School’s out! Your guide to summer on the Isle of Wight
Summer on the Isle of Wight has a laid-back, fun vibe that makes it the perfect place to unwind. The beaches are busy with families building sandcastles, people swimming in the sea, and others just soaking up the sun. There’s always something going on—whether it’s a carnival, a food market, or just a cozy pub garden buzzing with chatter. You can take scenic walks along the cliffs, hop on a bike and explore the countryside, or chill with an ice cream while watching the waves. It’s the kind of place where time slows down and everything feels a bit brighter.
With this in mind, now is the time to start planning your days out on the Isle of Wight. Whether it’s a short stay, a much long needed relaxing break, a fleeting visit for the day or a family adventure, the Island is ready to be explored and there is always something new to discover…
TAPNELL FARM PARK
Moo-Mania – Every Tuesday Night during the summer holidays
FARM – BARN – RAVE – REPEAT!
Get ready for an unforgettable summer experience as MOO-MANIA returns to Tapnell Farm Park by popular demand!
Every Tuesday evening during the summer holidays, join us for a fun-filled evening of family entertainment, all hosted by the fantastic AJ! Expect laughter, games, and plenty of surprises as AJ brings the farm to life with his unique blend of fun and energy. With more exciting details to follow, you can count on MOO-MANIA being the highlight of your summer! From 4pm in the Farm Park we’ll be getting hyped for a mash-up of festival fun! Join us in the event barn for dance competitions, games, magic shows, circus games, stilt walking, bubbles and the BIG BALLOON DROP! Included in Summer Season Pass and Farm Park Admission.
Barn, Boots and Beats – Every Thursday evening during the summer holidays
New Event for 2025! The Ultimate Family Barn Dance Experience
This summer, Tapnell Farm’s all-weather event barn transforms into a foot-stompin’, burger-flippin’, bull-ridin’ country spectacular. Get ready for BARN, BOOTS & BEATS – a high-octane evening of live music, full-throttle dancing, incredible food, street performers, and a wild ride on our RODEO BULL! It’s the most fun you can have on two feet (or hanging on for dear life with one hand). This is not just a barn dance – it’s a full-blown country showdown for the whole family!
Enjoy…
- Live Country Anthems from Honky Tonk Highway
- Mass Hoedown with The Long Island Stompers
- Live Street Entertainment All Night Long
- Rodeo Bull
- Legendary Burgers & Loaded Fries
Don’t miss your chance to experience the Island’s biggest weekly family bash.Pull on your boots. Turn up the beats. Devour the burgers! Included in Summer Season Pass and Farm Park Admission.
MONKEY HAVEN
Monkey Haven is a special sanctuary located on the Isle of Wight, dedicated to rescuing and caring for primates in need. It provides a safe, loving environment for monkeys and other animals who have been mistreated, retired from the pet trade, or saved from neglect. Visitors can learn about the different species, such as gibbons, marmosets, and macaques, and hear their incredible stories of survival and recovery. The sanctuary also focuses on education and conservation, helping raise awareness about the challenges these animals face in the wild. Monkey Haven is not just a rescue centre – it’s a place of hope, healing, and compassion for animals and people alike.
WILDHEART ANIMAL SANCTUARY
Wildheart Animal Sanctuary‘s commitment to conservation extends far beyond its grounds. It contributes to European breeding programmes and supports field projects in India for tiger conservation and in Madagascar for endangered primates. Recent rescues include two rescued brown bear brothers, Benji and Balu, brought from Azerbaijan in early 2025, and rescued tigers Softi and Toph, who arrived in April 2023 after enduring severe hardship. This is an all-family attraction, with a café, plenty of seating and playground for your little ones. They also offer special events throughout the summer months including Summer Sunrise Breakfasts and Twilight Safaris – pre-booking is essential.
WEST WIGHT ALPACAS AND LLAMAS
West Wight Alpacas & Llamas is a charming family-run farm nestled in the peaceful countryside of Wellow in the West side of the Island. Founded in 2010 by Neil and Michelle Payne, this 23-acre site initially focused on breeding rare natural-coloured Suri alpacas before evolving into a welcoming visitor attraction featuring around 100 alpacas and 23 llamas, alongside donkeys, goats, pigs, sheep, rabbits, and more. Open daily 10am – 5pm. With an on-site café and Alpaca inspired gifts in their idyllic gift shop, this is not to be missed on your visit to the Isle of Wight.
