What to do on the Isle of Wight

The island is reknowned for it's beautiful and varied coastline, its coastal towns and its unspoilt villages.

However, whether you are looking for a peaceful break-away or a busy family holiday the island has plenty to offer.

Looking for Dinosaurs?

The Isle of Wight is one of the richest dinosaur sites in the world, yielding around 15 different species, some of which are unique to the island. As well as the museum-run dinosaur walks you can always go out fossil hunting yourself!

Prime locations for fossil hunting or spotting are Yaverland, Cowleaze Chine, Brook Bay and Compton Bay, and at the latter two you can spot fossilised Iguanodon footprints on the beach at low tide. Due to the richness of the Island as a fossil hunting location, you will find several museums and shops where you can learn more about the fossils that have been discovered here. The fossil shops on the island include Blackgang Chine near Niton and Dinosaur Isle in Sandown.

Places to visit........

The sunny climate and perfect soil also makes the isle of Wight a wine producing area. Try Rosemarys Vinyard in Ryde for a wander around the vines and the chance to buy a bottle to take home! Or visit The Garlic Farm for a different gastronomic journey.

With its sandy safe beaches traditional pier entertainment there is plenty for children, too. For good days out try Blackgang Chine or Robin Hill Adventure Park or a visit to the Zoo!

Children and adults alike will love the falconry displays at the magnificent Appledurcombe House in Wroxall. Once the grandest and most striking house on the Isle of Wight, Appuldurcombe's 18th century baroque elegance is still notable today in the partly restored shell of the building. You can walk around the ruins and admire the delightful east front and stroll peacefully through Capability Brown's idyllic ornamental 11 acres of grounds. And you can visit the accompanying Falconry Centre and watch the amazing displays!

And don't forget to pop down the road to the Donkey Sanctuary.

Of course the Island has many Victorian connections and a visit wouldn't be complete without a day out at Osborne House to view the home she shared with Prince Albert. And a day of a different kind can be spent at the imposing Quarr Abbey near Ryde.

In fact there is so much to do you will wish you had more time!

Indeed there is something for everyone on the isle of Wight ...and wherever you visit, Meadowview is the perfect tranquil base to come home to.