Cockleshells

With the shoreline just yards away, this really is a rather special place for a holiday. The beach overlooks the Solent, great for family fun days or just somewhere to sit and watch the tide ebb and flow. The promenade to the east is flat and great for walking to the town of Ryde along the sea front, or into the village. Here you will find Lily's cafe, great for freshly brewed coffee, cakes or perhaps sandwiches to take to the beach. The Seaview Hotel is rather wonderful with a bar full of maritime memorabilia and a restaurant for fine dining. For fresh seafood try The Old Fort, positioned overlooking the Solent this quirky spot has eclectic interiors furnishings to match the location (do book ahead it's a popular spot). The local community shop opens daily for all your holiday essentials including freshly baked bread, vegetables and local produce.

If you are heading to the beach there are several to choose from, and all a short walk away. Seaview beach is quite literally over the road, sand and shingle this area is seldom busy. Seagrove Bay is just around the corner at low tide, or along the road through the village. This picturesque bay is sublime and perfect for swimmers and paddle boarders. Or, from here wander along the boardwalk to Priory Bay, a quiet spot far away from the madding crowd.

You may decide to stay local and not venture far, but if you do decide to explore further afield head for the charming village of Bembridge, a short drive away where you will find a good selection of independent shops including an excellent butchers, bakery and small supermarket. With five miles of beach, the shoreline is rather wonderful and don't forget to take a look at the iconic lifeboat station and windmill (the last surviving on the Island) whilst you are there. Osborne House near Cowes should be on your "to do" list, once the home of Queen Victoria, now managed by English Heritage with wonderful gardens, a private beach and magnificent house to explore. And a visit to the Island wouldn't be complete without a visit to see over 100 donkeys at the Donkey Sanctuary. Welcome to the Isle of Wight, where happy holiday memories are made.