its renowned microclimate, which keeps the area a few degrees warmer thanks to the protection of the cliffs.
It’s this that gives the town one of its most unmissable attractions, Ventnor Botanic Garden. If you’re interested in seeing plants thriving from as far afield as New Zealand and South Africa then take a leisurely wander through the garden’s paths. Otherwise, bask in the sunshine and warmth on the town’s sandy beach, a perfect location for sunbathing even in the spring months.
Ryde
The largest town on the island, Ryde could well be the first bit of the Isle of Wight you see. Its iconic pier – one of the longest in the entire country – regularly welcomes ferries and boasts excellent views of the surrounding waters.
A stroll along the promenade offers sight of a mixture of Victorian and Georgian architecture, as well as a range of delightful cafes, ice cream shops and restaurants. The nearby boating lake is a lovely excursion for those who didn’t get enough of the ferry. But, for those who prefer to keep their feet a little more grounded, the Isle of Wight steam railway offers a luxurious ride through lush landscapes a few miles outside the town.
Cowes
Maritime enthusiasts will likely be drawn to bustling Cowes, which is generally regarded as the sailing capital of the island. Sat on the northern coast, the town is well known for its annual sailing regatta and attracts sailors from around the world to its shores.
Spend time on the waterfront promenade admiring the passing yachts and sailboats or head further into town to enjoy some local seafood. Cowes has a healthy social scene so there’s always plenty going on in the town, making it ideal for those looking for a little taste of life on the island.
Newport
Once you’ve had your fill of the coastal towns, Newport is a good bet for shaking things up a little. The inland town is the perfect stopover if you’ve been out and about exploring some of the natural sights of the Isle of Wight Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).
With a thriving twice-weekly market and a wide array of shops, restaurants, pubs and cultural attractions Newport is a perfect blend of historic and modern. Medieval Carisbrooke Castle is one of the town’s biggest draws, with well-preserved ancient fortifications and incredible views to enjoy from its heights.
With more than a few charming towns and villages to explore, the Isle of Wight is a perfect holiday destination. It doesn’t matter if you’re more drawn to seaside cottages, natural beauty or historic ambience there’s a place here to suit you.
Get ahead of the crowds and book your holiday to the Isle of Wight today, ready to discover your next favourite town.