Why is The Apprentice on the Isle of Wight?
Follow the candidates' challenge on the IOW
Explore the locations featured in the episode
Experience the Isle of Wight for yourself
Getting to the Isle of Wight
Places to stay on the Isle of Wight

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The Apprentice visits the Isle of Wight

The Apprentice visits the Isle of Wight

The Isle of Wight has taken centre stage in the latest episode of The Apprentice, with candidates heading across the Solent for a fast-paced challenge set to the backdrop of the Island’s stunning coastal towns, countryside and thriving local businesses.

From well-known attractions to independent producers and waterfront locations, the task showcased just a small glimpse of what makes the Island such a distinctive place to visit.

Below, explore the locations and experiences that make the Isle of Wight such a compelling setting – and find out how you can enjoy it all for yourself.

Book Isle of Wight ferry

Totland Bay beach, IOW, looks tropical in the summer sun

Why is The Apprentice on the Isle of Wight?

For a programme built around quick thinking, bold ideas and real-world challenges, the Isle of Wight makes a lot of sense. It offers variety, unique character and accessibility in a setting that’s easy to explore and rich in local identity.

In one compact Island, you’ll find:

🌍 Big variety in a small space
Coastal towns, countryside and historic locations all within easy reach
💡 A strong independent business scene
Shaped by creativity, entrepreneurship and Island life
🏛️ Plenty of distinctive settings
From food producers and visitor attractions to harbours and heritage sites
🧭 Easy exploration
Ideal for fitting a lot into a short timeframe

The episode is set to air on 19 March at 21:00 – follow the link below to find out more and make sure to tune in and watch.

Watch episode

Follow the candidates' challenge on the IOW

Candidates made their way across the Solent and to the Isle of Wight for a discount buying challenge, traversing the Island in search of specific items from local businesses.

From vineyards and farm shops to marinas and waterfront restaurants, the task took the teams to a wide range of locations. If you’d like to follow the challenge step-by-step, take a look at our full guide by following the link below.

Follow the candidates’ challenge

A person in a blue shirt pours a flute of Adgestone blue sparkling wine from a bottle.

Explore the locations featured in the episode

While the task itself may have been a race against time, the places visited during the episode offer plenty to enjoy at a more relaxed pace.

Here’s a closer look at the areas that featured – and why they’re well worth exploring for yourself.

Aerial view of Freshwater Bay on the Isle of Wight, showing clear turquoise water, dramatic white cliffs and sea stacks stretching along the coastline.

West Wight and Freshwater Bay

The episode began on the Island’s west coast at The Hut, a popular waterfront restaurant overlooking Colwell Bay.

This part of the Island is known for its relaxed coastal feel, beautiful beaches and some of the most dramatic scenery on the Isle of Wight. Just along the coast you’ll find Freshwater Bay, Totland Bay and the iconic Needles at Alum Bay.

It’s an ideal area for surfing, seaside walks, boat trips and sunset views across the Solent.

Sunset light reflects on wet sand as waves roll in beneath Sandown Pier, with warm golden tones across the sky and sea.

Sandown and the east coast countryside

One of the teams travelled to Adgestone Vineyard on the hunt for Something Blue, the vineyard’s famous blue wine.

Set in the countryside just outside of Sandown, this part of the Island combines rolling farmland with traditional seaside charm.

Sandown itself is home to one of the Island’s longest sandy beaches, while nearby villages and rural lanes make it a lovely area for exploring local produce, vineyards and countryside walks.

Explore Sandown

Aerial view of the River Medina on the Isle of Wight with a sailing boat travelling through calm water, surrounded by autumn trees and Newport in the distance.

Newport and the River Medina

The candidates also travelled to Island Harbour Marina, located on the River Medina just outside Newport, the Isle of Wight’s county town.

Running through the heart of the Island, the River Medina has long played an important role in the Island’s maritime history. Today it’s a popular spot for boating, paddleboarding and waterside walks, with scenic paths following the river between Newport and Cowes.

Newport itself offers a mix of independent shops, cafés and historic streets, making it a great place to pause before exploring more of the surrounding countryside and coastline.

Explore Newport

Ryde

Several moments in the episode take place in Ryde, the Isle of Wight’s largest town and one of its best-loved seaside destinations.

With its long sandy beach, traditional pier and lively mix of independent shops, cafés and attractions, Ryde has been welcoming visitors for generations. The town combines classic seaside charm with plenty to see and do, from relaxed strolls along the Esplanade to exploring its vibrant high street.

It’s also a location close to our hearts. Our FastCat passenger service has been bringing visitors straight into the heart of Ryde for years, making it one of the quickest and most convenient ways to start your Island adventure.

Guide to Ryde, Isle of Wight

Courtyard at The Garlic Farm in Newchurch on the Isle of Wight, with rustic buildings, garden planting and outdoor seating on a sunny day.

Newchurch and the Arreton Valley

On the hunt for garlic bulbs, candidates made their way to the famous Garlic Farm, which sits in the peaceful Arreton Valley.

An area known for its farms, independent producers and scenic countryside, you can take it all in across various walking routes and cycling trails connecting nearby villages and historic sites.

Experience the Isle of Wight for yourself

There’s no shortage of ways to fill your time on the Diamond Isle. Whether you’re drawn by places that featured on screen or simply inspired to explore further, the Island packs a huge variety of things onto its shores.

From classic days out by the seaside to coastal walks with stunning scenery, it’s easy to shape a trip that suits you, no matter if you’re here for just the day or staying a little longer.

