WHERE TO STAY IN THE ISLE OF WIGHT

If you are interested in where to stay in the isle of Wight, you may also be interested in where to stay in the Cotswolds and in where to stay in Cornwall.

Best towns to stay in the isle of Wight

Shanklin

Shanklin is definitely one of the Isle of Wight’s top family destinations and makes for a fantastic place to stay! Located on the south eastern part of the island, Shanklin boasts beautiful seaside scenery, a range of coastal walks and fun outdoor activities. There are numerous seafront hotels to choose from here, all with fantastic views.

If you are looking for a beach destination, look no further! The famous 8.5 mile long Sandown Bay passes through Shanklin, with its never-ending beaches and promenade. Shanklin Beach is one of the region’s prettiest. You can sunbathe here in the summer months, hire a beach hut and even swim in the sea if it is warm enough.

As well as this coastal splendour, Shanklin has lovely nature and greenery, ideal for family walks. You can also enjoy some ice cream or special local cuisine with a view at one of the many seafront restaurants.

Accommodation in Shanklin

Sandown

Just north of Shanklin, Sandown is another top coastal destination for a family stay. Renowned for its long-stretching Sandown Bay with miles of seafront promenade, hotels and restaurants, it is undoubtedly one of the Isle of Wight’s prettiest towns.

Beach lovers will be in their element here; some of the island’s best beaches are concentrated in this town. You can sunbathe on Sandown Beach in the summer or take some scenic walks along it in winter. If you walk far enough, you can also reach the stunning Yaverlin Beach, famous for its exhilarating watersport activities.

Sandown is also ideal for fun family activities. Taking a walk to the pretty Sandown Pier is a great option; there are many children’s arcade activities to be enjoyed. Or if you prefer to walk and relax in nature, Sandown Gardens would be a great choice. There are also numerous family outdoor activities here.

Accommodation in Sandown

Ryde

In the north eastern part of the Isle of Wight lies the beautiful seaside town of Ryde. Famous for its crisp and sandy beaches, Ryde is ideal for unwinding with the family, enjoying an ice cream by the beach and swimming in the sea during summer. A particularly popular beach is the nearby Appley Beach- great for a family day trip with some of the warmest water on the island. There is a wide range of accommodation options to choose from here, many of which enjoy excellent sea views.

Away from the sandy beaches, Ryde is brilliant for shopping trips, dining in authentic local restaurants and more family outdoor activities. Families can also enjoy popular annual music festivals here. Finally, Ryde is a historic town- mainly due to its popularity with the former English Queen Victoria. There are several interesting museums to visit, and you can admire the traditional Victorian town houses.

Accommodation in Ryde

Cowes

Right in the north of the island, Cowes is a great alternative destination to stay. Due to its northern location, it is a perfect base from which to begin a trip around the island. There are many family-suited hotels and accommodation to choose from here.

A historical sailors town, Cowes is an interesting place with many things to keep you occupied during your stay. For beach lovers, there are several beaches in Cowes and also in East Cowes (across the River Medina). Also, you can head to the nearby village of Gurnard and enjoy its coastline and beautiful sunsets.

For history enthusiasts, heading to East Cowes and visiting Osbourne house is a must. This was Queen Victoria’s former holiday home on the island and is surrounded by lovely coastlines. Back in Cowes, families can also explore other interesting museums in the town centre to really explore the local maritime history.

Accommodation in Cowes

Ventnor

Ventnor is another of the Isle of Wight’s classic beach towns that makes for a great family stay! Located in the south of the island, Ventnor naturally attracts beach lovers and families wanting a relaxing holiday on the coast. Ventnor Beach is known for being one of the sunniest and warmest beaches on the island- perfect for sunbathing, swimming and relaxing with an ice cream in the summer months. Ventnor also has a beautiful seafront harbour where you will always find families and locals strolling along, enjoying the fresh sea air. Families with children will no doubt want to spend time at the arcade further along the seafront.

Ventnor has many great seafront hotels to choose from, many with traditional Victorian architecture that makes the town famous. There are great places to eat and drink, and a range of pretty parks and green spaces within walking distance of the town centre.

Accommodation in Ventnor

Newport

Situated right in the centre of the island, Newport is actually the Isle of Wight’s main town and its unofficial ‘capital’. Although it doesn’t enjoy the prime coastal location like the previous destinations, Newport is a great base from which to explore the many beautiful beaches on the island, and it has an excellent transport network.

Newport is an ideal destination for music enthusiasts and history lovers. It is most famous for hosting the annual Isle of Wight Festival- which combines traditional music with modern artists and has a real family-friendly atmosphere. The town is also steeped in history, with a unique combination of Georgian and Victorian architecture and many landmarks and museums in and around the town.

There are many delicious eateries and restaurants all around Newport, as well as authentic markets and a plethora of shops. If you want to buy Isle of Wight souvenirs, you will be spoilt for choice!

Accommodation in Newport