to add an item to your Itinerary basket.
Thanks to our fantastic transport links, you can ditch the car and head on over to the Isle of Wight either on two wheels or on foot. The Island’s network of cycle paths, footpaths and bridleways make it a top destination for exploring ‘engine-free’ or take advantage of the fantastic bus service, taking the time to appreciate the miles of unspoilt natural beauty the Island has to offer.
Many of the hotels, guesthouses and B&Bs across the Isle of Wight make it even easier for you to arrive on foot.
So, Say Yes to eco-friendly transport with our picks of places to stay when arriving car-free…
North Wight
Fancy a step back in time and a unique holiday? Nestled in quiet countryside on the outskirts of Ryde, stay in an iconic American airstream caravan, all decorated with a retro theme celebrating the time they were originally built. A larger family? Why not stop in the beautifully converted American school bus, recently arrived on the Island all the way from Texas! There are plenty of bridleways and footpaths around, plus the steam engine goes past on its way to Havenstreet.
The perfect spot for those arriving on the Island via the Red Jet, Firefly House welcomes walkers and cyclists to the heart of Cowes. Beautifully renovated whilst retaining its Victorian charm, the house has four bedrooms making it a great choice for families arriving on foot.
Hop off the Red Jet and walk straight up to the nearby Caledon Guest House in Cowes for a home-from-home visit. Public transport users will benefit from the conveniently placed bus stop right outside the house, and for those on two wheels, there is secure bike storage for up to 12 bikes.
Live like royalty with a stay at English Heritage’s Sovereigns Gate. Set in the grounds of Osborne, the holiday home of Queen Victoria, it’s the ideal spot for anyone arriving on the Red Funnel car ferry into East Cowes. Guests here can access the estate's private beach at any time, allowing you your own slice of paradise.
East Wight
Each of the apartments are within a minute or two's walk from a bus stop, and a short stroll from Shanklin railway station. All the apartments are based on the coastal path or the Worsley Trail, so each has direct access to the footpath network. You can find extensive details on their helpful website about all of the Island's attractions and how to get to them without a car, as well as full details on the footpaths and public transport.
The stylish Dove Court Apartments are an ideal base for foot passengers thanks to being within easy walking distance of both bus and train stations in Shanklin. Dove Court occupies a large corner plot and enjoys an open aspect in all directions, with views of the charming seaside town of Shanklin to the Downs.
Ideal for cyclists completing the ‘Round the Island’ route, The Pilot Boat Inn in Bembridge offers bike lockers, bike stands, pumps and puncture repair kits. It is also home to Wight Knuckle Brewery, one of the Island’s microbreweries, serving up pizza from local bakers at Hotbox Pizza.
Their five apartments sleep between two to four making them ideal for couples and families. Located in a peaceful location on a one-way road, it's a short three-minute walk to Shanklin bus station and just five minutes walk to Shanklin railway station - perfect if you are travelling on foot and a short walk from the many eateries available, as well as Shanklin Old Village, Shanklin Theatre, Shanklin Chine and the beautiful sandy beach. You are also within walking distance of the coastal paths.
Isle of Wight Campervan Holidays
You’ve arrived on foot, but actually, you want the convenience of driving around and seeing the sights of the Island at your own pace. Why not experience a classic VW Campervan and a self-drive holiday with Isle of Wight Campervan Holidays? Choose from a classic 1970s camper or a more modern T5.
A stay at the Miclaran Guest House will put you in the perfect position to enjoy leisurely strolls along the award-winning Sandown Bay. This eco-friendly accommodation is conveniently located just a short walk from both Lake and Shanklin rail stations. Find out more about The Miclaran.
This Bed and Breakfast accommodation is located just moments from the cliff path – perfect for enticing walkers to take in the stunning views and enjoy the sandy beach below. You won’t be far from the town centre and if you didn't bring your own, you can hire bikes from local business Routefifty7.
Situated opposite Shanklin Down, Lyon Court is ideally located for exploring the Isle of Wight by bus, bike or on foot, and you’ll be offered a free transfer from Shanklin rail station if you arrive by public transport. They also offer a discount available on bike hire from Route Fifty7, too.
South Wight
For a touch of luxury and to rest those tired feet after a long day's walking, The Royal Hotel in Ventnor sits in lovely gardens and is just a five-minute walk from the coastal path. Make the most of the views by dining on the Riviera Terrace or listening to live music whilst lunch is served.
Consisting of three 5 star apartments, Chale Bay is set in the unspoilt countryside with a coastal view. Right on the Island’s heritage coastline, it’s a great spot for those walking the coastal paths and is a great place for cyclists as well as those hoping to catch a wave at many of the secluded bays nearby.
Appuldurcombe Gardens Holiday Park
Set in an Isle of Wight National Landscape (formerly known as Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) and minutes from the Stenbury Trail, Appulducrombe is popular with walkers, cyclists and families. There are plenty of trails to explore including up to the ruins of Appuldurcombe House. There is a regular bus service passing by to take you into the heart of Ventnor.
West Wight
Say yes to camping and enjoy all of the fun with none of the hassle thanks to Island Bell Tents. Fully mobile, simply choose your campsite and let them do the rest. Arrive at a pitched and fully furnished Bell Tent complete with everything you need, including (nearly!) the kitchen sink.
Let them take it all down too when you leave. To book, let them know the dates you have in mind and your chosen campsite, or they can recommend, then sit back and relax. Their five-metre bell tents can sleep 5 people comfortably and dogs are welcome too!
If you fancy cycling during your trip to the Isle of Wight but you don’t have a bike, you’ll be able to hire an electric one at The Bay Boutique B&B. This top eco-friendly B&B is just around the corner from the beautiful Freshwater Bay on the Isle of Wight’s stunning coastal path. Walking and cycling routes can be provided by the knowledgeable owners.
Fancy a little time out from the daily grind? Glamping the Wight Way gives you a fantastic opportunity to switch off and enjoy a simple life. Bring your bike or hire one from nearby Wight Cycle Hire, safe in the knowledge that you won’t be too far from a cycle trail or coastal walk.
Offering a multitude of accommodation options, from glamping to farm cottages, Tapnell Farm is set in the gorgeous countryside of Yarmouth with plenty of footpaths and views out to The Solent. There’s plenty to do on site, from an aqua park to football golf. The on-site restaurant is famous for its burgers and steaks and often has events on during the summer season.
Central Wight
You don’t need to be a horse-lover to enjoy staying at Island Riding Centre, but it certainly helps! The fully accessible cottages are located on the site of a state-of-the-art equestrian complex or if glamping is more your thing, book into one of the spacious safari tents. There is a bus stop just outside, which provides regular, quick and easy access to both Newport and Ryde.
Situated between Cowes and Newport, Tiny Homes offers a boutique retreat of just six small but perfectly formed holiday homes, all off grid. Sitting in a natural meadow, Tiny Homes Holidays is a short cycle ride from Cowes and being next to the woodlands, it is ideally placed for a ride in the countryside.
Whether you are travelling by foot, bike or car, the Isle of Wight is ready to welcome you - Say Yes to an Island adventure like no other!
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