Things to do near Kingates Farm - Shepherds Hut

Beaches

Castlehaven

Castlehaven

Dog restrictions may apply (usually from Easter until the end of Summer).

Parking at The Buddle Inn, Lower Niton, you can take the steep path down to the beach and/or St Catherine's Lighthouse.

Our local sandy beach at Castlehaven is 1.5 miles away in Reethi Bay (only accessible in summer on a low tide as rocky entrance) and boasts an outdoor Café on the path down to the slipway with great views of passing sailing boats. Especially for Round the Island Boat Race if you can't get a seat at the Café, walk along the coastal path with a picnic, as definately worth the walk!

Rocken End Beach

Dogs allowed if you like a challenge! Nice walks and great views from the car park at end of Old Blackgang Road.

Rocken End is set at the southern end of Chale Bay to the south of Blackgang Chine and just around the corner from the Isle of Wight’s most southerly point. This is one of the most remote spots on the island and faces straight into the elements with very little in the way of protection.
As such it can feel pretty wild, but also it is often deserted.

The northern end of the beach here (Blackgang) is an unofficial nudist beach if you like to get an overall tan? It is not easy to access, either it’s a walk/scramble down from the car park at the end of Old Blackgang Road or it’s a long walk in very fine golden shingle from the west along the beach from the nearest access point off the Military Road.

Once you know the path from the car park (Julie can guide you), it’s OK to scramble down but not if wet, as too slipery! Several kind locals have placed planks across streams and carved steps where needed but remember you have to get back up and the climb is a good 500ft and very steep in places.

Care needs to be taken when swimming - the beach shelves deeply and there are currents that sweep around St Catherine’s Point a half mile to the east.

Nearby Blackgang Chine was once upon a time a spectacular ravine but over the years coastal erosion and landslides have taken their toll with little to indicate its former glory.

Steephill Cove

Steephill Cove

Dogs are welcome but restrictions apply May to Oct (on lead until 6pm)

Walk or cycle from Kingates Farm to lower Niton and along the Undercliff Road (closed to traffic) to Ventnor Botanical Gardens for access down steep steps (or cycle further along for road access). Park the car at the Botanic Gardens or Ventnor's La Falaise, past The Spyglass Inn but expect steep steps/slopes in either direction, although worth it!

Steephill Cove, a delightful little cove where you can still see traditional fishermen at work, as well as enjoying the fruits of their labour with a fresh crab sandwich from one of the beach cafes.

There’s just a handful of buildings sat right on the water’s edge and the cove can only be accessed on foot, so there are no noisy cars to contend with.

People return to visit Steephill Cove year after year for good reason, rock pooling at low tide and a sun trap whenever the sun is shining, it really is an idyllic spot.

Ventnor Beach

Ventnor Beach

Dogs restricted between 1 May and 30 September. This does not include registered assistance dogs.

Ventnor is our local town and the beach is predominantly a sandy beach and a great sun trap.

Here the family has access to cafes, restaurants and pubs for refreshments on the seafront and in town. 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!

Shanklin Beach

Shanklin Beach

Dogs restricted May to September apart from heading further south past Shanklin Chine where the cliffs rise up over the beach. At low tide, you can walk from here around the headland to Luccombe Beach.

Shanklin Beach forms part of Sandown Bay with its famous golden sands and safe bathing areas. The water is clear and the beaches gently sloping. Like Sandown, there are facilities for refreshments, a pitch and putt and amusement arcade. Cafes, restaurants and pubs span the Esplanade and the southeast 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.

Sandown Beach

Sandown Beach

Dogs restricted between 1 May and 30 September. 

The beach is sandy and there are good toilet facilities available. The Esplanade is packed full of cafes, restaurants, bars, hotels and gift shops. 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 Cafe, pub and fishing facilities. There is Brown’s Golf Course, a skate park, Sandown Lawn Bowls Club, Crazy Golf and an excellent children’s play area.

During the summer, Sandown beach is machine cleaned and litter-picked on a daily basis. A large amount of seaweed is removed and offered to local farmers as compost.

Chilton Chine Beach

Chilton Chine Beach

Dogs allowed.

One of our regular dog walks at Chilton Chine. The chine and beach can be accessed from the small car park on the west side, but the upper parts of the chine can be better viewed from the Isle of Wight Pearl site on the east. 

High and steep steps take you down some of the way and repairs are done periodically to prevent errosion of the lower steps but it is a bit of a scrabble to get to the beach!

Yaverland Beach

Yaverland Beach

Dogs are welcome all year round (beyond the yacht club towards Culver cliff).

