Solo travellers guide to the Isle of Wight

Small but perfectly formed, the Island has long been described as ‘England in Miniature’ and you certainly don’t need to go far on the Isle of Wight to see why. With our rugged cliffs, rolling hills and lush countryside, it’s the perfect place to explore. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re a history buff, thrill-seeker, foodie, rambler or more, the Island is just waiting to be discovered. And, because it’s so small, it’s safe for solo travellers, too.

So if you’re going solo on the Isle of Wight, take a look at our top 6 things to do…

1. Say YES to exploring the great outdoors 

With over 50% of the Isle of Wight designated as an Isle of Wight National Landscape and the whole Island being a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the best way to explore is most definitely on foot. Miles of unspoiled countryside with footpaths crisscrossing the length and breadth of the Island, plus a 68-mile-long coastal path offering breathtaking views whichever way you look, a good walk is never hard to find. 

If you’re up for a challenge, the Freshwater Bay to The Needles circular route has plenty of climbs to get the heart pumping. Taking around 4 hours to complete, start with the steepest slope up Tennyson Down before the relief of gentle hills and stunning panoramic views across the west of the Island.

Or if a shorter jaunt is more your thing, The Combley Great Wood route is a two-mile stroll over footpaths and bridleways through ancient woodland. Located close to Ryde, it’s an ideal route to enjoy before hopping on a bus and heading to the busy seaside town for more fun!

2. Say YES to dinosaur hunting

A fossil-hunters paradise, we aren’t known as the ‘Dinosaur Isle’ for nothing! The Island is home to many historical wonders for solo travellers to explore and dinosaur fans are particularly spoilt for choice as very few places elsewhere in Europe can boast the same density of fossils as right here on the Isle of Wight.

Over 25 species of dinosaur once roamed the Island and you can still find fossilised dinosaur footprints at low tide at Compton and Brook beaches to this day. To really immerse yourself, book a guided fossil tour and you might even find your very own prehistoric treasure. Visit 

Dinosaur Isle, Britain's first purpose-built dinosaur museum and visitor attraction, is a spectacularly shaped building reflecting a Pterosaur flying across the skies. Inside, the museum is home to over a thousand fossils, skeletal and flesh reconstructions, and animatronic dinosaurs. Open all year round, it uses lighting, artwork, sound, smells and animatronic technology to create a truly immersive and exhilarating experience.

3. Say YES to a taste of beach paradise

Surrounded by miles of unspoilt coastline, come rain or shine, our beaches are always open and you are sure to find the perfect beach for you - whether that’s a beach to try your hand at watersports, a beach to let the dog roam free or a quiet spot to soak up the Island sunshine, we have it all. 

Head to Freshwater Bay in the West Wight - whether it’s swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking or even coasteering that takes your fancy. At low tide, you can explore the caves or see what’s in the rockpools left behind. A great place to swim even at low tide, thanks to the natural sloping of the bay and the clear, deep waters. 

Compton Bay is known for its waves and is a popular hotspot with surfers, kiteboarders and other water sports enthusiasts, so, if you’re feeling adventurous, why not grab a board and give it a go?

Or, if it’s true relaxation you are after, then Steephill Cove is the ideal spot for laidback beach days. One of the Island’s best-kept secrets, there’s no road access to the cove, but you can walk following the coastal path from Ventnor down some steps and slopes before turning a corner and discovering the beautiful cove right ahead of you.

4. Say YES to getting the adrenaline pumping

Thrill-seekers, adventurists and activity lovers will find plenty to do on a solo trip to the Isle of Wight. 

If you fancy yourself as a bit of a daredevil, then try something different and don a harness and climb the heights to treetop with Goodleaf Tree Climbing in Ryde - the views from the top are truly spectacular. 

Enjoy exhilarating thrills with a rib ride around the iconic Needles. Hop aboard a Needles Pleasure Cruise for a 15-minute trip, taking you a little further into Scratchells Bay for that perfect photo opportunity on the south side of the lighthouse. From here you're able to see the coastline all the way down to St Catherine Point at the southernmost tip of the Isle of Wight.

If you’re looking for a different way to see the Island, hop on a bike and explore the 200 miles of bike tracks, byways and bridleways through some of the UK’s most beautiful countryside. Or push yourself to the limit and try the Round the Island cycle route. Popular with keen cyclists, the route covers 65 miles with plenty of hills to feel the burn!

5. Say YES to learning all about garlic at the Garlic Farm

Foodies can learn everything they’d ever want to know about garlic with a visit to the Garlic Farm. Located in the heart of the Island in Newchurch, surrounded by beautiful farmland in the Arreton Valley, here you can learn where garlic originates from, how to grow your own and, most importantly, how to cook it. You’ll also get the opportunity to taste a range of garlicky goodness, from chutneys to beer and even garlic ice cream!

Take a stroll around the farm and take in the varied flora and fauna. You’ll spot birds, farm animals, insects and wildflowers, as well as resident peacocks, chickens and the odd visit from a red squirrel!

6. Say YES to a shopping trip!

Escape the crowds and enjoy local shopping, Island food with sea views, and coastal walks at the iconic Isle of Wight Pearl, just off the Military Road. You can also take part their popular Pick-A-Pearl experience with the help of one of their knowledgeable pearl experts. There is also a cafe on site with some of the best sea views on the island - it’s ideal for solo travellers who want to mix relaxation with the great outdoors. Dogs are welcome throughout and beaches are just minutes away.

For more inspiration on things to do when ‘going solo’, check out our full list here.