Affordable budget friendly holidays to the Isle of Wight

Who said budget breaks had to be boring? Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a half-term holiday with the family, a cheap break to the Isle of Wight can still deliver unforgettable memories. Packed with cheap days out and free things to do, the Island offers everything from scenic coastal walks to fascinating historical landmarks that won’t cost a penny. With affordable ferry travel, low-cost transport options, and charming pocket-friendly stays, it’s the perfect destination for anyone searching for cheap days out near me. 

Be sure to check out our Ways To Save section for tips on how to get the most out of your ferry travel to the Island.

Discover great-value accommodation across the Island

If you’re looking for a cheap yet welcoming place to stay, the Isle of Wight has plenty of budget hostels and hotels to choose from. Self-catering breaks are very popular, providing you with the home comforts you need in a relaxed setting. 

If you’re looking for a room on a budget, the Isle of Wight has a range of comfortable hostels located within a short distance of famous Island attractions and beaches. The hostels are extremely comfortable, with a wide range of facilities on offer including libraries, luggage storage, large lounges and gardens where you can chill out after a day’s rambling. Some hostels offer private rooms, giving you the chance to relax and unwind in solitude. 

Whatever accommodation you end up choosing, you’ll only really need a place to crash at the end of an action-packed day.

Enjoy a fun day out at one of the Island’s many free and affordable attractions

With an abundance of free attractions on offer, the Isle of Wight is the perfect holiday destination for those on a budget. Find out more about the free things to do on the Isle of Wight here.

Bask in the splendour of the Island’s heritage with free entry into Quarr Abbey – a working Benedictine monastery nestled amongst the trees at Fishbourne. Take a wander around the grounds to experience the tranquil atmosphere before paying a visit to the art gallery, bookshop and visitor centre. You’re also free to visit the resident pigs, who are owned and looked after by the tenant farmer. 

You can also get free parking and entry into the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary. Home to over 100 rescued donkeys, the whole family can spend the day meeting the residents, exploring the wildlife area and taking part in the fun activities put on by the sanctuary. 

The Isle of Wight is also home to a rich arts and culture scene, with the Museum of Island History just £1 a ticket (or 50p for children) and the galleries at Quay Arts in Newport completely free to enter. 

The Isle of Wight boasts many stunning beaches, and visitors can enjoy a day on the sand and in the sea at no cost. Some of the most popular free beaches on the island include Ryde Beach, Sandown Beach and Compton Bay. There are many beautiful coastal walks to explore, too, such as the Tennyson Trail, which takes ramblers through the beautiful countryside and along the stunning coastline.

Discover great savings with Hovertravel

Make your budget-friendly break one to remember with a Family Flyer Day Return from Hovertravel. This special deal allows a family of up to 5 to travel to or from the Isle of Wight from £6.00 per person per journey. Simply book 48 hours in advance and travel off peak to unlock the biggest savings. You can also stay longer with a period return for just £8.50 per person per journey.*

Hovertravel also offers big savings on their standard rates with a combined rail and hover ticket. Simply request the Ryde Hoverport as your end destination or as a via route and enjoy up to 50% off a separate standard fare. And when you book any fare online, you can save up to 10% when compared to buying on the day. 

* These prices are based on 2 adults and 3 children travelling.  A Family Flyer Day Return is £60 and a Family Flyer Period Return is £85.00.

Swap your Tesco Clubcard vouchers for ferry travel with Wightlink

Did you know you can use your Tesco Clubcard Vouchers for Wightlink ferry travel? 50p of Clubcard Vouchers will give you £1.50 to spend with Wightlink, offering you a great value way to enjoy a fantastic trip to the Isle of Wight.

Take the kids to the Isle of Wight for free during the school holidays. Under 5s always travel free with Wightlink but when the schools break up, you can also take up to two children aged 5-15 for free with every adult or senior foot passenger day return ticket.

Ways to save with Red Funnel

For the best vehicle ferry fares, try to book as far in advance as possible and remain flexible with your timings, avoiding peak times. Day tripping on foot? Red Funnel’s ‘Super Off Peak Day Return’ works out at just £12.30 per person when two or more people travel together after 1100am. Valid for use as a foot passenger on the vehicle ferry to East Cowes or Hi-Speed Red Jet service to Cowes, this ticket is only available to buy at terminals, so please ask at the ticket office.

Variety of special offers available

If you’re looking to get even more from your trip to the Isle of Wight or save some money on your holiday, then our offers page is a wonderful place to start.