A short break on the Isle of Wight

The Isle of Wight offers an enviable selection of things to do, so narrowing this list down represents an interesting challenge. Our beautiful island bolthole, The Manor House, welcomes groups of up to 16, meaning it’s important to find adaptable, crowd-pleasing activities and destinations – things for everyone to enjoy.

So, if you’re visiting for a long weekend or midweek break, where should you start? We’ve compiled a curated itinerary that we think you’ll love.

If you’re staying on the Isle of Wight, crossing the Solent – and arriving by sea – feels like the perfect way to make an entrance. Nestled on the island’s northwest side, between Yarmouth and Newport, The Manor House ushers in the immediate relief of a holiday mindset.

Yet easing in is not to be rushed. This day is just the start, so spend some time exploring, wander the 55-acre grounds and gardens, and take a well-earned tea out on the sun terrace. If you’ve asked for our help planning ahead, you’ll find a hamper of treats ready and waiting, so there’s no need to rush back out for supplies.

And indeed, you may not want to leave the house at all. A pleasant afternoon can be spent playing tennis on your private all-weather course, before taking a dip in the heated outdoor pool. Or, if you’d like to stretch your legs further afield, head out to walk or cycle around Newtown Creek. Then, set off for home and a relaxed group dinner – in warmer seasons, we suggest lounging with a barbecue, followed by al fresco drinks. A blissfully deep bath is the ideal way to round off your day, before sinking into a comfy bed.

If you’re an energetic riser, you could celebrate the opening of your first full day with an invigorating swim in the pool. Or, if you prefer to start more slowly, you might take your morning coffee for a stroll down to nearby Shalfleet Quay, as the sun emerges over the water.

After breakfast, set out to discover one of the island’s greatest natural landmarks: Tennyson Down. Named for the poet Alfred, Lord Tennyson, who lived nearby, this iconic chalk ridge offers sweeping views across the Solent and beyond. On a clear day, you can see as far as the Dorset coastline and the Needles lighthouse to the far west.

As lunchtime approaches, rest your legs and turn your attention to the water. Whether you’re travelling with children or as a grown-up group, Colwell Bay is a perfect choice. Here, a gently shelving shore makes it ideal for paddling, while the clear, calm waters invite paddleboarding or kayaking along the coast. Local watersports providers can equip you with everything you need; or if you prefer, we can pre-arrange things on your behalf. But before this, we recommend taking a seat at The Hut, ordering some fresh seafood or salads, and dedicating time to watching the world go by.

When the evening draws in, The New Inn at Shalfleet is a welcoming spot for dinner. This award-winning 17th-century pub is renowned for its excellent seafood, locally sourced produce, and relaxed but refined atmosphere. Choose a table in the cosy dining room or, if the weather is kind, dine out in the garden as the sun sets behind the masts of nearby boats.

After a gradual wake-up (there’s no need to rush here), it’s time to head west towards the harbour town of Yarmouth. Begin with a visit to Yarmouth Castle, a Tudor fortress built to defend local waters against invasion. Today, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the Isle of Wight’s history, alongside panoramic views across the water towards Lymington – a lovely spot to pause and watch passing yachts and ferries.

From here, it’s only a short stroll to The George at Yarmouth for lunch. This historic hotel and restaurant sits right on the water’s edge, with a peaceful terrace and Mediterranean-style garden. Seasonal menus showcase fresh island produce, and it’s easy to linger here, sipping a chilled elderflower spritz as boats glide by.

In the afternoon, take the scenic drive south to Mottistone Gardens. Cared for by the National Trust, this sheltered valley garden is a true hidden gem, with bright herbaceous borders and an organic kitchen garden. Explore the grounds at your own pace, following paths out to the wider estate and the ancient Longstone.

As the day fades, settle down for a restful evening at home. If it’s been a busy day, a private chef experience can feel like the ultimate luxury. We can arrange for a chef to prepare dinner for your group, whether you prefer a refined tasting menu or a convivial sharing feast around The Manor House’s long dining table. Then, settle into a mellow evening of cheer, chat and board games in the living room – the perfect end to a full day.

We know how fast time flies… If you’re staying for a long weekend, by Day 4, you’ll be saying a fond farewell (at least for now) to The Manor House – leaving us feeling refreshed and restored. But there’s still time after checking out to take in more of the island.

Before heading for the ferry, make a final stop at Osborne. Just outside East Cowes, this was Queen Victoria’s “place of one’s own”: a beloved summer retreat designed in the style of a Renaissance palazzo. Inside the grand house, explore opulent staterooms, gilded ceilings, and personal family mementoes. Then wander through the formal gardens and woodland to the estate’s secluded private beach.

From Osborne, it’s just a short drive to the ferry terminal, where you can board your crossing back to the mainland – equipped, we hope, with the echoes of this gentle island life.

On the Isle of Wight, rain really needn’t cancel play. A sudden shower can even be the perfect excuse to curl up with a good book in a comfy chair; confident that this too shall pass. But, if wet weather seems set to stay, you’ll find many other options for a day well spent.

• Explore Carisbrooke Castle – tour the museum exhibits, climb the battlements for sweeping views between showers, and meet the famous resident donkeys in their sheltered stable yard.
• Visit Dimbola Museum & Galleries in Freshwater – immerse yourselves in the life and works of pioneering Victorian photographer Julia Margaret Cameron, with evocative exhibitions set within her former home.
• Climb aboard the Isle of Wight Steam Railway – travel ten miles ahead but many years back in the restored Victorian and Edwardian carriages; gaining new views of the surrounding countryside on your journey.

However much time you’re able to set aside, a stay at The Manor House is always memorable. But, if you’re planning on being here a while longer, rest assured: there are plenty more things to do on the Isle of Wight. We can help with creating bespoke itineraries for your break; so do get in touch if you’d like to put together something special.