to add an item to your Itinerary basket.
If you’ve only got a weekend to spare, the Isle of Wight is the perfect place to slow down, breathe in the sea air, and squeeze in a little adventure. Just a short hop from the south coast, our beautiful island feels a world away from the mainland, and with its mix of beaches, countryside and culture, it’s ideal for a two-day getaway.
Getting here
Getting to the Isle of Wight couldn’t be easier. Wightlink’s passenger catamaran whisks you from Portsmouth Harbour to Ryde in just 22 minutes, while vehicle ferries run regularly from Portsmouth to Fishbourne and from Lymington to Yarmouth. If you’re travelling from Southampton, hop aboard the Red Funnel’s Red Jet and you’ll be stepping ashore in West Cowes in under half an hour. Red Funnel's vechile ferry takes you direct from Southampton to East Cowes in an hour.
Once you’ve landed, our island’s size makes exploring simple, by car, bike, or even bus if you’d rather let someone else do the driving.
Day One: Seaside charm and island flavours
Start your weekend with a relaxed morning exploring one of our island’s characterful towns. Ryde offers sandy beaches and boutique shops, while Cowes has a nautical buzz that’s impossible to resist. For something quintessentially charming, wander the thatched streets of Shanklin Old Village before heading down to the beach for a breath of sea air.
When hunger calls, dive into the local food scene. Our island is famous for its fresh seafood, and you’ll find plenty of friendly pubs and seafront cafés serving up the catch of the day.
Spend your afternoon exploring one of our island’s top attractions: step back in time at Osborne, Queen Victoria’s beloved holiday home, or admire the dramatic views from The Needles and the coloured sands of Alum Bay. As evening falls, settle in for dinner overlooking the water, then enjoy a sunset stroll along the shore before retreating to your cosy accommodation.
Day Two: Wild walks and winding lanes
The next morning, lace up your walking boots and discover why our island is known as a walker’s paradise. With over 500 miles of trails, it’s a dream for anyone who loves the great outdoors. Try a section of the 68-mile Coastal Path, or head inland through the rolling hills and ancient woodland of the island’s National Landscape. You might even spot one of the island’s red squirrels scampering through autumn leaves or coastal pines.
After working up an appetite, enjoy brunch at a farm café or a hearty pub lunch in a country village. Spend the afternoon browsing local galleries, hunting for souvenirs in seaside shops, or simply relaxing with an ice cream and a view.
Before heading home, take a quiet moment to soak in that golden island light, the perfect full stop to your 48-hour escape.
Stay a While
Whether you prefer a chic coastal apartment, a family-friendly lodge, or a tucked-away cottage with a log fire, our island offers a range of accommodation to suit every style and budget. Wherever you stay, expect a warm welcome, peaceful surroundings, and a good night’s sleep after a day of island adventures.
Two days may not sound like much, but on the Isle of Wight, time seems to slow down. You’ll leave with windswept hair, sandy shoes, and the kind of contented smile that only comes from a proper island escape.
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