Self-catering holidays in the centre of the Isle of Wight
The centre of the Isle of Wight is the perfect base to spend the perfect holiday. Never more than half an hour away by car from any seaside town, you are perfectly placed to visit all parts of the coast as well as a whole host of pretty towns and villages throughout the island. To the North is the famous sailing town of Cowes, which hosts the renowned regatta during Cowes Week in August, as well as its sister across the Medina River, East Cowes, home to Osborne House, the former summer residence of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert.
Moving eastwards, there are the popular seaside resorts of Ryde, Seaview and Bembridge, all on or near to of the Isle of Wight coastal path, and heading south, you will find the larger resorts of Shanklin and Ventnor, with their traditional attractions, long beaches and pretty coves. Heading up the Tennyson Heritage Coast, you will come to one of the most famous parts of the island, right on the most Western tip where Freshwater joins the sea at Freshwater Bay, closely surrounded by Totland Bay, Colwell Bay and Alum Bay and home to the Needles and Alum Bay Chine.
Closer to home, you will find a whole host of pretty villages dotted throughout the countryside, perfect for exploring and finding out about the local history of the area as well as the capital town of Newport. This vibrant town centres around two elegant squares surrounded by Georgian and Victorian architecture and is the perfect place to do a spot of shopping and dining out, with a variety of shops, markets and restaurants. A good selection of attractions surround Newport with the Museum of Island History, the Newport Roman Villa and Quay Art Centre all within walking distance. The church of Newport Minster has fascinating historical links and has various concerts and exhibitions throughout the year as well as regular services.
Not far from the town, you will find Carisbrooke Castle, the 12th century fort, and the Robin Hill Country Park, 88 acres of beautiful countryside, with our collection of Carisbrooke cottages scattered nearby.