The George Hotel in Yarmouth in the West Wight is perfectly situated just moments from the ferry terminal and enjoys commanding sea views across the Solent. The hotel is a handsome 17^th townhouse nestled in the heart of the town, between Yarmouth castle and the pier. It’s a fine country house in feel and many of the seventeen bedrooms have superb sea views. During summer, you can dine al fresco on the lovely terrace, which runs right down to the water and the hotel’s private beach. Prices from £137 for a standard double.

Don’t Miss: supping on a jug of Pimms on the terrace

Best Activity: RIB ride around the Solent

Located just 40 yards from the beach, The Seaview Hotel is in the heart of the picturesque sailing village of Seaview on the north eastern side of the Island. A hotel since 1898, it’s regularly featured in the Good Hotel Guide and is an Alistair Sawday recommended Hotel. Aptly names ‘Seaview’ you get these full on with the rolling sea vistas.  The hotel offers twenty-eight bedrooms and suites each with their own unique style, design and finish, each with a touch of luxury and individuality. The hotel has a AA Rosette for food and has two restaurants to eat in. The original Victorian restaurant, the Clock Room, at the front of the building and at the centre is the larger contemporary Sunshine Restaurant. The food is locally sourced and the chef uses local fishermen to bring you the freshest catch from the sea. Prices from £145.

Don’t Miss: eggs Benedict for breakfast

Best Activity: Seaview Wildlife Encounter – exotic animals at your fingertips

Ever since The Little Gloster opened in Gurnard, just outside Cowes, the place has been abuzz. The reason why it’s a great place to stay in any one of the B&B’s three bedrooms is because you get to nosh on some excellent food in the restaurant below. There are sea views all around including from the bedrooms. Distinctly Scandinavian in feel, the huge open-plan, wood floored bar and dining room has sails strapped to the ceiling and lots of framed photographs and paintings of yachts and fish, many of which are for sale. Prices from £80 a double.

Don’t Miss: berry museli yoghurt breakfast

Best Activity: paddle boarding off Gurnard Beach

Tucked away on the Southern side of the Island, just outside Ventnor is the hidden gem of Steephill Cove. An unspoilt cove the locals like to keep to themselves. With no road down to the cove, just some steep steps and a handful of houses, fishermen’s boats and deck chairs, Steephill cove is a beautiful timeless classic. The Little Tamerisk is situated overlooking this wonderful secluded fishing cove and has 180 degree breath-taking sea views. Detached from the main house, set in its own garden and private sun deck, with breakfast served in your room, the Little Tamarisk is perfect for those seeking rustic charm. There’s plenty of peace and privacy, with the beach and water edge on hand. Prices from £90 a night.

Don’t Miss: the Steephill crab pasty

Best Activity: rock-pooling

myisleofwight favourite

For total escapism, staying in a yurt at the Priory Bay Hotel in Seaview, must be the most relaxing and luxurious way to ‘rough it’ glamping on the Island. Perched over a private sandy beach looking out through the trees at turquoise clear waters, as you lie in your yurt, all you can hear is the gentle roll of the waves as they meet the beach below. And never fear that you have to comprise on comforts by choosing a yurt – they are all fitted out just like a principal room in the hotel – including freestanding bath in your en suite. A short stroll up takes you to the hotel itself where you can indugle in a taster menu bearing all the tradmarks of head chef Olly Stephens experince gained at Noma – the food is all local, seasonal and often foraged and grown within the hotel’s 60 acre estate and beach. Or  a short stumble down from your yurt onto the beach and you’ll be at The Boathouse perfect for lunch or a relaxed supper (booking essential). Prices from £200.

Don’t Miss: The Priory Bay High Tea – Juniper and Cucumber sandwiches – yum.

Best Activity: Croquet on the lawn at the Priory Bay

From the minute you pass through the gate and wend your way up the drive past the verdant six hole golf course you feel your cares start to fade away. The Priory Hotel is the jewel in the Island’s crown offering chic yet relaxed accommodation, both in the hotel and onsite in the converted Tithe Barns and one of their three luxury yurts.

Set within 60 acres of woodlands and landscaped gardens, the Hotel is the self styled ‘Country House Hotel by the Sea’ and it certainly lives up to its own ego. The Hotel is a medley of beautifully restored and decorated buildings combining Tudor and Georgian architecture, while its grounds boast a golf course, private beach, tennis courts, croquet and outdoor swimming pool.

Guests may even arrive by helicopter if desired, with the required coordinates for the hotel’s helipad available to ensure safe arrival.

The hotel’s history is a long and prestigious one, built upon the site of a Monastery pre dating the Doomsday Book, the oldest surviving buildings at the Priory Bay Hotel date from about 1100, and are believed to have been part of the original Priory Farm. The imposing Tithe Barn, though now in ruin, was originally constructed in the 13th century and reconstructed in 1749.

On arrival you enter under a 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 Principal room with roll top free standing bath at the foot of the bed, 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.  The gastronomic experience has entered a whole new phase with the arrival of Head Chef Olly Stephens in 2012. Having completed his apprenticeship at the Priory Bay, Olly returns to the hotel hot from 9 years globe trotting at some of the worlds best restaurants from the Michelin starred restaurants Roussillon in London, and Hotel de Crillon in Paris and most recently at 2 starred Noma in Copenhagen.

For a formal dining experience, the Regency-muralled Island Room showcases Head Chef Olly’s talents with an exciting and innovative tasting menu.

Or try the more relaxed brasserie-style Priory Oyster, which specialises in fresh fish and seafood – eat in or move out through the restaurant’s French windows  onto the terrace. On a sunny eve you can creep out onto the terrace and enjoy an aperitif while looking out to sea, or on those hot summer nights, why not explore the grounds and slope off down to the private beach with a bottle of something chilled to watch the sunset?

Whether popping in for a light lunch alfresco on the terrace, grabbing a delicious sandwich or opting for the full tasting menu experience all the dishes are well conceived and beautifully balanced. A myisleofwight favourite is the Priory High Tea – but substitute the champagne with a Hendrix Gin to accompany the cucumber and juniper sandwiches – yum.

The Priory Bay is the essence of country house chic, having retained many of its original features, it is a place of huge personality. Whether playing croquet on the lawn, taking a dip in the pool or relaxing  in one of the drawing rooms, the ambience, coupled with the friendly and engaging staff, make you feel so at home you may never want to leave.

Recently, much to my chagrin I entered my fourth decade and it coincided with a visit to stay at the Priory Bay Hotel in Seaview. Now the Wife and I have been visiting there with the children for a number of years as part of our annual camp and glamp weekend away. But we have never stayed at the hotel and as we haven’t even visited for a few years, I was really surprised and delighted when we arrived at our accommodation for the night – a luxury yurt perched among the trees above the beach.

