Eco-inclined families concerned about their carbon footprint or those finding the Euro too expensive may decide to holiday a little closer to home this half term. If so, they can travel ‘overseas’ by crossing the water on a trip to the Isle of Wight with Wightlink (0871 376 1000 www.wightlink.co.uk). The cross-Solent ferry operator is offering some neat holiday ideas to help baffled parents entertain their families on the Isle of Wight, where there are plenty of year-round attractions and activities for kids of all ages. Prices are based on a family of four – two adults and two children (aged 5–15 years) travelling by car, and start from only £58 per person.

Departing 23 May: Self-catering holiday at Gotten Manor

Stay in deepest countryside in the Cart House, one of three self-catering units created out of old barns at this stone manor house. Located in a sheltered hollow at the foot of St. Catherine’s Down in the south of the island with only cows for neighbours, there are footpaths in all directions, and a woodland copse with bats, badgers and buzzards within the grounds.

What it costs: A seven-night Wightlink Green Getaway in the Cart House at Gotten Manor from 23 May costs £188 per person (based on four sharing) and includes self-catering accommodation and return car ferry crossings from Portsmouth or Lymington. 

Fun for kids: Travel back in time at historic Appuldurcombe House, where exciting costumed falconry displays recreate the visit of Henry VIII and his Falcons in 1538. Taking place daily between 24–29 May, a family ticket for the House and Falconry Centre costs £22.

Five star camping in unspoilt countryside at Southland Camping Park

One of the UK’s top rated camping parks, Southland extends over nine acres of unspoilt countryside scenery, with 120 generously-sized sheltered pitches. Located on the outskirts of Newchurch in the Isle of Wight’s rural heartland, the beautifully maintained landscaped park is the perfect setting for a relaxing family holiday and an ideal base for walking or cycling.

What it costs: Seven-night Wightlink Green Getaways in May cost £58 per person (based on a family of four sharing a tent or motorcaravan up to 6m). This includes camping site fees, electricity, and return car ferry crossings from Portsmouth or Lymington. Alternatively, four night breaks cost £42.25 per person.

Fun for kids: Join experts from Dinosaur Isle, the UK’s first purpose-built dinosaur museum, and search for dinosaur bones on one of the popular beach Fossil Walks taking place daily at Shanklin, Brook Bay or Yaverland during the half term week (26–30 May). A family ticket costs £12; advance booking essential.  

Departing 26 May: Relaxing hotel break at Luccombe Manor

Originally built in 1870 as the summer palace for the Bishop of Portsmouth, this family-run hotel occupies one of the best positions on the Island, set in four acres of landscaped clifftop gardens with views of Shanklin bay. Facilities available include a heated swimming pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, gym, games room, and the Island’s only hotel-based squash court.

What it costs: A three-night Wightlink break at Luccombe Manor Country House Hotel from 26 May costs from £154 per person (based on four sharing). This includes accommodation in a family room, breakfast, dinner, and return car ferry crossings from Portsmouth or Lymington. 

Fun for kids: Become a bug detective and join the mini-beast hunt taking place at the Isle of Wight Zoo during half term (26–30 May). There will be fascinating and fun-themed activities for all ages, including free face painting and a creepy crawly discovery table. A family ticket costs £19.75 – reduced entry for children in bug-themed fancy dress!

ENDS

Issued on behalf of:                                                             By:

WIGHTLINK LTD                                                                  Christine Ball PR

17th April 2008                                                                    Tel: 01798 874177