Think the Isle of Wight is just a summer destination? Think again.
As the summer crowds start to disappear, the Island takes on a completely different feel. The beaches become quieter, the coastal paths are peaceful and autumn brings its own reasons to explore.
If you’re planning a getaway after the summer season, here are five things to add to your Isle of Wight itinerary.
1. Explore the Island’s Coastal Walks
Autumn is a fantastic time to get out and explore the Isle of Wight on foot.
With cooler temperatures and fewer people around, you can enjoy the Island’s coastal paths at a more relaxed pace. Wrap up warm, put on your walking boots and take in the changing scenery along the coastline.
Some of our favourite walks include the coastal route from Shanklin to Sandown, a walk around the beautiful Compton Bay, or taking in the dramatic views along the coast at Freshwater Bay and The Needles.
Don’t forget your camera, autumn sunsets over the coast can be spectacular.
2. Enjoy a Quieter Day at the Beach
You don’t need sunshine and 25-degree temperatures to enjoy an Isle of Wight beach.
Once the summer season ends, many of the Island’s beaches become much quieter, making them perfect for a peaceful stroll. Take a flask of something warm, breathe in the sea air and enjoy having more of the coastline to yourself.
We love a beach walk along Compton Bay, or if you want somewhere closer to Shanklin, the coastal walk from Shanklin to Sandown is a great way to enjoy the fresh sea air and beautiful views.
Sometimes, a brisk autumn walk by the sea is exactly what you need.
3. Discover Shanklin Old Village
Autumn is a lovely time to wander around Shanklin Old Village.
Take a stroll through the charming thatched cottages, browse the local shops and stop somewhere cosy for a coffee or something to eat.
And if you’re a Christmas fan, make sure you pay a visit to the Jingle Bells Christmas Shop because it’s never too early to get into the festive spirit!
With its traditional character and close proximity to the coast, Shanklin makes a great base for an autumn Island break.
4. Make the Most of the Island’s Indoor Attractions
Not every autumn day is going to bring sunshine but that doesn’t mean your plans need to stop.
The Isle of Wight has plenty of things to do when the weather turns. Visit Dinosaur Isle in Sandown, discover the Island’s history at Brading Roman Villa, enjoy a show at Shanklin Theatre or get competitive with a round of indoor crazy golf at Caddyshack in Shanklin.
Having a few indoor options planned means you can still make the most of your break, whatever the forecast has in store.
And don’t forget, if you’re visiting around Halloween, keep an eye out for the Island’s pumpkin patches, which are a great way to get into the autumn spirit!
And there’s nothing wrong with coming back after a day out and enjoying a slower afternoon at your holiday apartment.
5. Slow Down and Enjoy an Autumn Break
Perhaps the best thing about visiting the Isle of Wight after summer is that you don’t have to rush.
Take a long breakfast, head out for a walk, stop for lunch, explore somewhere new and then spend the evening relaxing. Some of our local suggestions on where to head for breakfast are: Paramount Café, The Copper Kettle, Coffee Chameleon Café and Tradewinds Beach Café.
With fewer summer crowds and a slower pace, autumn gives you the perfect excuse to switch off and enjoy the Island differently.
Stay with Vectis Holiday Homes
If you’re looking for an autumn escape, we have a selection of self-catering apartments in Shanklin, giving you a comfortable base from which to explore the Isle of Wight.
So don’t put the Island away just because summer is over. Pack a jumper, book your stay and discover a quieter side of the Isle of Wight this autumn.