Isle of Wight & the Southern Coast

Get your sunglasses and sun cream ready, you’re departing London and heading to the sunny, southern Isle of Wight. This fascinating island is blessed with beautiful beaches, epic white sea-cliffs, a warm climate, and remnants from the Romans, Normans, and two World Wars. Sounds exciting, doesn’t it?

Travelling through parts of the South Downs National Park, gently undulating chalk hills, lush green valleys and peaceful farms await us on our way to Portsmouth. First, you head to the ancient port-city of Portsmouth. This ancient port-city is a bustling spot that blends modern marvels with centuries of sea-faring stories. Head to the top of the 170-metre-high Spinnaker Tower for the best views of the city, the Isle of Wight and the South Coast. Follow the historic harbour trails or visit the remains of King Henry the VIII’s tragic warship Mary Rose before joining your guide for your ferry at Gunwharf Terminal.

Even if you’re not a sea-loving, fish-catching ocean dweller, this ferry ride is a treat. In under an hour, you’ll enjoy plenty of stunning views of the Solent and onboard refreshments. As you step off the ferry onto the Isle of Wight, you enter a world of coastal beauty and timeless charm, where golden beaches, dramatic cliffs, and lush countryside are waiting for you to explore. We begin with a unique gem: Quarr Abbey, an important religious site with striking architecture that blends French, Byzantine, and Moorish designs. Next, we head to Ryde, a town that’s sure to capture your heart with its Victorian elegance, historic pier, and breathtaking coastal scenery.

In the evening, we arrive at the unforgettably quaint village of Shanklin in time for an early dinner. Perhaps you’ll wander through the quaint Old Village with its thatched cottages to find a cosy restaurant that serves seafood?

Today, you’re going to discover the unmissable highlights of the Isle of Wight, and you’ll discover why Queen Victoria lived spending her time here. After enjoying a delightful breakfast, you’ll set off for the Yarborough Monument, the tallest structure on the island. This impressive landmark honours the life of a distinguished 19th-century earl and offers sweeping views of the surrounding countryside, making it a must-see on your island adventure.

Next, you’ll pause for a photo opportunity at Brading Downs, where the endless stretch of lush, green fields creates a breathtaking vista. Then, you’ll head to Osborne House, where Queen Victoria famously said, “it is impossible to imagine a prettier spot”. And we agree. Osborne House was Queen Victoria’s holiday home and as you explore the Italian-style building, you discover pristine green gardens, ornate golden rooms, and historically fascinating artefacts.

After that magnificent man-made marvel, it’s time to see the Isle of Wight’s most beautiful natural wonder, the Needles. These dramatic white chalk stacks rise majestically from the sea, creating a breathtaking sight. You can take a chairlift down to the beach, hop on a boat for an up-close view of the Needles, or explore a historic defensive battery nearby, adding an adventurous twist to your visit. Your day of discovery ends at St Catherine’s Down, where the cliffs offer panoramic views of the island’s southern coastline. It’s the perfect spot to reflect on the island’s stunning landscapes and rich history before we return to Shanklin.

It’s your second evening in the charming town, so why not stroll along the shore at sunset after a delicious dinner?

It’s the final day. But cheer up, because we’ve saved some of the best sights for today. In the morning, you say goodbye to Shanklin and the beautiful Isle of Wight and head on the ferry back to Portsmouth.

Now that you’ve reacquainted yourself with the mainland, we take you to one of England’s most history-soaked cities, Winchester.

Visiting Winchester isn’t easy, because there’s almost too much to do. Step back in time at the stunning Winchester Cathedral, with its awe-inspiring architecture and fascinating history. Examine the legendary King Arthur’s Round Table at the Great Hall of Winchester Castle. Or absorb the echoes of the past as you walk through cobbled streets lined with timber-framed houses. Once you’ve had time to explore this wonderful city, we’ve got one more stop at Runnymede; the home of the Magna Carta and the cornerstone of modern democracy.

Now, it’s time to unwind and reflect on the beauty and charm of the Isle of Wight, along with all the fascinating places you’ve explored today, before we arrive in London this evening.

You return to London at approximately 7.30pm.