ELTIPS AV R T
We wanted a traditional British break before the kids went back to school. And, like millions of others, my wife has fond memories of family holidays on the island so we thought it would be the perfect place to retrace her footsteps.
The 45-minute Wightlink ferry from Portsmouth to Fishbourne was easy – long enough to feel like you’re going on holiday but over before our three young sons got bored.
We stayed in Whitecliff Bay with Away Resorts in one of their Indulgent Lodges which comfortably sleeps up to eight people and has a fully equipped kitchen and outdoor decking with your own hot tub.
The campsite in Bembridge, on the east on the island, had everything you need including indoor and outdoor pools, play areas and activities for the kids and a restaurant and bar with excellent value food and drink.
It even has its own secluded sandy beach. We were determined to explore as much of the island as possible and our boys, aged five to seven, wanted to visit all the places their mum and grandparents talked about.
We started at Blackgang Chine, an amusement park set in forest covered cliffs that dates back to the 1850s and is still full of character.
Today it’s a weird and wonderful mix of pirates, cowboys, dinosaurs and an underwater kingdom. It’s
The boys then all filled glass shapes with different shades of sand, just like their mum, Liz, did as a youngster.
One of Liz’s highlights as a kid was the Sweet Manufactory. Thirty years on, our lads were similarly spellbound, watching in awe as confectioners made chocolate limes in front of an audience.
It was like being in Willy Wonka’s
THERE is so much to do on the Isle of Wight it is a good idea to plan your trip. Start by looking at all the choices on www.visitisleof wight.co.uk.
You’ll need a car to make sure you can explore the whole island, which is 148 square miles.
Jurassic Jim in Shanklin doesn’t just sell souvenirs. This real life Indiana Jones gives advice on the best places for a family of intrepid explorers to dig for their
own treasure.
Three nights with Away Resorts i n an Indulgent Lodge with Hot tub is £719 per party - sleeps 6 – arriving on Mon October
21. 2 See away resorts. re co. uk.
Tr a v e l w i t h wigh wightlink. co. uk –
0333 999 7333.
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