The Daily Telegraph - Saturday - The Telegraph Magazine
Isle of Wight
A wonderful five-day holiday to the striking Isle of Wight. With half of the island designated an ‘Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’, this tour takes in the very best of its charms.
Day 1 Sandown Meet in Portsmouth and board the catamaran for the short journey to Ryde on the Isle of Wight. Join the rail service down the scenic east coast to Sandown and transfer to the Trouville Hotel for a four-night stay.
Day 2 Osborne House Your first visit today is to St Mildred’s Church in Whippingham, which had close links to the Royal Family. After time here, visit fascinating Osborne House, Queen Victoria’s private family home. You are at leisure to explore the exquisite state rooms and private royal apartments for a glimpse into Victorian life. Discover its vast manicured gardens or even make your way down to the private beach, recently opened to the public. It is home to the fully restored ‘bathing contraption’ used by Queen Victoria when she wished to swim, which was led into the sea via a system of ramps.
Day 3 Godshill Enjoy a panoramic tour around the island today, taking in some of the Isle of Wight’s best and most beloved attractions. Begin at the stunning cliffs of Needles Park, where you can admire the lighthouse and ocean vistas. Then continue to Yarmouth to admire the views from its charming harbour. Later visit Carisbrook Castle, enjoying an introductory talk on arrival before ending the day at the charming village of Godshill.
Day 4 Wootton Discover the Isle of Wight’s heritage railway this morning. Take the train from Sandown station to Smallbrook Junction, where you will board the Isle of Wight Steam Railway for a return journey to Wootton. This historic line traverses
a pleasant route through the heart of the island, through scenic woodland, lush meadows and picturesque towns. Return to Sandown by rail and enjoy an afternoon at leisure.
Day 5 Ryde After breakfast, transfer to the railway station to connect with the train to Ryde. Here you will board the catamaran for the journey back to Portsmouth.