Easter holidays on the Isle of Wight

Hop, skip and set sail for an egg-citing adventure this Easter - whether you’re looking to escape and unwind in the great outdoors or to entertain the whole family, there’s something for everyone on the Isle of Wight this Easter. And there’s no better time than springtime to explore the Island - think miles of stunning coastal paths, rugged cliffs, ancient woodland, golden beaches and lush green forests, 

Plus our warmer temperatures and unique microclimate means you’ll get the chance to see our wildlife emerging from their hibernation, too. So, what are you waiting for? Hop to it!

Say YES to Easter memories...

There’s so much to see and do on the Island, and you’ll soon find there is something for everyone - from tiny tots to the grandparents and everyone in between.

Nature lovers get set to meet animals, big and small at The Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary and the award-winning Monkey Haven. The Wildheart Animal Sanctuary is the place to go if you want to see and learn about rescued cats, mammals, primates and more.

The Needles Landmark Attraction is an iconic place to visit. Enjoy the vintage rides, sweet-making, glass-blowing and of course, the famous chair lift down to the colourful shores of Alum Bay. Tapnell Farm Park is a great all-weather attraction with something for all ages. Have a go on the go-karts, play in the indoor soft-play area and meet the famr animals, oincluding many new arrivals in the spring months.

Blackgang Chine might be the oldest theme park in the UK but it still packs almighty punch. There’s new rides for older children and adults, as well as the classic Cowboy Town and Pirate Cove for the younger ones or just young at heart.

Step back in time this Easter with a visit to one of our historical attractions. Enjoy an adventure at Carisbrooke Castle, which has been an artillery fortress, king's prison and a royal summer residence. Or be a royal family for the day with a trip to Osborne, the former summer home of Queen Vcitoria, Prince Albert and their children.

Go back to the golden age of steam with Easter at the Isle of Wight Steam Railway, and take part in the search for the giant eggs hidden around the entire attraction, solving the clues to claim your chocolate.

Say YES to discovering new landscapes…

A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status, the Isle of Wight is an idyllic escape right on your doorstep. Over 50% of the land is designated as an Isle of Wight National Landscape meaning there’s always something to see – from white chalk cliffs to golden beaches, rolling countryside to marshlands.

The Island is home to an impressive network of footpaths, bridleways and byways, making it the ideal place to get away from it all and explore the big outdoors. 

One of the best ways to experience the Isle of Wight is on foot or by bike, with trails and routes to suit all abilities. There are 68 miles of stunning coastal paths to discover, with walking routes ranging from a quick trip, a few hours or an entire day to complete. 

For avid bikers and hikers, why not try one of our climbs? The Island boasts a number of hills just waiting to be tackled. Feel the burn heading to the top of the Needles Old Battery or marching across Mottistone or Culver Down.

For families, try the fun Red Squirrel Trail. This gentle trail leads you through the lush countryside and offers the chance to spot one of our most famous residents. Or cycle or walk pier to pier between Sandown and Shanklin and treat yourself to the first of many ice creams.

Geocaching is popular all across the Island - you’ll find short fun routes for little ones and longer treks with trickier searches for those wanting a bit of a challenge.

Make the most of our stunning coastline and dive in and give surfing a try - book a lesson for the whole clan with one of our water sports schools.

Say YES to tasty food and drink…

Our produce really makes the most of our special microclimate and squeezes the last drop out of our extra hours of sunshine. Mediterranean in style, we have sun-ripended tomatoes, garlic, local cheese, grass-fed meat and freshly caught seafood, as well as vineyards, several breweries and an award-winning gin!

Many of our eateries make the most of the local, seasonal produce and you’ll often find it at the centre stage of the menu. Easter is a great time to sample our local wares and enjoy a bit of early sunshine in a beer garden overlooking the sea, a rooftop terrace or a pretty courtyard garden.

Say YES to easy travel…

The Island might feel far away due to the warmer temperatures and extra hours of sunshine (did we mention that?) but what makes it even more special is that it is super easy to get to and your Easter break starts as soon as you step on board the ferry. 

You can access the Island from Lymington, Portsmouth, Southsea and Southampton either with the car or as foot passengers, plus it’s only two hours door to door from London - you’ll be stepping foot on our golden shores before you know it!

See "What's On" or scroll down for all Easter events.