A bit of background…

Now in its 82nd year, the annual Round the Island Race, is a one-day yacht race around the Isle of Wight.  Each year over 1,700 boats and around 16,000 sailors take part making it one of the largest yacht races in the world (and the fourth largest participation sporting event in the UK after the London Marathon and the Great North and South Runs!).

Competitors  (world famous sailors to families) come from all over the UK, other parts of Europe and as far away as the USA to follow the 50 nautical mile course round the Isle of Wight.  Most boats will take hours to finish the course but the record set by the professionals is 3hrs 53mins 05secs for a monohull boat (set by Mike Slade on ICAP Leopard in 2008), and 3hrs 08mins 29secs for a multihull boat (set by Francis Joyon in 2001).

On the day…

The Race starts at 5am with the biggies (technical term for fast yachts) going first heading west out of Cowes past Yarmouth to head round the Needles and along the back of the Wight. Split into eleven separate groups leaving every 10 minutes, a steady stream of yachts (getting progressively smaller) leave from Cowes until 6.40am.

Top viewing spots…

5am – 6.40am

Cowes – Cowes seafront obviously offers the best possible views of all the yachts setting off on this mammoth race. Why not breakfast at The Little Gloster in Gurnard and sit back and watch as the water in front of you becomes a moving sea of colour?

6.30am – 9am

Fort Victoria – There are always lots of people on the grass and up on the roof at Fort Victoria watching as the views to the North Island become eclipsed in a fog of brightly coloured sails. Verdi’s Café, or The Boathouse just along the beach would be a great place to sit and enjoy some breakie as the boats race by. Or further on round Sconce Point is Colwell – perfect to grab some breakfast from Captains Cabin or a lovely coffee at The Hut.

7am – 9.30am

The Needles – For a breathtaking view and watching the boats as they attempt to make the best time possible round the Needles, high up on the top of the downs at the Needles Battery is a great place to catch the action. Take a thermos and breakfast picnic!

7.45am – 11am

The Back of the Wight  – All along the cliffs and beaches from Compton to Chale offer great views of the yachts sailing by. The fleet need to move further offshore here to ensure deep water so it is best to have a bit of height – The Sun Inn at Hulverstone has a beer garden that offers unparalleled views down to the sea.

8.30am – 12.30pm

St Catherine’s Down -  With unprecedented views across the whole Island at any time, this is a wondrous vantage point to watch the boats sail by. Just a short drive around the coast, on the road that makes it way down to St Catherine’s Lighthouse (another great spot perched on the most southerly point of the Island), is The Buddle Inn a great local pub with outdoor tables offering a sneaky view down to the channel. Great for a coffee for the early risers catching the first of the fleet or even better for a spot of lunch.

8.45am – 1pm

Ventnor – Just along the coast the Esplanade in Ventnor is always a good spot to sit and watch the boats with the Spyglass pub being a great place to base yourself. Or even take a blanket and lie on the beach catching a few rays between boat spotting with the bins.

9.30am – 3pm

Culver Down  – between Sandown and Bembridge is a high vantage point to sit and maybe enjoy some delicious breads or cakes fromthe Bakery in Bembridge, perfect for a picnic lunch. Or try the Baywatch on the Beach in neighbouring St Helens – ideally located right on the beach looking out past the forts towards the channel.

Priory Bay – For those of you who might fancy a glass of something bubbly while watching the boats go by then a stop at the Priory Bay Hotel is always a treat. With a beautiful Terrace looking directly out over the channel or stroll down to the private beach for an uninterrupted view.

10.30am -4.30pm

Seaview & Ryde – The first of the fleet will come round past Seaview and head for Ryde from 1030 onwards and now the race really is on.  To feel part of the action try The Boathouse in Seaview right on the front and serving fantastic food or try The Bay Grill in Ryde again located on the waters edge.

East Cowes – Anyone wanting to see the boats cross the finish line should venture to East Cowes. Stop off at the new Waitrose on the way and grab some picnic fillers and while away the afternoon listening to the boats go by.

With one of the largest charter ribs on the South coast of England, Solent Rib Safaris offer charters up and down the Solent from Cowes through to the Needles or even on to Bournemouth and back. Solent RIB Safaris’s CEO and founder is Adam Vere-Nicoll, a former superyacht Captain who returned to the Island after 15 years at sea having been in command of some of the worlds most extravagant yachts. Now he’s firmly at the helm of Solent Voyager – a 10m Parker RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) – a truly seaworthy boat built for speed and stability. Solent Voyager takes 12 passengers and two crew and with twin 300’s on the back – a jaunt across the water from Cowes to Bournemouth takes just under an hour!

Adam said: “ I wanted to offer everyone the opportunity to experience the Solent and its abundance of yearly activities from the safety of a fast fully commercial coded vessel.”

Being on the water is in Adam’s blood – his Great Grandfather, Sir Charles Madden, was First Sea Lord in 1927.  Before joining the superyacht industry Adam initially trained as a Watersports Instructor, working at the UKSA. Since then he has Captained luxury superyachts up to 120ft in length in the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Bahamas and the USA.

Operating out of Cowes, Solent RIB Safaris offer the opportunity to charter Solent Voyager for full or half days and explore the south coast, lunching at waterfront restaurants in otherwise unreachable locations. Boarding is also available from Yarmouth, Lymington, Portsmouth and Southampton.

