Adventures

For some people, a holiday is all about relaxing with a good book by a pool, eating a fabulous meal or leisurely taking in the sights.

But for others, it is about excitement and adventure and the Isle of Wight is the perfect place to unleash your inner Bear Grylls, trying everything from mountain biking to coasteering, tree climbing to surfing.

Say Yes to adventure on your holiday on the Isle of Wight. Kids (and big kids who have never really grown up) can try out a load of great activities in locations across the Island.

Here are some we think you might want to Say Yes to…

1. Horse riding

The Isle of Wight is a happy place for horses. Plenty of Islanders have their own horses and ponies and there is a great network of bridleways and rights of way to ride on, not to mention the thrill of galloping along a golden beach on your mount.

There are a number of equestrian centres offering lessons, rides etc and one of the newest and biggest is the Island Riding Centre on the outskirts of Newport. Here you can stable your horse, treat the kids to a Pony and Pamper Session or borrow one of their horses for an on-site hack or trip to a trail or beach.

Another well-respected centre is Lake Farm at Rookley. This family-run centre offers tuition and facilities for all ages.

2. Go karting

If you are a budding Louis Hamilton, then remember, he started out in go karts! You can give this thrilling sport a go at Wight Karting at Ryde, where adults and kids from eight years old can get behind the wheel on the carefully-designed outdoor track, looked after by a team of professionals.

If your little ones want something a bit more sedate, then the karts at Sandham Gardens, Sandown are worth a visit. Here they can have a ride accompanied by a grown up.

3. Tree climbing

There are thousands of trees on the Isle of Wight, from ancient oaks and beeches to conifers and even some rare specimens.

What better way to be “at one” with a mature oak, with views over to Portsmouth from Appley Park in Ryde?

Goodleaf Tree Climbing’s experienced instructors will give you the chance to climb their own specimen oak. You don’t have to go all the way to the top, just do what you feel comfortable with. 

4. Running

Step into the rhythm of the Isle of Wight with your running shoes on! Whether you're a seasoned marathoner or a casual jogger, this little slice of paradise has trails that'll make your heart race in the best way possible.

Feel the exhilaration as you traverse rugged coastal trails, meander through lush woodlands, and conquer rolling hills that offer breathtaking panoramas at every turn. And don't forget the iconic landmarks that pepper your route – from ancient castles to charming seaside villages, each run doubles as a journey through history and culture.

Why not sign up for the Festival of Running or take part in the Isle of Wight Ultra Challenge?

5. Sailing

Of course, one of the things that people best know the Isle of Wight for is sailing. Cowes Week and the Round-the-Island Race are renowned all over the world and there are many marinas and yacht clubs dotted around the coast.

You can take to the seas to experience the thrill of yachting for just a day or even a longer period. Contact Salty Sailing in Cowes to see what is on offer.

6. Rib ride around the Needles

The Needles is an iconic geographic feature of the Island and what better way to see it than on a RIB. Needles Pleasure Cruises operates trips from Yarmouth on their fast RIBs, heading around the jagged rocks and lighthouse into remote Scratchells Bay.

If you want a more sedate trip, then there is a slower boat that goes around the Needles too.

7. Kayaking, paddleboarding or windsurfing

There are lots of great watersports to be tried out on the Isle of Wight. From super trendy Stand-Up Paddleboarding (don’t knock it until you have tried it) to exhilarating windsurfing and skilful kayaking.

Tackt-Isle Adventures on St Helens Duver is a one-stop shop to hire kit for these sports or book yourself a lesson. They also have RYA accreditation for sailing lessons too.

8. Cycling

The Island is a mecca for cyclists and was recently voted one of the top five cycle destinations in the UK.

On road or off road, there are some great routes to try out.

If you are a fan of head-down, thin-tyre road cycling then the coastal route (around 65 miles) will provide a great challenge, with some tough hills and stunning views along the Military Road in particular.

Every May, the Isle of Wight Randonnee brings thousands of cyclists to complete a touring circuit of the Island, with checkpoints along the way.

Prefer off road riding, then how about the Chalk Ridge Extreme route, which takes in some breathtaking (in more ways than one) trails over the Island. The Isle of Wight Mountain Bike Centre at Cheverton Farm, Shorwell, has some superb trails to test your legs.

A more family friendly experience is The Red Squirrel Trail around some quiet Isle of Wight lanes.

9. Coasteering

Get suited up and dive in for an unforgettable time around the rocky West Wight coastline.

Freshwater Bay Coasteering offers amazing two-hour sessions. All you need to bring is a pair of old trainers or water-friendly shoes.

10. Aqua Park

Another way for all the family to get wet and wild is at Tapnell Farm’s Isle of Wight Aqua Park. This relatively new outdoor attraction is situated in the middle of one of the Island’s biggest family attractions and it would be criminal not to try out clambering over the numerous obstacles.

11. Skateboarding

There are several skate parks around the Island but if the weather is not great and you want to try out your tricks then head to Canopy Skate Park near Chale. Here the 400sq metre indoor wooden centre will put your skills to the test.

So, there are just a few ideas - give at least one of them a go during your stay, it’s good to get the adrenaline flowing!