Category: We Love!
May 31, 2012
Name that musical...
Half term is upon us, the Jubilee celebrations are looming, we're limbering up for the Olympics and the school holidays are just around the corner... so why not take advantage of the quiet time when it's getting comfortably warm and sunny to come across to the Island and explore all the wonders it has to offer without the hoards...
Why not book a nice break away to treat and indulge yourselves, rest and relax, refresh and recharge, without going far from home. Before the summer rush of work or whatever you have ahead of you...
Whether you are a golf addict or golf widow there is something for everyone here on the Island. Walkers can experience all the areas of outstanding natural beauty such as Tennyson Down and cyclists can explore on two wheels, everything is within easy reach. Or why not just be plain lazy and indulge and be pampered with a spa day at Sandown or in the tranquil setting of Lakeside.
Venture out onto the water with an exhilarating rib charter, or take an enchanting horse ride along the beach. Historians can visit the plentiful English Heritage sites around the Island such as Carisbrooke Castle and Osborne House followed by a night at the theatre....
Relish the freedom and flexibilty of not having to get up for your full english every day. Why not order food in or be catered for in your self catering holiday home. And the Island has some great eateries wherever you are.
(Photo courtesy of Available Light).
Why not leave the car, take a train and jump on the fast cat or the Hover, you can pre order your shopping online and get it delivered to your property.
Whether a couple or a group of friends or dog lovers we still have some fantastic self catering properties with June availability to suit your needs. Contact our friendly Island based team by email or call us on 01983 811418 and we will be happy to help you.
("Carousel" - Rogers & Hamerstein)
Half term is upon us, the Jubilee celebrations are looming, we're limbering up for the Olympics and the school holidays are just around the corner... so why not take advantage of the quiet time when it's getting comfortably warm and sunny to come across to the Island and explore all the wonders it has to offer without the hoards...
Why not book a nice break away to treat and indulge yourselves, rest and relax, refresh and recharge, without going far from home. Before the summer rush of work or whatever you have ahead of you...
Whether you are a golf addict or golf widow there is something for everyone here on the Island. Walkers can experience all the areas of outstanding natural beauty such as Tennyson Down and cyclists can explore on two wheels, everything is within easy reach. Or why not just be plain lazy and indulge and be pampered with a spa day at Sandown or in the tranquil setting of Lakeside.
Venture out onto the water with an exhilarating rib charter, or take an enchanting horse ride along the beach. Historians can visit the plentiful English Heritage sites around the Island such as Carisbrooke Castle and Osborne House followed by a night at the theatre....
Relish the freedom and flexibilty of not having to get up for your full english every day. Why not order food in or be catered for in your self catering holiday home. And the Island has some great eateries wherever you are.
(Photo courtesy of Available Light). Why not leave the car, take a train and jump on the fast cat or the Hover, you can pre order your shopping online and get it delivered to your property.
Whether a couple or a group of friends or dog lovers we still have some fantastic self catering properties with June availability to suit your needs. Contact our friendly Island based team by email or call us on 01983 811418 and we will be happy to help you.
("Carousel" - Rogers & Hamerstein)
We Love!
May 24, 2012
Mottistone Manor is a National Trust property in the village of Mottistone on the west of the Isle of Wight. The Elizabethan Manor is a listed building with beautiful gardens and has since found fame through the recounting of the story of Lord Mottistone’s War Horse.
The Mediterranean styled garden is set in a sheltered valley making the most of its southerly position.
Explore the olive grove, a small organic kitchen garden and a traditional tea garden set alongside The Shack, a unique cabin retreat.
The family still live in the house but bequeathed the estate to the National Trust. It's not usually open to visitors but once a year the family invites you to step inside and take a look around their home.
In 2012, to celebrate the Queen's Jubilee, Mottistone Manor House will be open on two days. Come and see where War Horse and his owner Lord Mottistone enjoyed their well earned retirement years.
Sunday 3 June - a special open day for members only:
Monday 4 June - the ground floor of the house is open to other visitors between 11am to 12pm & 1.30pm to 5pm.
