Where can you get great seafood, outstanding veggies and garlic ice cream? The Isle of Wight, of course! In the last decade, the island has transformed itself into a true food lover s paradise, with amazing produce and some great restaurants. Just 6 miles off the south coast of Britain, the Isle of Wight is now a confirmed foodie destination.
Farm shops in abundance
The fabulous climate on the island is also responsible for growing some of the tastiest fruit and veg you ll ever eat. The stunning landscapes are rooted in fertile soils that produce a real bounty of great things to eat. And the best place to find all this great fresh food? The island s many farm shops with their knowledgeable staff and huge product ranges.
Head for Farmer Jack s at Arreton Old Village with its incredible in-store butchers and superb selection of cheeses. Then pop next door to their pub, the Dairyman s Daughter, for a great lunch based on local produce - and there s a great playground for the kids, too! Don t miss the succulent sausages and free range Isle of Wight chicken and turkey.
The beautiful briny sea
If seafood makes your mouth water, then you won t want to leave the island without trying the highly prized Bembridge Ledge lobsters and crabs. The Ventnor Haven Fishery is another must visit destination where you can eat the ultimate fish and chips with freshly caught cod and bass or enjoy the ultimate decadent treat - more of that crab or lobster on chips!
The stinking rose
The Garlic Farm has an award winning farm shop that s well worth a visit, but if you re on the island on the third weekend in August, don t miss the annual garlic festival. Held annually since 1983, this incredible event features star chefs, the Garlic Queen and local musicians all celebrating the stinking rose - you can even eat a delicious garlic ice cream.
Eating out for every pocket
Of course, to make the most of such incredible produce, you need some great chefs and the Isle of Wight is predicted to be the next big foodie destination when it comes to the quality of its restaurants.
From the beautifully restored Victorian tea rooms, God s Providence House, in Newport, to fine dining at the acclaimed Royal in Ventnor, there are so many great places to enjoy a delicious bite or two. For pure glamour, try the stunning Ventnor Winter Gardens, while the award-winning Off the Rails in Yarmouth is a restaurant in the old railway station! And of course, you can always find a beautiful beach to enjoy a wonderful picnic.
A local tipple
If you enjoy caravan holidays in Shanklin, they why not celebrate the good weather or a special birthday with some local fizz? Adgestone Vineyard is just a short distance inland from the caravan and is well known for its unique Something Blue champagne-style sparkling wine. You can take a tour around the vineyard to see how they produce their range of delicious English wines.
If spirits are more your cup of tea, then a visit to the Isle of Wight distillery in Ryde is a great way to sample their award-winning gin - a great souvenir from your caravan holiday!
