Exploring the Isle of Wight

If you’re planning a holiday on the island, you’ll find there’s plenty to do on the Isle of Wight and many attractions and places to keep you and all your family busy.

Local attractions near St Helens Coastal Resort

Just across the waters of the Solent, the Isle of Wight is England’s largest island and is often described as the jewel in the south coast’s crown. With a scattering of charming towns spread between lush green countryside and surrounded at all sides by dramatic cliffs and sweeping Isle of Wight beaches, it’s not hard to see why.

Popular Isle of Wight points of interest include everything from sea views to zoos to castles, farms, and gardens, making it an excellent spot for a family holiday. The Isle of Wight Zoo is one of the island’s most popular attractions and offers a real treat for animal lovers in general especially of the feline nature as it is a well-known centre for rescued big cats.

History enthusiasts will also discover many interesting places when visiting the fortification of the island, that provides strong insights about the island’s function in history. Attractions such as its Carisbrooke Castle, and Yarmouth Castle bring much of the island’s history alive. For those looking for new experiences, the island is also gathering world-famous and Grammy-winners musicians and bands during the annual Isle of Wight Festival at Seaclose Park in Newport.

If you run out of ideas, you’ll find below something for everyone to do on the Isle of Wight in our selection of exciting attractions.

Places to visit

Family attractions

Dinosaur Isle

A playful and interactive museum dedicated to the island’s fossil and geological heritage. Whether you’ve got kids who are fascinated by T-Rexes or you fancy yourself a bit of an amateur paleontologist, Dinosaur Isle is a fantastic place!

Drive time: Between 10 and 20 minutes

Dog friendly: Assistance dogs only

For further information, please visit website.

Family attractions

Two tigers lounging in the sun at the zoo.

Wildheart Animal Sanctuary

Nestled on the sweeping coastlines of the Isle of Wight, a truly wild family day out awaits. Enjoy a sprawling zoo home to an incredible array of mammals, birds, reptiles and insects from across the globe.

Drive time: Between 10 - 20 minutes

Dog Friendly: Certain areas are dog friendly

For further information, please visit website.

Family attractions

Sandown Pier

A perfect place for day-long fun, Sandown Pier is a must-visit if you’re planning a family trip to the Isle of Wight. From rides and adventure play to an arcade and miniature golf, there’s something at Sandown for all ages.

Drive time: Between 10 and 20 minutes

Dog friendly: No

For further information, please visit website.

Outdoor adventures/walks

Robin Hill Country Park

The Isle of Wight is no stranger to spectacular green spaces, including the Robin Hill Country Park just outside of Newport. The 88-acre site is home to lush gardens as well as a fun-packed adventure park ideal for all ages.

Drive time: Between 10 and 20 minutes

Dog friendly: Yes

For further information, please visit website.

Outdoor adventures/walks

Shanklin Chine

Get ready to explore some incredible natural attractions during your holiday on the Isle of Wight, including the mesmerising Shanklin Chine. Peaceful and serene, it’s the ideal spot for a quieter day out.

Drive time: Between 10 and 20 minutes

Dog friendly: Yes

For further information, please visit website.

Beaches

Shanklin Beach

Head to the southeast during your time on the Isle of Wight, and you’ll find beautiful Shanklin Beach. This sandy spot is complete with traditional beach huts and plenty of space to roam around.

Drive time: Between 10 and 20 minutes

Dog friendly: Yes

For further information, please visit website.

Shopping

The Garlic Farm

The Garlic Farm is a free to enter family attraction providing the full garlic experience and access to beautiful farmland in the Arreton Valley. With a farm shop, restaurant, and play area, the Garlic Farm makes a brilliant day out!

Drive time: Between 10 and 20 minutes

Dog friendly: Yes

For further information, please visit website.

Family attractions

Amazon World

Set among rolling green countryside on the Isle of Wight, Amazon World is an exotic zoo that’s home to over 100 rainforest species, with a focus on habitat conservation.

Drive time: Between 10 and 20 minutes

Dog friendly: No

For further information, please visit website.

Family attractions

Monkey Haven

Whether you’re visiting the Isle of Wight by yourself or with the whole family in tow, stop by the award-winning Monkey Haven for an afternoon hanging out with some beautiful rescued primates and birds of prey.

Drive time: Between 10 and 20 minutes

Dog friendly: No

For further information, please visit website.

Family attractions

Godshill Model Village

A visit to Godshill Model Village is a must if you’re on the Isle of Wight. This intricately designed model village, set across landscaped gardens, has been one of the most popular attractions on the island for decades.

Drive time: Between 20 and 45 minutes

Dog friendly: Yes

For further information, please visit website.

History & Culture

Carisbrooke Castle

A magnificent medieval stronghold in the town of Newport which was famously used to imprison Charles I during the English Civil War.

Drive time: Between 20 and 45 minutes

Dog friendly: No

For further information, please visit website.

Family attractions

Blackgang Chine

The UK’s oldest amusement park, with a host of classic rides and attractions offering fun for all the family.

Drive time: Between 20 and 45 minutes

Dog friendly: Yes

For further information, please visit website.

Family attractions

Tapnell Farm

A fun and interactive visitor farm with lots of lovely animals to meet. Set yourself up for an educational yet incredibly fun day out on the Isle of Wight!

Drive time: Between 20 - 45 minutes

Dog Friendly: Certain areas are dog friendly

For further information, please visit website.

Family attractions