Channel Islands Direct Brochure 2025 | Page 76

Freshwater Bay

Pocket-sized yet perfect , with over half the island designated an Area of Outstanding Beauty , the Isle of Wight is a hub of year-round activity .

Seaside resorts include Sandown which shelters in a beautiful bay with a long stretch of golden sands , a traditional British seafront and pier . Popular Shanklin ’ s enticements range from its wide sandy beach to the wooded ravine which is Shanklin Chine and the Old Village where you can potter around shops , restaurants and pubs . Ventnor ’ s sand and shingle beach , which is lined by huts converted from Victorian “ bathing machines ”, is ideal for lazing and family swimming . Ryde tempts with long expanses of sands , boutique shops , museums and galleries . Bembridge boasts three beaches , a harbour and in 2019 , won “ Village of the Year ” in the BBC Countryfile Magazine Awards .

76 ISLE OF WIGHT call 0800 1975 212

A top attraction is The Needles and a ride on the chairlift between the beach and sand cliffs is spectacular . Family-friendly attractions include Blackgang Chine Theme Park , Tapnell Farm Park and Monkey Haven to name a few .

History and heritage can be uncovered at castles , monuments , ancient burial grounds and Osborne House , plus it ’ s one of Europe ’ s finest sites for dinosaur remains . If you have the nautical know-how , the island is one of the best places to sail , with Cowes being the island ’ s maritime gateway . On dry land options include cycling , golf , horse riding and over 500 miles of footpaths .

Considered a true foodie paradise , you ’ ll be spoiled for choice with tea rooms , country pubs , quality restaurants and beachside cafés .

1 The Royal 2 Luccombe Hall & Luccombe Manor 3 The Wight

Portsmouth

Southampton

See pages 4-7 for Travel information