Yaverland is easily accessible by car or foot. There is ample parking and it is about a mile from Sandown itself. Yaverland, like the rest of Sandown Bay, has gently sloping beaches and safe bathing. There is a kiosk and toilet facilities as well as a yacht club and plentiful parking. The area is great for families, walkers, water sport enthusiasts and dog walkers alike. Culver Cliff shelters the beach at Yaverland.
Winner of Quality Coast Award
Winner of Water Quality Award 

Brook Beach

Brook Beach

National Trust car park is available at Brook but there are no other facilities. Dogs are welcome all year round in areas of the beach, with any restrictions on the NT notice board.

This attractive, mostly sandy beach is a popular spot with surfers and fossil hunters alike. The beach stretches for over a mile. Below the cliffs near Hanover Point is a prehistoric fossilised forest and dinosaur prints (fossilised rock) that can be seen at low tide. Take care when swimming at Brook as some parts are quite rocky.

Compton Bay

Compton Bay

Dogs restricted from 1st June to 30th September.

Compton Bay is a sandy beach located beside the coastal road between Freshwater Bay and Brook. A favourite for surfers, windsurfers and kitesurfers due to its often experiencing high winds and waves. This area is popular with fossil hunters and at low tide dinosaur foot prints can be seen imprinted in the rocks. Be aware of strong tides when swimming.

Newly restored steep steps lead down to the beach from Hanover Point/Shippard's Chine where there is a large National Trust (NT) car park, toilet facilities and fresh water tap. A refreshment van can be found there throughout the summer and during the winter months at weekends.

St Helens (The Dulver)

St Helens (The Dulver)

Dogs welcome.

The popular St Helens beach is maintained by The National Trust. The sand dunes here once formed the Isle of Wight’s first golf course.

St Helens lies in a coastal position on the East coast of the Isle of Wight, between the villages of Bembridge and Seaview. One of the defining features of St Helens is its village greens which form the centre of the village and are rumoured to be amongst the largest in England.

It also offers excellent views over the busy harbour of Bembridge.

There are regular fishing charters running from the nearby Bembridge Harbour, and the marina is located just outside of the village.

At the opposite end of the village the road runs down to St Helens’ Duver which sits at the mouth of Bembridge Harbour. Here you can explore the ruins of the old St Helens church which was destroyed by a large wave in the 18th Century.

Despite being a small village St Helens has some great places to eat. There are a couple of popular restaurants and cafes, one of which sits beach-side down at the Duver.

In the center of the village there is a pub, with various other pubs and eateries nearby if you are looking for traditional English food.

Bembridge Beach

Bembridge Beach

No dog restrictions.

Bembridge hosts several quiet beaches of pebble, rock and sand. They overlook the Solent and the busy shipping lane. The children will love these beaches, they can go crabbing, cockling and explore the natural surroundings. These beaches are usually quieter than the main resorts. Bembridge is also home to one of the Island’s RNLI stations, making regular rescues and training exercises. You will find most beaches have a carpark and cafe nearby, and the beach directly by the Duver also has toilet facilities.
Swimming is not safe in Bembridge Harbour. Dogs welcome but restrictions may apply May – Oct.

Ryde Beach

Ryde Beach

Dogs restricted on main beach between 1 May and 30 September but allowed from Appley Tower around to Seaview (past the great Dell Cafe).

Ryde beach is situated to the north of the Ryde town centre and is accessible by either foot, car or public transport. The six miles of beautiful golden sands extend from Seaview all the way round to Ryde Pier.

A level walk runs between Ryde and Puckpool which passes cafes, gardens, childrens’ play areas, beach huts and Appley Tower. There is a boating lake if the midday sun gets too much. Cafes and toilet facilities can be found at many intervals along this stretch of the Island.

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 and safety equipment such as life jackets are located along the Esplanade. 

Seagrove Bay

Seagrove Bay

Dogs welcome.

Located near Bembridge, Seagrove Bay is on the northeast coast of the Isle of Wight. Facing eastwards into the English Channel it is fairly sheltered from both the wind and waves.

Although the beach is pebbly near the shore, at low tide it has plenty of sand which is gently sloping and is ideal for watersports, sandcastles, sunbathing and beach activities. The bay stretches for about 1km (0.6 mile) from Nettlestone Point to Horestone Point and there’s a wooden boardwalk providing access to the seawall.

Seagrove Bay has a Blue Flag award - a guarantee of great water quality and plenty of family-friendly facilities.

Perhaps the only negative point about Seagrove is that at high tide, there beach all but disappears as the water comes up to the seawall marking the high water mark. It’s advisable to check the tide times before visiting.

There’s a small car park nearby and a lane leading down to the beach which has a slipway for boats. You can also park at Seaview and walk around the coast to reach Seagrove Bay. Facilities include toilets.

Seagrove is home to a couple of fairly exclusive hotels and it is not unknown to spot the occasional celebrity here.

