Hidden Isle of Wight 2026
Ventnor Botanic Garden
Carisbrooke © English Heritage
Credit Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary
Osborne House © English Heritage
Known for its award-winning beaches, spectacular scenery and a rich royal heritage, the Isle of Wight is a favourite for groups. Step back in time with visits to royal residences Carisbrooke Castle and Queen Victoria’s much-loved Osborne House. Or enjoy the stunning landscapes as much of the island is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
SUGGESTED ITINERARY
Day 1 Arrival
We arrive at our hotel in time for dinner.
Day 2 Carisbrooke Castle and Mottistone Gardens & Estate
This morning, we make our way to Carisbrooke Castle, a mighty medieval fortress, a prison for a tragic king and the home of Queen Victoria’s youngest daughter. The castle was key to the Isle of Wight’s defence for over nine centuries. Nowadays, the most famous residents are the Carisbrooke donkeys. We then head to Mottistone Gardens & Estate where throughout the summer, the gardens provide a treat for the senses. From the heady scent of roses in June, to the eye-catching colours of the plants and flowers that fill the borders by August.
Day 3 IOW Donkey Sanctuary and Ventnor Botanic Garden
We spend this morning visiting the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary where donkeys in need are given a forever home. We will be given an introduction to the sanctuary. With so many donkeys to choose from, why not adopt a donkey each time you visit? Next, we head to Ventnor Botanic Gardens which lies in the remarkable microclimate at the heart of the famous ‘Undercliff.’ This garden is protected from the northerly winds by chalk downs. Indeed, it holds the warmth from its southerly aspect so well that, combined with the moderating influence of the sea, frost is rarely known. The Garden is unrivalled for its collections of subtropical plants grown unprotected out of doors.
Day 4 Osborne House
This morning, we make our way to Queen Victoria’s much-loved seaside home, Osborne House. We visit the private apartments and state rooms as well as the beautiful gardens and beach, where there is a bathing machine in which the Queen used to get undressed! Tying in with the 2017 film “Victoria and Abdul”, a trail has been created, Victoria’s Island Trail, to celebrate the island’s royal connections, with Osborne House a key location.
Day 5 Departure
After breakfast, we make our way home.
Day 1 Arrival
We arrive at our hotel in time for dinner.
Day 2 Carisbrooke Castle and Mottistone Gardens & Estate
This morning, we make our way to Carisbrooke Castle, a mighty medieval fortress, a prison for a tragic king and the home of Queen Victoria’s youngest daughter. The castle was key to the Isle of Wight’s defence for over nine centuries. Nowadays, the most famous residents are the Carisbrooke donkeys. We then head to Mottistone Gardens & Estate where throughout the summer, the gardens provide a treat for the senses. From the heady scent of roses in June, to the eye-catching colours of the plants and flowers that fill the borders by August.
Day 3 IOW Donkey Sanctuary and Ventnor Botanic Garden
We spend this morning visiting the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary where donkeys in need are given a forever home. We will be given an introduction to the sanctuary. With so many donkeys to choose from, why not adopt a donkey each time you visit? Next, we head to Ventnor Botanic Gardens which lies in the remarkable microclimate at the heart of the famous ‘Undercliff.’ This garden is protected from the northerly winds by chalk downs. Indeed, it holds the warmth from its southerly aspect so well that, combined with the moderating influence of the sea, frost is rarely known. The Garden is unrivalled for its collections of subtropical plants grown unprotected out of doors.
Day 4 Osborne House
This morning, we make our way to Queen Victoria’s much-loved seaside home, Osborne House. We visit the private apartments and state rooms as well as the beautiful gardens and beach, where there is a bathing machine in which the Queen used to get undressed! Tying in with the 2017 film “Victoria and Abdul”, a trail has been created, Victoria’s Island Trail, to celebrate the island’s royal connections, with Osborne House a key location.
Day 5 Departure
After breakfast, we make our way home.
Royal Esplanade Hotel
Ryde, Isle of Wight
The traditional, Victorian Royal Esplanade hotel enjoys a superb seaside location close to the promenade in the heart of the lively resort of Ryde, just a short walk from the centre of town. The 70 bedrooms are well-decorated and offer a mix of styles with excellent bathrooms. The restaurant and bar offer attractive decor and comfortable seating areas and there is a large entertainment lounge and a small rear outdoor terrace.
Royal Esplanade Hotel
Ryde, Isle of Wight
4 Nights Half Board
Twin from £311pp
No Single Supplement (max 10 incl driver)
Inclusions
• Return ferry crossing Portsmouth - Fishbourne
Please refer to your quote for hotel inclusions.
Call to tailor this tour 01732 879191
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