The Isle of Wight
Unspoilt coastlines, exotic animals and Victorian splendour – this island is a nostalgic seaside retreat fit for a Queen
VISIT
With miles of award-winning sand and shingle, rugged cliffs and hidden coves, a trip to the beach is a must. Shanklin beach, on the south-east coast, ticks all the boxes, boasting golden sands, shallow waters and picture-postcard views of red cliffs, brightly coloured beach huts and ships sailing by.
Taking the grandchildren? If the weather doesn’t permit sandcastles and paddling, there’s the crazy golf course, indoor soft-play centre and the mini theme park, Pirates Cove.
And if you’re a lover of all things four-legged, this island has oodles of animal appeal. Big cat lovers can glimpse some ferocious felines at The Isle of Wight Zoo. Built within the ruins of a Victorian fort, this family-run sanctuary is home to seven Asian tigers and two African lions, plus lots of lemurs, meerkats, Australasian wallabies, racoons and more. Want the VIP treatment? Go behind the scenes by booking an animal experience to feed the resident animals. Or you could visit the adorable donkeys in the sanctuary in Ventnor.
■ Tickets for the Isle of Wight Zoo start from £10.30 for adults – call 01983 403883
■ Enjoy free entry at the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary – call 01983 852693
History lovers should head to Osborne House in East Cowes. Once a holiday residence for Queen Victoria, Prince Albert and their nine children, visitors can wander through the couple’s entertaining quarters, private apartments, bathing beach and the children’s play cottage. Highlights include the Durbar Room, which features stunning Indian décor and the Queen’s private garden terrace, where she once painted watercolours.
■ Tickets £16.20 per adult. Call 0370 333 1181 or visit www.english-heritage.org.uk
EAT
As you might expect on an island, fish is the catch of the day. Visit the Smoking Lobster Grill in Ventnor for seafood platters, fillet steaks and king prawn curries.
■ Call 01983 855938
STAY
Settle in for the night at The Seaview Hotel. Just a stone’s throw from the seafront, it blends nostalgic charm with light and airy nautical décor.
■ Rooms from £120. Call 01983 612711 or visit the website, www.seaviewhotel.co.uk