Trips up The Beaulieu River, to Portsmouth Harbour, The River Hamble and even the Needles are also available.

In fact Solent Voyager is the perfect vessel to charter with 12 friends or family. Why not watch the action at some of the Island’s fantastic world class sailing events – such as the Round The Island Race in June and Cowes Week in August. Or maybe give the powerboats a run for their money by heading out to watch the fleet head off at the annual Powerboat Festival at the end of August.

Having completed 7 Atlantic passages, you are in safe hands, with all lifesaving equipment provided and a full safety briefing is always given before every trip.

Adam said:   “As one of the largest offshore Ribs on the South Coast of England, Solent Voyager is a really unique case of professional craftsmanship, built for the ultimate passenger experience and designed to the highest standards of comfort and safety”.

To find out more contact Solent RIB Safaris.

60’s Californian Chic

This breathtaking show stopper – with 180 sea views, floor to ceiling glass and outdoor pool – is located on the Island’s northern most point, just outside of Cowes. SeaGlass is an award winning contemporary home above Gurnard bay and has been featured in numerous newspapers and magazines. Sleeping 11 in 6 bedrooms, the house has a fresh, minimalist feel featuring endless glass vistas, open fireplace and a semicircular infinity lawn.

Green tip: For the environmentally conscious, the house incorporates a great deal of sustainable technology, including a ground source heat pump which heats the water and the swimming pool, a rainwater harvester supplying the loos and the garden irrigation system. There are solar panels which also supply electricity and the whole house is super insulated.

Best activity locally… sailing of course!

Live the American dream with a seven night stay starting from £4995 per week.

Rock it like a rock star

This house has been chosen by the likes of wild one Russell Brand, for that perfect party weekend getaway and with accommodation for up to 20 guests you can see why.

Rocklands Manor is hidden in the mild, lush undercliff of St Lawrence, near Ventnor, set in its own mature gardens. This pad really has it all with a spacious billiard room with bar, grand dining room in the original ballroom, 9 private en suite bedrooms, heated private swimming pool with retractable conservatory style enclosure, private tennis court, croquet lawn, and large barn with wood burning stove & barbecue shelter all just a few minutes’ walk through stunning scenery to a secluded smuggling cove.

Top tip: Go for some of the ‘Bespoke extras’ – we love the full staffing option – including Chef and Butler.

Best activity locally… walking and exploring the undercliff.

Party on with 2 nights starting from £6900.

Art Deco Decadence

For a slice of 20’s European grandeur, Marine Villa in Shanklin is your panacea. Built in 1929 as a gentlemen’s residence this stunning art deco Mediterranean style villa offers spectacular sea views over Sandown Bay.

The house has 7 bedrooms sleeping up to 23 people, making this is the perfect retreat en famille. With huge stained glass windows throughout and an impressive triple aspect drawing room and large oak-panelled dining-room with doors into the sun room and garden for al-fresco dining this house was built for entertaining.

Foodie tip: Venture a short way down the coast to Ventnor for food to match your accommodation – sample the 7 course tasting menu at The Hambrough.

Best activity locally… kitesurfing or windsurfing down in Sandown Bay.

Go grand for £1500 for a weekend or short break.

Country Classic

To live the country life with 18 of your closest friends why not try Tapnell Manor in the West Wight? For roaring fires, rustic beams and the essential country classic – the four oven AGA – this house is a must stay. The farmhouse sleeps 19 in 10 bedrooms and offers relaxed living across three floors, complete with games room and extensive gardens for that evening stroll alongside the herbaceous borders.

Special get together tip: located on a working farm, Tapnell Manor is also home to Tom’s Eco Lodges, rustic safari style canvas lodges perfect for a spot of glamping. Sleeping 8 a pop and with 5 available to rent – why not extend the party and get all your friends and family along?

Best activity locally… cycling the West Wight and beyond.

Rural relaxation at Tapnell Farmhouse is available from just £2295 a week.

The Isle of Wight, being an Island only 13 wide by 23 miles long,  is a patchwork of National Trust and AONB land surrounded by water on all sides. This means we also produce some truly fabulous meat; salt marsh lamb, beef grazed freely on national trust land, rare breeds British pork that can be seen rolling in the fields and pink rose veal that can be petted on the farm.

So if you’re on the Island this season make sure you try or buy some of this wonderful local produce.

So where to eat & buy on the Isle of Wight?

The Garlic Farm Cafe – all homemade by chef Charlie, this café always has something to tempt from home made scotch eggs and gorgeous salad to shredded ham hock and champ, all with a delicious garlicky twist.

Top buy in the shop – garlic horseradish, Hot Garlic Pickle and garlic mint sauce.

Ventnor Botanic Garden Cafe – at the Botanic Garden nestled in its unique microclimate they grow their own leaves, herbs and vegetables , so you’ll feast on the freshest ingredients picked straight from the garden. There’s always a range of dishes that tick boxes for meat eaters, vegetarians and vegans alike – all packed full of vibrant flavour.

Top try – their specialty teas and giant meringues.

Briddlesford Farm– is the home of Isle of Wight rose veal and the wonderful creamy Briddlesford milk and cream. The café has a wide range of homemade dishes and their burger is always a must.

Must try/buy their rose veal – buy it at the farm shop butchers counter.

If you fancy cooking and want to buy amazing quality Island meat while on the Isle of Wight – here are two Farm Shops  that are well worth a visit.