Freshwater Bay

Freshwater Bay

Dogs restricted  between 1 May and 30 September but there is still a dog-friendly beach on the western side of the Bay below Fort Redoubt, right of the Slipway. 

Freshwater Bay is one of the most photographed beaches in West Wight. The beach is covered in a mixture of grey flint and chalk pebbles but there is sand below the low water mark with areas to sit if you walk to the more eastern side of the bay. There is also a rock ledge revealed at low tide at this side, which is great for rockpooling with your kids.
 

Seaview Beach

Seaview Beach

Dogs restricted between 1 May and 30 September.

With a footpath the length of the beach you can pretty much walk along the seafront from Puckpool Park into Seaview with a view of the Solent all the way. The beach is sandy and pebbly and popular in the summer months. Call in at the Old Fort and sit on the water's edge with a tasty snack to watch the dinghies from the local club trying to out-manoeuvre each other. Ice creams are available in the village along with some boutique shops and a gallery. 

Totland Bay

Totland Bay

Dogs restricted between 1 May and 30 September. 

Totland Bay is situated on the west side of the Island and particularly good at Sunset where families can enjoy the delightful beach and cafes. A popular destination for large cruisers and yachts, there is always something to look at and do. Totland has a pier and there is a cafe, pub and restaurants nearby. Toilet facilities are also on hand.
Winner of Quality Coast Award

Colwell Bay

Colwell Bay

Dogs arestricted between 1 May and 30 September. This does not include registered assistance dogs.

Colwell Bay offers spectacular views back across the Solent to mainland England. It is a small, easily accessible beach on the north-west coast, with gently sloping sand and shingle, making it an ideal beach for swimming. A popular beach for various watersports such as windsurfing and canoeing.

Make sure you check the tide tables as there is very little beach at high tide, although you can sit on the sea wall, or in one of the cafes, and wait for it to recede. There is a car park with about 40 spaces, including 2 disabled spaces, that has access to the beach via a small slipway. There are also toilets here, a beach shop, and a café. 

This is a popular family beach, with beach hut shops on each side of the slipway selling everything from ice-creams and snacks to wet suits. You can hire deck chairs and beach huts from the beach shop. On the road down to the shore there is a bar plus if you walk along the sea wall to the left you will find a bistro style restaurant, The Hut.

The beach is down a short road from the main Yarmouth to Totland road, there is a good sized car park with toilets and access for the disabled is good.There would is a lovely walk from here along the sea wall to Totland Beach with stunning views across the Solent.

Across the Solent are views of the striking Hurst Castle, and just along the Island coast to the right you can spy the former Victorian gun tower of Fort Albert. This is an ideal place to see yachts sailing by on the Solent waters as the gap between the Isle of Wight and the mainland at this point is relatively narrow. Colwell Bay was recommended by the Marine Conservation Society for the quality of its waters in 2012.

Alum Bay

Alum Bay

Dog allowed on lead all year round!

Alum Bay beach is one of the most photographed beaches on the Isle of Wight. Mainly shingle beach and situated at the most westerly tip of the Island, framed by The Needles iconic chalk stacks. it is world famous for coloured sands with 21 different shades creating a dramatic and natural shelter for the beach. 

Great for a swim, a favourite for locals all year round and perfect for the children to paddle. Enjoy watching the boats moor in the bay and/or hop on to test your sea legs and see The Needles close up with a choice of boat trips throughout a calm day! 

Look across the Solent to Dorset and Old Harry Rocks and spot the Fisherman enjoying the tranquillity at dusk.

Above Alum Bay beach stands The Needles Park where you will find a range of attractions, catering facilities, a fully licensed tea room, retail shops and not to forget the Sand shop where you can fill your own shape with a choice of the Alum Bay sands!

Alum bay beach can be accessed on foot via the steps taking you through the picturesque chine or ride the iconic chairlift from The Needles Old Battery and New Battery

The No 7 bus runs every 30 minutes from Newport or hop on the Island Breezer.

St Catherine's Down

St Catherine's Down

Walk your dog or ride your bike directly from Kingates Farm up to St Catherine's Oratory (The Pepperpot). Walking at the southern tip of the Isle of Wight can be truly exhilarating. The area around St Catherine's is superb for walkers as there's so much to see, with historical interest, an abundance of wildlife and fantastic panoramic views. 

Standing proud at the northern end of St Catherine's Down, the Hoy monument was built in 1814 to celebrate the visit of the Tsar.

If you like to cycle off-road, St Catherine's Down is ideal. The Round the Island cycle route (Sustrans Regional route 67) passes right by.

Blackgang Chine

Blackgang Chine

Blackgang Chine (better for younger children) is the oldest themed attraction in the UK and has shared entrance tickets with the larger Robin Hill Adventure Park and Gardens.

