Forget the hassle of travelling abroad in May - flights delayed, luggage lost and long queues don’t quite tick the rest and relaxation box. Head to the Isle of Wight instead, or the ‘Garden Isle’ as it’s affectionately known. With our extra hours of sunshine, warmer temperatures and Mediterranean-style local produce, you’ll feel like you’ve travelled thousands of miles - you just don’t need your passport!
Whatever you want to do over the May half-term holiday, you’ll find plenty of activities, attractions and fresh air here on our island to suit all ages – from the tiniest people to the pickiest of teenagers, and Grandma and Grandad too. Here’s a selection of some of the endless opportunities available for family fun on the Isle of Wight.
How to get to the Isle of Wight
There are few destinations where the holiday feeling starts as soon as you step foot on the ferry, but the Isle of Wight most certainly does. Easily accessible by car, train or on two wheels or two feet, our island feels like miles away but with the benefit of only being a short jaunt across The Solent. Cross the water from Lymington, Southampton, Portsmouth or Southsea on one of the many regular services from Wightlink, Red Funnel and Hovertravel.
Outdoor adventures on the Isle of Wight
With miles of beaches and coastline to explore, plus open countryside, green forests and rugged clifftop walks, there's loads to explore for an outdoor adventure on the Isle of Wight. Discover dinosaur footprints and hunt for fossils on the beach; surf the waves or make sandcastles on the golden sands or for keen walkers and cyclists, make the most of our miles of stunningly scenic footpaths, bridleways and cycle paths across our island.
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Attractions and things to do on the Isle of Wight
The Isle of Wight's many attractions are open for business during the holidays and often have special shows and events to enjoy during half term. Parents will be pleased to hear that our island’s 50+ attractions include many energy-burning activities for little ones as well as teenagers.
Make sure The Needles Landmark Attraction is on your must-do list. Named as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the UK, our island’s most iconic landmark offers breathtaking views from the famous chairlift which takes you on a journey down the cliff towards the shoreline below. After the ride, head to the sand shop to make your very own uniquely-coloured Alum Bay sand souvenir.
Sandham Gardens is also a great value day out for all ages - think skynets, electric go-karts, adventure golf and more. Once you’ve worked up a sweat, cool down with an ice cream from the Ice Cream Shack and take a stroll along Sandown beach, watching the twinkling light aboard the many liners that drop anchor in the English Channel.
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Learning about the Isle of Wight's history and heritage
There’s a wealth of heritage and history on our island to discover. Osborne, the former summer home of Queen Victoria and Carisbrooke Castle, once the prison of Charles I should be on your must-see list.
You should also make sure 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 enjoy a steam ride through the idyllic countryside and ancient woodlands.
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Family-friendly things to do on the Isle of Wight
Kids in tow? Blackgang Chine, Monkey Haven, Wildheart Animal Sanctuary, Amazon World Zoo Park, the Isle of Wight Aqua Park and Tapnell Farm are just some of our great places for kids to enjoy fun rides, meet cute (and not so cute!) animals and run around to their hearts' content. All boast on-site refreshments too, so you can really make a day of it.
May half term events on the Isle of Wight
Make the most of May Half Term on the Isle of Wight with a fantastic programme of family-friendly events, live entertainment, arts, music and outdoor adventures taking place across our island. Whether you're looking for hands-on family fun, cultural experiences, live performances or great days out, there’s plenty happening across our island throughout the half-term break.
Enjoy a wild family day out at Monkey Haven this May half-term. Discover their new conservation strategy and how your visit supports real rescue work. Plus, enjoy talks, children’s activities, a free return visit within 7 days and stay tuned for a new rescue story coming soon!
Step into Cowboy Town for a week of thrilling live shows, gunfights, music, dance workshops and family fun at Blackgang Chine. Enjoy immersive Wild West entertainment, themed characters and a spectacular late-night party with fireworks and foam cannons.
Discover more about the Isle of Wight Donkey Sancutary’s rescued donkeys and ponies on a free guided tour, including behind-the-scenes access and insights into the care and welfare of these much-loved animals.
Get creative at Newport Roman Villa with hands-on Roman-themed activities, including making traditional laurel crowns while discovering how gardens and nature were important in Roman life.
Take part a free family-friendly drop-in event at the Quay Arts with interactive activities designed to inspire creativity, curiosity and conversation through engaging hands-on experiences for all ages.
Join The Garlic Farm for a hands-on gardening experience exploring wildlife-friendly planting, seasonal growing and sustainable gardening ideas in the beautiful Garlic Lovers Garden.
Relax on the water with an evening cruise featuring live music, stunning Solent views and a laid-back summer atmosphere. It's the perfect way to enjoy our island coastline with Solent Cruises.
Enjoy an exciting programme at Three Rivers Music Festival of live music performances featuring talented artists and community groups, celebrating a mix of musical styles in a welcoming festival atmosphere.
Places to eat on the Isle of Wight
When it comes to food on our island, you’re spoilt for choice. Choose from beachside cafes to rural pubs, fancy fine dining and classic cream teas, you are sure to find something to tempt all tastes and suit everyone’s budget. Enjoy our local produce, try our freshly caught seafood or enjoy a tipple from one of our breweries, vineyards and distillery. And don’t forget to enjoy that Great British classic of fish and chips on the beach watching the gorgeous sunset before you head home.
Where to stay on the Isle of Wight
You’ll find plenty of holiday accommodation options - from campsites to coastal cottages, hotels to holiday parks and everything in between, finding your perfect Island bolt-hole couldn't be easier. Whether you are looking to be right by the beach, maybe in the centre of the action or on one of our many bus routes, have a look at the range of holiday accommodation and pick what’s best for you. Many of our accommodation providers offer ferry travel discounts too, so be sure to book direct and ask.
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