These pods of luxury were first introduced last year and are completely dismantled and stowed away each winter to keep them in tip top condition, right down to the thick carpets and free standing bath. They have proved immensely popular and I can totally understand why. The location is just about as perfect as you can get – short of camping on the beach. You sit and look out from your veranda over the beach at the turquoise waters and listen to the waves lapping the shore, gin and tonic in hand. Heaven.

The whole hotel has recently undergone some tlc and is looking totally refreshed for it. The wife and I had a fabulous evening, foraging for our supper on the beach with Head Chef Olly Stephens and then eating said forage as part of a really exciting tasting menu, matched with some interesting wines by sommelier James. More of that in my next blog tho – needless to say if you‘re into food it’s definitely worth a visit.

And if you are seeking a remote, private, tranquil, beautiful secret escape for romance, solitude, relaxation or even fun – then let this be your Mecca. You will not regret it.

If you come to the Island during the Walking Festival in May or the Walking Weekend in October you’re in for a treat, with over 270 walks to choose from in May and 60 more in October. More than 20,000 walkers descend onto the Island for the Walking Festival and there is something for everyone in the programme, from short strolls to an energetic 24 hour circumnavigation of the Island. Or cover the entire Island over a three day period on a Beaches, Bars and Blisters walk around the coastal paths with local author David Yates.

A chalk ‘backbone’ of downland stretches almost unbroken across the Island, affording fantastic views for those who choose to walk it. Every year a sponsored ‘Walk the Wight’ follows this ridge from east to west with money raised going to the local Earl Mountbatten Hospice.

It is perhaps the westernmost section of the Island that is the most unspoilt in terms of scenery, and if you make your base in the south or the west of the Island there are many lovely walks between these points. The western coast is superb: rugged coastline that stretches from the majestic tumbling cliffs around Blackgang in the south to the monolithic white chalk Freshwater cliffs in the west. In between lie miles of sandy and pebble beaches, stewn with fossil finds. One of the best views on the Island must be from the Viewpoint car park at Blackgang, where you can see the entire stretch of the south west coast. Gently rolling fields sloping from the downland to the north, gently indented orange cliffs with blue bays that culminate in the bright white cliffs at Freshwater and the Needles in the far distance.

Stay a while…

Base yourself at the self catering cottages at Tennyson’s former home, The Farringford, in Freshwater Bay and you can walk the entire coastline if you wish or try Weston Manor, just up the road, which has superb B&B accommodation and is within easy reach of the Warren, another wonderful walk at to fully explore the western end of the Island.

Chale Bay Farm nestles near to the coastal path on the Island’s southern side, or you might like to take a room at the Enchanted Manor for romantic walks around St Catherine’s Point, the Isle of Wight’s southernmost point. Ventnor is just around the corner and boasts two top hotels in the Hambrough and The Royal Hotel, plus boutique B&B Ocean View for lofty views down to the bay. You can walk right to the top of Ventnor downs from the town if you’re feeling fit with footpaths taking you up and down this terraced town. The landslip towards Luccombe is a particularly lush walk to take in the summer time – walk along from Ventnor to Bonchurch beach and then up into the green canopy where you can find the ‘Devil’s Chimney and the ‘Wishing Seat’.

Over in the east of the Island looms Culver Cliff, another great walking destination, and beneath it the reclaimed Yar estuary is a RSPB reserve with a wealth of wildlife to discover. Bembridge Harbour and the sand dunes of the Duver are perfect for discovery on foot and for a luxurious base, with its own beach, The Priory Bay Hotel at St Helen’s is the perfect place to stay.

In May (18th & 19th) this year there is a weekend packed with cycling events to try from the Wight Riviera Ride and Beach-to-Beach ride for families, to the Wight Riviera Sportive and the Big Wight Enduro for the more hardened cyclist, or even the Isle of Wight Randonee, a 50km or 100km cycle ride.

The family orientated Wight Riviera Ride is a brilliant day’s cycling on the Island – and traffic free. The 25km circuit loops from the lovely Yarmouth Harbour front to the beach at Freshwater bay and back along peaceful country lanes, all on closed roads. So you and your family can peddle away with the roads just open to cyclists making an enjoyable and safe day out. For a fun, free ride the Beach-to-Beach is a lovely 5km cycle from Yarmouth to Freshwater Bay along the pretty causeway path.

For the more challenging cyclist try the Wight Riviera Sportive, which includes the 25km closed road known as the Avant Loop, and you can pick from 163km, 121km and 65km routes options.  From the outset there is a sense of excitement as everybody queues up for the start from the picturesque Yarmouth Harbour quay. The traffic free Avant Loop takes you past many iconic landmarks such as the Needles and through to picturesque Freshwater Bay before you climb up the coastal Military Road to Compton Down. You’ll pass some of the best sea views in the country.

For the mountain biking aficionado the Big Wight Enduro takes you on a tour of the Islands finest off road riding with anything from 25km to 90km routes. From the base in Yarmouth, you’ll climb up onto Afton Down and Brighstone Forest, before striking out into the heart of the Island and off the highest points in the south eastern corner.

The Isle of Wight Randonee is a yearly cycling event that takes place on the Sunday of the early May bank holiday weekend. It consists of two rides – a 100 km round the Island Route, and a 55 km Ride that covers the East side of the Isle of Wight. The largest event of its kind on the South Coast of England the race attracts around 1500 cyclists each year.

The Island has plenty of great places to stay, but if you’re looking for a great deal then the West Bay Club is perfectly located for the Wight Riviera events weekend. Just a few minutes from Yarmouth ferry and the event base, the West Bay Club is ideally located. It’s also offers much need relaxation and leisure in the spa, sauna and steam room after a hard day on the bike. There’s also an indoor heated swimming pool, gym, tennis, squash, badmington and an on-site physiotherapist for any aching limbs! Prices from £61.50 per person per night, includes ferry return for a car with up to 6 passengers and a bike wash and lube service.

The Orchards Holiday Park is another great place to stay if you fancy caravaning or camping.  A  five star park nestled into the West Wight countryside near to an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty with stunning panoramic views of the downs and glimpses of the Solent shores there is plenty to explore right on your doorstep .

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.

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.

Brighstone

Bang opposite the church where William Fox was curate is Seven, a restaurant and tearooms that has only four bed and breakfast rooms but was refurbished in 2008 to a high standard. You can look out of the windows and imagine William Fox rushing out of the church in the early 1800s to meet the fishermen and see what fossils they had found him that day. Grange Chine is walkable from here and many finds have been made on the beach, or you can travel up the coast towards Compton Bay, or down towards Atherfield.

Right on the cliff edge is Grange Chine Holidays that have four barn conversions, static caravans and a large campsite and a little further along the military road is Brighstone Holiday Centre where you can book a vintage style chalet or camp out under the stars.

