Destination of the month: Discover the Isle of Wight

Leave your passport at home and head across the water for a traditional seaside break!

Photo by Alamy

The Isle of Wight’s southern tip is home to the island’s most popular beach, Ventnor. One glance at this picture should have you rummaging in your van's cubby holes for the bucket and spade and beach towels, such is the all-round fantasticness of its Blue Flag-winning golden sand and shingle combo. 

People have been coming here for years (its famous Isle of Wight-shaped paddling pool is over a century old, we’ll have you know), no doubt because its slightly sheltered position makes Ventnor the very epitome of the phrase ‘sun trap’.

Have a bite of fish ’n’ chips at the acclaimed Besty & Spinky’s Café Bar while you’re by the beach and your day won’t get much better. 

W visitisleofwight.co.uk

Where to stay

Prices Couple, Electric Hook-up, Per Night

Appuldurcombe Gardens Holiday Park

Wroxall, Ventnor, Isle of Wight PO38 3EP
T 01983 852597
W appuldurcombegardens.co.uk
Open March to November
Price from £18.95

This gorgeous campsite is in a secluded walled garden designed by the famous architect, Capability Brown, while the touring, motorhome and camping area is within sheltered grassland with upland views of Stenbury Down. 

Here 130 pitches are available on grass or hardstanding, with some fully serviced. There is a tranquil area for relaxing and nature watching. A bar/lounge area overlooks an outdoor heated pool. Amenities include a launderette and children’s play area.