Isle of Wight towns

The Isle of Wight is a hub of activity and wonderful holiday destination throughout the year. With a range of towns to explore, there’s something for everyone – whether you’re a history buff, wildlife lover or looking for activities perfect for the entire family. Whichever part of the Isle of Wight you choose to visit, there’s a charming town waiting to be discovered.

North towns

Cowes and East Cowes on the north coast is a historic town split by the River Medina. Internationally famed for its sailing events, it's home to the world's largest sailing regatta, attracting thousands of visitors from around the globe during Cowes Week. It is also home to the oldest carnival in the UK, Ryde Carnival.

But as well as being the number one destination for sailors throughout the summer, this bustling town is packed with boutique clothes stores, pavement cafés and bakeries selling freshly made produce. The town’s also connected to Osborne House via a floating bridge, where you can explore the beautiful garden terraces and opulent state rooms that once formed Queen Victoria’s family home.

West towns

The west coast of the Island is known as West Wight and includes the ancient port town of Yarmouth. One of the main gateways into the Island, Yarmouth features some of the oldest architecture on the Isle of Wight – including a 16th-century castle and a grade 2 listed pier.

The popular Tapnell Farm Park is close by, and holidaymakers can enjoy a picnic with a sea view at Yarmouth Castle. There are also plenty of woodland nature trails and breathtaking landscapes to explore.

South towns

On the south coast lies the charming town of Ventnor – a Victorian health resort set on a hill with vintage shops and a sheltered beach. With an abundance of pubs, cafés, bars and restaurants, there are a number of unique places to relax in the town’s chilled-out vibe while enjoying a bite to eat.

There are plenty of things to do in the town, too. Ventnor Beach is a wonderful suntrap and, thanks to the town’s micro-climate, an excellent spot for sunbathing, swimming and enjoying your favourite watersports throughout the year.

Ventnor is also home to Britain's Hottest Garden, Ventnor Botanic Garden. Nestled into the Undercliff's unique microclimate, it boasts an impressive collection of over 30,000 rare and sub-tropical plants and trees. 

East towns

Sheltered in a beautiful bay, Sandown is one of the best-loved beach destinations on the Isle of Wight. It’s famed for its golden sandy beach and traditional pier, catering for families and holidaymakers of all ages. The town’s home to an interactive dinosaur museum, as well as an animal sanctuary housed in an old fort.

Known as the “Town on the Beach”, Ryde is the largest of the Isle of Wight towns and boasts boutique and independent shops and cafes set on an expanse of sandy beach.

South of Ryde you will find one of the Isle of Wight’s oldest towns – Brading, which is set in an Isle of Wight National Landscape (formerly known as Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) and perhaps best known for its Roman Villa.

Shanklin lies to the south of Sandown and is famed for its beautiful beaches and sub-tropical gardens alongside years of seaside tradition. Thanks to old thatched cottages, tea rooms and artisan souvenir shops, it’s one of the most popular towns on the Island with holidaymakers looking for some old-world charm. There are plenty of walkways and cycle paths to explore, as well as carnivals and the Shanklin Regatta that add excitement to any summer getaway.

Central towns

The capital of the Isle of Wight, Newport, lies at the heart of the island and is the main shopping centre and location for the Isle of Wight Festival. With the town’s quay only a short distance away and a range of fantastic attractions nearby – including Monkey Haven and Carisbrooke Castle – you’re never far from a fun day out.