Summer has very nearly arrived, and you might have started thinking about how to fill the summer months with exciting adventures. If you’ll have kids on holiday from school too, coming up with ways to entertain them for 6 whole weeks can be challenging, so you might want to plan some activities. Or perhaps you just want to be a tourist yourself for the day and take some visiting family members on a fun day out!

Whether you are looking for something historical, an amusement day with lots of laughter, or maybe a treat for the animal lovers, we have something for everyone to enjoy with these great local attractions!

The Wildheart Animal Sanctuary

Formerly known as the Isle of Wight Zoo, the multi-award-winning Wildheart Animal Sanctuary is the biggest animal sanctuary on the Isle of Wight, and is like no other. It’s a wildlife haven for rescued exotic animals, set in the ruins of a Victorian fort, overlooking the glorious beaches of Sandown.

With a vast collection of animals, including the new rescued Tigers, Softi and Toph, with daily talks and iconic primate domes, two adventure play parks, quiz trails and loads of activities for the kids, an amazing café with views out to sea, a shop with local eco-friendly products and even an historic Palmerston fort to explore, the Sanctuary promises a truly wild and wonderful day out for the entire family! Open daily 10am to 5pm.

Find out more

Monkey Haven, Isle of Wight

Say hello to Monkey Haven, the Island’s award-winning primate rescue centre that makes animals happy – and people happy. It’s a place to relax, have fun in the fresh air and meet some amazing animals.

The Island’s favourite sanctuary is a winner of Visit England’s Best Small Attraction and the People’s Choice award in the London Charity Film Awards 2022.

You’ll come face to face with all kinds of rescued animals, including Siamangs, Lar gibbons, meerkats, reptiles and birds of prey. You could even get the chance to handle a snake or meet an owl during one of the regular keeper talks and animal feeds throughout the day.

Learn all about the fascinating creatures, their personalities, and how they came to be at the Haven. Many were rescued from tragic situations, found tied up in airports, or badly neglected by their previous owners.

We have great facilities / disabled access and look forward to welcoming you to our happy haven soon!

Book your day out here!

Isle of Wight Donkey Santuary

The Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary is a fun day out with something for all ages. With free car parking and free admission, we rely entirely on voluntary donations, all of which are gratefully received.

There are over 100 donkeys and ponies to meet, with activities throughout the year offering the chance to interact with some of our animals. Details of our activities can be found and booked online.

If you’re looking for a special gift, there’s plenty to choose from in our shop – you can even choose to adopt one of our donkeys or ponies.

If you’re after some delicious food, freshly cooked using local produce, then head to Grazers Café on site, catering for all diets including vegetarian and vegan options. We welcome the whole family, including the dog!

Book your day out here!

Quarr Abbey

Welcome to the Abbey of Our Lady of Quarr, a monastery on the Isle of Wight, just off the south coast of England. It is home to a small group of Benedictine monks who strive to dedicate their lives to the glory of God, and whose day is characterised by prayer, work and community life.

Quarr Abbey is situated in an area of outstanding natural beauty. Visitors are welcome to attend worship in the Abbey Church. You can visit our gardens, take refreshments in our Tea Shop and find out about the monastery in our Visitor Centre. The Farm Shop offers home grown produce and the Monastery Shop religious articles, books and souvenirs. There is a new exhibition of the work of local artists every week in the gallery.

More info

The Needles

From dramatic coastlines to unforgettable experiences, no visit to the Isle of Wight is complete without a trip to The Needles, with excitement and entertainment for the whole family.

The Needles are one of the Isle of Wight’s most iconic sights. These three white chalk stacks leading up to the Needles Lighthouse are the first thing that many people think of when they hear the words ‘Isle of Wight’. The Needles are more than just a beautiful sight, however.

There’s plenty to do here, from the world-famous Needles Rocks to the Needles Old Battery. Discover the outstanding landmarks and places of natural beauty; well known for its multi-coloured sand cliffs and stunning coastal views, a variety of family attractions, hands on interactive experiences, plus you can tuck in to a variety of local cuisine, and treat yourself to plenty of island products in our catering and retail outlets.

Throughout the summer, enjoy unique firework displays, each one transporting you on a magical journey – the perfect way to end a family day out at this unique destination.

Book your day out here!