Things to do

Celebrity hangouts

Take a step into the world of famous faces and experience the Island like a celeb. With stylish coastal restaurants, stunning historic places to stay and glamourous events, like the world-renowned Cowes Week, it’s easy to follow in some very well-known footsteps.

Take a look at the Diamond Isle’s top celebrity hangouts and start planning your own standout day.

Celeb hangouts guide

A photo of a waterside restaurant from the sea. It has the name 'The Hut' on the awning and there are beach huts and trees visible

Attractions to visit

The Isle of Wight makes exploring feel effortless. From historic landmarks and hands-on attractions to family-friendly days out, there’s plenty to keep you busy – and most of it sits comfortably within easy reach.

Perfect for spontaneous plans and seeing where the day takes you.

Explore attractions

Two children ride sleds down a wooden slide at Tapnell Farm Park on the Isle of Wight, with an adult watching from the top on a sunny day.

Beaches to explore

With coastline never far away, beach time comes naturally on the Island. You’ll find long sandy beaches, sheltered coves and dramatic stretches of coastline, each with their own character.

Whether you’re after a classic seaside stroll, a quiet spot to unwind or somewhere to explore rockpools and coastal paths, there’s a beach to match the mood.

Uncover Island beaches

People walk and relax along a wide sandy beach backed by dramatic cliffs, under a bright sky with scattered clouds.

Walks to soothe the soul

Tackling a coastal path or setting out on a countryside trail is such a great way of exploring the Island, uncovering scenic routes that connect towns, viewpoints and landmarks.

Expect delightful views and plenty of fresh air along the way, with many walks being easy enough to dip in and out of – ideal for short breaks or longer stays. You’ll find plenty of pubs and eateries for pit stops, too!

Walking routes

A man walking a dog along a coastal path on Headon Warren with views of the Needles rock formations and the sea at sunset on the Isle of Wight.

Town and village guides

The Island’s towns and villages each have their own distinct feel, from lively harbour towns to quieter inland spots. Wander through the streets of chocolate box villages, browse independent shops, stop for coffee and take the time to soak up local life.

Wherever you choose to visit, you’ll get to experience the Island at your own pace and make some special memories as you go.

Isle of Wight towns and villages

Thatched Houses in Shanklin Village Isle of Wight

Getting to the Isle of Wight

Reaching the Isle of Wight is easier than you may think.

We run regular crossings from the mainland, with journey times ranging from 22 minutes to 45 minutes depending on which of our three routes you choose to take. So you can be swapping traffic lights for sea views in under an hour.

Find your best sailing

Wightlink’s hybrid ferry Victoria of Wight sailing in calm waters near the Fishbourne shoreline under a clear blue sky.

↔️ Your choice of routes

We operate three convenient routes across the Solent, connecting Portsmouth and Lymington with Fishbourne, Ryde and Yarmouth.

Our Portsmouth to Fishbourne route gets you to the Island in 45 minutes, while the picturesque Lymington to Yarmouth route will get you there in just 40 minutes. Portsmouth to Ryde is for foot passengers only, with our FastCats getting you to the IOW in as little as 22 minutes.

Get to know our routes

🚢 Cross the Solent in comfort and style

On board our ferries and at our ports, you’ll find everything you need to get your trip off to the perfect start.

Enjoy a coffee or a bite to eat, relax in comfortable lounges, take in the views from the sun decks or keep the little ones entertained in our play area.

It’s all part of making your journey as enjoyable as your time on the Island.

Explore our facilities

♥️ Trusted by millions

We bring 4.3 million people together every year and we’re proud to be on of the UK’s most trusted ferry operators. Our consistently high customer ratings mean we’re a Feefo Platinum Award winner, thanks to the dedication of our fantastic colleagues.

When you travel with us, you can expect a reliable, friendly and straightforward service from start to finish.

See our service performance

Places to stay on the Isle of Wight

Already picturing yourself on the Island? The next step is deciding where to stay. Whether you want to be close to the coast, within walking distance of a harbour town or tucked away in the countryside, there’s a style of stay to match any kind of break that takes your fancy.

Row of traditional thatched stone cottages along a quiet village road on the Isle of Wight, with whitewashed walls, cottage gardens and blue sky.

Cottages and self catering

For flexibility and space to do things your own way, self-catering stays are a popular choice.

From cosy cottages to larger properties for extended family groups, it’s a chance to settle in, set your own pace and explore the Island as you please.

Cottages on the Isle of Wight

A mum, dad, two daughters and a son player around in a swimming pool at Lower Hyde Holiday Park

Holiday parks

Ideal for families who like everything in one place, holiday parks offer a relaced base with plenty on your doorstep.

Think on-site entertainment, pools, restaurants and easy access to beaches or attractions – all designed to make switching off that bit easier.

Isle of Wight holiday and caravan parks

A bright, elegant hotel room with sea views, a bed with red accents, and a seating area by tall windows overlooking a balcony.

Hotels and B&Bs

If you’d rather arrive and let someone else take care of the details, the Island’s hotels and B&Bs offer welcoming stays with sea views, hearty breakfasts and everything you need for a comfortable break.

Many are perfectly placed for exploring nearby towns, beaches and attractions on foot.

Hotels and B&Bs on the Isle of Wight

Glamping

For something a little different, glamping combines the charm of the outdoors with the comfort of modern amenities.

Think stylish pods, safari tents or luxury cabins – ideal for enjoying fresh air by day and a cosy night’s sleep after.

Glamping on the Isle of Wight