ISLE OF WIGHT

WHERE? England’s largest island, the Isle of Wight, is just three miles off the Hampshire coast. Red Funnel runs ferries from Southampton. Return ferry travel for a car and up to seven passengers starts from £24.50 each way.

WHY? The island feels like Britain as it used to be – a small, but perfectly formed version of southern England. There’s something for everyone, from pretty seaside towns like Ventnor, to Queen Victoria’s Italianate mansion, Osborne House. Blackgang Chine (blackgangchine.com), the UK’s oldest theme park, has plenty to offer families.

DON’T MISS Some of the best views on the island are at Headon Warren. You’ll be rewarded with the sight of

The Needles (a row of chalk stacks that rise out of the sea), the Solent and, on a clear day, the mainland.