From panoramic landscapes and iconic landmarks to celebrated seafood and vibrant festivals, the Isle of Wight really is a treasure trove for your senses. Our team at The Green House share their insider secrets in this guide to the 'hidden gems' on our Island home... so now there's no excuse not to visit us this summer!
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Our Island gems
Best of summer
The Isle of Wight is known for its extensive line-up of summer festivals, which really do offer something for everyone. Here's our pick of the best...
Osborne House, Cowes
The Island's most iconic residence, Osborne House was acquired by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert in 1845 and soon became a welcoming holiday haven for the monarch. Visit this seaside palace today and delve into the opulence of an age gone by, with stately rooms lined with portraits, frescoes and marble sculptures and tributes to the British Empire. We love the Italianate gardens, which also boast a summer house, a museum, and a miniature fort and barracks.
english-heritage.org.uk+44 (0)1983 200 022
Union store, Ryde
We couldn't resist mentioning our very first Liz Earle store, located on Union Street in Ryde. Pop in and visit us, where Chani and her team will be happy to help you with your skincare queries and talk you through our full product range. And don't forget to join us for Cake Friday, every week from 2pm.
22 Union Street, Ryde
+44 (0)1983 813 980
Walk from Ryde to Seaview
The two-mile journey from Ryde to the quaint village of Seaview promises myriad charms for both experienced and novice walkers. Amble along the coastal path, soaking up memorable views of the Solent (particularly lovely at sunset) as you head towards Seaview, a nostalgic haven that boasts some of our favourite beaches.
Tramezzini coffee shop and continental deli, Ventnor
Discover a taste of la dolce vita at Tramezzini, a coffee shop and deli offering a gastronome's selection of traditional Italian meats, cheeses, fresh bread, pasta, sauces, coffee and more. Owners Adam Fendyke and Giancarlo Giancovich also serve up delectable fresh cakes and pastries daily - truly a must-try.
14 High Street, Ventnor
+44 (0)1983 855 510
Ventnor Haven Fishery, Ventnor Esplanade
Sample the very freshest catch of the day as soon as it arrives at Ventnor Haven Fishery on owner Geoff Blake's boat. As well as purchasing lobster, crab, shellfish, plaice, sea bass, cod and more, you can enjoy our favourite seaside indulgence - the fishery's much celebrated sustainable fish and chips.
+44 (0)1983 852 176
Steephill Cove, Ventnor
Wonderfully secluded and often touted as the prettiest spot on the Island, Steephill Cove is a traditional fisherman's cove on a sandy beach. A far cry from the neon lights of typical seaside resorts, this soothing, sleepy retreat invites you to build sandcastles, feed the donkey and sample the exemplary fresh lobster (or a local crab pasty) while admiring the sunset.
Botanic Gardens, Ventnor
Ventnor Botanic Gardens exists in its own unique microclimate thanks to its sheltered location, protected by chalk downs. This means an unrivalled selection of tropical plants grow unprotected outdoors, allowing you to peruse the spectacular flora and fauna in the Americas, New Zealand and Australia gardens, as well as on the Mediterranean, Japanese and South African terraces. We always lunch at The Garden Café, renowned for its innovative seasonal dishes and decadent afternoon teas.
botanic.co.uk+44 (0)1983 855 397
St Catherine's Point and Lighthouse, near Ventnor
For stunning coastal views, head to the Island's most southerly point just five miles from Ventnor and close to the village of Niton. Take a tour of St Catherine's Lighthouse and climb the 94 steps of this landmark, which was built in 1838 following the loss of the Clarendon ship and was subsequently bombed in the Second World War then restored. A quick drink at the nearby Buddle Inn is always on our itinerary.
Cliffs of Compton Bay, West Wight
We're sure you'll be captivated by the wild splendor of Compton Bay, a sandy stretch much loved by surfers and paragliders for its rugged high cliffs and tenacious waves. The perfect picnic location, it's also a great fossil-hunting spot - see if you can find the dinosaur footprints when the tide is low.
Newtown National Nature Reserve
Nature lovers won't forget a trip to our Island's ecological heart. Designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Newtown National Nature Reserve encompasses important habitats including mud-flats, salt marshes, ancient woodlands and meadows, as well as a breathtaking number of unusual birds, wildfowl and wild plants. We recommend a trip to the nearby Newtown too, which promises to inspire with its impressive ancient architecture.
Old Gaffers Festival 2012
Yarmouth's harbor welcomes more than 100 traditional sailing, steam and motor vessels, plus a wide range of craft and food stalls and live music.
Midsummer Jazz 2012
Pack a picnic (with Champagne, of course) and head to this open-air festival on midsummer's eve, hosted by the Isle of Wight Steam Railway.
Last Night of the Osborne Proms 2012
A magnificent classical concert and fireworks in the grounds of Queen Victoria's former home.
Cowes Week 2012
One of the UK's most celebrated sporting events, Cowes Week is a great mix of sailing and social activities, with up to 40 races daily.
Ryde Carnival 2011
Saturday 20th August
Visit Ryde for the highlight of the carnival season with over 2,000 performers from carnival clubs around the Isle of Wight.
Bestival 2011
Thursday 8th - Sunday September 11th
One of the UK's most popular music festivals, Bestival offers 15 stages of live music in the rolling landscape of Robin Hill Country Park, as well as summer fun for the whole family. We're excited about the 2011 line-up, which includes The Cure, Primal Scream and PJ Harvey - tickets sell fast so buy yours early to avoid disappointment.
For tickets call +44 (0)844 888 4410
Isle of Wight Cycling Festival 2011
Sunday 18th - Tuesday 27th September
This 70-mile route around the Island's coastline is an unrivalled way to discover picturesque villages and towns. The event kicks off in Newport with a day of family entertainment.