Camping on the Isle of Wight

Situated just off the south coast of England, a short ferry ride from the mainland, lies the perfect holiday island. At approximately 25 miles by 13 miles in size it is easy to explore this island of wonders. For a small place, it certainly packs in the attractions. From relaxing on golden sandy beaches to living it up in the festival atmosphere, there’s plenty here for a great camping holiday.

Top 5 Island attractions

Beaches - Compton Bay

One of the advantages of being surrounded by water is that wherever you are the beach is never too far away. The Isle of Wight has plenty of beaches to choose from but the National Trust’s Compton Bay is one of the most stunning, backed by the huge expanses of open downland. There’s plenty of surfing, walking and wildlife spotting to be done here.

Festivals

The Isle of Wight certainly knows how to party, hosting several well-known festivals throughout the year, with major headline acts performing. The Isle of Wight Festival kicks the summer off in style from 9-12 June in the town of Newport, and then Bestival closes the summer party season at Robin Hill Country Park from 8-11 September.

The Needles & Alum Bay

When you think of the Isle of Wight the iconic image of the world-famous chairlift taking you to see the needles rocks and coloured sand springs to mind. This is quite possible the Island’s most famous attractions and is a destination not to be missed. Take a ride on the spectacular chairlift down to the beach and the coloured-sand cliffs, admiring the views of the Needles rocks on the way.

Isle of Wight Zoo

This family run zoo has a variety of animals but specialises in tigers and lemurs. The values of the zoo include care, conservation and education and a desire to inspire visitors with a passion for the natural world. The zoo is built within the ruins of a Victorian coastal fort and offers animal feedings, meerkat encounters, photography workshops and the opportunity to be a keeper for a day.

The Dinosaur Isle

The Isle of Wight is widely regarded as one of the best places to discover dinosaur fossils. Dinosaur Isle is Britain’s first purpose-built dinosaur attraction where you can walk back in time to the age of the dinosaurs, some 120 million years ago. Based at Sandown, you can meet life-sized models set among a recreated landscape. There are also dinosaur skeletons on display, a robotic dinosaur, and you can book to go on a fossil-hunting walk.

Top 5 Island campsites

Appuldurcombe Gardens Holiday Park, Wroxall

An award-winning five-star holiday park within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The touring area is within sheltered grassland with upland views of Stenbury Downs. Amenities include a shop, cafe, and outdoor heated pool. Direct access to footpaths and cycle routes, and an excellent bus service just 150 yards from the site.

Grange Farm, Brighstone

This small working farm campsite is situated on the south west coast with beautiful views over the sandy beach. There are 60 level touring pitches, all on grass and half with electric hook-ups. The area is ideal for walking, fossil-hunting, cycling and fishing. About six miles from Freshwater Bay and 10 miles from Ventnor.

Ninham Country Holidays, Shanklin

Ninham nestles in a valley, surrounded by mature woodland and rolling countryside. In beautiful surroundings, Ninham campsite provides a unique setting for lovers of the outdoors. The beach is only a 25-minute walk. There's a heated outdoor pool on site, along with a games and TV room, and private fishing ponds.

Whitecliff Bay Holiday Park, Bembridge

Set on a south-facing gentle slope with stunning countryside views. 400 pitches with something for everyone. There’s an indoor pool complex with water flume, a bar & restaurant, evening entertainment, a heated outdoor pool, shop and lots of child-friendly activities. Access to a private, secluded, sandy beach with café.

Whitefield Forest Touring Park, Ryde

Set close to the sandy beaches of Ryde and Sandown, with a bus stop just 100m from the entrance, this campsite is set in the ancient woodland of Whitefield Forest. There are many trails to explore directly from the site and wildlife is encouraged – red squirrels are a common sight.

To find out more about this top holiday destination and booking your ferry visit Red Funnel