Mottistone Manor Farm shop, on the Island’s south coast, produce all their own beef, pork and lamb – and with truly tasty results. Their pure breed aberdeen angus bulls and shorthorn cows graze happily the land from St Catherine’s Down in the south to Tennyson Down in the west  until slaughter at 24-30 months old. The meat is then hung for 28 days – giving it a real depth of flavour. The lamb grazes all year round on salt laden grass next to the sea and the rare breed pigs can be seen in the fields around the farm shop.

Right in the middle of the Island, Farmer Jacks in Arreton, is by one of the best farm shop on the Island selling a wonderful array of fresh produce from across the whole Island – including a great selection of meats, pies, vegetables and condiments. Definitely worth a visit.

Here’s our take on the top 5 places for a staytaste-ion…

Vintage – The Royal

The Royal Hotel is Ventnor’s Ritz, it’s one of the Island’s oldest (built in 1832), biggest (53 bedrooms), and most distinguished hotels (it’s one of only 30 to be listed in every Michelin Guide since it was first published in 1911).

Tasteful and elegant, and unashamedly old fashioned, the Royal is like stepping back in time, whilst still benefiting from all the luxuries you’d except of an AA 4 star hotel. On the food front you will not be disappointed – the hotel made it into the 2012 Good Food Guide for its ‘refined dining in an elegant setting’. Make sure you sample their high tea too – tiny delicious sandwiches, delectable cakes and of course scones.

Checkout The Royal Hotel for accommodation offers.

Classic – The George

The George in Yarmouth has been welcoming visitors from across the Solent for over 200 years. Built in 1668 this stunning 17 bedroom hotel is co-owned by John Illsley of Dire Straits.

With classic decor and furnishings on the inside – this hotel is all about location – with stunning views looking out over the Solent towards the New Forest. The rooms are all individually decorated and full of warmth and character – enjoy the sumptuous 4 poster bed in room 17, or if you’re off shooting all rooms some with their own gun safes. Downstairs guests can  curl up in a comfy chair infront of the fire in the bar or have a delicious meal in the modern and chic Brasserie where the by-words are definitely local, seasonal and organic.

Checkout The George Hotel for accommodation offers.

Clandestine – The Hillside

Hidden in the hills at St Boniface Down, this 18^th centaury grade 11 listed country house is built of mellow stone and thatch. With panoramic sea views this place has the reputation as a true clandestine retreat.

Set within 5 acres – the Hillside offers minimalist Scandinavian interiors, with 12 contemporary rooms reflecting their coastal environment. With first class service and hospitality, food plays an important role at Hillside, with menus using fresh local produce simply cooked. Booking at the Hillside is essential as it is difficult to get a table – always a good sign.

Checkout The Hillside for accommodation offers.

Country – The Priory Bay

Set within 60 acres of woodland with its own private beach to stroll along, this ‘Country House Hotel by the Sea’ dates back as early as 1100.

On arrival you enter under an imposing 14th century portal, before checking in and being shown to your room, all of which have their own distinctive character and are superbly decorated with a mix of styles and eclectic furniture; both antique and new.  For the ultimate experience opt for a one of the beachside yurts, complete with roll top free standing bath, or if you are visiting with children, family rooms are available and a babysitter can be arranged to allow you to escape down to the restaurant for dinner.

Dining is an absolute must when visiting the Priory Bay with all tastes catered for, from dining in the Regency-muralled Island Room with gastronomic tasting menu, to a light lunch outside on the terrace in the Priory Oyster restaurant or BBQ down at The Boathouse on the beach. The ethos is local, seasonal and most food is grown or foraged on the hotel’s 60 acre estate and beach.

Checkout The Priory Bay Hotel for accommodation offers.

Modern – The Hambrough

If you’re in to minimalist chic this is the place for you. Perched on the side of the hill in Ventnor the restaurant looks straight out high over the sea almost like an infinity pool for diners. The seven bedrooms are all 5 AA star standard and each is individually styled to make you feel instantly at home.

But the true allure of the Hambrough is the food. For those who are wowed by accolades, this little Ventnor hotel, has two Michelin starred Chef Patron John Campbell at the helm. Boasting 3 Rosettes  and ranked 20 in the Good Food Guide – try the seven course Tasting Menu with Sommelier recommendations for a real treat.

Checkout The Hambrough for accommodation offers.

Located just up from Mottistone Manor, the farm shop is owned and run by Tod and Jackie Carder and their family who have been farming the surrounding countryside for 22 years. Jackie said: “We farm all over, from here to Tennyson Down and our Aberdeen Angus beef graze all the way over to St Catherine’s – you’ll recognize them if you’ve been out walking on the Downs”.

All bred and reared on the Island, Jackie said: ““We’re one of the few who breed their own animals on the Island. Many other farms buy in young stock then rear them on the Island for a few months before slaughter. We have compete traceability from conception to plate. We take all our beasts to slaughter on the mainland before bringing them back to the farm shop where the beef is hung up to 28 days and then our butcher,  Andy Corney, prepares it for sale in the shop. Andy came to us from Hamilton’s and has been butchering for over 40 years.”

And there is definitely something to be said for this complete traceability – and longer happier lives – the meat is tastier and tenderer than anywhere on the Island – the George Hotel use Wight Aberdeen Angus fillet on their menu.

