Created by KeefH Web Designs , August 4th, 2024, 5.30 PM
Not The Motorhome trip No 22 : 13th-20th July 2024
We have not been to the Isle of Wight for over 40 years. When we last went way back when with pals we were on motorbikes and slept in tents. Now being septuagenarians we do it in luxury and take our family with us. We had a fab cottage and great adventurous and fun stay and boy the weather was good. Read this travel blog to find all about it
By implication as this Travel Blog has many images and videos of our grand children I have separated out those images / videos and made them PRIVATE on You Tube, should you wish to see them you will need ask via email keefh@keefh-web-designs.org.uk thank you for your understanding
MENU
TRAVEL BLOG INTRODUCTION
We had a great week away staying at our cottage near Godshill at a place just outside in Lessland Lane Sandford. A word of warning some of the roads are a little narrow so should you ever use this lane I would recommend approaching it from Godshill end. We didn't know that first time in, and came across a motorhome en-route down a single track lane. We personally would not take our motorhome to the IOW for exactly this reason but there were many of them about.
The holiday cottage was great, super clean , modern and sizable. Loved the outdoor eating space, conservatory and the grand kids loved the tree house, garden space and tractor. The owners were so kind, what a well equipped place especially when compared to our earlier Cambrian abode.
There was so much to do and see and in general the weather was perfect. Sadly both Tate and I were ill picking up something fairly horrible that needed anti-biotics to resolve. Anyhow it didn't dampen our spirits.
Read on through this travel blog to get a better feel for the detail and enjoy the various slideshows and videos. Thanks for looking.
PANORAMAS
Here is a sample of my fave panoramas from the trip, i have got the hang of it (finally) #smile on my phone but there is also a slideshow with most if not all of them in.
OVERALL SLIDESHOWS & VIDEOS
These are the ones featuring the grandkids so by implication they are PRIVATE, they cover the full 7 days which are summarised with freely available slideshows and videos under each day.
ISLE OF WIGHT OVERVIEW
A comprehensive overview for fellow travellers would be:-
Population
The Isle of Wight, located off the southern coast of England, has a population of approximately 141,000 people. The island’s population density is relatively low, contributing to its tranquil and scenic environment.
Geographical Factors
The Isle of Wight is known for its diverse landscapes, including rolling hills, chalk cliffs, and sandy beaches. The island’s geology is particularly notable for its fossil-rich cliffs, making it a significant site for paleontological studies. The climate is mild, with warm summers and cool winters, making it a popular destination year-round.
History
The Isle of Wight has a rich history dating back to prehistoric times. It was a significant site during the Roman occupation of Britain and later became a strategic location during the medieval period. The island is home to several historic sites, including Carisbrooke Castle, which has stood since the Norman Conquest. In the 19th century, Queen Victoria made Osborne House her summer residence, further enhancing the island’s historical significance.
Best Places to Visit
The Needles: These iconic chalk stacks are one of the most photographed landmarks on the island. Visitors can take a chairlift ride for stunning views or explore the nearby Needles Old Battery and New Battery.
Osborne House: Once the summer home of Queen Victoria, this grand estate offers a glimpse into royal life with its beautifully preserved rooms and extensive gardens.
Carisbrooke Castle: This historic motte-and-bailey castle offers panoramic views of the island and a fascinating museum detailing its history.
Dinosaur Isle: A must-visit for families and fossil enthusiasts, this museum showcases the island’s rich paleontological heritage.
Ventnor Botanic Garden: Located in a unique microclimate, this garden features a wide variety of subtropical plants.
Shanklin Chine: A picturesque wooded gorge with waterfalls, lush vegetation, and a charming tea garden.
Alum Bay: Known for its multi-colored sand cliffs, Alum Bay is a great spot for a boat trip to see The Needles up close.
The Isle of Wight offers a blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and family-friendly attractions, making it a perfect destination for a relaxing getaway.
We did some of those best places and have done some in the past. We wouldn't necessarily recommend Alum Bay / The Needles but Shanklin Chine, Carisbrooke, Dinosaur Isle and Osborne are a big must as featured here on our travel blog, shame we didn't have time to do the Botanic gardens but would add that if and when we return, you never know!
Train, Ferry, Old skool poster time #enjoy
130724 Saturday travel on the ferry plus meal in Godshill at the Griffin
We set out from home in the car this time rather than our usual motorhome trips. We arrived at the Red Funnel ferry terminal in Southampton with plenty of time to spare for our 2pm crossing. There had been some motorway hold ups but nothing out of the ordinary, the M27 / 271 into Southampton were the usual nightmare. Met up with family in the queue.
