Lying two miles off the coast of southeast England, the pocket-sized, traditional seaside realm of the Isle of Wight has a little of everything, from castles, golden beaches, castles and quaint villages with thatched-roof cottages right down to a Garlic Festival. Claimed to be Queen Victoria's favourite resort island, it also boasts Cowes Week, one of the most significant regattas in the British yachting calendar. In addition, half the island has been designated as an area of outstanding natural beauty and offers over 500 miles of footpaths (even though the island itself only measures 23 by 13 miles).
Isle of Wight holidays by coach
With all of the above, it's little wonder that coach holidays on Isle of Wight prove popular for those looking for a quintessentially English destination. Opt for coach tours to Isle of Wight to laze on the Blue Flag beaches of Shanklin and Sandown or the more remote Compton Bay, and savour delicious fresh seafood alfresco. Experience the not-as-painful-as-they-sound Needles Rocks at Alum Bay and admire the natural chalk stacks and the renowned Lighthouse perching on the most westerly rock. A chairlift here takes visitors past amazing coloured sand cliffs and when this comes to an end you can tailor your own island souvenir at the Sand Shop.
- On your South East coach trip, stock up on local produce from pickles and chutney by heading to the Garlic Farm at Newchurch.