Jackie said: ‘We sell at the farmers market on Friday and Saturday and in local outlets like Brighstone Village Store, but our full range is always available at our farm shop in Mottistone.” Built with help from a LEADER and SEEDA grant, the farm shop offers local fruit and veg including homegrown produce in season and all their own beef, pork and lamb, as well as homemade pasties and pies made on the premises.

Jackie said: “We are open Wednesday to Sunday, 11-5pm, but we are always more than happy to take specific orders over the phone and are happy to accommodate customers who want a special cut of meat like a saddle of lamb or fore rib of beef.”

Keep an eye out for their seasonal open days where you can pop along and try the produce or call 07727053846.

Get Outdoors

October sees the return of our annual Autumn Walking Weekend, which hosts many great walks that you can get involved in. Or take a walk on the wild side with a Natural Wight Wild Food Walk and taste sea buckthorn, harvested hazel nuts and learn how to eat an acorn. Discover what wild and wonderful food nature has to offer on our seashore, downs and towns – walks on Ventnor Downs on 7 October 2-4pm and West Wight 14 October 2.30-4.30pm with foraging expert Rowan Adams. Stay up late on 12 October to experience the natural world after dusk with Natural Wight and the Wildlife Trust’s Night Safari and explore Bouldnor Forest looking for all sorts of amazing nocturnal wildlife. Starts at 7pm. For more details on either walk email claire.hector@medinahousing.co.uk or call 01983 824275.

Something different

Yarnstorm Bootcamp takes Ventnor by storm this month (19-21 October) with lots of Guerrilla knitting going on. Or for those wanting to learn how to make thread pasta ribbons rather than wool ones – Pasta Making with Robert Thompson at the Pond Café on 10 October 12.00pm is a must. Spend your lunch with the Island’s Michelin chef Robert Thompson and learn how to create delicious fresh pasta from scratch. This will include a set 2 course lunch menu at The Pond Cafe. Tickets including lunch cost £30 per person and it starts at 12pm prompt.

A free weekend event on 13 October is the Hop Festival and Traditional Skills Fayre at Ventnor Botanic Garden at 11.00am. The festival will see the launch of Tropicale brewed from hops grown at the Botanic Garden and feature demonstrations and displays of traditional skills.

Plenty of Arts

New for this year are two fantastic cultural events; the Isle of Wight Literary Festival (12-14 October)and Visioncea (27-28 October). It also sees the return of Cafe Scientifique on 8 October at 7.00pm with Professor Heather Viles speaking on the conservation of World Heritage Sites from pristine Eco-Islands to prehistoric art, at the Conservative Club in Shanklin. Professor Heather Viles is from the School of Geography & the Environment at Oxford University.

Mid Wales Opera presents Mozart’s Don Giovanni on 24 October at 7.30pm at Medina Theatre. Following last year’s stunning production of Madam Butterfly, Mid Wales Opera brings you this tragic tale of love, lust, betrayal and revenge. Tickets: Adults £16.50 / Concessions £15.50

Kids fun

And we can’t forget the children as October brings half term and Halloween. This October half term Chessell Pottery is celebrating the striking ‘Colours of Autumn’,  introducing a fantastic new palette of seasonal paint colours; enabling you to really capture the beautiful autumnal colours on your pottery designs. The easy-to-use autumn-inspired decorating sponges will also be out, everything from leaves and acorns, to toadstools and blackberries. An ideal creative activity for the children this half term.

Or for those wanting to be spooked and scared – Carisbrooke Castle are hosting their Time Travellers Go on 27 October, where you can let your little horrors scare themselves silly with creepy crafts, spooky activities and ghost hunting galore! Take part in the spooky quest, create your own terrifying decorations in our craft area and wander the grounds with our very own ghost hunter as he tells gruesome tales of times gone by. Or take part in the Garlic Farm’s Thrilling Tractor Trailer Tour with Spooky Sausage Supper on 27 October. Tours starts at 6.30pm and family tickets (2 adults & 2 children) costs £30. Call 01983 865378 to book.

To win a Ghost walk with Marc Tuckey and return Red Funnel ferry for car with 4 passengers, simply answer the following question correctly to be entered into our prize draw.

With this in mind the Isle of Wight Cycling Festival (22^nd – 30^th September) takes place this month offering lots of ideas for new routes to explore and discover, or fantastic cycling events to take part in like the Hills Killer or Chevy Chase Enduro.

As it’s harvest time there are a number of great local produce led events taking place – such as the Apple Days Festival at The Apple Farm, Afton on 15^th & 16^th September. A great free event, especially for those who have their own apple trees as you can take your apples and have them pressed into your very own bottle of apple juice! Then just sit back, enjoy the live music and peruse the stalls selling all manner of applie goodies.

And don’t miss the fabulous Isle of Wight Sweetcorn Fayre on 29^th & 30^th September at Farmer Jacks, Arreton. A true country fair,  there is welly wanging, tractor rides, beer, displays (ferrets/hawks/terriers), music and a serious amount of sweetcorn to sample.  While there make sure you try your luck (and navigation skills) in the amazing Maize Maze.

To really get involved in the harvest make sure you don’t miss the Island’s 113^th annual Ploughing Match on 29^th September at Wellow Manor Farm. The heritage of our former farming practices is kept alive every autumn in this annual ploughing match that is held at a different farm on the Isle of Wight each year.

And of courses September on the Island wouldn’t be September without the UK’s favourite – beautiful Bestival – taking place from 6-9^th  at Robin Hill – this year headlining are Stevie Wonder, New Order and Florence & The Machine.