Brook

Home of the dinosaur footprints that are uncovered at low tide at Hanover Point, Brook has a few self catering properties but the best are at Brook House that are in the wings of this old manor house and the coach house. You can walk down to Brook Beach from here and Compton is about another ten minute walk.

Compton

You can hire a holiday cottage at Compton Farm from the National Trust or opt for camping at Compton Farm. Not only will you be at the best beach on the Island but you’ll also be bound to find some fossils. You could even walk all the way from here to Atherfield at low tide.

Chale

A good place to base yourself for a foray up the south west coast is Chale and former dairy farm, Chale Bay Farm is set in 26 acres and has modern, purpose built guest rooms set around a relaxing courtyard with water garden, creating bespoke, luxury guesthouse accommodation.

Freshwater

Tennyon’s former home Farringford has holiday cottages in the grounds and this is an ideal place for a base to travel the south west coast in search of fossils. You can also find chalk fossils on the beach at Freshwater. The best cottages are Alfred Cottages, designed by the famous architect and visionary, Clough Williams-Ellis, which have vaulted ceilings and stone fireplaces with log burning stoves.

Sandown

The Ocean Hotel on the seafront at Sandown is the largest hotel in Sandown and arguably the one with the best view. The Kings Bar, which is only a short walk away, is in the building where Charles Darwin stayed when he was writing Origin of the Species. With palm trees and an outdoor pool, it’s only a short walk along the seawall to Yaverland, home of Dinosaur Isle and the Wealden beds that emerge in the cliffs here.

Yaverland

Fort Spinney has holiday bungalows that look out over the beach and Riviera Park has cottages and chalets on the cliffs above Yaverland beach.

Push the Boat Out

If you want to opt for luxury and seclusion you could book Rocklands Manor in St Lawrence just a short way from St Catherine’s Point and Rocken End.  Organise your own bespoke fossil walks with Martin Simpson and you could really impress your friends.

For these reasons it is also a good time to give your mind, body and soul an MOT – time out to refresh, renew and be ready for the winter months ahead. We have picked out a few of the best Isle of Wight  Mind, Body and Soul retreats for you to choose from this autumn, so feast your eyes on these.

Be Mindful…

Sylvia Clare and her husband David Hughes run residential courses in Mindfulness at their beautiful home Clatterford House in Carisbrooke. The Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) programme was devised by Jon Kabat-Zinn and it is taught as a straight course or can be adapted to suit your needs through guided walking activities, yoga and general discussions about what you are looking for and what is missing in your life.

This is a technique designed to let you live in the present, not regretting the past nor worrying about the future. “Mindfulness is based on being fully present in the moment, in the now and giving that all of your focus,” said Sylvia Clare. “Your power lies in this moment. Living mindfully means living in full awareness of your potential and requires an in depth honesty with yourself of your strengths and weaknesses.

“We teach people how to communicate with each other honestly in a loving way. It’s about moving away from things that are detrimental to you.” If you want a totally different way of looking at your life then this could be the course for you.

Meditate..

Want to learn a meditation technique that will change your life? Transcendental Meditation (TM) is taught by Will Trend at his cottage nestled in the southern slopes of Brading Down and retreats are planned in the future – residential courses at East Dene in Bonchurch have proved very popular in the past.

TM is a method of meditation which involves the silent use of a personal  mantra to release stress and experience higher more refined  states of consciousness. Will was taught by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi who influenced The Beatles and believes that its effect on health and wellbeing can be life changing. “People experience a deeper relaxation with Transcendental Meditation. It also  allows you to realise  your full potential and there’s no limit to what you can do,” he explained.

Will is now affiliated to the David Lynch Foundation with whom he has helped to arrange TM workshops in the ‘sacred woods’ at Bestival for the past two years. Many famous musicians have turned to Will in order to learn this simple technique, which only takes a few days to master and it does work, if you work it.

Be Spiritual…

Quarr Abbey offer spiritual retreats in their Guest House that has recently being modernised and contains ten rooms with eleven beds. Three of the rooms are en suite and one of them has full facilities for use by a disabled person with a wheelchair. You take meals, work and pray with the brothers on a daily basis and generally a spirit of silence and prayer is encouraged within the guest house.

You can tailor your retreat to your needs, working with the monks, praying with them and eating with them too, or just choose to do some of these activities. Priests are available for the Sacrament of Reconciliation and one of the community at the Abbey will be available if a guest just wants to talk for any reason whatever. If you need spiritual solace or a space to make a decision this could be ideal.

St Rhadagunds  is a Christian Holiday and Conference Centre in St Lawrence that first opened in 1934 as one of the Christian Endeavour Holiday Homes. It still has a Christian ethos but accepts guests from all denominations.

“St Rhadagunds has been a place where people meet with old friends, make new friends, gather as family groups, as church members and have even met that special person to share a life with. There are meetings of people of different denominations, nationalities, cultures and different ways of working out their Christian faith. Most of all, St Rhadagunds is a place to meet with God, and in His presence to rest, refresh and recharge,” says the website.

Try Yoga…

Carol Macartney practices Hatha yoga, having trained in Sivinanda and has been teaching yoga on the Island for quite a while now and she is one of the best. This year she has branched out and has begun to offer yoga retreats at the Garlic Farm, staying in their lovely cottages and converted barns and at Nettlecombe Farm in similar cosy accommodation.

Emma Spencer-Goodier is another very experienced and approachable yoga teacher who is offering a special retreat experience at Godshill Park Farm in November. Yoga will be at the old farmhouse, in the oak panelled hall with burning log fire. The yoga programme will take participants deeper in their asana, pranayama (breath work) and meditation.

Get Fit…

Wildfitness is a 3-day course held at Northcourt, a beautiful old English manor in Shorwell village. “It is the perfect place to lose yourself to nature and soak up the Wildfitness philosophy,” says the website.

Their action-packed programme includes fun, stress-busting activities that are taught at some of the Island’s most picturesque settings. There are skill sessions with their top coaches in the heart of the gardens at Northcourt and “imaginatively cooked meals using garden produce to give your body the healthy kick it needs.” The emphasis is on changing the way you live your life. “Most importantly, we believe you should feel inspired to continue your wild ways back home,” they say.

Keep Fit Bootcamps are held at Chilton Farm, near Brighstone, and are designed as “the ultimate in inclusive residential weight loss retreats, helping you focus on your goals and get the results you need,” according to their website. –  “Our professional instructors deliver a challenging programme designed to push you to a new level of fitness. Get fit and lose weight with an all round fitness programme, as well as a range of adventurous activities including paddle surfing, hill walking and cycling,” says the website. This one is clearly not for the fainthearted.

The Hambrough

Robert Thompson at the Hambrough Hotel is offering some great opportunities for finding your culinary feet this month. His new ‘Cooking With Robert’ courses will show you how to make delicious breads and produce a mouth-watering festive meal.

