There is an insatiable urge to get out there and explore, finding new places to share with friends and family. You may be forgiven in thinking that such adventures and unforgettable memories can only be made a plane ride away, well you would be wrong as it turns out such memories can be made only a ferry ride away on the Isle of Wight.
Discover the Isle of Wight, it has everything to offer from sustainable travel to healthy living and wellbeing.
Eco and sustainable travel…
The Isle of Wight is just a short journey across the Solent from Portsmouth. Wightlink Ferries hybrid-electric vessel, provides a much-needed green alternative to crossing the Solent. Using 17% less fuel than their next largest ship, it’s the perfect way to accompany a train journey to the Isle of Wight, meeting up with services at Portsmouth Harbour.
Once on the Island, you can jump straight on a bus from Southern Vectis to Shanklin, or enjoy privacy in your very own electric taxi.
Health and Wellbeing
Health and wellbeing are increasingly important in today’s busy world and the Isle of Wight lends itself to getting away from it all, unplugging and switching off from the stresses of today’s modern age. If you’re looking for a slightly slower-paced holiday to focus on yourself or to relax in one of the luxury spas or enjoy a pampering treatment, the Island has what you need. From yoga retreats and mindfulness workshops to art therapy and tranquil spots, it is the perfect place to relax and unwind.
Nature & Wildlife
The Isle of Wight is part of Unesco’s worldwide network of Biosphere Reserves. As well as this, over half of the Isle of Wight is designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) so the many miles of coastal paths, bridleways and cycle tracks are superb for those looking for a more adventurous holiday. There are plenty of locations to explore the local flora and fauna, as well as well-maintained nature reserves, perfect for spotting many varieties of birds and other wildlife. Check out the America Wood which is located on the outskirts of Shanklin towards Whiteley Bank and covers an area of approximately 21.4 hectares. It is owned by the Woodland Trust and a recognised biological Site of Special Scientific Interest.
Shanklin Chine truly is a natural spectacle, carved by Mother Nature’s own hands over thousands of years. It cuts its way from Shanklin Old Village to the sandy beach and Esplanade far below…and is the perfect place to spend a lazy morning, afternoon or evening. Note this is open Spring through Autumn.
The Isle of Wight’s dark skies also provides an excellent location for stargazers, with some of the darkest skies in Great Britain, seeing the milky way will become a nightly occurrence during a stay on the Isle of Wight. On a clear evening, wrap up warm and head out to Culver Down or Yaverland, two of the best places for an evening of stargazing, you may even spot a meteor shower too.
Family Fun
Keeping the kids entertained can always be a challenge but making sure the whole family is entertained can be a real juggling act! Shanklin is perfectly suited for all ages of the family, there is so much to see and do. Visit Shanklin Seafront and explore the Caddy Shack and Summer Arcade, Pirates Cove Fun Park and Jurassic Bay Adventure golf and let’s not forget the golden sands of the Bay.
Discover Shanklin Old Village with some of the oldest dwellings on the Island of which the majority are Thatched. It is on a slightly lower level than the Town of Shanklin and is famous for its small Gift Shops, Tea Rooms, Pubs & Restaurants.
Check out our Things To Do page
Looking for somewhere to stay? You will be able to find exactly what you are looking for in Shanklin with its vast array of accommodation types and styles.