Wight Locations have a growing number of unique and individual self catering properties on the West of the Island.
The Mediterranean styled garden is set in a sheltered valley making the most of its southerly position.
Explore the olive grove, a small organic kitchen garden and a traditional tea garden set alongside The Shack, a unique cabin retreat.
The family still live in the house but bequeathed the estate to the National Trust. It's not usually open to visitors but once a year the family invites you to step inside and take a look around their home.
In 2012, to celebrate the Queen's Jubilee, Mottistone Manor House will be open on two days. Come and see where War Horse and his owner Lord Mottistone enjoyed their well earned retirement years.
Sunday 3 June - a special open day for members only:
- From 9.30am to 12pm, the family will give guided tours of the house to Trust members.
- From 1.30pm to 5pm, the ground floor of the house will be open to members for self-guided tours.
Monday 4 June - the ground floor of the house is open to other visitors between 11am to 12pm & 1.30pm to 5pm.
Wight Locations have a growing number of unique and individual self catering properties on the West of the Island.
We Love!, Things to do
May 15, 2012
Isle of Wight Radio reports "The Isle of Wight has some of the best beaches in the south east.
The Island has been awarded three prestigious Blue Flag awards and 11 Quality Coast Awards by Keep Britain Tidy, which runs the Blue Flag scheme.
The total of 14 awards again puts the Isle of Wight in top spot in the south east, with Thanet closest in our region with 10 awards.
The Island has retained its three Blue Flags at Shanklin, Sandown and Ventnor. These beaches join Colwell, Cowes, East Cowes, Gurnard, Seagrove, Springvale, Totland and Yaverland in receiving Quality Coast Awards.
(Photos courtesy of Available Light)
The awards are only given if an area meets very strict criteria including high water quality and litter levels.
George Brown, Isle of Wight Council Cabinet member responsible for tourism said "Once again we have had excellent news from Keep Britain Tidy about our beaches. This retains our number one standing as the best tourism destination in the south east for quality beaches and shows the hard work to maintain our beaches over the last year has been worthwhile. This is very good news for the Island as we build up towards the main tourism season."
The Island has been awarded three prestigious Blue Flag awards and 11 Quality Coast Awards by Keep Britain Tidy, which runs the Blue Flag scheme.
The total of 14 awards again puts the Isle of Wight in top spot in the south east, with Thanet closest in our region with 10 awards.
The Island has retained its three Blue Flags at Shanklin, Sandown and Ventnor. These beaches join Colwell, Cowes, East Cowes, Gurnard, Seagrove, Springvale, Totland and Yaverland in receiving Quality Coast Awards.
(Photos courtesy of Available Light) The awards are only given if an area meets very strict criteria including high water quality and litter levels.
George Brown, Isle of Wight Council Cabinet member responsible for tourism said "Once again we have had excellent news from Keep Britain Tidy about our beaches. This retains our number one standing as the best tourism destination in the south east for quality beaches and shows the hard work to maintain our beaches over the last year has been worthwhile. This is very good news for the Island as we build up towards the main tourism season."
We Love!
April 23, 2012
"Absolutely perfect and immaculate"
"A big thank you to all the staff we spoke to at your office over several aspects of the booking, and our ferries. Everyone was so helpful, positive and did exactly what they promised. A breath of fresh air and a pleasure to have our holiday arranged by you."
It's so nice when guests do take time to let us know if they had a great experience with us and on the Island, so thank you to the Yates's who recently stayed at 5 Hope Cottages in St Helen's for their lovely comments.
"A big thank you to all the staff we spoke to at your office over several aspects of the booking, and our ferries. Everyone was so helpful, positive and did exactly what they promised. A breath of fresh air and a pleasure to have our holiday arranged by you."
It's so nice when guests do take time to let us know if they had a great experience with us and on the Island, so thank you to the Yates's who recently stayed at 5 Hope Cottages in St Helen's for their lovely comments.
We Love!