St Catherine's Lighthouse

St Catherine's Lighthouse

Great at Sunset, St Catherine's Lighthouse at St Catherine's Point is the southern most tip of the Isle of Wight. It is one of the oldest lighthouse locations in Great Britain and seasonal tours are available.

Ventnor Botanical Gardens

Ventnor Botanical Gardens

Ventnor Botanic Garden is a beautiful Wedding Venue with tropical appeal! It lies in the remarkable microclimate at the heart of the famous "Undercliff" accessed from Lower Niton on foot or bike along the (closed to traffic) Undercliff Road. This unique garden is protected from the cold northerly winds by chalk downs. Indeed, it holds the warmth from its southerly aspect so well that, combined with the moderating influence of the sea, frost is rarely known.

Godshill Model Village

Godshill Model Village

Set in the grounds of the Old Vicarage the Model Village in Godshill is a timeless place to escape the busy world outside. A perfect, expertly manicured, bonsai gardening and model village, in a village, in a village…. in miniature. Great for a rainy day too, as shelter provided.

Donkey Sanctuary

Donkey Sanctuary

The Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary's prime aim is to provide a home for unwanted donkeys and ponies, also to educate welcome visitors on animal welfare. There' a good Cafe there and you can meet your Adopted Donkey too!

Amazon World

Amazon World

Amazon World Zoo Park is a special kind of attraction. Here you can learn about conservation and rainforests and come face to face with some of the world's most unusual, beautiful and endangered creatures. Some you won’t be able to see anywhere else in the UK or even Europe!

Shanklin Chine

Shanklin Chine

The Islands oldest tourist attraction truly is a spectacle of nature. Carved by Mother Nature’s own hands over thousands of years, the stunning tree lined gorge that is Shanklin Chine cuts its mark from Shanklin Old Village to the sandy beach and esplanade far below.

Carisbrooke Castle

Carisbrooke Castle

The quintessential romantic castle, it has been an Elizabethan fortress, a king's prison and a royal summer residence. Here you can meet the loveable donkeys, visit a fascinating museum and see the castle's Edwardian garden. Experience far reaching panoramic views from high castle walls and place yourself at the very heart of the Isle of Wight's History.

Robin Hill Adventure Park and Gardens

Robin Hill Adventure Park and Gardens

Set in 88 acres of beautiful countryside, Robin Hill, the Island’s favourite award-winning country attraction, boasts a whole day of entertainment and more. With great rides – including the downhill toboggan, amazing falconry displays from one of the UK’s most experienced falconry teams, adventure play, plus relaxing woodland gardens, ponds and walks.

Shared entrance tickets with Blackgang Chine.

Quay Arts Centre

Quay Arts Centre

The Quay Arts Centre is situated in a converted 19th-Century warehouse complex at the head of the River Medina, in the centre of Newport.

Facilities include three galleries, a 134 seated-capacity theatre, a Crafts Council-listed gift shop and popular Café Bar with a reputation for serving some of the best home-cooked food on the Island. Business conferencing facilities are also available, and the Centre is licensed for weddings and civil partnerships.

Dinosaur Isle

Dinosaur Isle

Dinosaur Isle is Britain’s first purpose built dinosaur museum and visitor attraction; based in Sandown on the Isle of Wight. The Island’s diverse geology contains a wealth of fossils that tell us much about the past and gives clues to the effects of possible future environmental changes.

Mottistone Gardens and Estate

Mottistone Gardens and Estate

Mottistone Manor is a National Trust property with many events including child friendly activities and entertainment for the whole family. It has very beautiful, popular gardens and is a listed building. It was first mentioned in documents related to the Domesday Book. The oldest parts of the manor, the south-east wing, date from the fifteenth or early sixteenth century.

Isle of Wight Wildheart Sanctuary

Isle of Wight Wildheart Sanctuary

From pocket sized primates to powerful predators, the residents of The Wildheart Sanctuary (formally the Isle of Wight Zoo), will charm and amaze you. The Sanctuary based on Sandown Beach and was originally family-owned until it recently became a registered Charity - The Wildheart Trust, which is dedicated to realising its global ambitions to make a meaningful impact on the health of the natural world while actively improving the well-being of animals in human care.

The Trust aims to promote the survival of endangered species through first class educational and recreational experiences, exemplary animal management, conservation and research. The Sanctuary is well known as a centre for rescued big cats, all have come to their forever homes at the Sanctuary at different stages of their lives and from a variety of backgrounds.

Monkey Haven

Monkey Haven

Monkey Haven is a rescue centre and sanctuary for primates and birds of prey who are in desperate need of care and attention. The animals have come to us for various reasons – they may have been bullied within their original groups, rescued from the illegal pet trade, or unsuitable for breeding programmes.

