5 things you can only see and do on the Isle of Wight
The British staycation is becoming more and more popular and there are plenty of incredible places to visit. But we promise you when you opt for a holiday on the Isle of Wight, you’ll be able to see and do things that aren’t possible anywhere else in the UK - and possibly the world!
Visit the world’s oldest pleasure pier
It might not be the longest pier in the UK, but Ryde Pier has the honour of being the oldest pleasure pier in the entire world. The original wooden pier was opened in 1814 and allowed ferries to dock in the harbour at low tide. It was extended in 1824 so Victorian holidaymakers wouldn’t have to get their feet wet when on their way to Appley beach.
It’s a lovely pier for a stroll out across the sea, though the kids might prefer a trip to Sandown pier with its amusement arcades!
Enjoy the UK’s oldest carnival
In the summer, the island is famous for its carnivals, which include the incredible Isle of Wight Mardi Gras, held on the last Saturday in June. There’s a carnival for just about everyone, young or old, but Ryde Carnival is the most venerable event on the island and one that Queen Victoria once attended when she was in residence at Osborne House.
The Ryde Carnival now has three parades in late August and early September - an illuminated carnival, the kids parade and the main event, which is a riot of colour.
Take a trip on the world’s only commercial hovercraft
If you fancy experiencing what it’s like to skip over the waves on a hovercraft, then why not visit the Isle of Wight on the Southsea to Ryde crossing? It’s not far from there to our caravan in Shanklin and you’ll enjoy a memorable experience that you won’t find anywhere else!
Have a day out at the UK’s oldest theme park
Blackgang Chine has been in operation as a pleasure park since the 1840s, when its founder first displayed a whale skeleton to the curious hordes. The park quickly developed into a home for the weird and the wonderful, and now bills itself as Land of Imagination. It’s quite unlike any other theme park and well worth a visit.
Laze on the sunniest beach in the UK
Think Eastbourne is the sunniest place in the UK? Well think again - Shanklin on the Isle of Wight has the sunniest beaches in the entire UK and with their golden sands and traditional seaside prom, they’re ideal for a family holiday. So why not top up your tan, enjoy a round of pirate-themed crazy golf and feast on some of the best fish and chips and ice cream on the island - just don’t forget the bucket and spade!
There really is so much to see and do on the island and Shanklin caravan holidays are a great way to explore the island. You’re only 15 minutes away from the world's largest tree sculpture at Robin Hill Country Park or half an hour to Cowes, setting of the world’s best regatta! If you want a holiday that’s completely unique, then the Isle of Wight really has got the lot.