With all manner of bric-a-brac and curios, there’s something for everyone from a trombone to a tea set, a saxophone to a Samsung digital camera.

 There are over 150 items to be sold and all proceeds go to the Seely Hall fund. Viewing is from 11.00 AM and the bidding will start at 2.00PM.

The event offers the perfect opportunity to take in the rural surrounds of this picturesque village in the south west wight, while enjoying tea and homemade cakes in The Seely Hall opposite the Green where the races will be taking place.

There will be a series of races from 2pm – 4.30pm with quacking great prizes up for grabs, for adults and kiddies alike!

Children can choose from the assortment of little yellow plastic ducks for their races, while Scottish piper ducks or fancy flashing pretty ducks are available to buy for the adult races.

The ducks are released into the stream by the Green and in a rubber ducky version of poo sticks, the first one past the finish post wins.

Great fun for all the family.

About Brook

Brook village is just inland from the Isle of Wight’s beautiful south west heritage coastline and the Green is in a leafy dell, nestling beneath the downs.

The Seely Hall was given to the village as a reading room in the late 1800s by the Seely family who lived at nearby Brook House. The village church of St Mary the Virgin, perched on the hill to the north of the village is one of the best preserved Victorian churches on the Island.

Horse lovers might be interested to hear that the recent film ‘War Horse’ was based on the book ‘My Warrior Horse’ by General Jack Seely and his horse Warrior lived in the fields around Brook, including those opposite the church. Jack Seely claimed that the proudest achievement of his early life was to row in the lifeboat at Brook next to his family’s home in the Isle of Wight.

So what better plan is there than to pack your suitcase, load your trailer and pop on over to the Isle of Wight for a holiday with your horse.

Ever since the first time I saw The Black Stallion as a child, or re-read Four Rode Home for the hundredth time, I have wanted to holiday with my horse and gallop along a sandy beach with the sea spraying all around. Of course not actually having my own horse put paid to any such notions, but I have always wondered, can you holiday with your horse?

On the Isle of Wight you can. With 165 miles of bridleways and 29 miles of byways, the Isle of Wight has some of the most accessible and diverse landscape to ride through. All squeezed within an area of just 147 square miles the Island offers excellent riding over many terrains; from downland, to forest and beaches and there are a few cross country courses dotted around as well.

Here are three great places to stay with your horses this season…

Great East Standen Manor & Cottage –  Newport

Owned by Ron and Linda Scotchbrook Great East Standen Manor is located off a quiet lane on the outskirts of Newport, with bridleways straight out onto St Georges Down and over to Arreton Down giving stunning views across the whole Island and some amazing riding.

The Manor and Cottage are set within 60 acres of downland, within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty nestled within a valley. The Cottage, dating back to 1503, sleeps five on a self catering basis and the stabling is available on site next to the cottage. Horses, as well as carriages and horse boxes are all catered for by arrangement.

Godshill Park Farm – Godshill

Godshill Park Farm is an organic livestock farm situated in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty just outside the village of Godshill. The farm, owned by Mark and Kathy Domaille, is approached via a quarter mile drive from the public road and has direct access onto the Island’s bridleways network.

Located to the south of the Island riders can explore the bridleways out towards St Catherine’s Down and Chale Green or inland towards Gatcombe Down. Guests can opt for staying B&B in the main farmhouse or self catering in Lake View (sleeps 7) and Pheasant Cottage (sleeps 4). Horses may graze in the paddocks overnight, and stabling may be available on request.

Mattingley Farm – Wellow

Mattingley Farm is a family run business owned by Heather and Mike Nelson with four star self catering accommodation in the form of two dairy cottages (one sleeps 4 and the other 5) and Blake’s Barn (sleeps 6). Located about 3 miles from Yarmouth in a small hamlet called Wellow, Mattingley offers the perfect base to explore the West Wight.

The farm is situated on the main bridle path system offering unparalleled riding opportunities and is only a 20 minute hack from Compton Down which gives direct access onto the byway; west to Tennyson Down and The Needles and east to Brook Down and Brighstone Forest. Three acres of Mattingley are devoted to paddocks and good quality grazing with careful paddock management ensures a plentiful supply of food.

So for a perfect horse holiday look no further than the Isle of Wight just a short ferry crossing from Southampton.

No British summer would be complete without eating an ice cream on a rainy August afternoon looking out over the rolling surf. Cold rainy afternoons and melting Mr Whippy’s or garishly coloured Knickerbockerglories piled high in a glass are an essential part of the British vacation. Yet today ice cream is all about pure ingredients mixed in an array of ever increasing flavours from Lemon Curd & Ricotta and Vanilla Fig & Burnt Sugar to Gin & Pink Grapefruit and Ginger and Whiskey. So when did ice cream making become an art form and picking your cone feel like ordering dinner in a Michelin star restaurant?

