Shanklin & The Diamond Isle

The timeless appeal of the Isle of Wight remains as strong as ever. Steeped in history with 60 miles of stunning unspoilt coastal scenery and a wealth of attractions, the Diamond Isle has something for everyone. From historic sites to natural delights, it is a unique and ever popular holiday destination. Just 5 miles off the mainland coast across the Solent, wherever you are on the island, you are never more than a few miles from the sea. The total area of the Isle of Wight is 147 square and almost half has been designated as an Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Shanklin is probably the island's best-known resort and combines the traditions of the 'Old Village' with the modern seaside resort.Your Itinerary
Day 1 – After joining your holiday coach head to Portsmouth, with a refreshment stop en-route, to join the ferry to the Isle of Wight. Continue to your resort hotel for dinner, bed and breakfastDay 2 – 3 (4 or 6) - At leisure in Shanklin with one or two included excursionsShanklin is located at the southernmost tip of Sandown Bay, sheltered by Dunnose Point, which offers a stunning backdrop, of the tall cliffs of Luccombe and St. Boniface Downs beyond. The Old Village of Shanklin is extremely pretty, with plenty of quaint shops and old-fashioned tea rooms.INCLUDED EXCURSIONS:

IOW STEAM RAILWAY & RYDE (All tours)
Enjoy an included ride on the delightful Isle of Wight Steam Railway. Hauled by a vintage steam locomotive, enjoy the special 10-mile round trip of a bygone age with the evocative sounds and smells of puffing and hissing steam and a unique view of the island's unspoilt countryside from restored Victorian and Edwardian carriages. There will be time to explore the quaint and lovingly restored station and depot at Havenstreet where you will the Train Story Discovery Centre as well as refreshment and toilet facilities. In the afternoon there will be some free time in Ryde with its quirky mix of traditional seaside fun, Victorian architecture, thriving independent shopping scene and lovely sandy Appley Beach (20 minute flat walk from the pier).

ISLAND TOUR - Freshwater Bay, The Needles, Alum Bay & Godshill (5 & 7 day tours only)
Enjoy the highlights and the spectacular scenery on a leisurely island tour starting in the west of the island where sheer cliffs plunge down into the sea. Head to Freshwater Bay with its huge chalk stacks before reaching Alum Bay with its multi-coloured sands and the famous Needles. The return journey takes in the picturesque old village of Godshill with its delightful thatched cottages, gift shops, tea rooms, ice cream parlours, pubs and a church up on the hill.OPTIONAL EXCURSION:

RETURN TRANSFERS TO OSBORNE HOUSE (5 & 7 days tours only)
Entrance to Osborne House is not included and cost was approximately £19 per person in 2022. English Heritage members FOC. Built in the style of an Italian Villa, palatial Osborne House was the much-loved home of Queen Victoria and her family until she died here in 1901. Your driver may be able to make a brief stop at nearby Whippingham Church where Victoria and Albert were once regular members of the congregation.Last Day - After breakfast, join the mid-morning ferry back to the mainland and onwards to interchange.Channel View Hotel, Shanklin
This popular 3* hotel boasts the most amazing and picturesque views of the English Channel,

The Channel View Hotel is sat atop the cliffs of Shanklin Bay in an idyllic location. It always gives visitors a warm welcome, good service and excellent food. Hotel facilities include restaurant, bar, lift to most floors and entertainment on some evenings.

There is also an indoor heated swimming pool and sauna. All bedrooms are en-suite with TV, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities.

Hotels
• Channel View Hotel (Shanklin) - View Information