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  1. Family-friendly attractions
  2. IOW attractions map
  3. Attractions for couples
  4. Getting there
  5. Dog-friendly places to visit on the Isle of Wight

Isle of Wight

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  2. Things to do on the Isle of Wight

  3. Attractions on the Isle of Wight

Places to visit on the Isle of Wight

From historic buildings, laden with stories from yesteryear, to natural wonders dotted across its stunning coastline, the Isle of Wight is full of places to visit and things to do.

The Island has loads of tourist attractions that remain open throughout the year, while some can be more seasonal, so do make sure to check out opening times before you head anywhere.

Book your Isle of Wight ferry

Family-friendly attractions

Taking the family on a well-earned holiday on the Isle of Wight? Keeping the kids entertained will be top of your priority list – fortunately, you’ll never be stuck for something to do on the Island.

If the younger ones love animals, there are a wealth of wild places to visit, including zoos and sanctuaries – many open all year round. For the kids seeking some thrills, you’ll find theme parks, aqua parks and even farm parks that are full of rides that will get the heart pumping.

See some of our favourite IOW family-friendly attractions below.

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Family-friendly attractionsIOW attractions mapAttractions for couplesGetting thereDog-friendly places to visit on the Isle of Wight
A boy dressed as a cowboy outside a wooden shop at Blackgang Chine, Isle of Wight

Blackgang Chine

Let your imagination run wild as you venture on a journey of discovery at Blackgang Chine. Located on the south coast of the Island, the UK’s oldest theme park is a fantastic day out for the whole family.

Explore Blackgang Chine
Lemur at Amazon World Zoo Park attraction

Amazon World Zoo Park

Get up and close with some of the world’s most exotic animals at Amazon World Zoo Park. The park is home to everything from toucans to tamarins, with a café and kids’ play area to boot.

Explore Amazon World
Children on ride at Tapnell Farm

Tapnell Farm Park

Tapnell Farm – one of the only places where you can meet meerkats, fly down a zip wire and race go karts all in one day. It’s a perfect family day away, with a delicious on-site restaurant to keep your tummies full.

Explore Tapnell Farm

IOW attractions map

If you know where you’re going to be staying on the Isle of Wight, you might want to work out some of the closest attractions to your holiday home. Our interactive map, Wightlink Explorer, can help.

Move around the Island with your mouse, or thumbs if you’re on your phone, and find a variety of things to do across all corners of the Diamond Isle. Click on each point of interest to find out more and start building up your ultimate Isle of Wight itinerary.

Use attraction map

Attractions for couples

The Isle of Wight is perfect for a couples’ getaway with loads of unique places to stay, some of the best restaurants and pubs in the UK and romantic walks with beautiful coastal views.

And, if you’re looking to fill your break with things to do, you’re in luck. From a night of laughter at the theatre to cultural tours of historic landmarks, check out some of our favourite things to do for couples below.

Aerial of Osborne House, Isle of Wight

Osborne

Get a unique glimpse into the lives of Queen Victoria, Prince Albert and their nine children at Osborne House, where you can also see the charming Swiss Cottage playhouse, gardens and grounds.

Explore Osborne
Shanklin Theatre entrance at night

Shanklin Theatre

A year-round home to plays, pantomimes, comedy shows, ballet, operas, classical music and talks, Shanklin Theatre has played host to a host of well-known actors and comedians.

Explore Shanklin Theatre
Trees and plants against a blue sky at Ventnor Botanic Garden, Isle of Wight

Ventnor Botanic Garden

One of the great gardens of Britain, Ventnor Botanic Garden is home to a stunning selection of over 30,000 rare plants – a feat made possible thanks to the Island’s uniquely warm microclimate.

Explore Ventnor Botanic Garden

Getting there

We’re your link to the Isle of Wight, with three convenient routes connecting Hampshire with the Island. With sailing times from just 22 minutes, we can get you there in no time at all on one of our spacious, comfortable and well-equipped ferries.

Book your ferry
Victoria of Wight sails into Fishbourne

Dog-friendly places to visit on the Isle of Wight

Sometimes, you just can’t bear to leave your pooch behind. Luckily, on the Isle of Wight, you don’t have to worry about that as there’s dog-friendly attractions aplenty. See below for some of our favourite dog-friendly attractions, and also check out our dedicated doggy webpage for the lowdown on great dog-friendly places to stay, eat and play.

Steam train on Isle of Wight Steam Railway

Isle of Wight Steam Railway

A nostalgic trip back through time, the IOW Steam Railway takes you on a journey through five miles of beautiful, unspoiled countryside in elegantly-restored Victorian and Edwardian carriages. What’s more, you can take your dog along for the ride, too.

Explore Isle of Wight Steam Railway
Pleasure boat cruises past The Needles

The Needles Landmark Attraction

Usually the first thing many think of when it comes to the Island, it’s safe to say The Needles is one of the Isle of Wight’s top attractions – and it’s dog-friendly, too. With plenty to do at the Landmark Attraction, the Needles is more than just a beautiful sight.

Find out more about The Needles
An illuminated bridge and gorge at Shanklin Chine

Shanklin Chine

One of the Island’s most picturesque and tranquil places, Shanklin Chine is a perfect location to stretch your pooch’s legs. It’s open throughout the day but it’s a real treat at night, with garden illuminations lighting up the paths, walls and plants.

Explore Shanklin Chine