The crossing is fairly short and was very calm. Arriving at East Cowes ...OK can't resist... Dad joke time... Q? "what's brown and comes outta Cowes back side" #poortaste #smile A! "the IOW ferry" #haha...
We then drove onto the cottage. Pleasantly surprised when we arrived a great place for a weeks family holiday. After unpacking / familiarising ourselves we set off to the Hare and Hounds pub, near Arreton, one Craig & Leanne had been to and recommended the last time they were in the IOW. Sadly only one chef and we hadn't booked so went to the Griffin Inn in Godshill nearer to home.
Nice swings etc. for the kids and lovely giant chairs in the garden, I can recommend the ale and Sticky Toffee pudding but the mains in my humble opinion were distinctly average and over priced for what you got, but maybe I'm just getting old and used to whining #haha Sadly Tate hurt his chin but soon recovered. Bit exhausted from the travelling we returned to the cottage and no early to bed for all as the Euros final was on and we (and the kids) had to watch. 58 years of hurt continued but Spain were definitely the better team so no complaints but it was hugely exciting. Somewhat deflated we retired to bed post match.
140724 Sunday Blackgang Chine
After a nice bacon sarnie brekkie cooked by Craig we took the kids to Blackgang Chine and met Craig & Leanne there. We had a full day which the kids loved. The water bounce area was truly mesmerising and really did look like they were paddling in the waves of a beach. Very clever. Sadly us oldies couldn't go on much and Grandpa (me!) would have loved to go on the mega white-knuckle ride (still remember with fondness the 60 mph backwards in the dark ride in Florida) but my head wouldn't fit thru the test seat clamper (no commentary please #haha ). Latterly on their second visit Edie & Leanne went on it, Edie with her eyes closed and Leanne having to have a lie down when back at the cottage. Annie and I got chucked off the rotating carpet ride as they couldn't fit the security bar over our tummies. What you saying? #haha Indeed the only ride we managed was the tea cups but loved the haunted house (originally an old folks home on site) and undersea world. Grandpa (of course) went around it the wrong way meeting up with the family half way. The blue whale was amazing and Tate's shooting skills with the water canons a big plus.
Lots of walking and fun. We had a snack lunch in Cowboy World, my name not theirs.
Take a look at our travel blog slideshows and videos to get a true feel of the day which was long, tiring as so steep but we wouldn't have missed it for the world to see the grand children's happy faces. Grandpa cooked tea before the game.
Here is a bit of background to the wonderful and historic Blackgang CHine a place I visited as a child.
Blackgang Chine is a fascinating and historic theme park located near Ventnor on the Isle of Wight. Here are some key highlights:
History and Background
Oldest Theme Park: Established in 1843, Blackgang Chine is the oldest amusement park in the UK.
Name Origin: The park is named after a now-destroyed coastal ravine (or “chine”) in the soft Cretaceous cliffs
Family-Owned: It has been owned and operated by the Dabell family since its inception
Attractions and Rides
Lands of Imagination: The park features various themed areas such as Pirate Cove, Fairy Land, and Cowboy Town
Thrilling Rides: Enjoy rides like “Extinction” and the giant waterslide "Waterforce".
Interactive Walk-Throughs: There are numerous interactive experiences and play areas for all ages.
Events and Activities
Seasonal Events: Blackgang Chine hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including summer festivals with fireworks and Halloween-themed activities.
Unlimited Returns: Standard park tickets offer up to 7 days of unlimited free returns, allowing visitors to explore the park at their leisure.
Food and Amenities
Dining Options: The park offers a range of food and drink options, with discounts available for season pass holders.
Unique Features
Scenic Location: Situated on the southern tip of the Isle of Wight, the park offers stunning coastal views.
Historical Significance: The park’s history is intertwined with local legends of smuggling and shipwrecks.
To read even more click on Blackgang Chine
150724 Monday Butterfly World and the Craft village
We went to the Medina Garden Centre where Butterfly world is. Such lovely butterflies, tried hard to get them to land on our hands to no avail but one lovely one landed on Annie's back. The slideshow gives you a much better feel. We all learnt a lot and enjoyed the scary little creatures hands on experience, Granny and Grandpa showing Edie that holding a tarantula was not scary at all, the guy running it however would not let anyone hold the scorpion. All very interesting. After going all around a couple of times we called it a day, the weather wasn't great with endless showers so this was an indoor day. Annie and I visited the craft village at Arreton afterwards dodging the showers but watched some glass blowing. Click here to learn more about Arreton Barns. Grandpa cooked Spag. Bol for tea with garlic bread.
