5 reasons you should visit the Isle of Wight this winter

With its iconic chalk-cliffs, vast green spaces and quaint British villages, The Isle of Wight is not just a summer destination. Visting off-peak means fewer crowds and cheaper ferry prices, as well as having plenty to keep you entertained as a family, couple or with a group. Here are just five reasons to visit this winter.

Warm up in unique accommodation 

From cosy houses to luxurious apartments, warm up by the fire, stretch out in a king-sized bed or take in the seaside views. From a busy day exploring the island, you’ll be able to return to home comforts in the self-catering options at Classic Cottages. Found in locations all over the island you’ll feel right at home with the whole family on the Isle of Wight; you can even bring the dog too.   

Explore the landscape on foot

The island’s dramatic landscape is one of the Isle of Wight’s best features. Its picturesque parks, inland woodlands and chalk cliffs offer a striking backdrop for walkers and ramblers alike. Wrap up for the winter weather and follow trails around the island which covers over 500 miles of footpaths, including 64 miles along the coast where you can enjoy stunning early sunsets. 

Spot the rare red squirrel

You may not know this but the Isle of Wight is a sanctuary for the rare red squirrel. Catch sight of these animals while walking through the parks or cycle along the popular Red Squirrel Trail. Visit squirrel hot spots and look out for their nests in the trees. You may see them scavenging for nuts this time of year. 

Enjoy off-road cycling 

Lonely Planet once crowned the Isle of Wight as one of the best places to cycle in the world, and you can see why with its miles of undisturbed, green stretches with little to no traffic. Take a loop of the island or pedal along disused railway lines, rural lanes and coastal vistas; there’s even a cafe and pub or two along that way.

Feel festive this December 

With the festive period approaching, the Isle of Wight turns into a winter wonderland with a range of Christmas events for the whole family. Some of its most popular must visits are the Victorian Christmas fair, the Enchanted Osborne light festival and The 21st Brightstone Christmas Tree Festival, which brings over 200 decorated trees to the island.