Cooking with Robert “A Festive menu!” will be held at The Pond Café on Sunday 16th December from 4pm. This will be Robert’s ideal festive meal demonstrated and then cooked for you to enjoy. If you like it, the recipe book will allow you to recreate the dishes on Christmas day. Cost for this course is £65 per person with a maximum of 20 people on the day.

After all the festivities have died down you might want to cheer up your New Year by joining the Hambrough’s Whisky Tasting with Whyte & Mackay on Wednesday 23rd January from 7pm.Whisky experts Whyte & Mackay will be showcasing Dalmore, the award winning Scottish single malt and you can experience an evening of whisky tastings accompanied by winter dishes by Robert Thompson for £85 per person.

The Priory Bay

The Priory Bay is offering special Gastronomic Weekends at their country house hotel near Bembridge. “Our passion is the finest Island produce whether foraged, farmed or fished,” they say.

Restaurant Manager James Trevaskis and Head Chef Oliver Stephens have both returned to the Isle of Wight to run the restaurant and kitchen at the Priory Bay Hotel.   James  has joined the Priory Bay from the Michelin starred Gauthier Soho in London and Oliver has previously worked in the London one Michelin-starred restaurant Roussillon, at the two-Michelin starred restaurant Les Ambassadeurs (Hotel de Crillon) in Paris and for the past two years at Noma in Copenhagen — voted the best restaurant in the world for the last three years.

Each weekend James and Oliver will arrange a tutored wine tasting, a cookery demonstration or foraging trip around the estate, depending on your preference. When you arrive on Friday you enjoy three carefully selected complimentary glasses of wine, chosen to match your menu choice. Then on Saturday you can enjoy the Chef’s Menu, a seven course taster menu, which is created on the day to reflect the best produce provided by our farmers, fishermen, foragers and gardeners.

On Sunday you can relax with a local hay-roasted joint before returning to the fray. Prices are from £580, based on two sharing for two nights, inclusive of the above and breakfast both mornings and you can even stay for free on the Sunday night. For more details and bookings please contact Reception on 01983 613146.

The Priory Bay’s popular monthly supper clubs have also returned – December’s Supper Club is on the 13^th and you get to feast on a seven course tasting menu, accompanied by a selection of organic and biodynamic wines. You don’t have to be a member of the club to attend – just call reception and book a place. January’s Supper Club is on 25^th January 2013.

And it was done in the most wonderful style, with everybody making a real effort with the period dress code and the atmosphere being definitely of another era. We weren’t quite sure which one, but that didn’t matter because everyone looked absolutely fabulous (darling).

Some had gone for a Victorian look, others were from the roaring twenties, there was a bit of wartime glamour and the ‘new look’ was also in vogue. There were more than a few dresses cut on the bias and quite a lot of gentlemen in military dress – Admirals were hob nobbing with Wing Commanders and Privates in a most inclusive fashion.

One party had opted for the fifties and had Poirot as chaperone. Two well-known writers were flapper and beau and I believe James Bond might have been spotted with a couple of blondes.

A vintage shop had popped up in the foyer and was full of lovely things – even Lily la Scala came to buy some pretty period shoes for her tiny little feet. But her voice was no small affair when she sang operatic and vintage numbers after Friday’s dinner.

On Saturday afternoon there was a vintage bus trip to the Classic Boat Museum in East Cowes and everyone who went there sang its praises. I visited back in the summer  and I can verify that it is the most wonderful vintage experience – make sure you manage to take a look at their lovely boats if you haven’t yet had the chance.

Saturday night was the real ‘dress up’ night with a special five course gala dinner that was simply divine. We were treated to a surprise visit from HRH Prince Charles who ahemed his way around the dining room with one arm behind his back – very funny. But he was not as hilarious as waiter Manuel (as in Faulty Towers) who appeared from the kitchen shortly after Charlie’s departure. And he had that rat with him, of course. The girls on our table laughed until they cried as that rat shot from his arm and onto their laps, and then proceeded to get lost under the table.

The chefs were summoned from the kitchen towards the end of the meal and given a wall of applause as they entered the room. William Bailey then gave an impromptu speech about his 20 or so years at the Royal – during which time the hotel has risen back up to the high standards it must have had when Queen Victoria visited for afternoon tea and the hotel gained its royal name.

After dinner everyone repaired to the conservatory for three short ‘radio’ plays set in the golden days of radio, courtesy of the comedy troupe Radio Soop, and to sup their coffee and liqueurs. It was all jolly super and really quite amusing and again they were in period dress – this time the 1940s.

All in all it was pretty perfect – the Royal really does know how to organise a good Revival. I really hope they continue to do so in the coming years. In these times of austerity it is good to see that a hotel has the courage to stage such an opulent occasion and that everyone attending went to so much trouble to dress up and have fun.

Arreton Manor

Arreton Manor has long been accepted locally as the most haunted house on the Island, even before it was written about in the Ghost Island books or became part of the pilgrimage for ghost hunters. Back in the seventies stories abounded of strange encounters in the car park by those parking in it late at night. Many people had heard of the ghost of a young girl haunting the house and there were those who swore blind that they’d heard her on a visit to Arreton Manor – and that she was once pushed out of an open window by her brother to her death.

Closed to the general public for many years, Arreton Manor is still open as an upmarket B&B, and is happy to offer accommodation to those who are looking for an exciting night of speculation or people who are died in the wool disbelievers and just want to stay in a beautiful building. ‘Most Haunted’ spent a night there not long ago and discovered quite a lot of paranormal activity.

Carisbrooke Castle

At Carisbrooke Castle there is an apartment within the castle walls that you can rent for a short holiday from English Heritage who own and maintain this site of historic interest for us. It is pretty spooky, according to those who work at the castle. For starters you are there alone after dark – there is no other human presence within the castle walls. You have the key to the main gate and the apartment and have to let yourself in.

Imagine arriving back after dark, maybe you’ve been for a pub supper somewhere on the Island, and you park up in the enormous car park outside and make your way gingerly to the austere crenelated and towered entranceway. Walking up the cobbled bridge over the moat, you spy the smaller door within the enormous old wooden gate and fumble for the key that was given to you by the English Heritage representative earlier that day when you arrived in daylight.

Now it is dark and foreboding, no lights illuminate your progression into the castle and once within the forbidding gate there is the dark courtyard to negotiate before you find the door to your holiday stay in the buildings beyond the donkey stables. Do you hear any noises? Is that the ghost of Charles I calling to you or just the moaning of the wind? Can you hear the sobbing of his daughter Elizabeth as she wanders the moat beneath the keep in the pouring rain? This is where she caught pneumonia and died within the castle walls only a year or so after her father’s ignominious beheading after his imprisonment here at the castle.

Union Inn, Cowes

Many pubs on the Island lay claim to ghostly visitations but it is the Union Inn in Cowes that is said to have the most active inhuman inhabitant. Some say it is the ghost of the tower-keeper’s wife who forgot to light the lamp one night.

