solo travellers guide to the isle of wight
The ideal destination for solo travellers, the Isle of Wight offers relaxation, calm and a sense of freedom for intrepid adventurers.
Spanning just 23 miles east to west, and 13 miles north to south, it’s an easy place to explore on foot, by bike, bus or by car, with regular foot-passenger and vehicle ferries from Southampton and easy links to mainland rail and bus services.
Perfectly self-contained, the Isle of Wight offers the best of the UK’s varied landscape all in one place, with over 500 miles of footpaths and cycle ways, 25 beautiful beaches for sunbathing and water sports, historic homes and natural attractions a plenty and a plethora of friendly towns and villages to discover. Expect warm hospitality and exceptional foodie experiences wherever you go, with local producers specialising in garlic, cheese, gin and tomatoes for a real taste of the Island. From wild camping to cosy cottages, there’s a wide range of accommodation options to choose from, whether you’re looking for a little luxury, to immerse yourself in nature or simply curl up with a book by the sea.
Safe and welcoming, the Isle of Wight is an easy and enriching destination to explore alone, offering a wonderfully different and authentic experience.
✔️ One to tick off your solo travel bucket list.
Kickstart 2026 with relaxation and wellness on the Isle of Wight
Loaded with tranquil bays and breath-taking scenery (even in winter months) the Isle of Wight is a great place for much needed R&R all year round.
Wellness on the Isle of Wight
As well as being a playground for action and adventure, the Isle of Wight offers a relaxing retreat from the bustle of every day life, with an abundance of opportunities to nourish your mind, body and soul.
7 Spots to watch the Sunset
Wrapped in 70km of coastline and with rolling countryside downs, the Isle of Wight naturally boasts some scenic spots to watch the sun go down after a long day of exploration or relaxation.
Things to do in January
Turn those winter blues Wight in January, with a trip across the Solent to the beautiful Isle of Wight. Forget the hangover of Christmas - January marks the start of a brilliant new year, and we say start as you mean to go on!
Foodie delights you don't want to miss
In recent years the Isle of Wight’s foodie scene has created quite a stir! With the Island’s towns and villages remaining largely untouched by big brands and chains, a vibrant scene of over 400 independent cafés, restaurants, pubs and takeaways has evolved, each offering their own unique spin on tasty food and drink, and warm hospitality.
Isle of Wight Produce
The Isle of Wight has a vibrant and competitive food scene full of farms, fish markets, artisan bakers, local producers, craft breweries, lush vineyards, and award-winning restaurants.
Great Island Seafood
Surrounded by rich waters and 70km of coastline, it’s no surprise that the Isle of Wight is a dream destination for fresh seafood. From baskets brimming with mussels or traditional fish and chips, to Asian-inspired fine dining, the Island has so much to offer.
Taste of the Island in a day
Eat your way around the Isle of Wight on this whistlestop tour of our local producers, farm shops and kitchens. Making your way over on an early vehicle ferry from Southampton, you’ll arrive in East Cowes in just 1 hour ready to start your foodie adventure.
Isle of wight activities you have to try!
The Isle of Wight’s sunny, moderate climate makes it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts – cycling routes, hiking trails, and outdoor adventures abound. Try surfing or paddleboarding, watch for wildlife, or get the laps in go-karting.
Isle of Wight Experiences
No matter what time of year you arrive on the Isle of Wight, there are plenty of opportunities to step back in time and explore the Island’s rich heritage, incredible tales of the past and relive childhood Nostalgia.
Historic Island homes
From ancient manors and royal residences to towering castles and grand estates, you’ll find a plethora of grade listed buildings and historic homes to discover on the Isle of Wight.
Natural Attractions
The Isle of Wight boasts a fascinating history, and many interesting geological features. Millions of years in the making, discover iconic local landmarks to tick off your bucket list on the Isle of Wight.
Island Nostalgia
From buckets and spades on the beach to days out at the castle, the Isle of Wight radiates a comforting sense of nostalgia harking back to your first trip over on the ferry.
Queen Victoria and the Isle of Wight
Queen Victoria had a long affinity with the Isle of Wight, with her royal influence still evident today. From the Queen’s beautiful palace by the sea, to the home of her piano tuner, there are still many places associated with Queen Victoria to discover.
Museums & Galleries
With a huge wealth of history and creative talent, the Isle of Wight offers a multitude of museums and galleries dedicated to showcasing the Island’s arts and heritage.
places to stay
Book a room in a well-appointed Island hotel, curl up in a cosy cottage, or sleep under the stars during a camping adventure; there are plenty of places to stay on the Isle of Wight, that suit all travel styles and budgets.
Pubs with Rooms
Whether it’s a character pub just a stone’s throw from the sea, or an idyllic thatched inn nestled in the country, escape to one of our cosy pub rooms and feel right at home.
Isle of Wight Camping
For outdoor enthusiasts, camping is one of the best ways to enjoy the freedom of fresh air, nature, and the striking local scenery on the Isle of Wight.
Cosy Cottages
On the Isle of Wight, rolling green hills are interspersed with quaint villages and pockets of adventure… and of course, plenty of cosy, well-equipped cottages to serve as a comfortable home base as you explore the Island.
ITINERARIES TO TRY
Explore the wonderfully different Isle of Wight with our exciting Island itineraries! Whether you're an animal enthusiast or ready for a scenic road trip, there's so much to discover on this charming Island.