Say Yes to Isle of Wight Autumn Adventures

Say Yes to the Isle of Wight this Autumn

If you’re looking for things to do on the South Coast this autumn, a trip to the Isle of Wight is the perfect way to get through the post-summer blues. With more than half the Island being an Isle of Wight National Landscape (formerly known as Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) and a designated UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, autumn brings a spectacular show of shades of glorious rust and burnt orange to the Island. Discover the best places to witness Autumnal colour on the Island here.

With its own micro-climate, the mild weather during autumn means there are still lots of things to do, places to visit and stunning autumnal walks to be had.

Say Yes to the great outdoors and the open road

Bright autumn days are perfect for getting out and about on your bike or on foot. With 500 or so miles of pathways to walk along including 68 miles of coastal path, you can experience many hidden gems not accessible by car.

Why not head off on a woodland adventure? Enjoy the beautiful show of changing colours in our forests.

Get on your bike and explore the South Coast of England’s Bicycle Island. You can bring your own bike across to the Island or hire one while you’re here, including electric bikes for those challenging hills! There are routes to suit all abilities, including off road bridleways and purpose made tracks on the former railway line, and over 200 miles of cycle routes to enjoy. Our Slow Travel Guide is a simple guide detailing how to travel around the Island without your car using bus and train services or your own legwork!

Say Yes to making memories and autumn thrills 

There are loads of child friendly adventures happening on the Island during the autumn months with Island attractions holding specially themed nights throughout October and into November including October half term. Pick your own Pumpkin from a farm, travel with Wizards onboard a steam train, or enjoy a live Mariachi band and neon lights at The Festival of the Dead! Whatever you decide to do, the kids will love it.

Or experience autumn in its full glory by getting outside and active on the Island. Choose from paragliding, kayaking, horse riding, canoeing, paddleboarding, coasteering, wild swimming, tree climbing or another outdoor adventure, the Island has just the thrill you’re looking for!

Say Yes to a well earned rest

After frenetic summer days, why not try let your cares float away on a wellness break? Just like the Victorians who came here to ‘take the air’ and revitalise, you’ll feel your shoulders relax as soon as you step onto the ferry and sail across The Solent. 

And where to stay? A yurt perhaps? Or maybe a geodesic dome? Whatever you decide, the Island has all of these and much more, so you’ll be spoilt for choice. And with many accommodation providers offering autumn deals, you could bag yourself a bargain.

Say Yes to history and heritage

Just off the South Coast of England, only an hour and a half from London by train, you can follow in the footsteps of royalty, artists, and poets. The Island is rich with heritage and you can enjoy castles and palaces, museums and galleries. A real cultural treat! 

Say Yes to an autumnal feast

The Isle of Wight is home to many artisan local producers who produce exceptional quality food and drink. Indulge your taste buds with the finest in-season game and meat, vegetables and fruits served at the restaurants and pubs across the Island. Quench your thirst with an Island produced ale, glass of wine or gin in hostelries with open crackling fires and an even warmer welcome. Browse the vast array of local produce at the famer’s markets and independent shops in towns and villages selling goods from chutneys and jams to oils and vinegars, cakes, bread and beer.

Discover 15 don't-miss coffee spots on the Island here...

Say Yes to a romantic break

A romantic getaway is just the ticket. Switch off from reality and escape the busy bustle of everyday life to spend some much-needed quality time together. The Island in autumn is the perfect setting, with its atmospheric beaches, mesmerising sunsets, starry nights, candlelit venues, and numerous cosy cottages to wind down in together at the end of the day.

Whether you’re looking to splurge on a luxurious hotel stay or escape to a cosy log camp, get ready to fall in love with the Island!

Say Yes to a pub with an open fire

Cosy up in front of a crackling fire after a day of autumn exploring. Drop into the Crab & Lobster Inn in Bembridge, The Highdown Inn Totland Bay, or The Fisherman’s Cottage in Shanklin for that homely feeling. See here for some cosy fireside eating ideas.

Say Yes to spectacular sunsets and nights with the stars

There are lots of special places to end your day with an incredible sunset view. Some of the best spots on the Island are Gurnard beach, Colwell Bay, Totland Beach, Headon Warren, Yarmouth, across the harbour from The Terrace, and looking west from the Pepperpot. Take advantage of nature’s autumnal drama to shoot awe inspiring sunsets at these locations to capture cherished memories.

With sunset taking place much earlier than in the summer months, you’ll have plenty of time to absorb the celestial haven around you in the autumnal skies. With very little light pollution, the Island is a great spot to admire the stunning performance. On a clear night, wrap up warm and take a flask of your favourite hot beverage. If you’re a keen photographer, make sure to bring your best camera along with you to capture stunning pictures. Check out the best stargazing viewpoints here.

Say Yes to wildlife encounters

Autumn is the prime migrating time for birds, so pack up your binoculars and a flask of tea and head to Newtown National Nature Reserve. Or grab your bike and take to the Red Squirrel Trail where you may spot a few foraging for their winter stores.

Say Yes to rainy day fun

The Island is blessed with a mild climate, but if you happen to visit on a rainy day, it’ll not stop you having a great time.

Family-friendly attractions and activities include the Isle of Wight Bus and Coach Museum, Dinosaur Isle, Tapnell Farm, Brading Roman Villa, Amazon World, JR Zone, Fort Victoria with its Reptilarium and Butterfly World, to name but a few.

If you’re visiting as a couple / with friends you might want to book in for a delicious afternoon tea, visit the Island’s only gin distillery, Mermaid Gin, or visit an art exhibition at Quarr Abbey, Dimbola Museum & Galleries or the Quay Arts Centre. You could also take the opportunity to do some souvenir shopping and visit Isle of Wight Pearl, Isle of Wight Glass Museum at Arreton Barns, or Oasis. 

For those that need a pamper session, book yourself a luxurious spa treat at Lakeside Spa or Bembridge Coast Hotel.

Say Yes to the Isle of Wight

Whatever you decide to do and however you’re travelling, it couldn’t be easier to get to the Isle of Wight via Lymington, Southampton, Southsea or Portsmouth. There are regular rail connections to the south coast via SWR.

Travelling as a foot passenger is simple due to our excellent transport links with trains, buses, foot passenger ferries and our hovercraft service.