EASTER ON THE ISLE OF WIGHT

Head to Tapnell Farm Park from 28th March to 12th April and immerse yourself in all things Spring and Easter cuteness! Meet the farm’s new arrivals, with playful lames, curious calves, cheeky goat kids all waiting to meet you. There are plenty of activities to get stuck into too, with an Easter Farm Trail, wallaby feeding, Easter crafts and pottery painting and a special Easter Weekend Egg Hunt running 11 - 11:30am from Good Friday until Easter Monday. You’ll also get entry to the wider Farm Park and all-weather play area for a full day of Easter fun.

It wouldn’t be Easter without the thrill of an egg hunt, and the Isle of Wight Steam Railway have got you covered! Running Sunday 29th March to Sunday 12th April, the search is on across the station as part of the Great Railway Easter Hunt. Sleuth for giant egg clues around the railway to earn a chocolate reward, and top off your experience with a billowing steam train ride offering excellent views of bluebell carpeted forest floors. Other popular attractions offering an Easter egg hunt include Brading Roman Villa, Mottistone Gardens, Wildheart Animal Sanctuary and an Easter Egg Dash at Robin Hill.

Stop by The Garlic Farm in Newchurch for some foodie family fun! Over the Easter Holidays, set off on a garlic journey around the farm, as you learn more about garlic’s rich and global appeal and enjoy time spent in the countryside. Pick up a trail pack for £4 at the shop and follow the pretty pathways around the land as you hunt for garlicky clues. Return to the shop once all your questions are answered to be rewarded with an Easter treat. A word of warning, the tracks around the farm can get muddy, so wellies are advised and the trail is not suitable for buggies and wheelchairs.

Embark on an Easter Quest at Osborne and Carisbrooke Castle between 28th March and 19th April. This fun filled adventure will take you in search of clues through the grounds of Queen Victoria’s beloved seaside retreat and around the battlements of the impressive castle – where King Charles I was once held prisoner! Quests run daily throughout the school holidays and cost £2 per child to take part (plus admission), with a sweet Easter reward at the end for all those who complete the challenge.

Between 29th March and 14th April, Monkey Haven are offering ‘Cracking Easter Activities’ for all the family, with daily egg hunts around the sanctuary and crafting in the Lodge. There’s also the opportunity to meet the animals, with daily keeper talks and feeds – your tickets to the sanctuary are valid for seven days too! The animal encounters don’t stop there, with lots to do at the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary this Spring. Expect leaves in bud and the long-eared residents out in the fields enjoying the sun on their backs, while their visitors hunt for colourful Easter Eggs around the farm to exchange for something sweet! There is also a ‘Decorate an egg competition’, with donkey designs much encouraged – the winning egg earning you the privilege of adopting the donkey of your choice.

Find your Easter sweet fix at one of the Island’s many incredible local and independent bakeries, where you can find everything from freshly-baked hot cross buns to Mini Egg cheesecakes. For extra indulgence head to BAKED by Jen in Cowes for rainbow-coloured desserts of dreams, featuring seasonal favourites such as Cadbury's Creme Egg, and so much more. 

Take advantage of the warmer weather by lacing up your walking shoes and setting out on a spring adventure. Follow winding walkways through ancient woodlands such as Borthwood Copse, Parkhurst Forest, or Newtown Nature Reserve to catch the first bloom of bluebells and daffodils, transforming once-wintry landscapes with vibrant pops of colour. You might even spot the resident red squirrels! Alternatively opt for a hilly hike up the coastal downs to be rewarded with stunning sea views - find route recommendations here.