The Idyllic Isle Of White

By Author: James Holly
Total Articles: 5
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Before the dawn of low-cost airlines, package breaks and last minute deals, Victorians with even the smallest slice of money to spare would enjoy a few days at the original seaside resort of the Isle of White.

It was the Queen herself that turned into a fashionable destination for the middle and upper classes. In 1851 Osborne House in East Cowes was finally completed and it became Queen Victoria's summer residence. The island began to attract famous names such as Lord Tennyson and Charles Dickens, both inspired by the island's beauty.

Even though we now have low-cost airlines, package breaks and last minute deals to locations warmer and more exotic than the Isle of White, it still remains a thriving tourist destination. Its cultural heritage does wonders for its reputation but so does one of the world's most famous sailing festivals, Cowes Week and recently re-launched iconic music festival, the Isle of White Festival.

However, even without the festivals the island is appealing to holidaymakers. The stunning scenery, particularly the famous chalk rocks of The Needles, along with beaches, forests and rolling ...
... hills make this a nature lovers paradise.

The beaches of the Isle of White are predominantly sandy, making them more appealing to those nearby on the mainland. The west side of the island is pretty much entirely rural and most of it is used as farmland. Testament to the quality of the landscape almost 50% of the island is classed as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Although locals flock to Newport in the centre of the island, tourists spend their time at the traditional seaside towns of Ryde, Sandown, Shanklin and Ventnor.

The island has lots of history to boot. The island was a dinosaur haven in pre-historic times, but more recently the Roman enjoyed a stint there too. At Brading Roman Villa you can explore this fascinating history in an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Osborne House, the stunning former royal summer residence, is open to the public throughout the year. It affords a unique insight into Victorian seaside culture.

Shanklin Chine is a deep gorge filled with waterfalls and nature trails. It is a great place for kids to run free and you might even spot red squirrel playing in the trees.

If you need some accommodation inspiration, why not consider staying in one of the Isle of White's many holiday parks at locations dotted across the island.

Tom Freeman is a travel writer about UK based travel. They recommend Park Resorts for Caravan Sales Isle of Wight