March 3, 2012
Wight Locations is a big fan of Robin Hill Country Park which has 8 acres of beautiful landscaped woodland gardens to explore. You can learn about red squirrels and nature or find out about our rich Roman history.
The park has a huge variety of play areas and four main ride experiences for the little ones including an exhilarating toboggan ride, and why not catch a Free Ride with the Big Green Tractor Train.
There are daily falconry displays where you can learn more about our feathered friends and experience them flying right over your head!
White Falconry has over 5 years of experience and prides itself on the quality of its birds, having just enough birds for the demonstrations.
White Falconry also commit a large part of its resources into rehabilitation of wild birds of prey.
A 7 day ticket allows you unlimited access to Robin Hill and Blackgang Chine.
Robin Hill Country Park
White Falconry
The park has a huge variety of play areas and four main ride experiences for the little ones including an exhilarating toboggan ride, and why not catch a Free Ride with the Big Green Tractor Train. There are daily falconry displays where you can learn more about our feathered friends and experience them flying right over your head!
White Falconry has over 5 years of experience and prides itself on the quality of its birds, having just enough birds for the demonstrations.
White Falconry also commit a large part of its resources into rehabilitation of wild birds of prey.
A 7 day ticket allows you unlimited access to Robin Hill and Blackgang Chine.
Robin Hill Country Park
White Falconry
We Love!, Things to do, Outdoor Life
January 27, 2012
The BBC Countryfile have been filming for a forthcoming episode on our beautiful Island.
The crew came to the Isle of Wight and spent time with the monks at the peaceful and enchanting Quarr Abbey as well as focussing on the Isle of Wight Surf Club.
They also got involved with tree-pruning and helping to look after the pigs.
I wonder if the lovely Matt Baker joined in the adventure?!...
Tune in on Sunday 12th February to see what happens!
The crew came to the Isle of Wight and spent time with the monks at the peaceful and enchanting Quarr Abbey as well as focussing on the Isle of Wight Surf Club.
They also got involved with tree-pruning and helping to look after the pigs.
I wonder if the lovely Matt Baker joined in the adventure?!...
Tune in on Sunday 12th February to see what happens!
We Love!
January 17, 2012
Chef Angela Hewitt ran Lugley's in Newport for 15 years and every year apart from the first, she ensured it's entry in the Egon Ronay Good Food Guide.
Angela now judges all the eateries and producers for the Wight Good Food Guide and these are the results for 2011 - 2012:
Best Cafe - Quay Arts Cafe, Newport
Best Pub - Taverners, Godshill
Best Bistro style Restaurant - Dan's Kitchen, St Helens
Best Fine Dining - The Hambrough, Ventnor
Best Food Shop - Dairy Deli, Calbourne
Best Food Producer - Ventnor Haven Fishery
Best All Rounder - Royal Hotel, Ventnor
Best Cream Tea - Chessell Pottery
Best Sunday Lunch - The George, Yarmouth
Best Crab Cakes - Beach Shack, Sandown
Best Dessert - The Bonchurch Inn
Angela now judges all the eateries and producers for the Wight Good Food Guide and these are the results for 2011 - 2012:
Best Cafe - Quay Arts Cafe, Newport
Best Pub - Taverners, Godshill
Best Bistro style Restaurant - Dan's Kitchen, St Helens
Best Fine Dining - The Hambrough, Ventnor
Best Food Shop - Dairy Deli, Calbourne
Best Food Producer - Ventnor Haven Fishery
Best All Rounder - Royal Hotel, Ventnor
Best Cream Tea - Chessell Pottery
Best Sunday Lunch - The George, Yarmouth
Best Crab Cakes - Beach Shack, Sandown
Best Dessert - The Bonchurch Inn
Food & Drink, Dining Out, Island Produce, We Love!
January 9, 2012
Following a spectacular West End production winning 5 Tonys & based on a novel by Michael Morpurgo, Steven Spielberg has brought War Horse to the big screen.