Isle of Wight Steam Railway

Isle of Wight Steam Railway

The Isle of Wight Steam Railway passes through five miles of unspoiled Island countryside between Wootton, Havenstreet, Ashey and Smallbrook, recapturing the days of the branch line railway. Brought to life again are those perky tank engines and quaint, wooden-bodied carriages which were once such a familiar sight.

Butterfly World

Butterfly World

A visit provides the opportunity to see hundreds of butterflies (seasonal variations) including the delicate glasswinged butterflies, flying freely in a natural environment. You get the unique opportunity to study their life cycle first hand. Open all year round and great for rainy days as, all in an undercover tropical paradise!

Alongside Butterfly World they have Fountain World, the Italian & Japanese gardens, Koi ponds and a Garden Centre with Coffee Shop "The Hungry Caterpillar". 

Fossil Hunting

Fossil Hunting

Island Gems Fossil Shop is in Godshill but the Fossil Hunting trips usually start from Brook Bay (National Trust Car Park).

Over 120 million years ago, the beaches at Brook and Compton on the Isle of Wight would have been large clay areas across which vast herds of various dinosaurs would travel. As they passed, these dinosaurs left evidence on the Island for us to find and name some newly discovered species!

You can join a fossil hunting trip, either on your own, with a family, or bringing a whole school party with you, and experienced guides will lead you along the beach from Brook Bay, and help you discover the evidence for yourselves. Footprint casts can easily be seen on the beach, and are some of the best examples to identify which of the Island's dinosaur species left them behind. If you are very lucky and keep your eyes peeled, you may even find a dinosaur fossil of your very own to take home with you! 

Get in touch with Jenny at jenny@islandgems.co.uk or 01983 740493 for more information or to book your place on a fossil trip, and prepare to become a palaeontologist!

Calbourne Watermill

Calbourne Watermill

Set in 35 acres of stunning rural landscape, Calbourne Water Mill contains one of the oldest working water mills in the country, dating back to the Domesday Book.A fascinating day out for all the family, enjoy looking around the working Water Mill, small War Museum, many rural exhibits, Cafe and Farm Shop.

Chessell Pottery Barns & Café

Chessell Pottery Barns & Café

There has been a pottery at Chessell on the Isle of Wight since the 1970’s and in 2003 Pottery Café moved in. The spacious studio seats over 50 people and is popular throughout the season for visitors making mementoes of their visit to the Island creating special gifts.

Tapnell Farm Park

Tapnell Farm Park

Tapnell Farm Park has indoor and outdoor activities inc go-karts, as well as a petting zoo. Packed with fun for all the family, offering a range of hands-on animal experiences, and indoor and outdoor play..

Quarr Abbey

Quarr Abbey

There has been an Abbey at Quarr on the Isle of Wight since 1132 and it played a central part in the life of the Island until its dissolution by Henry VIII. The Quarr Abbey that stands alongside the ruins of the former building today belongs to the Solesmes Congregation group of monasteries. Quarr Abbey Tea & Farm Shop is part of the ministry of welcome by the monastic community to their many visitors.

Newton Nature Reserve

Newton Nature Reserve

You'll find plenty to do at Newtown National Nature Reserve. There are many perfect spots for relaxing, such as the beautiful harbour or our peaceful woodland. Or for the more adventurous, bring a canoe or we have quiet roads and lots of paths for walkers. Seals are often spotted in this idilic location.

West Wight Alpacas & Llamas

West Wight Alpacas & Llamas

West Wight Alpacas was set up by husband and wife duo, Neil and Michelle Payne in 2010. What started out as a hobby quickly morphed into an active family business and a high quality tourist attraction as we decided to focus on a niche market.

Sally's Riding School, Bembridge

Sally's Riding School, Bembridge

Sally's Riding School caters for all age groups, from absolute beginners through to established riders with a 14 stone weight limit. All groups are accompanied by experienced riders. Beach rides are subect to tide times as they ride in the morning only!

Free hats and boots supplied and the wearing of long trousers is recommended.

The horses and ponies are located on two Isle of Wight sites:
May to September in the Nodes Point holiday park (as our map PO33 1YA) where they take rides on the beautiful beaches of St Helens including the exclusive private Priory Beach during the summer months.

September to May they are located in their Bembridge stables (PO35 5NE) where you can enjoy riding the beautiful beaches of Bembridge including the glorious Forelands beach, weather permitting.

Contact Sally's Riding School on 01983 872260 / 07974861674 to check availability.

NO CARD PAYMENTS PLEASE, 

Goodleaf Tree Climbing

Goodleaf Tree Climbing

Come on a virtual discovery with the award winning Goodleaf Tree Climbing Centre and enjoy a unique climbing experience like no other! Call to book on 0333 800 1188.

