Things to Do in Isle of Wight

Osborne reflects Queen Victoria and Prince Albert's passions, tastes, and style. Ornate furnishings and artifacts from The Royal Collection fill rooms and corridors where Victoria entertained important guests and ruled the vast British Empire.

Get an unforgettable glimpse into the private family life of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert at Osborne on the Isle of Wight. From sumptuous interiors and art collections inside, to a peaceful beach and marvellous gardens outside, a day out at Osborne has something for everyone. Explore Osborne’s vast grounds, follow the interactive tree trail and find the unusual Swiss Cottage, where the royal children played, gardened, cooked and collected unusual objects in their own private museum. Victoria and Albert bought and built Osborne to fulfil the queen’s desire for a ‘place of one’s own – quiet and retired’. Its dazzling interiors, art collection, gardens and grounds reflect their personal passions, taste and style.

Experience the sheer thrill of riding a hovercraft! Travel on the World's only commercial foot passenger service, which is the fastest way to cross the Solent between Southsea in Portsmouth and Ryde on the Isle of Wight in just 10 minutes!

Carisbrooke Castle is a great fortress which began life as an Anglo-Saxon earthwork defence against Viking raids. The Normans raised the shell keep on its towering mound, which you can climb up for amazing views. The castle’s most famous resident was Charles I, who was imprisoned here after his Civil War defeat. You’ll find Charles I memorabilia and changing exhibitions in the Carisbrooke Castle Museum. Later, Princess Beatrice, Queen Victoria’s daughter, made Carisbrooke Castle her summer home. Admire the award-winning Edwardian-style Princess Beatrice Garden, inspired by the princess. The castle’s best-known modern residents are the much-loved Carisbrooke donkeys. They still demonstrate the treadwheel, which once raised water from the castle well. Meet them in their stables and hear their story in a film hosted by Jupiter the cartoon donkey.

Explore the Museum of Ryde and learn about the town and its people, and have a laugh in the Donald McGill "Saucy Seaside" Postcard Museum, with its hundreds of cards with their Benny Hill-type humour.

Discover the Isle of Wight's charming villages and beautiful coastline views on a guided day trip from Portsmouth. Visit the quaint village of Godshill and see the sand cliffs at Alum Bay.

The Isle of Wight is a unique destination like no other, full of history and rich heritage. With its beautiful landscape and scenic pathways for exploring.

Experience the south coast’s most spectacular view. Spinnaker Tower stands at 170 meters tall, offering breath-taking views over Portsmouth Harbour, the Solent and Isle of Wight.

Travel to the Isle of Wight on foot via a Red Jet Hi-Speed ferry, enjoying a fast and comfortable journey with regular departures throughout the day.

Discover the hidden flavours of the countryside on a foraging walk at The Garlic Farm on the Isle of Wight. Learn to identify edible plants and fungi with a local forager.

Enjoy a scenic ferry ride from Southampton to the Isle of Wight. Choose between a one-way or round-trip foot passenger ticket and relax on the ferry as you enjoy the views of the Solent.

Discover the Isle of Wight's charming villages and beautiful coastline views on a guided tour from Brighton via Portsmouth.

Enjoy a stunning 6-mile helicopter flight over St Ives Bay. Soar above turquoise waters, golden beaches and world-famous Cornish coastline. A must-do St Ives experience.

Discover the UK's only island city on a day trip from London to Portsmouth. Visit the Spinnaker Tower and enjoy the views of the city and the Solent.

Explore ancient woodlands, coastal views and charming villages on a whizzy e-bike. See wild ponies, scenic trails and seaside towns at your own pace — effortless adventure!

5.5 Hours • Great for smaller groups • Includes lunch or dinner

Discover coastal trails, vibrant villages, a scenic river cruise & a Tudor sea fortress, all in one unforgettable day. Experience the very best of the New Forest coast in a single adventure.

Experience the thrill of riding a Harley Davidson tourer as you head out on this unique, motorcycle based, tour! We will take you on an amazing ride on some of the best roads of the South Downs.

Discover the Isle of Wight on a 3-night trip from London. Stay at the Wellington Hotel in Ventnor, visit Osborne House, and see the iconic Needles.

Descend from the iconic Spinnaker Tower on an adrenaline-pumping abseiling experience in Portsmouth. Put on your helmet, strap yourself in, and conquer your fear on the way down to the ground.

Dinosaurs, Romans, Vikings, and holidaymakers have influenced the Isle of Wight’s ancient landscape. Join this 16 seater small-group tour and discover the timeless beauty for yourself.

Experience the thrill of riding a Harley Davidson tourer as you head out on this unique, motorcycle based, tour! We will take you on an amazing ride on some of the best roads of the South Downs.