Local legend has it that there was once a sea-light on a tower above the Union Inn to guide fisherman safely back to the harbour at night that the tower-keeper’s wife always kept it burning when her husband was at sea. But one stormy night she forgot to check the lamp and tragedy struck with her husband and several other fishermen being drowned.

It is said that her remorseful ghost continues to climb those stairs to the long-vanished tower to keep the lamp burning. This old story was handed down for generations – but there may be some truth in it, for the remains of a unique and ingenious system of glass lenses has been discovered at The Union. These ancient lenses were set into each floor so that a constant watch could be kept to ensure that the sea-light was still burning. (This story is taken from Ghost Island, the Island’s ‘official’ ghostly website and is in Isle of Wight Ghosts Book 4).

So these are just three options for a spooky stay this Halloween and you may have to book up soon to get a foot in the door. Make for a really spine chilling experience by taking one of the specially themed ghostly evening encounters across the Island before repairing to your bed and you really might be scared to death by the end of the night.

Ghost Walk organiser Marc Tuckey, pictured above in his Victorian costume, and ghost book writer Gay Baldwin make this claim on their website, which is the best place to check out all things ghostly on the Isle of Wight. You can also find out about Marc’s walks, Gay’s eight books and the special ‘overnighters’ that they organise at haunted venues.

The goriest ghost is perhaps that of Michael Morey, who was hanged for killing his grandson back in 1737. His corpse was left to rot on Downend gibbet at Gallows Hill near the Hare and Hounds pub until it became “an offence to eye and nostril”. You can follow the story on the walls of the pub and see the gibbet crossbeam. His restless spirit is said to roam Gallows Hill carrying a large axe.

Just down the road is Arreton Manor, reputedly haunted by a young girl who was pushed from a window to her death and who is seen in a blue dress crying ‘Mama, Mama’. Although the manor is not currently open to the public it does have bed and breakfast accommodation.

Other haunted places where you can stay are the Priory Bay Hotel, haunted by a sweet, gentle ghost; the spirit of a young girl and the pet dog she loved beyond the grave. Her beloved spaniel was stuffed and put in a glass case and the girl’s ghost is seen running down corridors, calling and sobbing, “What have you done with my dog?” according to Gay Balwin’s second ‘Ghost’s of the Isle of Wight’ book.

Also the fairy themed Enchanted Manor Hotel at Niton boasts the ghosts of a gentleman in Edwardian dress, mischievous ghost-boys and the ghost of Mrs Prendergast who keeps an eye on her old home. From here you can take a walk down to St Catherine’s lighthouse where a ghostly figure has been seen and photographed right at the top when nobody was on the premises.

Ventnor Botanic Gardens is said to be one of the most haunted places on the Isle of Wight, and is also the venue for one of Marc Tuckey’s evening Ghost Walks. Many tuberculosis sufferers died at the Old Royal National Hospital that once stood here and apparently the ghosts of some linger, weeping and groaning. There are smells of ether, sightings of a consumptive looking ghost and phantom nurses in old fashioned uniforms walk the gardens.

But the most haunted of locations is Knighton Gorges ( pronounced Kay-nighton by locals to avoid confusion with Niton on the Island’s south coast), and the house that once stood at this spot – local ghost hunters gather at midnight on New Year’s Eve to see the house reappear. People have also seen stone creatures appear on the weathered gateposts that are all that remain of the house, seen a coach and horses driving by, and heard laughter and music from the house.

The old manor house is the subject of Gay Baldwin’s book ‘Ghosts of Knighton Gorges’, and it is said to have “a blood-red history a testament to murder, suicide, insanity, malice, and a gallery of ghosts.”

The portal to all of these ghostly goings-on was opened back in 1977 when, as a young reporter at the County Press, Gay was asked to write a Christmas feature. As she lived near to Billingham Manor she decided to base her article on the ancient house that once boasted a visit from Charles I. Recounting the apparition of the King’s severed head, ‘shining with a phosphorescent glow’ had readers writing in to the paper with their own ghostly tales, and Gay and her colleague Ray Anker realised they probably had enough material to turn all of these stories into a book.

Marc Tuckey suggested making some of the stories into a guided walk and the first walk around Newport was so popular that he has extended his repertoire to five walks per week during the summer season, using Gay’s gathered stories as the basis for his spine tingling tales. Meanwhile Gay has published eight ghost books, and is working on her ninth, based on Island hospitals. Readers continually contact her with new sightings and visitors to the Island often see ghosts too.

Carisbrooke Castle, Osborne House, Appuldurcombe House, Fort Victoria, Brading Roman Villa and the Royal Yacht Squadron all have ghosts, along with many other locations, and there are even ghost ships seen out at sea.

Other haunted pubs include The Castle and Wheatsheaf Inns in Newport, which is part of the Newport Ghost Walk and The Dairyman’s Daughter at Arreton Barns where you can meet the resident ghosts in the area.

The Royal is one of the oldest hotels on the Isle of Wight and has the rare privilege of being one of only 30 hotels to be listed in every Michelin Guide since it was first published in 1911. It was built in 1832 when the once sleepy fishing village of Ventnor was catapulted into the height of fashion by the revelation that the sunny climate and sea air was good for your health, especially by Queen Victoria’s physician, Sir James Clarke, who extolled the health benefits especially for managing chest conditions.

So the stampede began and Ventnor’s population rose from a mere 800 to 5000 in a matter of years. Second homes here became so sought after that it was a common joke that property prices were akin to Mayfair.

The hotel’s most famous guest was undoubtedly Queen Victoria. Then known as The Ventnor Hotel, it was a favourite tea spot for the Queen who came to Ventnor to take in the air and visit her friend Sir John Hambrough, and this is how the hotel became able to use the ‘royal’ title.

The tradition of afternoon tea is still keenly observed and even includes a regal meringue swan in the patisserie selection. In the summer, tea is served on the terrace with its backdrop of picturesque climbing mountain geraniums. These pretty pink geraniums were originally planted in the 1960’s as a living memorial to those lost at war.

Every year the Head Gardener, Gary Steptoe, gives away cuttings to admiring guests and they even send him back pictures, “I’ve built up quite a collection of photographs. It seems that the Royal’s geraniums have ended up all over Britain!” he jokes.

The hotel’s history has had a natural ebb and flow. It was extended and refurbished in the1880’s but shortly afterward the owner, James Beale went bankrupt. Later it was bought by Hubert Cloots who built a grand new saloon and to the talk of the town, installed a telephone in 1896.

At its height Ventnor was frequented by crowned heads, aristocracy and the rich elite of Europe but by the advent of the Great War its star was beginning to fade. The Royal too began a slow and steady period of decline.

By the 1960’s holidays abroad had become an affordable alternative and in 1966 the railway link, once the main transport artery to the town was finally lost. This had a significant impact on Ventnor’s fortunes and in 1982 The Royal closed her doors for the winter – the first time she had been officially shut for 150 years.

