The Isle of Wight is famed for plenty of different reasons - the oldest theme park in the UK at Blackgang Chine, the annual music festival and Queen Victoria's Osborne House. But this year, if you re a fan of classic vehicles, you ll definitely want to head to the island for some vintage action on two wheels or four.
Calling all petrol heads
Are you a petrol head with an eye for a rare vehicle? Then you won t want to miss the annual Classic Car Event in September. With free entry and all money raised going to support local charities, this incredible show attracts classic car devotees from the mainland UK and all over Europe, as well as the island itself.
If you re visiting for one of our caravan holidays in your classic car, then contact the organisers to display your prized possession. Otherwise, join the crowds in the scenic locations of Newport and Ryde to admire everything from American muscle cars to impeccable Jaguars. Whether you love acres of gleaming chrome or you just fancy a free day out thats just a short trip from Shanklin, the Classic Car Event is well worth a visit.
Two wheel wonders
If two wheels are more your thing, there are a couple of great events you won t want to miss out on depending on whether you prefer pedal power or a motor. The Isle of Wight Randonnee brings great cycling fun to the scenic roads of the island in May, with a choice of challenges to fit your stamina and fitness level. Try the 55km route for a scenic trip around Cowes and Newport, or test yourself with the 100km loop of the entire island that takes in some challenging coastal and inland terrain - just don t forget your bike.
Our caravan holidays are also an ideal base for scooter lovers looking to participate in the Isle of Wight International Scooter Rally on August Bank Holiday weekend. One of the biggest rallies of its type in the country, thousands of scooters ride out to Ryde and Sandown, just round the coast from Shanklin where our caravan is based. It s a great event with plenty of classic mod and soul music to enjoy - but hurry, as tickets sell out fast.
Meet the Moggy
It was the first British car to sell a million and the Morris Minor, or Moggy as it was affectionately known, was designed by Sir Alec Issigonis, the man behind the Mini. Introduced in 1948, there were soon convertibles and the popular Traveller with its iconic wooden frame. If you remember this much loved car, then the Morris Minor Rally at the Isle of Wight Steam Railway is the place to be in September. Expect some surprise customised Moggies, an autojumble and even a train ride if steam engines make your heart beat faster!
If you re travelling by car, motorbike or bike, there are some stunning roads on the island and a series of scenic drives and rides that are well worth exploring - we ll have some more information for you next month on the best rides and drives on the island. Meanwhile, why not book your caravan holidays in Shanklin for half term and get ahead of the crowds?
