Spinnakers

Yarmouth is a great base for an Island escape with a good selection of independent shops, cafes, pubs and restaurants all within walking distance of Spinnakers. Try PO 41, a hidden gem serving excellent freshly brewed coffee and pastries or Gossips Cafe with fabulous views over the Solent. If you are looking to cook at home, try the two food shops for an excellent selection of national and local produce. Head to The Terrace for a special treat and views across the harbour or one of several pubs including The Kings Head, The Wheatsheaf Inn and The Bugle Coaching Inn. Other restaurants include On the Rocks and Off the Rails plus The George Hotel that has a garden right on the Solent (dog friendly).

Yarmouth is home to a scenic wooden pier with stunning views across the Solent (a small fee is charged for maintenance). And there's Yarmouth Castle, managed by English Heritage and centrally located next to the ferry terminal. Walkers should head along the former railway track to Freshwater, perfect for peace and tranquility and spotting wildlife and cyclists will find a great selection of trails and bridleways.

Yarmouth is a great place for a car free holiday but if you do decide to take the car out and explore further afield The Needles and both Freshwater and Compton bays are not far away or head for Osborne House near Cowes where you can visit the beautifully kept gardens, private beach and grand house which were once the home of Queen Victoria. The Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary is home to over 100 donkeys, mules and Shetland ponies, and everyone is welcome to visit and learn all about them. The cosmopolitan sailing town of Cowes is worth a visit or perhaps head to the east of the Island and the beautiful seaside villages of Seaview and Bembridge.

However you plan to spend your precious holiday time, Spinnakers is well placed for all your Island adventures.