My new series features some of my favourite holiday destinations. So far we’ve visited Dubai, Bournemouth, Harrogate and Dalaman in Turkey. This week, we’re back in the UK and over to The Isle of Wight:
I’d heard a lot of great things about the Isle of Wight but, by the time I reached my late forties, I’d never been. That’s in spite of me having a partner who has two sisters residing on the island.
We recently put things right and spent a wonderful few days there, catching up with my partner’s sisters, but also having time for us and taking in the sights.
I knew I was going to love it as soon as I stepped onto the ferry at Southampton. Once we were underway, I set foot onto the deck, the wind whipping through my hair and the smell of the salty sea air invading my nostrils. It was invigorating; I felt so alive.
We managed to pack a lot into our stay. Osbourne House, Queen Victoria’s special seaside home, is a must-see. It’s impressive inside and out, especially the Durbar Room, with its Indian influence to reflect Queen Victoria’s position as Empress of India. The glorious gardens and the Swiss Cottage, the royal children’s stunning playhouse, offer outside delights.
Another favourite is Godhill’s quintessentially English model village. It’s based on how the village of Godshill and nearby Shanklin were in the 1920s/30s. Everywhere I looked, there was something to see, from a beach, with bathers wearing old-style swimming costumes, to a church, with a wedding party, to a working miniature railway.
Model Village
I didn’t know what a Chine was before my Isle of Wight visit. I soon found out it’s a gorge with a river flowing through it to the sea. Shanklin Chine is the island’s oldest visitor attraction and has been drawing people to it for over two hundred years, including Jane Austen and Keats. I’m not surprised as it’s a beautiful sight to behold, with shards of light trickling through the canopy of trees, illuminating the sparkling water. Birds flit from tree to tree, with their sweet song. There are apparently three families of red squirrels there, but they remained out of sight during my visit. The Chine is a haven for wildlife, so look out for butterflies, foxes and insects.
The Chine
A trip to the Isle of Wight wouldn’t be complete without a walk along the beach. Whether it’s the popular Ventnor beach or Sandown seafront, they all have something special to offer. I walked along Ryde beach, with its golden sands. It may not be as impressive as the Spinnaker Tower that I could see over on mainland Portsmouth, but the quaint Appley Tower, set back just off the beach and which made me feel I’d stepped back in time, was a treat to see.
My only regret – I wish I’d visited the Isle of Wight sooner!
Appley Tower
Esther Chilton 
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