Getting to the IOW

Ferries to the IOW depart from Lymington, Southampton and Portsmouth with routes to Yarmouth, East Cowes and Fisbourne. Routes to Cowes and Ryde are also available for just foot passengers and cyclists.

Our recommended route is Lymington to Yarmouth, operated by Wightlink. You get to pass through the New Forest (great for a picnic lunch) and then arrive in Yarmouth only four miles from Stoats Farm.

Ferries are operated by Wightlink and Red Funnel. If you have booked your accommodation with us then please e-mail info@stoatsfarm.com to receive a 15% ferry discount code. Make sure you let us know which route you intend to book.

A hovercraft crossing is also available from Southsea to Ryde for footpassengers only.

Walking and Cycling

Stoats farm is surrounded by fantastic coastal walks.  We recommend heading up to the Tennyson monument, from where you can head west to the Needles or East to Freshwater Bay.  On the opposite side of the valley a hike to Headon Warren which will reward you with the finest view of the Needles.  Serious ramblers looking to complete the Tennyson Trail or a round the island expedition Stoats Farm is an ideal location for your overnight stay.

Looking for a flatter route?  The walk around the Western Yar estuary follows the route of the disused railway line for much of the way and is perfect if cycling with children.  One of the best places on the island to spot wading sea birds, you can stop on route for lunch in Yarmouth or book a table at Off The Rails.

Bikes can be hired from Wight Cycle Hire, they will even drop off your bikes at Stoats Farm reception.

The Island is amass of great walks, too many to list here.  One of our favourites, about 30 minutes drive from Stoats Farm, is the one down to St Catherines Lighthouse.  From there, head east along the coast to Castle Haven Beach Cafe then head back up the hill for a drink at the Buddle Inn.

Places to Eat

Across the road from Stoats Farm entrance is the Highdown Inn with daily specials including locally caught fish.  Other nearby options include The Waterfront and The Hut both with views of the sea.  In Yarmouth there are a  variety of places to eat for all price ranges, including The George, our regular The Gossips Cafe, and The Kings Head.

Heading further afield try The Sun Inn, the Garlic Farm (if you have a tent to yourself) or the legendary Spyglass Inn in Ventnor.

During holiday season we recommend booking in advance.

Suggested Days Out

There are plenty of places to visit on the Isle of Wight, below is just a selection.  Click on the images for links to the attractions.

BlackGang chine

Theme park, a MUST for those aged 12 and under.  A true Isle of Wight experience.

Osborne House

The home of Queen Victoria

Robin Hill

Country park with rides.  Suitable for all ages

Amazon World

Zoo, mainly indoors

Carisbrooke Castle

1000 years of history to enjoy

Mottistone Estate

Country house gardens with great walks nearby.

Farringford House

A short walk from Stoats Farm, country house, gardens and family home of Tennyson.

TAPNELL FARM

Farm, play area, inflatable water park, football golf, shooting...The Cow restaurant does a good burger.

Botanical gardens

Stunning gardens in the Ventnor micro climate. 

Butterfly World

A good indoor experience

Monkey haven

If you like monkeys...

IOW Steam Railway

A trip back in time

Model village

Located in Godshill village, stop for a cream tea and a visit to the chocolate shop.

Adgestone Vineyard

Wine tasting and vineyard Tour.  Pretend you are in the south of France!

Arreton Barns

Local arts and crafts.  Traditional sweet shop and victorian slot machines.

Fort Victoria Country Park

Country park, beach walks and attractions.

Beaches

Within 25 minutes walk of the campsite is Freshwater Bay, a stony beach where you can find hidden caves and rock pools at low tide.

Totland bay and Colwell bay are also approximately 15 minutes walk and are linked by a costal path.  Both good for swimming and have a variety of eating options.

For surfing and body boarding you need to head to Compton Bay, less than a 10 minute drive along the coastal road.  At low tide you can go fossil hunting on the sandy beach, looking out for the large dinosaur fossil foot prints.

Fort Victoria beach also boasts a fantastic nature trail, indoor attractions and a cafe. 

Head to Ryde for the widest sandy beaches and that traditional english sea side town feel.

A Rainy Day

There is a sports centre in nearby Freshwater that includes swimming pool, gym, sports hall and fitness classes.  They have a great holiday activity timetable for the kids.

Grab your popcorn and book a movie at the multiplex Cineworld cinema in Newport. Bowling  and laser quest in Ryde or bring out your creative side at Chessell Pottery.

Sandown Pier offers indoor crazy golf and a children's soft play area.

Butterfly World or Amazon World are fun family attractions that are mainly indoors.

If you have resigned yourself to getting wet then you could always get even wetter at  Tapnell Farm Aqua Park.  Only a short drive or bus ride.  Wet suits are provided, we recommend booking.