BLACKGANG CHINE
Blackgang Chine, perched dramatically on the cliffs near Ventnor on the Isle of Wight, is the UK’s oldest amusement park—opened in 1843—and today delights families with imaginative, themed worlds such as Pirate Cove, Fairyland, Cowboy Town and the dinosaur‑filled “Restricted Area 5”. Set within beautifully landscaped cliff‑top gardens, it offers a thrilling mix of attractions from the high‑adrenaline 18m “Extinction” pendulum swing and drop‑tower “Evolution,” to nostalgic walkthroughs like the crooked house and Hall of Constant coastal erosion has reshaped the original chine ravine, but that only adds to its whimsical charm – complete with a giant whale skeleton displayed since Victorian times. Whether chasing dinos, duelling as pirates, or exploring fairy realms, Blackgang Chine is a magical, multi‑generational adventure set against stunning sea‑views.
Join them this summer for a party that you will never forget… full of foam, fireworks and fun! On selected nights only during the summer – follow their socials to find out more or visit their website.
ROBIN HILL
Robin Hill Country Park is a delightful 88‑acre adventure and nature haven nestled in Downend, just outside Newport on the Isle of Wight. Originally opened in 1971 and recently revitalised under new ownership, it blends invigorating family attractions – like the treetop Canopy Skywalk, toboggan run, mini diggers, indoor ice rink, electric boat safari, and falconry displays, with tranquil woodland gardens, ornamental ponds, pathways and sculptural features. Set amid an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, it offers a perfect fusion of adrenaline‑pumping fun and peaceful, scenic strolls for all ages. There are various stand alone events throughout the summer – keep an eye on their socials for more information.
Tuesday 29th July 2025 6:30PM – Thursday 28th August 2025 8:30PM
Get ready for heart-pounding thrills, jaw-dropping acrobatics, and fire-fuelled fun like you’ve never seen before!
Catch the action every Tuesday & Thursday this August — PLUS bonus shows!
Two epic performances each day: 6:30PM & 8:30PM
SNACKS AND LADDERS
Snacks and Ladders combines the nostalgic charm of the traditional game with a modern dining experience – where players might encounter tasty treats instead of slippery snakes and climb toward prizes or activities instead of just a finish line. Whether as a café name or a themed party, “Snacks and Ladders” brings together food, fun, and friendly competition, making it a delightful concept for all ages. This is certainly fun for the whole family – whatever the weather!
THE NEEDLES: LANDMARK ATTRACTION
The Needles is the iconic natural landmark at the western tip of the Isle of Wight—a dramatic row of three steep, chalk sea stacks crowned by the red-and-white Needles Lighthouse, perched just off Alum Bay. Formed by intense folding and coastal erosion, the original fourth “needle” collapsed in a storm in 1764, yet the memorable name endured. Today, it’s more than a scenic wonder—visitors can glide down the cliffs via a chairlift, dive into family fun at the Landmark Attraction (with a 4D cinema, glass-blowing, sweet-making, adventure golf, dinosaur safari, carousel and more), stroll through the historic Old and New Batteries, and take boat trips that weave around the stacks and lighthouse. For sweeping coastal walks, Tennyson Down offers breathtaking panoramic views and a chance to explore military and rocket-testing heritage. The Needles blends striking natural geology, rich history, and lively attractions – making it a must-see destination for all ages.
SANDHAM GARDENS
Nestled along Sandown’s golden shoreline, Sandham Gardens is a beloved Isle of Wight family destination that combines picturesque seaside gardens with thrilling outdoor attractions. A free-to-enter green space, it sits opposite what Countryfile Magazine has hailed as the UK’s best beach, offering scenic lawns, playgrounds, and stunning sea views. Adventure awaits with Skynets – The Big Bounce, a massive suspended net playground complete with slides and treehouse; Sandham Karts, a 150m electric go-kart track; and Dino Islands Adventure Golf, a prehistoric-themed 18-hole course featuring roaring life-size dinosaurs, volcanoes, bridges and waterfalls. When hunger strikes, the beachfront Ice Cream Shack serves up refreshments overlooking the bay. With ample parking, nearby bus services, free garden access, and Isle of Wight residents enjoying a 20 % discount on attractions, Sandham Gardens offers a joyous blend of relaxation and excitement for all ages.