However in 1994 a passionate hotelier by the name of William Bailey bought The Royal from Trust House Forte and once again life for the hotel was about to change for the better. The Bailey Family have been running highly successful hotels on the Island since 1948; in fact William and his sisters were all born in hotel rooms!

Turning The Royal Hotel’s fortunes around was to be a major challenge but William, an accomplished aerobatic pilot, racing car driver and extreme climber, was determined to breathe new life into the business. Slowly he began the lengthy process of restoration and was rewarded when The Royal was the first hotel on the Island to be awarded Four AA Stars.

The Royal is synonymous with excellent food. Head Chef, Alan Staley, trained under Anton Edelmann at The Savoy, was equally determined to put The Royal on the culinary map. Soon after his appointment the hotel gained Two AA Rosettes for outstanding food – an award which has now been held consistently over the past 16 years. Today the seasonal modern British menu features local and artisan sourced produce including their signature dish of Isle of Wight Gallybagger cheese soufflé with cauliflower velouté.

William considers himself to be the custodian of this grand landmark building. Together with his sister and creative director, Annie Dawes, they have undertaken a substantial programme of refurbishments. The most recent addition to the hotel is the Riviera Terrace where in the summer guests can enjoy a wonderful al fresco lunch against the backdrop of spectacular views across Ventnor Bay and the unspoilt English Channel.

Inside the hotel there are four more dining destinations: the elegant Appuldurcombe Restaurant with its huge oil paintings and attractive chandeliers in a gold and blue theme; the airy conservatory inside the front atrium; the comfortable bar area where there is a huge log fire in the winter and in the summer you can dine on the Terrace outside the bar, overlooking the swimming pool. You can even jump in after dining if you wish.

The 53 Premier, Deluxe, Family and Classic bedrooms are bang up to date in their styling, yet with the traditional touches that you might associate with a hotel of this age. The tone is English country house with a contemporary twist using silks, rich velvets and elegant toile de jouy fabrics – with the emphasis on detail, luxury and comfort. Each room has a flat screen television and direct dial telephone to help you relax or work with ease.  Bathrooms are well appointed and many of the principal bedrooms have inspiring views over the pretty front garden or, from the higher floors, Ventnor Bay.

Last year the owners decided to celebrate 100 years of the Michelin Guide, and their inclusion in it, by hosting a very stylish ‘Royal Revival’ weekend in a vintage style and this year they will repeat this popular vintage styled weekend on October 5^th and 6^th 2012.

More recently The Royal continues to be a fashionable destination for discerning travellers and the occasional king of rock* and it is often host to some of the headlining acts at the IW Pop Festival and the Bestival. It is undoubtably one, if not the top hotel on the Isle of Wight at the current time and service is second to none.

(*Led Zeppelin’s Robert Plant!)

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.

 1. Shepherds Hut, Godshill

‘Shepherds Hut by Secret Pond’ is surrounded by trees and is the epitome of seclusion, so ideal for couples seeking total privacy. The built in bed is 4’6” wide and 6’3” long and there’s a small wood-burning stove to add to the romance. The price includes breakfast in the hall at the farmhouse. The shower and utility rooms are in the stable block just 500 yards away, while the organic compost toilet is adjacent to the hut. The owners are placing squirrel feeders at the site to encourage the red squirrels (which are abundant on the farm) to frolic there. The picturesque lake is packed with roach and carp so any anglers staying will have a field day. Apparently, nobody has fished here for at least eight years, so the fish are in really good condition!

2. The Treehouse, Whippingham

Into the woods, this is a truly wonderful holiday retreat, high up in the trees and perfect for adventurous families, romantic couples or a quirky treat for groups of friends. The beautiful timber clad Treehouse sits in its own private paddock and is incredibly peaceful. You’re right in the heart of nature. Opened since May 2012 the spec has been built to very high standards. The Treehouse can sleep 6 and is divided into 2 separate pods – the Living Pod and the Sleeping Pod and joined by smart decking. The Living pod comprises one lovely timber clad room with kitchen area, dining table and benches, and sofa – and is heated with a cosy log-burning stove. French doors lead out onto a sunny decking area for al fresco eating and relaxing over the tree tops. The Sleeping pod has two bedrooms and a bathroom. The kitchen is full equipped and with green credentials as there is no dishwasher, microwave or washing machine. There are plenty of books, games, puzzles, and Wifi for entertainment. Look out for red squirrels, owls, rabbits, woodpeckers and much more wildlife.

3. Luxury Yurts Priory Bay Hotel, Seaview

The hotel’s magical setting above the picturesque Priory Bay beach offers all those staying a close up and personal experience of nature as the site makes the very best of the surrounding natural environment.  Each luxury yurt is 20 feet in diameter and every one has been specially designed in it’s own plot. Furnished individually by a different designer the common theme here is high-end accessories and total comfort. Stylish stable door with French windows open out onto a secluded terrace with spectacular views – where you can enjoy lazing amongst dappled trees in their own private glade. An en-suite bathroom with overhead shower or roll top bath caps it all. You can also enjoy the hotel’s other facilities and a full English breakfast in the dining room or just lie back and enjoy your own unique Yurt Butler Service that comes as standard with each yurt. What more could you want…

4. The Scout Hall, Chale

Everything the owners, Helen and Frazer (aka Vintage Vacations) touch turns to gold. The couple with the Midas touch buy quirky buildings and add their super vintage retro glamour styling into the mix. Their new addition, a renovated 1930s Scout Hall ticks all the boxes. With amazing sea views over to the Needles, it has 4 beds but can sleep 8 and Helen has renovated this in an upside down style so the living area is on the first floor along with a galley style ships kitchen. The couple’s flair for interiors is used again with their usual eclectic mix of post-modern furnishings with a hefty dose of retro kitsch and a splash of humour. The tariff is the same as The Mission and although The Scout Hut has only just been listed there are only 2 weeks still available for the summer.

5. The Bowling Green Apartment, Carisbrooke Castle

As a former service block for resident gentry of the day, this renovated apartment now sleeps four in contemporary comfort. At dusk you can walk along the ramparts and let your imagination go back in time to King Charles 1^st who was imprisoned here just before his trial. A more recent royal occupant was Princess Beatrice, daughter of Queen Victoria, whose private garden is now a charming and peaceful retreat in keeping with its original 1913 layout.  Once the gates close to the public, no-one else stays within the castle walls – even the resident donkeys move out to a nearby field. The apartment sleeps 4 and is very high spec and fully equipped all 21^st century modern gadgetry.

PGL adventure holidays and summer camps are unbeatable when it comes to kids telling their parents they’ve enjoyed the best thrills, challenges and adventures – all rolled into one holiday, and all sans parents. It’s liberating not only for them, but for you too. They get to make loads more friends, develop wide-ranging interests and expand their skills base making everyone feel more confident. Meanwhile, you get to do exactly what you’ve always wanted, when you want, but never knew how.

