Where is the Island?

St Catherine's Lighthouse © IW Tourism

The Isle of Wight lies five miles off the southern coast of England, about two hours travel time from London. From the air it resembles a diamond in shape, spanning 23 miles east to west and 13 miles north to south. The Island covers approximately 146 square miles with a population of 140,000.

Scenically and culturally, the Isle of Wight is a microcosm of southern England. It has a reasonably balanced diversity of town and country landscapes, of brashness and sophistication, of modernity and tradition, enabling it to accommodate a broad range of tastes.

It has a varied, stimulating historical and literary heritage, with enough monuments, curiosities and memorials to satisfy the most enthusiastic professional tourist or the most incurable romantic.

The Island boasts one of the best sunshine records in the British Isles, consistently warmer and sunnier than the mainland, allowing subtropical plants to thrive in sheltered south-facing areas.

Whenever you visit the Island, you are sure to be impressed. Each season has its own special charm. The long, hot says of summer attract hundreds of visitors to the coastal resorts to enjoy sailing or a traditional seaside holiday with miles of golden sand and safe bathing.

The Island's true beauty can also be discovered at other times of the year, when you will be tempted to explore the countryside, following many footpaths and trails that reveal the refreshing greens and golds of spring, the vibrant tints of autumn or the magically frosted pastel hues of a winter's morning.