With three artisan ice cream makers on the Isle of Wight, here Alex Hammond meets the makers…

I’m looking at a website that tells me I can design my own ice cream. Seriously: I tell them what I want, and how much of it I want, and in 14 days I’ll have it. Somehow I doubt scotch and soda would make a particularly memorable frozen treat, although the very concept of an after-dinner bowl of Bloody Mary ice cream on a hot day is going to hound me for some time…

The page I’m looking at is www.minghella.co.uk, the website for the multi-award winning family run business. An Isle of Wight institution, Minghella Ltd. was launched by Edward Minghella in 1950. At a time when nutrition wasn’t the serious business it is today, Edward’s commitment to high-quality, healthy ingredients helped to make his ice cream an Island favourite, an ethos continued today. “No empty calories,” as Edward’s daughter and MD of the ice cream empire Gioia says, meaning that the calories in the ice cream come from the milk, the cream, the sugar, or the ingredients, not from flavours or corn syrup like in many mass-produced ice creams. An example of this is their Strawberry ice cream: it’s 25% strawberries and it isn’t pink like some ice cream companies would like you to believe: the Minghella’s don’t use artificial colours. The sugar they used is unrefined brown sugar. Basically, the ingredients are as pure as possible, so it’s as healthy as ice cream can possibly be (there’s a range for diabetics too) and will continue to be so.

But let’s be honest: it’s ice cream. I don’t want my ice cream to prolong my life. Yet contrary to popular belief, ‘proper’ ice cream is good for you.  There is more milk protein in a quality ice cream than in the same weight of milk.  In addition milk contains calcium and phosphorous and vitamins A & D which are very important in the building and maintenance of strong bones.

So does this focus on health and nutrition get in the way of what ice cream is supposed to do? No, don’t be stupid. “Pudding should always be about pleasure,” says Gioia. “It has to comfort, be intensely pleasurable, otherwise why bother with the calories?” And Minghella Ltd. has the awards to prove the value of this philosophy so essential to the gelatiere—44 of them in fact.

Despite the widespread popularity of their ice cream (they sell all over the country, and to airlines, too) they remain as much the Island company they always were. They still use only Island herds for their milk and cream, a continuation of Edward’s belief that the Island herds are exposed to less pollution and distress from traffic noise than mainland herds. A good theory, and there are others on the Island who know the truth of it too.

In 1989, due to the introduction of farm quotas and penalties for the production of extra milk, Jill Cawood started making ice cream. Now, Calbourne Classics is an award-winning Island favourite. They are the Island’s only producers of clotted cream, obtained from their own 300-strong herd—the only RSPCA accredited herd on the Island. With daughters Louise Hart and Jenny Simmons, Jill and Calbourne Classics provide a range of farm produce available all over the Island. In the national Great Taste Awards, their Orange and Grand Marnier ice cream won a Gold award. Because they don’t specialise in ice cream like Minghella Ltd., Calbourne Classics do not have the extensive flavours range, as they extend to cakes and other desserts too—although this is not to say that they don’t know what they’re doing: Anthony Worrall Thompson selected their Silver-award winning Honeycomb ice cream as a guest dessert in his Notting Grill restaurant.

As a business the family behind Calbourne Classics are not only committed to quality desserts, but also to the environment: they can proudly display the Freedom Food logo as a testament to their happy cows, and they are also involved with the LEAF (Linking Environment And Farming) organisation.

Continuing the theme of Island herd-produced ice cream are the relative newcomers to Island ice cream, Chilton Farm, Brighstone. They have the second-oldest herd in the country (after the Queen’s) and began making their own ice cream in October 2005. With just under 250 pedigree Jerseys, Sue and Sarah Fisk make their ice cream every Tuesday and Thursday with an ice cream machine Sue bought from a Dutch company. Apparently she had been talking about ice cream for a while, and saw an ad for an ice cream maker in a magazine. “I thought it would be a small operation I could run from the kitchen,” says Sue, laughing. Actually, she ended up flying to Eindhoven to observe the making of ice cream on a farm set-up similar to her own.

Now they supply ice cream to restaurants around the Island, and sell to the individual too. Sue says they are still building their client base, again through the use of bespoke ice creams (that Bloody Mary is getting closer by the mouth-watering second); but they have over 300 recipes already! They are growing fast and should do the tradition of quality Island ice cream proud.

August is one of the busiest months for events on the Island seeing the carnival season in full flow, the internationally famous yachting regatta Cowes Week take place from 11^th -18^th August and the Cowes Classic Powerboat Race rounds up the month on 24^th -27^th August.

There are hundreds of great things happening across the Island all month – make sure you check out The Electric Woods: “Ambient August” every Tuesday and Thursday in August from 7.30pm at Robin Hill and see its beautiful woodland come to life with an array of breath-taking lights that illuminate the specimen trees and gardens in an aurora of ambient colour and sound. And don’t miss Cinema under the Stars at Robin Hill showing some classic flicks, such as Mamma Mia, Top Gun and War Horse in the open air every night from Thursday 23^rd – Monday 27^th August.

V Dub Island returns on 2^nd–6^th August with its mix of all that is VW, with music by Rob da Bank and lots of family fun. While the Islands own version of Edinburgh Fringe festival – Ventnor Fringe – is back with more music, arts and film to keep everyone enthralled from 15^th-18^th August. For a totally original experience don’t miss the Garlic Festival – where everything has a garlicky theme – even the beer! And for the music lovers out there both Rhythmtree World Music Festival and Faux Fest, boasting the best tribute bands, take place on 24^th -26^th August.

July 31st

WEEKEND FULL OF FUN AT V-DUB ISLAND 2012

Organisers of V-Dub Island 2012 are promising anyone who attends the event this year will experience a VW show like no other. The weekend’s schedule of activities and entertainment is bursting with fun and surprises to keep VW lovers both young and old entertained from morning ‘til night.

