Say YES to a May Half Term adventure

For many families, travelling abroad for half term is too expensive and just too much hassle. So, what if there was somewhere that you could travel to easily and, by crossing the water, feel as though you were leaving the country? Well, look no further! The Isle of Wight is the perfect location for your May half term adventures.

­Whatever you want to do over the May half term holiday, you’ll find plenty of activities, attractions and fresh air on the sunny Isle to suit all ages – from the tiniest people to the pickiest of teenagers. Here’s just a small selection of the endless opportunities available for families on the Isle of Wight.

Say YES to getting outside in the fresh air

Whether you’re an active adventurer or enjoy watching the world go by, nothing beats getting outside and seeing everything the local landscape has to offer. There are miles of beaches to explore and beachcomb, dinosaur footprints to discover and fossils to find, as well as waves to surf and sandcastles to build. For keen walkers and cyclists, there are flat trails to follow as well as challenging routes, including the Round the Island cycle path. Take a picnic and enjoy the scenery.

Say YES to action and adventure

The Island’s attractions are open for business during the holidays and often offer special shows and events during half term. You’ll also be delighted to hear that the island’s 50+ attractions include many energy burning activities for little ones and teenagers.

The ever-popular Needles Landmark Attraction should definitely be on your list. Named as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the UK, the Island’s most famous landmark offers breathtaking views from the spectacular chairlift that takes you on a journey past the sandy cliffs. After the ride, head to the sand shop to make your very own uniquely-coloured sand souvenir. There’s a delectable sweet shop, too, where you can watch local artisans create sweets not found anywhere else.

Sandham Gardens also provides a great value day out for all ages with skynets, electric go-karts and adventure golf. Once you’ve worked up a sweat, cool down with an ice cream from the Ice Cream Shack and take a slow stroll along Sandown Beach, absorbing all the sights you see along the way.

Say YES to learning about the Island's history

There’s an abundance of history on the Island to explore. Osborne and Carisbrooke Castle should be on your must-see list. You’ll be amazed by the stunning architecture and relaxing gardens as you walk around the grounds.

You should also make time to visit the historic Needles Battery and The Isle of Wight Steam Railway with its fabulous Victorian and Edwardian rolling stock and museum. Settle back into the beautifully restored carriages and watch the idyllic countryside views pass you by.

Say YES to family fun

Blackgang Chine,  Monkey Haven, Wildheart Animal Sanctuary, Amazon World Zoo Park and Tapnell Farm are all great places for kids to enjoy the rides, meet the animals and run around to their heart’s content. There are on-site refreshments available too, so you can really make a day of it.

Feeling adventurous? Then try the only outdoor Aqua Park at Tapnell Farm.

Many of the Island’s hotels, holiday accommodation, beaches, pubs and restaurants are dog friendly, so you could bring the dog and have a real family half term.

Say YES to delicious food

When it comes to food on the Island, you’re spoilt for choice. From beach side cafes to pubs, fine dining and cream teas, there’s something to tempt everyone’s taste and suit everyone’s budget. Enjoy local produce, fresh fish and go home feeling that you really have had a true Isle of Wight half term experience. And don’t forget to enjoy fish and chips on the beach before you leave. There are plenty of places to choose from along the seafront, so you never have to travel far to find a delicious supper.

Say YES to an Isle of Wight May half term adventure

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 South Western Railway.

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