Isle of Wight family holiday

There's nothing better than a family holiday on the Isle of Wight. No matter if your family means mum, dad and three under-fives, a multi-generational trip with the grandparents, or a romantic break for two, the Isle of Wight is the perfect place for stress-free family holidays and relaxing short breaks.

Families have been drawn to holiday on the Isle of Wight for generations. And it’s no wonder why! From countless beaches and rolling Downs to historic properties and attractions, from iconic festivals to miles upon miles of footpaths, cycle and bridleways – the Island offers the perfect antidote to the stresses and strains of 21st-century living for everyone – from the littlest people right through to nan and grandad.

Comfy accommodation for family get-togethers

If you're looking for a place to stay, there are so many amazing spaces on offer. Choose from welcoming holiday parks and campsites, an enormous selection of self-catering cottages, elegant boutique hotels, and a full range of glamping experiences – from VW campervans to tiny homes. It's easy to search our website for the most up-to-date accommodation listings. For larger families, why not split yourselves over multiple properties so you can all enjoy a little privacy after a busy day exploring?

And don't forget – many accommodation providers will book your ferry for you when you book direct with them. It's often the best and easiest way to get a great price on your ferry travel.

Family-friendly places to eat

With a whole host of delicious restaurants, cafes, pubs and fine dining on offer, even the fussiest eaters will be spoilt for choice. Whether you’re fuelling up for a busy day of adventure or replenishing your energy after a long day, you’re never far from a yummy home-cooked meal. 

The Island’s famous for its delicious local cuisine, but there are plenty of places that serve traditional British classics, too. The Fighting Cocks is a family-friendly pub located only 10 minutes from Sandown and Shanklin. There’s a playground for older children, as well as a toddler’s area, bouncy castles and an inflatable go-kart track that are perfect for entertaining the little ones while you wait for your food to arrive.

The Caulkheads in Sandown is another fantastic family-friendly option. The large gardens include a pirate ship, bouncy castle and indoor ball park. There’s a silent cinema, too, which allows the adults to relax while the little ones entertain themselves with a selection of movies and programmes. Choose from a menu of homemade stone-baked pizzas, traditional dishes and well-kept ales.

Fancy treating the family to a mouth-watering Sunday roast? Read our blog post on the best places to go for a hearty, home-cooked roast dinner.

Activities for the whole family to enjoy

The Isle of Wight is packed with so many family-friendly activities, you’ll struggle to fit them all in! Make the most of the Island’s beautiful beaches by getting stuck in with a spot of surfing, kayaking, paddle boarding and even kitesurfing. Or if you prefer to be on land, why not head on a two-day family adventure at Kingswood? From climbing and abseiling to zip wiring and bushcraft survival, you’ll leave with the most amazing memories of a fantastic time.

Make the most of the Island’s wildlife and meet rescued lions, lynxes, monkeys and meerkats at The Wildheart Animal Sanctuary or monkey around at the Monkey Haven rescue centre. You can also get close to alpacas and llamas at West Wight Alpacas and Llamas.

There are plenty of activities for mum, dad, nan and grandad to get their teeth stuck into, too. Explore coastal paths, trek through ancient forests and take in the most magnificent views of the Solent as you hike past the clifftops. The Isle of Wight Steam Railway also offers a charming day out, allowing you to step back in time to an era when steam power was the order of the day.

Action-packed family days out

Kids will love the adrenaline-inducing rides and outdoor play areas at Blackgang Chine. It's the UK’s oldest amusement park where you step out of the everyday and into a magical world where the only constraint is your own creativity. 

For something a little different, the whole family can test their mettle at Lost Crypt Escape Room. Playing as historians, the aim of the game is to solve puzzles and clues to break free from The Lost Crypt. Sandown Pier is another fantastic day out. Spend the day bowling, playing crazy golf and braving the fast, furious and laughter-inducing funfair rides.

If you’re after a more slow-paced day out, go back in time at Osborne House or see how the Romans lived at Newport’s Roman Villa. And if the weather’s on your side, take a day to sunbathe, build sandcastles and splash in the sea at one of the Island’s many award-winning beaches.

If you’re looking for more inspiration on what to do with the children on the Isle of Wight, visit our blog for ideas.