CARISBROOKE CASTLE
Carisbrooke Castle, perched on a hill in Newport on the Isle of Wight, is a historic fortress with origins dating back to Roman times. The current structure began as a Norman motte-and-bailey castle in the 11th century and was later expanded and fortified during the Hundred Years’ War. Notably, it served as the imprisonment site for King Charles I during the English Civil War in 1647–1648, where he made two unsuccessful escape attempts. In the 19th century, Princess Beatrice, Queen Victoria’s youngest daughter, became governor of the Isle of Wight and resided at the castle during the summer months. She initiated significant restorations, including the creation of the Carisbrooke Castle Museum in 1898, which houses over 37,000 items related to the Island’s history. Today, visitors can explore the castle’s medieval architecture, the Princess Beatrice Garden, and meet the famous Carisbrooke donkeys who demonstrate the historic treadwheel used to raise water from the well.
Osborne House, located in East Cowes on the Isle of Wight, was constructed between 1845 and 1851 as a private retreat for Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. Designed by Prince Albert himself, in collaboration with architect Thomas Cubitt, the house was built in the style of an Italian Renaissance palazzo, reflecting the couple’s appreciation for the Bay of Naples. The estate, encompassing 800 acres, offered a serene escape from royal duties and became a cherished family home. Queen Victoria described it as her “little paradise,” and it remained central to royal life until her death there in 1901. Following her passing, the estate was bequeathed to the nation and has since been managed by English Heritage, offering visitors a glimpse into the private lives of the royal family through its preserved rooms and extensive grounds .
ISLE OF WIGHT STEAM RAILWAY
The Isle of Wight Steam Railway is a heritage railway offering a nostalgic journey through the island’s countryside. Operating on a 5½-mile track between Havenstreet and Smallbrook Junction, the railway features vintage steam locomotives and restored Victorian and Edwardian carriages. Visitors can explore the Train Story Discovery Centre, which showcases over 150 years of railway history, and enjoy attractions like the Falconry Bird of Prey Centre. The railway operates on select days from March to October, with special events such as steam galas and themed weekends. Check out the website below secure bookings and discover all of their events throughout the year – there really is something for everyone at Isle of Wight Steam Railway.
SOLENT CRUISES
Solent Cruises, a family-run business established in 1965, offers a range of boat trips, harbour tours, and private charters around the Isle of Wight and the Solent. Departing from terminals in Cowes, Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, and Gunwharf Quays, their fleet accommodates various group sizes, from the 75-passenger Jenny boats to the 500-passenger Wight Scene. Popular offerings include the “Two Ports Cruise,” which provides scenic views of the Isle of Wight coastline and Portsmouth Harbour, and the “Day Trip to Portsmouth,” allowing visitors to explore Gunwharf Quays and the Historic Dockyard. All vessels are available for private charter, suitable for events like corporate functions, weddings, and memorial services.
ISLAND RIDING CENTRE
Island Riding Centre, located in Newport on the Isle of Wight, is a premier equestrian facility offering a range of services and accommodations. Established in 2017, the centre features both indoor and outdoor riding arenas, a hacking track, and a purpose-built livery yard. It caters to riders of all ages and abilities, providing lessons, pony activities, and educational programs. The centre is also a Pony Club Centre, a member of the Association of British Riding Schools, and holds the RDA Accessibility Mark, ensuring inclusivity for disabled riders. Onsite amenities include self-catering cottages, glamping safari tents, a café, restaurant, children’s playground, and farm animals, making it an ideal destination for equestrian enthusiasts and families alike.