160724 Tuesday Model Village, Dinosaur Isle at Sandown, Crab & lobster at Bembridge
We very rapidly realised why it is called Godshill, as you approach the village the church high on the hill gives it away. Anyhow Godshill was just down the road from our cottage. Great news free parking in the centre and then a walk through craft shops, restaurants etc. etc. Godshill is a truly touristy place but for us the model village is the highlight.
We did the quiz as well which kept the kids amused, such clever detail and the whole scale model was just so well maintained. We loved it and got the quiz right. #smug
After that we went to Sandown to the Dinosaur Isle centre, a must however don't be caught out by your Sat Nav as Annie and I were. We keyed in Dinosaurs at Sandown only to arrive at the pier. The Isle complex is much further along the sea front.
What an amazing place Dinosaur Isle is. The kids liked it and the adults loved it too. See the remains of the recently discovered "Compton" dinosaur as an elderly inhabitant of the IOW was a true highlight. See our travel blog slideshow for a detailed inspection, thanks. Craig and family then went to the beach at Sandown opposite and had to go back to bath the kids to get rid of half the beach #haha sand wise, whilst Keef and Annie took a drive into Sandown to get some throat spray at Boots and then onto Shanklin past the chine and through the lovely village onto Ventnor and the remembered zig-zag hill, steep or what down to the sea front. Really liked Ventnor but not easy to park oh and due to diversions because of road closed between Shanklin and Ventnor a true diversion of many miles.
We then all met up at the Crab & Lobster pub in Bembridge , through the housing estate to the coast, great views but only somewhere you had to know about it or you would never find it, Craig & Leanne had been there in the past so we were "in the know". I had the most wonderful crab salad and C&L has seabass, great food and rinks. We then returned to the cottage for the night.
Here are a few more details about that newly discovered dinosaur, what a treat to see it in the flesh so to speak, ok bones only!
The newly discovered dinosaur, named Comptonatus chasei, is a significant find on the Isle of Wight. Here are some key details:
Discovery and Naming
Discovery: The fossil was discovered in 2013 by fossil hunter Nick Chase in the cliffs of Compton Bay
Naming: It was named Comptonatus chasei in honor of Nick Chase, who passed away in 2019
Significance
Most Complete Dinosaur: This specimen is the most complete dinosaur discovered in the UK in the last century, consisting of 149 bones
New Genus and Species: Initially thought to be a known dinosaur, further study revealed it to be a new genus and species
Physical Characteristics
Age: The dinosaur is approximately 125 million years old
Size: It had a pubic hip bone the size of a dinner plate, indicating it was a hefty dinosaur, similar in size to an American bison
Unique Features: It has unique features in its skull, teeth, and lower jaw, distinguishing it from other known dinosaurs
Scientific Insights
Research: The discovery has provided new insights into the diversity of Cretaceous-era dinosaurs in England
Ongoing Studies: Researchers continue to study the specimen to understand more about its biology and ecology
This discovery not only adds to our understanding of dinosaur diversity but also highlights the rich paleontological history of the Isle of Wight.
170724 Wednesday Tapnell Farm, Lunch at The Cow and Yarmouth
Keef really wasn't very well today, indeed dosed up with various medications I stayed in bed until about 11 am. Annie stayed with me to look after me, what a sweetie and did some crochet.
We agreed to meet up for lunch at the Cow pub (pre booked, you have to it is amazingly popular) It is on the premises of Tapnell farm, an activity park with just so much for the kids including rides as well as a farm and aqua park. What a fabulous meal, possibly one of the best burgers I have ever had. The meat was very very local although the guy I talked to said they were indeed a diary farm, hence the fab ice creams, but got meat from their neighbours farm. Did I say Edie and I had spent all week looking for cola ice cream but even though this was Isle of Wight ice-cream the purveyors of cola ice cream they didn't have any, indeed the whole weeks searching got us nowhere so Edie and I made some back at home and yummy it was too!
After lunch we had a bit of a look around the farm, did the wallaby and meerkats feeding sessions and watched the kids on various things, the bike centre being a true highlight. Not feeling so great we left them to enjoy themselves and Annie and I went to Yarmouth and Freshwater which were nearby. Love Yarmouth, my personal island favourite. See some of our fun in the travel blog slideshow. Note Tapnell was a bit of a drive from the cottage but to be fair nowhere is really more than half and hour away, especially as we were based in the middle.