The two-hour, 'have-a-go' sessions are fantastic fun, adventurous but safe and offer a brilliant time for the whole family, from ages 8 to 80! The qualified and experienced instructors will teach you the ropes (and the knots), to get you ready to take on the magnificent oak trees.

Once you’ve clambered to the top take in stunning sea views, swing around at 20 metres or simply relax and unwind in one of the special treetop hammocks. Back on the ground tuck into some yummy refreshments, including the popular home-made Tree Climber's Flapjack.

  • Recreational tree climbing
  • Top quality instructors
  • Climb a 20-metre oak tree
Waterside Pool, Ryde

Waterside Pool, Ryde

The Waterside Pool is part of the Waterside Community Trust., situated next to the boating lake and the Ryde Esplanade Beach in Ryde on the Isle of Wight.

Open all year round, seven days a week and have activities for all ages and abilities, from casual swimming to water workout classes and swimming lessons.

Waterside is one of the only pools in the UK with a retractable roof, bringing sunshine right into your swimming session when the weather permits.

They have baby changing facilities in both the male and female changing rooms. We also have a dedicated, fully-accessible changing room right next to reception, close to the pool.

There are also hoists and chairs for those needing a helping hand. There is complete wheelchair access to the site and we also have regular bookings from disabled groups.

Call 01983 563656 to book

Osborne House

Osborne House

Pay a visit to Queen Victoria’s favourite holiday residence, Osborne House, its gardens, beach and superb restaurant. “It is impossible to imagine a prettier spot” – such were the words of Queen Victoria after her first visit to Osborne. No trip to the island would be complete without a visit to this royal seaside palace where Queen Victoria lived with her beloved Prince Albert and their nine children.

Dimbola Lodge

Dimbola Lodge

Dimbola Lodge was the home of the celebrated Victorian photographer Julia Margaret Cameron. It is now a Museum and Gallery dedicated to her life and work, which also showcases contemporary exhibitions from photographers around the globe.

Hill Farm Stables, Freshwater

Hill Farm Stables, Freshwater

Hill Farm Riding Stables, Freshwater have 10 horses and 15 ponies at the stables, ranging from welsh section A’s to thoroughbreds to cater for all sizes, ages and abilities.

They are perfectly situated for hacking through the scenic West Wight countryside with Golden Hill Parkland, The old railway line alongside the beautiful River Yar, Tennyson Downs,  Afton Downs and so many more picturesque routes including South Coast beach rides. 

Prices for horse riding are on their website...

Call 01983 752502 / 07748 253899 to check availability.

PLEASE NOTE; THEY ARE UNABLE TO ACCEPT CREDIT /DEBIT CARDS at Hill farm, there is a cash machine in Norris Grocers Niton, Yarmouth and Freshwater Post Office or at any of the local banks, Co-op or Sainsburys. 

Needles Landmark Attraction & Old Battery

Needles Landmark Attraction & Old Battery

The world-famous Needles Landmark Attraction and Alum Bay’s coloured sand is a must see, with cable car and boat rides (inc dogs) to these impressive chalk stacks.

Perched high above the Needles at the extreme tip of the Island, with unrivalled views of the Solent and unspoilt countryside, is the Needles Old Battery a Victorian fort built in 1862 and used throughout both World Wars. The Battery’s fascinating story is told in a series of newly recreated, atmospheric rooms.

White Horse Inn

White Horse Inn

The White Horse Inn, Whitwell is a short walk from Kingates Farm and is reputed to be one of the oldest Inns in England. Dog  and child friendly, to book a table in the Main Bar call on 01983 685424.

The White Lion

The White Lion

The White Lion, is a newly renovated traditional village pub situated in Niton. The perfect place to eat and drink, whether you are wanting a three course meal, a quick pint of traditional local ale or you simply want to stop by for coffee and cake with friends. A family orientated, dog friendly pub with a small children's play area to keep them entertained whilst you can relax and enjoy your time here with us.

No.7 & Niton Post Office

No.7 & Niton Post Office

Sam's Bar No.7 and Lloyd's Kitchen 

Bar open 11am Mon - Sat, 12 Noon Sun.

Pizza takeaway or eat in Wed - Sat from 5pm call 01983 730280.

Friday Night Dinner, set menu plus drink £15, must be booked by noon Thu!

Roast Sunday Lunch

The Buddle Inn

The Buddle Inn

The  Buddle (Smuggler's) Inn is a 16th century cliff top freehouse pub and restaurant set in an Area of Outsanding Natural Beauty with fine sea views across The English Channel. Great for walkers and nature lovers…follow the path opposite, down to the St Catherines Lighthouse! Noted for real ales, extensive menu including homemade dishes and  specialties. 

