Off the Park
Plenty to keep everyone busy

Steeped in history with 60 miles of stunning unspoilt scenery and attractions for all ages, the Isle of Wight has something for everyone. From historic sites to natural delights, music festivals and major national events, it is a unique holiday destination.

Firstly, Carisbrooke Castle, built in the 12th century is best known as the place where King Charles I was imprisoned: walk the castle walls or play bowls on the very green Charles used. Kids will love dressing up as Norman soldiers or Civil War troopers, and meeting the castle’s famous donkeys, while the grown-ups can take a stroll around the new Edwardian style Princess Beatrice Garden.

The English Heritage property Osborne House offers the chance to visit a royal seaside palace in the style of an Italian Renaissance palazzo. Built in the 19th century for Queen Victoria and Prince Albert you can take an intimate glimpse at the family’s life as you tour their private rooms. Go and explore some wildlife at Queen Victoria’s private beach or at the fashionable garden.

If you’re interested in more exotic animals Isle of Wight Zoo and Amazon World Zoo Park are both must-sees. Isle of Wight Zoo is home to Britain’s largest collection of tigers and at Amazon World you can come face to face with some of the world’s most unusual, beautiful and endangered creatures like sloths, anteaters, armadillos, crocodiles, ocelots, penguins and 200 different species of birds.

For more nature experience the Isle of Wight is crisscrossed by more than 500 miles of well-maintained and signposted footpaths. Winding through field and forest and round the coast, these footpaths give access to every corner of the Island – including many fascinating towns and villages. A pub lunch in one of the villages nearby makes for a perfect please-everybody excursion.