180724 Thursday Beach day out at Sandown plus Yummy brekkie
What a great day at the beach at Sandown, luckily we got to the pier beach front parking area reasonably early and paid our £11+ parking fee for the whole day.
Initially as early and cool we walked along the sea front to Fin's beach cafe, a must and little know about I would suggest, apart from by the locals. Possibly as Carlsberg used to say "the best brekkie in the world". Classy food, smoothies and milk shakes and views to die for.
C&L hired sun loungers and brolly for some shade from the man nearby, an interesting chap whom we talked to, what an office eh and he only lived across the rad in the flats so a short walk to work #smile
Annie and I used our own camping chairs from the motorhome which we took with us.
Paddling, sand castles, reading, sun worshipping / bathing and ice creams from the pier were the order of the day.
We left late afternoon and visited the Garlic Farm for produce and fun. I look forward to sampling our Garlic Jam.
All in all a great day.
190724 Friday 3 English Heritage site visited for a day out whilst others were at Blackgang Chine Part 2
The family decided to go back to Blackgang chine for a second day, even they said they were exhausted when they returned but had a great day, it was very hot and Annie and I rightly decided not to go and used the day to visit 3 English Heritage properties, starting with Appeldurcombe house, nice grounds and interesting ruins of a great house, which on the day we visited was being set up ready for a wedding. We by passed the Donkey sanctuary and headed out west and called in at the Water Mill in Calbourne, as featured on Alan Titchmarsh's IOW TV series. Sadly it was closed but we had a long chat with the owner and lady that was in the TV series, they had restored the original mill stone. Interestingly she said that Alan wasn't there (just a voice over) and it was all done by one cameraman and one sound recordist and oh they didn't even get a stipend from the TV company, not good! The mill featured in the Doomsday book, have a look at the history via the link if you are interested. I found it fascinating. We then went onto Yarmouth, what a lovely sunny day. Sat on the roof top cafe having coffee and cake watching the Lymington ferry leave. We then visited the Yarmouth castle site. Had a fab chat with the volunteer there and enjoyed discovering the history of the place, great views as well.
After that we visited Carisbrooke castle, where Charles 1st was held prisoner before his execution and Queen Victoria's youngest daughter rewrote history to erase Victoria's various liaisons (TBC) post Albert's death, but who am I to spread nasturtiums. #smile
We loved Carisbrooke, a wonderful place to visit and as English Heritage members a good days work. The museum even had an early work JMW Turner of the castle, I am in awe, he is one of my heroes.
After the castle we went and set up our chairs further along the road and looked back at the battlements, before ringing Craig and setting up to meet up at the Fighting Cocks pub for our evening meal. A nice meal and good bouncy castle and swing park options afterwards and even a rich person taking off in their helicopter, maybe it was the fake or real Alan Sugar, who knows.
It was then back to the cottage to do some packing ready for eviction tomorrow.
200724 Saturday Osborne House and travel back home
Did our final packing and tidying up of the property and stashing everything in the cars before heading off towards Cowes and the Queen Vic, now known as Osborne house, as we are members we can get the grandkids in for free quite a perk. Always wanted to visit and we were not disappointed.
The children got a free lanyard and a multiple choice of English Heritage badges including some of the limited edition ones, we have been collecting these for Edie over the year beforehand. Started with a lovely and historic Punch and Judy show which the kids found fascinating and the puppeteer let them be photographed with some of the puppets. He was a fun guy and told us that you can just about get away with a Prince Albert puppet these days. Grand parents then went around the house and the rest went to the play park, as it not really being a kids thing. We all met up for a light lunch at the gate house cafe. We then did a bit of shopping and I can thoroughly recommend English heritages rum and black cherry jam, a kirsch derivative that goes so well with scones and clotted cream, we tried it out post the holiday and it was such a hit we WILL be buying more jars.
Tatey got some rubber bug toys, caterpillar and slug, what an ace choice.
Anyhow after that we headed off to join the queue for the ferry when it started to rain and prepare for the long journey home. We said our goodbyes on the ferry and C&L and kids went into Wes Quay for tea and we just travelled home. A great holiday!!!
TOURIST BROCHURES
Collected whilst we were on holidays and scanned at home
AUDIOBOOK
If you prefer to listen rather than read this travel blog this is the place for you.
THE END
That's all folks!!!
It's a long way from Yorkshire, but looks like it might be worth a trip with our Elddis Xplore.
a fab family holiday on a fab island with loads to do