White Mouse Inn

White Mouse Inn

Family owned free house & restaurant located in Chale with extensive children's play area and very dog friendly. The Wight Mouse Inn offers a range of high quality foods and accommodation. It is a great base to begin exploring along the southern stretch of the Island for walkers, cyclists and families. After a lazy lunch go out and see just what this rugged stretch of coast has to offer.

For walkers, there is the Tennyson Trail which can be joined at Compton Down along the Military Rd which is accessible by bus. This area of outstanding national beauty leads on to Afton Down, Freshwater Bay and onto the westbound coastal path to Tennyson Down, the Tennyson monument and past the Needles Battery to Alum Bay.

The Beach Shack

The Beach Shack

Based in sunny Ventnor at Steephill Cove, the Beach Shack offers an array of fabulous food. Freshly caught Ventnor Bay crab is among the delicious treats at this rustic Beach Shack. Most of their food is lovingly homemade - you just can't beat that! Why not indulge in a homemade warm crab tart, or a prawn cocktail salad? And you can wash it down with an Elderflower Presse or crisp white wine. Yum!!

The Taverners

The Taverners

The Taverners is a real country pub that is popular with locals and tourists alike. They buy produce daily depending on what is available at the market or from local farms. The majority of the meat come from Island farmers, the fish come from local waters and use island vegetables when they are in season. The Taverners bake their own bread daily and the local cheeses come from the award winning Isle of Wight Cheese Company. 

The Spyglass Inn

The Spyglass Inn

The world famous, award-winning Spyglass Inn is an Island family-run business. To be able to sit outside overlooking the beach and sea at Ventnor, eating a fresh lobster salad is one of the Islands greatest pleasures! With a great homemade specials board that regularly feature locally caught fish, shellfish and many meat dishes.

Lady Scarlett's Tea Parlour

Lady Scarlett's Tea Parlour

A proud gluten free café, nestled oposite Ventnor beach and waiting to take you back in time to the bygone era of the 1940s. Come by and enjoy our terrific tea and coffee, light lunches and dreamy desserts. We are fully licensed too, so feel free to treat yourself to a glass of bubbly along with melt-in-the-mouth cakes!  

The Bistro

The Bistro

The Bistro, situated in Ventnor town just yards from the cascade gardens and the sea front, is a small, friendly restaurant with a relaxed, contemporary atmosphere that is both warm and welcoming yet sophisticated. They are a small restaurant, so simply do not have enough room for highchairs, prams or buggies. 

Pedallers  Café

Pedallers Café

Accessed via cyle path! At Pedallers you can enjoy traditional and continental breakfasts served with great quality tea and coffee. A delicious selection of home made cakes, pastries and freshly prepared snacks are available. Enjoy filled baguettes, hot Paninis, home made specials and New Forest Ice cream.

Pedallers is also fully licensed and has cosy indoor seating with a log burning stove for the winter months. Relax in the sunshine on our large secluded decking area overlooking our wildlife pond. From here you can watch wild birds and red squirrels feeding... 

The Beach Hut Café

The Beach Hut Café

What better way to spend a lunchtime than eating fabulous seafood and drinking chilled rose watching the waves crash on the shore. Who wouldn’t like to wander along the beach and fall upon this little hut, serving fresh seafood. IW crab and lobster. Giant crevettes. Garlic prawns. And simple IW crab sandwiches served on brown. All washed down with a glass of something chilled. It’s all about seafood here!

Dell Café

Dell Café

Dell Café is nestled on the fringe of Puckpool Park, which was once a Napoleonic Fort guarding the Solent, the park is now a historic monument offering fantastic sea views over sandy, dog friendly beaches.  So within a stones throw from the Dell Cafe there are beautiful gardens, a tennis court, children’s adventure play park and mini golf.  

The Old Fort

The Old Fort

The Old Fort is positioned to take advantage of one of the finest dining vistas on the Island. On those balmy summer Seaview nights when the sea breeze allows it, you can sit right on the seawall and stare in contemplation at the panoramic view of the sun setting over distant Ryde Pier, with the endless gentle drama of the busy Solent unfolding as you sip your drink! Great Burgers and Sunday Roast too!

The Piano Café

The Piano Café

Perfect to/from The Needles! An independent cafe, bar and mezze restaurant, serving delicious barista made coffee, mouth-watering breakfasts and lunches, as well as mezze-style food on Friday and Saturday evenings. They have live music once a month as well as events throughout the year.

With the space to seat 40-60 peeps, they are available for exclusive events and functions. Whether you want to host a party, wedding reception or any other event, they can work with you ensuring that every element is catered for.

Off the Rails

Off the Rails

One of the most unique places to eat and drink on the Isle of Wight; set along the old railway line (“Causeway") in Yarmouth’s former train station, the restaurant overlooks the outstanding natural beauty of the Yarmouth Marshes and Mill Copse. Being located along the Causeway makes it the perfect pitstop for walkers, cyclists and those visiting the Isle of Wight as the restaurant is just a 5 minute stroll from the Yarmouth Wightlink Ferry terminal. 