Set in 48 acres of beautiful woodland located on the banks of Wootton Creek, with its log cabin accommodation it would be easy to confuse the Island’s PGL holiday base Little Canada with the country it draws inspiration from. Aimed at 7-17 year olds, there is private access direct to the water and a multitude of exciting activities that await your little darlings, both on land and water.

At Little Canada there are 4 PGL holidays to choose from:  Mission Spy, Multi Activity, Pony Trekking and Wet & Wild. There’s also a fantastic range of activities including high and low ropes courses, abseiling towers, an archery range, giant swing and the creek for dragon boating and other watersports. The nearby beach is used for canoeing, kayaking and many of the activities on the Wet and Wild holiday. There are also two 10m climbing and abseiling walls, an indoor swimming pool, sports hall, tunnel trail and the mysterious matrix. If that doesn’t get the darlings screaming for more, nothing will.

Meanwhile, all you well deserving parents out there can luxuriate in any number of chic retreats. If you want full on hotel luxury with the added bonus of fine dining on tap then head to The Hamborough Hotel in Ventnor and its Michelin starred restaurant run by the highly praised young chef Robert Thompson. For Victorian grandeur and grandiose dining, The Royal Hotel in Ventnor ticks all the pampering boxes with its attention to detail in everything. The Priory Bay Hotel in Seaview has just opened its luxury yurts, which have all been individually designed in beautiful woodland where every effort is made to make guests unwind is true style. You can take advantage of the hotel’s restaurant a short stroll away or just relax and make use of the excellent dedicated butler service on offer! Set within 5 acres, Hillside outside Ventnor is a charming 18th century Grade II listed country house with panoramic sea views and an excellent restaurant to boot offering delicious food for breakfast, lunch and dinner (3 courses only £28).

So go on, give yourself that guilt-free break and the kids an action-filled holiday to remember – they’ll thank you for it. We’ve showed you how and where, so all you need to do is go for it.

Whatever type of happy camper you are there is a campsite to suit here on the Isle of Wight, so we’ve pulled together our definitive guide to camping grounds on the Island. To help you find the perfect campsite for you, we’ve put them under handy headings, but some sites tick more than one box – and many tick them all!

Near the Beach

Along the west coast of the Island are some of the most beautiful beaches. Chine Farm campsite above Atherfield Beach’s is on top of the cliff and the beach is pebbly but breath-taking, but there’s a steep walk down and watch out for the undertow offshore. Grange Farm on the top of the cliff at Brighstone has a sand/pebble mix and another steep slope and has a good kids’ playground. Brighstone Holiday Centre shares this beach and has a great indoor pool and cute vintage chalets. Just a little further along the coast and sheltered below the downs is Compton Farm where there are many steps down to the beach but this is one of the best beaches on the Island.

Whitecliff Bay Holiday Centre sits above Whitecliff Bay with an access road down to the shore. The beach is public but there is no public parking, meaning it tends to be used more or less exclusively by locals and those at the nearby holiday centres.

Great Activities

Thorness Bay Holiday Centre has loads going on for both kids and adults with a full evening entertainment programme, kids clubs, a big heated indoor pool, which has arranged activities, large adventure playground and sports and water resorts activities.

Lower Hyde Holiday Park and Languard Holiday Park, which are nextdoor to each other in Shanklin are both Park Resorts like Thorness Bay (and Whitecliff Bay in our beach section) and because of this they have an amazing entertainment schedule. Languard has an indoor pool complex and heated outdoor pool and Lower Hyde has an outdoor pool, all weather courts and access to Languard’s facilities.

Nodes Point Holiday Park at St Helen’s is again a Park Resort with similar full entertainment programmeand they are only a very short walk from the Duver beach below the park.

Out in the Wilds

Stoats Farm is close to the westernmost point of the Isle of Wight beneath Tennyson Downs and is a great base for touring this undeveloped end of the Island by car, bike or on foot; with colour coded walks from the site. Heathfield Farm Camping Park is also to the west, on the outskirts of Freshwater village, and has been the winner of the prestigious David Bellamy Gold Award for conservation and has also achieved Green Island Gold Award status. The Orchards is further inland, in the pretty village of Newbridge, and has a fantastic new facilities centre and heated indoor and outdoor pools and far reaching views across the AONB countryside.

Southland Camping Park is a well laid out flat and tree-filled campsite in the Arreton Valley near to the pretty village of Newchurch, which has the good local pub The Pointer’s Inn and the lovely Garlic Farm just up the road. Further on towards Sandown is Adgestone Family Camping – which has rave reviews for its amenities and family friendly facilities.

Pondwell Campsite on the outskirts of Ryde is also close to the pretty village of Seaview and boasts its own pub, the Wishing Well and is within walking distance of the beach. Roebuck Camping and Caravan Park is also on the outskirts of Ryde down a quiet country lane and has a fishing lake. Whitefield Forest Touring Park to the south of Ryde has had rave reviews and is a quiet park that sits right in the middle of woods, with visiting red squirrels. Further towards the easternmost end of the Island, Carpenters Farm Campsite is in open countryside only half a mile from village of St. Helens.

Appuldurcombe Gardens Holiday Park is set on the former Appulducombe House estate in Wroxall with great walks from here and a good spot from which to discover Ventnor, the Undercliff and the south of the Wight.

Welcoming Dogs

Kite Hill Farm is above Wootton Creek and there are great dog walks from here around the nearby woods or down to the shore of the nearby Mill Pond. Waverley Park Holiday Centre is above East Cowes seafront with walks along the promenade and free running in the copse that fringes the beach.

Beaper Farm is deep in the countryside to the south of Ryde with woods and walks to explore with your pooch. Dogs on leads are welcome at Old Barn Touring Park at Apse Heath near Sandown and from your spacious pitch you can venture into the countryside on many walks surrounding the park. There are two camping areas at Ninham Country Holidays on either side of a wooded valley and miles of footpaths accessible directly from the site with your faithful friend.

Adults Only

Rosemary Vineyard only have a small camping area on a raised plot overlooking their vines and right next to the shop (with free wine tasting tours!) and café, but they do not allow any children under 14.

myisleofwight Wildcard

Vintage Vacations can set you up your own mini Jamboree consisting of their 1954 Airstream SAFARI, bell tent, scout tent/s and even a gypsy caravan at Brighstone Holiday Centre. Your camp will be styled by Vintage Vacations with crochet and pink flamingos galore! A scrummy Brighstone breakfast is included as is full use of all Brighstone Holiday Centre amenities.

Camping & Caravanning Club Sites

There are further campsites across the Island that are members of the Camping & Caravanning Club. Some are open to non members, but many are for CCC members only. Checkout their website for more details.