Even with top performers BBC Radio One’s Rob Da Bank and Dub Pistols headlining a musical bill bursting with fresh up-and-coming talent, the event is first and foremost a Volkswagen show, and has a whole host of other activities to give event goers a weekend to remember.

VW enthusiasts can enter their prized vehicles in the event’s Show and Shine competition, show off their culinary skills by entering the Cooking in a Camper contest, or prove they can ride the waves at the event’s Surf Competition held at Compton Bay at the end of the VW Drive Out. A Spokesman said, “We had a great response to the Drive Out last year, and we’re hoping for even more vehicles to take part in 2012. It’s a great opportunity to take your V-Dub out and about into the Isle of Wight’s beautiful countryside.”

Organisers of the event try to pack in as much as they can into the five days, with a Caribbean Christmas themed fancy dress party on Saturday evening, an explosive Pirate display, and a Caribbean Carnival through the site’s central ‘Electric Avenue’.

Even pets are catered for with a ‘Best Dressed Pet’ competition, so you can get your pet dolled up in some Caribbean gladrags to go with the event’s fancy dress theme, or present them just as they are for a chance to be crowned the event’s ‘top dog’.

The event prides itself on being as family-friendly as possible and last year’s show featured an on-site beach to the delight of the children, and this year’s will be five times the size with 40 tons of sand on order. Adults can relax in the event’s ‘Dub Inn’ with a pint of Island Brewery’s special Dubweiser or Bugweiser ale, whilst keeping an eye on their kids playing in the sand. The event also offers a managed ‘Kids’ Zone’ with various pre-paid options on offer, plus Water Zorbing, fun inflatables, and Hux the Isle of Wight’s top Magician.

The site also features a ladies’ hairstylist and gentlemen’s barber, Zumba workouts, Tai Chi classes and a Holistic Therapies area run by Relax Isle of Wight so event goers can pamper themselves to bits whilst soaking up the sun and the great VWs. Organisers have also enlisted ‘Showers on the Run’ to make sure there are steaming hot showers throughout the weekend.

Tickets for the event are on sale online from Red Funnel and Ticketline priced at just £25 for a weekend ticket including camping, and Isle of Wight ferry operators offer discounts on ferry travel for ticket holders travelling from the mainland.

March 23rd

BBC RADIO ONE’S ROB DA BANK HEADLINES WEEKEND FULL OF FUN

Organisers of V-Dub Island 2012 have today confirmed that top Radio One DJ and VW-camper lover ROB DA BANK will close the musical entertainments at the five-day Volkswagen enthusiasts’ festival this August. A V-Dub Island spokesman said, “Rob attended the event last year and we were determined to get him to come and perform for us in 2012. His set will be the icing on the very tasty cake of entertainments we have at V-Dub this year”.

Despite top performers Rob Da Bank and Dub Pistols headlining a musical bill bursting with talent, the event is first and foremost a Volkswagen show, and has a whole host of other activities to give event goers a weekend to remember.

VW enthusiasts can enter their prized vehicles in the event’s Show and Shine competition, show off their culinary skills by entering the Cooking in a Camper contest, or prove they can ride the waves at the event’s Surf Competition held at Compton Bay at the end of the VW Drive Out. “We had a great response to the Drive Out last year, and we’re hoping for even more vehicles to take part in 2012. It’s a great opportunity to take your V-Dub out and about into the Isle of Wight’s beautiful countryside.”

Organisers of the event try to pack in as much as they can into the five days, with a Caribbean Christmas themed fancy dress party on Saturday evening, an explosive Pirate display, and a Caribbean Carnival through the site’s central ‘Electric Avenue’.

The event prides itself on being as family-friendly as possible and last year’s show featured an on-site beach to the delight of the children, and this year’s will be five times the size with 40 tons of sand on order. Adults can relax in the event’s ‘Dub Inn’ with a pint of Island Brewery’s special Dubweiser or Bugweiser ale, whilst keeping an eye on their kids playing in the sand. The event also offers a managed ‘Kids’ Zone’ with various pre-paid options on offer, plus Water Zorbing, Tree Climbing, and Hux the Isle of Wight’s top Magician.

The site also features a ladies’ hairstylist and gentlemen’s barber, Zumba workouts, Tai Chi classes and a Holistic Therapies area run by Relax Isle of Wight so event goers can pamper themselves to bits whilst soaking up the sun and the great VWs. Organisers have also enlisted ‘Showers on the Run’ to make sure there are steaming hot showers throughout the weekend.

Tickets for the event are on sale online from Red Funnel and Ticketline priced at just £25 for a weekend ticket including camping, and Isle of Wight ferry operators offer discounts on ferry travel for ticket holders travelling from the mainland.

February 21st

The Isle of Wight’s first ever Volkswagen Enthusiasts’ event, V-Dub Island, have announced that the event would be returning in 2012, and will open its gates on Thursday 2^nd August and run all weekend until Monday 6^th August.

Organisers are looking to make the most of an extremely successful and well-received first year, and to establish the event as a permanent fixture of the Island’s events calendar.

A spokesman for V-Dub Island said, “After the success of the 2011 event I don’t think there was ever any doubt we’d be coming back to do another this year. The after-show response we had was overwhelming, and we’re looking to build on that success.”

Plans are afoot to develop the more successful elements of the event, which saw hundreds of Volkswagens in attendance at the trouble-free family-friendly show. “We were thrilled with the numbers who attended last year, with all types of Volkswagen well represented. We’d really like to reiterate that this is an event all about the vehicles and the people who love them, and all types of VW are very welcome.”