Red Lion Inn

Red Lion Inn

The Red Lion is a traditional country pub in a quiet location in Freshwater. The bar is comfortably furnished and you won’t be deafened by music and the log fire burns peacefully throughout the winter.

The Isle of Wight countryside around the pub is amongst the finest in the country and is a haven for walkers, golfers and those who like to take a step back in time. The Red Lion is the ideal venue for a traditional ale, a glass of wine or a meal from our blackboard menu which changes daily.

Borthwood Copse

Borthwood Copse

For a carpet of bluebells in spring, Borthwood Copse near Sandown is the place to visit for that instagram-worthy shot. Borthwood is one of the numerous copses which make up part of the medieval forest which covered most of the eastern end of the Island. Wander under ancient oak trees and chestnut and hazel coppice. Managed by the National Trust, traditional woodland management has helped to keep a variety of wildlife such as bluebells, red squirrels, dormice, woodland bat in healthy population. It’s also is noted for its many rare beetles and other insects, which depend on the decaying wood in the older trees. A very small section of Borthwood Copse is used for mountain biking and BMX jumps too, but check before you go.

Martin's Wood, Newchurch

Martin's Wood, Newchurch

At Martin’s Wood, a leisurely circular walk through mixed woodland and open fields, taking about an hour, is perfect for families with small children. Although the paths are unsurfaced, the ground is relatively flat and dry all year round.

Alverstone Mead

Alverstone Mead

If spotting a red squirrel is high on your agenda, Alverstone Mead is one of the top places on the Island for them. Part of the Alverstone Marshes site, a site of Special Scientific Interest, sits within an Isle of Wight National Landscape (formerly known as Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) land and consists of four reserves - Alverstone Mead, Bensteads Marsh, Youngwoods Copse and Bretts Meadow. You’ll discover tranquil woodland, wet and wildflower meadow and a haven for wildlife including rare flowers and invertebrates, especially dragonflies and butterflies. Spend time in the hide to spot a squirrel and maybe a kingfisher or treecreeper.

Brighstone Forest

Brighstone Forest

The largest of the Isle of Wight forests, Brighstone Forest offers some amazing views over the surrounding countryside. Stretching across hilly ridges from Chessell to Idlecombe, you’ll discover ancient burial barrows on the outskirts of the forest, as well as walking part of the famous Tennyson Trail. From the southern edge of the first, the vista over to the west is just stunning, as you take in the coastline and the Military Road running alongside it.

Combley Great Wood

Combley Great Wood

Combley Great Wood offers a great family adventure walk. Starting at Combley Road, this two mile circular walk takes you past Deadman’s Brook and through the ancient forest, past a quarry and Combley Farm Towering conifers stand tall, while sunlight filters through the dense canopy, creating a mesmerizing play of light and shadow. The forest floor is carpeted with an array of ferns and wildflowers, inviting you to explore its hidden treasures.

Parkhurst Forest

Parkhurst Forest

Parkhurst Forest is one of the largest forests on the Island and has plenty of paths for you to pick, so you never feel like you're doing the same walk twice! The site is partly a site of Special Scientific Interest (SSI) with a mix of ancient woodland and heathland and is managed by Forestry England and was once believed to be a medieval hunting ground. You’ll find a red squirrel hide nestled within the trees which is perfect for a spot of squirrel spotting, but other wildlife to watch out for include nightjars and long-eared owls. Be sure to spot squirrel carvings as you wind through the paths and tracks.

Firestone Copse

Firestone Copse

Firestone Copse set on the outskirts of Wootton and Havenstreet is an evergreen forest, with a mix of English Oak, Ash, and Grand Fir, as well as coniferous Douglas, Cedar and Scots Pine. The Fishbourne Estuary runs at the dar end with access points but be careful as it's a deep river at high tide with mud banks. There are plenty of trails to choose from, including buggy-friendly and a wheelchair accessible route. Spot dens made from fallen branches at the regular Forest School and, if you’re lucky, you’ll also find a fab pop-up coffee bus in the car park.

Bouldnor Forest

Bouldnor Forest

Bouldnor Forest Nature Reserve on the outskirts of Yarmouth plays host to a variety of habitats, including heathland, pine forest, seagrass beds and cliffs. Packed with wildlife, you can even download a tick sheet before you go from the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust - spot birds such as goldfinches and bullfinches; the famous red squirrel and an array of woodland butterflies. The coastal path that meanders through is lined with restored clay heaths, including pale dog-violet, heath dog-violet and cyperus sedge. Following the path will take you to a small beach, perfect for shell combing and fossil hunting.

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