VENTNOR BOTANICAL GARDEN
Ventnor Botanic Garden, located in the unique microclimate of the Ventnor Undercliff on the Isle of Wight, is renowned for its impressive collection of over 30,000 rare and subtropical plants and trees. Spanning 22 acres, the garden showcases plantings based on geographical regions from around the globe, including Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Japan, and the Mediterranean. This sheltered location, protected from cold northerly winds by chalk downs and benefiting from a southerly aspect, results in temperatures approximately 5°C warmer than the rest of the UK, allowing for the cultivation of plants typically too tender for much of mainland Britain. Visitors can explore themed areas such as the Mediterranean Garden, Arid Garden, and the National Collection of Puya plants from the Andes. The garden also offers a Tropical House featuring giant Amazonian water lilies, a Heritage Centre with exhibitions on the site’s history as a former hospital, and a range of wellbeing classes and workshops. Open year-round, Ventnor Botanic Garden provides a tranquil and educational experience for nature enthusiasts and families alike.
DINOSAUR ISLE
Dinosaur Isle, located in Sandown on the Isle of Wight, is Britain’s first purpose-built dinosaur museum, designed in the shape of a giant pterosaur. Opened in 2001, the museum showcases over 1,000 fossils from the Island’s rich prehistoric past, including the most complete dinosaur skeleton found in the UK in the last century – Comptonatus chasei, discovered at Compton Bay. This is an all weather attraction and perfect for any jurassic enthusiast.
WEST WIGHT SPORTS CENTRE
West Wight Sports & Community Centre, based in Freshwater on the Isle of Wight, is a charity‑run hub that combines first-rate sports facilities with community wellbeing services. Its standout features include two pools (a 25 × 13 m deep pool with two diving boards – the Island’s deepest – and a smaller 12 × 4.75 m learner/hydrotherapy pool), a spacious 33 × 18 m sports hall with courts for badminton, basketball, pick leball, cricket nets and an indoor climbing wall, plus a modern gym stocked with resistance machines, free weights, TRX, and more. Beyond sport, the centre hosts fitness classes (from yoga to HIIT and Zumba), swimming lessons, youth football, sub‑aqua, archery, and supports local health groups and clubs. It also offers community amenities—meeting rooms, a café, kitchen, IT suite, hair salon, hydrotherapy and chiropractic services—serving both everyday users and private events. In short, West Wight Sports Centre is more than a leisure facility – it’s a community cornerstone that blends comprehensive fitness options with inclusive support, education, and social wellbeing. Summer holiday programme fun activities which spans over 5 weeks is available to view here.
AMAZON WORLD
Amazon World Zoo Park, located in Newchurch near Sandown on the Isle of Wight, is the Island’s largest exotic animal attraction. Established over three decades ago, it features a diverse collection of over 100 species, including South American natives like giant anteaters, capybaras, sloths, ocelots, and armadillos. The zoo offers immersive experiences such as walking with lemurs in the ‘Madagascar’ exhibit, feeding wallabies, and exploring rainforest-themed enclosures. Daily ‘Meet the Animal’ sessions provide opportunities to interact with rare and endangered species. In 2024, the zoo transitioned to a charitable trust, now known as the Amazon Rainforest Conservation Centre, focusing on conservation and education. Facilities include a café, gift shop, and the ‘Monkey Madness’ indoor play area, making it a family-friendly destination open year-round. Resident discount is available.
QUARR ABBEY
Quarr Abbey, located between Binstead and Fishbourne on the Isle of Wight, is a Benedictine monastery with a rich history and striking architecture. Founded in 1132 by Baldwin de Redvers, the abbey was a significant religious and agricultural centre until its dissolution in 1536. The medieval ruins, including Britain’s earliest documented gunports, are now protected as a Scheduled Monument. In the early 20th century, a French Benedictine community, exiled due to anti-religious laws, established a new abbey on the site. Designed by monk-architect Dom Paul Bellot, the church, completed in 1912, blends French, Byzantine, and Moorish styles and is considered one of the UK’s most important 20th-century religious buildings. Today, Quarr Abbey remains an active monastic community, offering visitors a peaceful retreat with gardens, a tea shop, farm shop, visitor centre, and art gallery. Say hello to the pigs and red squirrels – this is truly a very special place to ponder, relax and explore.
Do you want to know when a carnival is happening and where? Tap here to see our guide
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