1. Hotel

Luccombe Manor Country House Hotel, Shanklin

The pulling power of this hotel is its family friendly ethos. Even the family dog is welcome here. No surprises then it scooped Certificate of Excellence 2012 Award from Trip Advisor.  Stunningly located in an elevated position on the cliff top boasting amazing sea views over Sandown Bay, the family run hotel has direct access to the sandy Shanklin beach below. Nothing beats chilling out in the outdoor hot tub with a glass of bubbly or perhaps a swim with the kids in the new heated outdoor pool. There’s a big beautiful lounge to unwind in and a huge games room with every game under the sun to enjoy as a family from darts and pool to scrabble. At Luccombe Manor you can also use the facilities of the adjacent sister hotel Luccombe Hall. Inside there’s a spa hot tub, sauna, games room, pool table, table tennis, squash court and basketball. There’s also 4 glorious acres of gardens to roam around in.

2. B&B

Weston Manor , Totland

The beauty about Weston Manor is that the Grade II listed building has been wonderfully converted and is centrally located to many top family attractions in West Wight – the Needles Park Alum Bay, Compton Beach, Blackgang Chine, the Tennyson Trail and miles of glorious countryside on your doorstep. The manor was built in 1871 and sits nestled at the foot of the downs with extensive views beyond to the Solent. The owners have flexible accommodation so double rooms can adjoin a room with single beds so all the family can be together but with separate rooms. Weston Manor has plenty of outdoor space and grounds to run around in.  You can also order a packed lunch to take out on your daily adventures. There’s even a private medieval chapel on site for those of you with any spare time for some reflective moments.

3. Self-Catering

Manor Farm Cottage, Wroxall

Awarded a 5 star rosette, it’s easy to see why Manor Farm is described as luxury. Everything has been thought of here for families as it is baby, toddler and child friendly. This beautiful stone cottage sleeps 6 and is situated at the end of a quiet lane in Wroxall village. There is a large garden, The Day Room Garden that has a safe play area so parents can really unwind. Kids really enjoy the double swing and slide combo and can spend hours bouncing in the 8ft trampoline with enclosure. The large lawn area is perfect for croquette or just mucking around – and at the end, there’s even a secret garden. The stylish interiors are joy to hang out in – there’s flat screen TV & DVD, a Bose I-pod docking system and open coal fire. The dining room can extend to 10 people if needs be plus there’s a small children’s table and chairs. A separate kids day room has its own TV, DVD, videos, children’s books, toys and games, so there’s no need to bring any clutter with you!

4. Camping

Adgestone Family Camping, Adgestone

The focus and attention to detail is on families here and thus the campsite was awarded 4 stars by the Tourist Board. For campers with children its always important to find clean amenity blocks with a high standard of fixtures and fittings – this particular one has a separate family shower room, perfect in case your brood happen to have fun frolicking in the mud! At Adgestone there are two play areas, one for younger children and an extensive area for older children including areas for football and basketball, plus table tennis, boules, outdoor chess and Giant Jenga. Cycle hire is available. The heated outdoor swimming pool (summer only) and children’s paddling pool can keep children entertained for hours. An on-site shop stocks all your basic food supplies. Wifi Hotspots are available and Sandown sandy beach close by too.

5.   My Isle of Wight Favourite

Glamping at Tom’s Eco Lodges, Tapnell

For those who prefer luxury camping, then Tom’s Eco Lodges are the perfect answer and a big favourite of ours. Set among a 400 acre working dairy farm, Tapnell Farm is situated at the foot of Tennyson Down in West Wight. These unique eco lodges sleep 6 and each have a wood burning stove, wooden floors, extremely comfy beds – and yes, your very own flushing toilet and private hot shower, not to mention all the other bits thrown in such as bed linen, cutlery and crockery, a BBQ and campfire. Staying here is a joy for families as kids can roam freely around the farm and picturesque woodland. Kids can get close-up with farm life from milking cows and feeding chickens, so it’s a family holiday with nature at its best.

1. Southland Camping Park, Newchurch

It’s off the beaten track, so you get complete peace and quiet. It’s also won just about every award in the book – including AA Best Campsite in Southern England, David Bellamy Gold Conservation Award, and the English Tourism Council’s 5 star ‘Excellent’ rating. It’s easy to see why. The whole site is immaculate – even out of season – and the facilities are superb. There are 120 pitches in total, all very generous in size with natural screenings with hedges and trees to give a sense of privacy. Touring caravans and motor homes are welcome and every pitch has an electric hook-up. The beaches of Sandown and Shanklin are three miles down the road.

2. Grange Farm, Brighstone Bay

For a small, rustic and family run affair, Grange Farm in West Wight has it all. Spectacularly situated in an envious coastal position off the Military Road, with far reaching views out to sea, it’s a truly glorious spot. Romantic camping couples through to families in caravans or retired couples in motor homes, everyone can enjoy the stunning views and sandy beach below. The coastline is unspoilt and families with very young children can stay on a campsite slightly further away from the cliff edge. The onsite shop stocks everything while the play area for young kids is great. If you like animals there’s plenty to see here from llamas and alpacas to goats, chickens, pigs and even water buffalo!

3. Ninham Holidays, Shanklin

Originally a flourishing farm, Ninham is nestled in a beautiful valley surrounded by mature woodland, situated just a few minutes drive from the glorious sandy beaches of Sandown and Shanklin. The landscaped paddocks offer very generously sized, level pitches and access is easy for vehicles of all types – including large campervans and American RVs. Both served and non-serviced pitches are available. The usual on site facilities are available including a heated swimming pool, a toddler’s pool, mountain bike hire and fishing.

4. Compton Farm, Compton Bay

Situated in a stunning location at the foot of the downs, Compton Farm dates back to 1086 and boasts stunning natural views from all around. Farmed by the Philips family since the 1920s, many of the returning campers have been coming since they were children. Compton Bay is a 10-minute walk below with its unspoilt sandy beach and great surf, while there are acres of down-land to explore from your tent and old-fashioned farmyard fun for the kids with old tractors to scramble on, while hens and ducks waddle around. It’s all very quiet and well off the main road. Binoculars, wetsuits and a boogie board are a must.

5. Whitefield Forest Touring Park, Ryde

One of the best Island campsites is hidden within Whitefield Forest, close to the sandy beaches of Ryde and Sandown. Created, owned and managed by just one family, Whitefield Forest Touring Park is unlike any other campsite on the Island. The owners purchased the land, then literally cleared swathes of forest, built new roads and landscaped the pitches to include much seclusion and privacy.  The impressive toilet and shower block are timber clad and blend in beautifully to the surrounding woodland. All the facilities are excellent. There’s a laundry room complete with tumble dryer and iron plus hair dryers too. An adventure play area for kids is also very popular.  No surprises it won South East Regional Winner 2011.