Tickets for the 2012 event are sale online from www.ticketline.co.uk and www.redfunnel.co.uk, and organisers are expecting a great response. “Getting on sale this early gives people more time to plan out their summer, and we’re going to be keeping the price the same as 2011 at just £25 for the whole weekend, with day tickets also available.”

“V-Dub Island 2012 is going to be another cracking event, with a whole load of petrolheads’ fantasies and all things VW. One of our music headliners is booked already, and there’s plenty more great entertainment to come. It’s a great value family weekend, so we look forward to seeing everyone there in August!”

Petr who lives in the Czech Republic was on holiday here on the Isle of Wight when he caught this magical moment from Sandown beach. And the magic didn’t stop there  – since letting Petr know he has won our 2011 Snap & Win 1st prize  he emailed us the story behind the picture…

“What a pleasant surprise! Thank you very much for choosing my photograph. I captured the rainbow just a few moments before I proposed to my fiancée (now wife). So one could say that it was a double win moment!”

Well done Petr and we hope your return visit to the Island is just as eventful and you enjoy your day out shooting with our very own photographic genius, photographer Julian Winslow.

See our top 10 entries in the slideshow below.

No 1. Totally Local

Coming in top of the board is Ventnor Fish Haven for their stunning freshly caught and cooked totally seasonal fish and chips – or try their stunning crab and chips! Ventnor Fish Haven is a now iconic building in Ventnor located on the pier above the harbour, its New England facade home to a wet fish shop – selling freshly caught fish and shellfish daily – and also the take away where you can buy local sustainable fish that has literally just come straight off the fishing boats. Locals choice – the crab samosa and chips – yum.

No.2 – Traditional Classic

Wights Fish & Chip Shop in Ryde is a true British seaside classic – harking back to an era when people would want to eat their fish and chips in a restaurant rather than out of the paper! As well as beautifully cooked fish and chips, Wights has both a take away and a sit down restuarant and offers some lovely extras, like locally sourced burgers served with Isle of Wight Blue Cheese as well as a wine list!

No.3 – Away from the Water

So for freshly cooked fabulous crispy fish and chips, with no water in sight – Brothers fish and chip shop in Brading is a must visit.  Having won national Fish & Chip shop awards this humble chippy is renowned on the Island for its fayre – be ready to wait though for they are all freshly cooked!

No.4 – Wild Card

Though no technically fish and chips – this one just has to have a mention. The Crab Shed at Steephill Cove is just one of those fantastic local’s secrets that once discovered is never forgotten – yummy homemade crab pasties, made from the crab caught that morning in the cove. Heaven…

No.5 – New & Exclusive

Newly opened – Catch is a pop up Fish & Chip shop in Yarmouth. Located next to Yarmouth Institute, it offers the best locally caught freshly cooked seasonal fish, homemade local crab cakes, crab pasties and even the Savoy Hotel’s famous Lobster burger (Anton Edelmann – the Savoy’s former maître chef des cuisines is a keen Catch supporter). There is outside seating so you can eat it hot there and then, or take it home – maybe with a chilled bottle of Sauvignon from the sommelier chosen wine list. Perfect for everyone – especially all visiting yachties who fancy a hassle free supper onboard.

To win a Tiger Milk Feeding Experience at Isle of Wight Zoo (+ return Red Funnel ferry for car with 4 passengers) simply answer the following question correctly to be entered into our prize draw.

‘What is the name of Isle of Wight Zoo’s rare white Indian tiger?’

a) Zena

b) Zia

c) Diamond

d) Aysha

Email answers to competition@myisleofwight.com titled ‘By the Seaside’ along with your full name & address.

Prize, including return ferry crossing for a car with 4 passengers, consists of going behind the scenes at the Isle of Wight Zoo and feeding an adult tiger goats’ milk! Separated by just a single fence, you’ll use a large spray bottle and come unforgettably close to one of these amazing animals. The experience is non-contact, and last for approximately 20-30 minutes. The session must be booked in advance as there are only have a limited number of slots a week and is subject to availability.

See Terms and Conditions below.

Terms & Conditions

1. This competition is open to UK residents only excluding employees or agents of Red Funnel Group, ccubed or anyone professionally connected with the promotion and their immediate families.

2. Entrants must be over 12 years of age.

3. No purchase necessary.

4. The prize includes a free return vehicle ferry crossing for a car and up to 4 people from Southampton to East Cowes and a Tiger milk feeding experience at Isle of Wight Zoo (subject to availability).

5. The prize must be booked and taken by 02/10/2012.  Return ferry crossing must be completed by 02/10/2012. The booking of the winners experience with Isle of Wight Zoo is subject to availability.

6. Competition closes on 31/07/2012 and the winner will be notified by email by 07/08/2012.

7. Red Funnel reserve the right to alter or amend prizes at any stage.

8. Prizes are non-exchangeable, non-transferable, non-refundable and there is no cash alternative.

9. Red Funnel (myisleofwight.com) reserves the right to withdraw or amend this competition at anytime without notice.

10. The winner will be selected in August.

11. The winner may be required to participate in publicity.

12. The judge’s decision is final.

13. The promoter is Red Funnel Group (myisleofwight.com), 12 Bugle Street, Southampton, SO14 2JY.