Head to Portsmouth or Lymington for the short journey to the Isle of Wight, a treasure trove of beautiful coastlines, cultural heritage and interesting attractions.
Staying at the family owned and run 3 star Bourne Hall Hotel, Shanklin, situated on an elevated position at the foot of Luccombe Downs, benefiting both countryside and coastal views. Built in the late 1860’s, the “house” still retains its sense of history enhanced by its original Victorian features. Offering 30 comfortable bedrooms in total of which three are on the ground floor (no lift) and a limited number of bedrooms having step-in showers. The hotels' outdoor pool is open during the summer months.
Carisbrooke Castle sits high and proud at the heart of the Isle of Wight. It has been many things from a fortress to a royal residence. Today it's the quintessential romantic castle with far reaching panoramic views from high castle walls. Enjoy the tranquil Princess Beatrice Garden and stunning St Nicholas' Chapel, all before meeting the adorable Carisbrooke donkeys, seeing them work the 16th-century tread in daily demonstrations, raising the bucket from the castle well. (Due to the steep stairs, the wall walk and the upper floor of museum, are inaccessible to wheelchair users.) As we leave Carisbrooke Castle, we drop into the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary with over 100 donkeys to say hello to, where they offer any donkey in need a loving and forever home.
Set sail for a two and a half hour guided cruise around the ports of Cowes and Portsmouth. Through Cowes Harbour, world famous for yachting, out into the Solent with fantastic views of the Island coastline, Osborne House and Norris Castle. Along the eastern Solent with views of sea forts and into the Portsmouth Naval Base, home of the Royal Navy, past and present. On the return, head across the island to Brightstone, within an Area of Outstanding Beauty, popping in to spend time at Isle of Wight Pearl, with spectacular cliff-top views over the English Channel. Finally, on to charming Godshill to wander at leisure, taking a look at the thatched cottages and model village, many believing it to be ‘the prettiest village on the Isle of Wight’.
Venture to Osborne House, Queen Victoria's beloved island retreat. Wander through the lavishly furnished State Rooms and glorious grounds and gardens. Later travel to the award winning Isle of Wight Steam Railway. Experience the golden age of travel as you settle back in beautifully restored carriages, a bygone era when steam power was the order of the day.
Your tour includes:
4 nights half board in Shanklin with:
Full English Breakfast
Three course choice dinner with tea and coffee
Porter service; on-site parking
One nights entertainment
Admission to Carisbrooke Castle
Visit to the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary
2.5 hour 'Two Ports' cruise
Visit to Isle of Wight Pearl
Admission to Osborne House
Return journey on the IOW Steam Railway