It tells the real-life story of a horse who was ridden by the Isle of Wight's Lord Mottistone through the frontline battlefields of World War One. Despite the odds, Jack Seely and his horse Warrior survived and in 1918 the pair retired here.Warrior, known as the horse the Germans couldn't kill, lived until he was 33 years old. It is reported that 8 million horses died during WWI.
Director Steven Spielberg said, War Horse encapsulates for me a timeless personal story of courage. The movie, which I am proud to say was filmed here in Great Britain, deals with the discovery of humanity against conflict, and celebrates bravery, loyalty, tenacity and hope.
We are honoured to dedicate this event in aid of the Foundation which recognises the welfare of those who serve their country in the British Armed Forces.
We Love!
December 9, 2011
In the picturesque seaside village of Seaview it would be easy to miss the fantastic Khrua Thai Orchid Restaurant. The main door and empty hallway leads downstairs to the unknown, which turns out to be a surprisingly spacious basement dining room.
The menu is extensive and the quality is second to none, serving dishes based on traditional recipes from Bangkok. Using the freshest ingredients, none of the dishes contain monosodium glutamates. The service is attentive but un intrusive.
If you are staying in one of our self catering holiday homes, you can order and have free home delivery on orders over £12 for Seaview, orders over £20 for St Helens and orders over £30 for Bembridge.
Krua Thai Orchid Restaurant - 01983 568 899
The menu is extensive and the quality is second to none, serving dishes based on traditional recipes from Bangkok. Using the freshest ingredients, none of the dishes contain monosodium glutamates. The service is attentive but un intrusive.
If you are staying in one of our self catering holiday homes, you can order and have free home delivery on orders over £12 for Seaview, orders over £20 for St Helens and orders over £30 for Bembridge.
Krua Thai Orchid Restaurant - 01983 568 899
Dining Out, We Love!
November 18, 2011
Wight Locations based in Seaview are a small but perfectly formed team, who bring together a vast amount of experience and knowledge to the self catering holiday lettings business.
Between us we have viewed every property and so can personally recommend and advise you on your choice of holiday home.
We are inspired and led by our visionary leader Mark. He believes passionately in our product and superlative customer service and ensuring that our guests have a memorable holiday experience, with their accommodation and of the Island.
Mark - or Charlie as he likes to be known, would like to think we are all his Angels. And we are... He motivates us and empowers us with kindness and great humour.
Mark is Aquarius, and his passions are music, skiing and his family.
We Love!, Meet the Team
November 15, 2011
The Isle of Wights green credentials will be displayed in Parliament today. IBM and Toshiba are among those helping to power the EcoIsland initiative forward along with Southern Water, SSE, Cable & Wireless, Vestas and Co-operative Energy.
It is hoped members of the government will find out exactly what the Island is doing to further the green ideal. 200 million pounds of private funding has already been raised to deliver initial projects on the island.
The EcoIsland project aims to make the Isle of Wight a net exporter of energy within the next eight years, integrating the Island's future wind, tidal, geothermal and solar power into a Smart Grid.
It is believed the initiative could lead to the 142,000 Islanders' fuel bills being cut by up to 50% through increased use of renewables and creative tariffs. A spokesperson was unable to confirm whether that meant using time of use tariffs. Another goal is to reduce waste to landfill to zero.
Southern Vectis provided the transport to escort prominent Island people to the lunchtime reception.
Eco Island
It is hoped members of the government will find out exactly what the Island is doing to further the green ideal. 200 million pounds of private funding has already been raised to deliver initial projects on the island.
The EcoIsland project aims to make the Isle of Wight a net exporter of energy within the next eight years, integrating the Island's future wind, tidal, geothermal and solar power into a Smart Grid.
It is believed the initiative could lead to the 142,000 Islanders' fuel bills being cut by up to 50% through increased use of renewables and creative tariffs. A spokesperson was unable to confirm whether that meant using time of use tariffs. Another goal is to reduce waste to landfill to zero.
Southern Vectis provided the transport to escort prominent Island people to the lunchtime reception.
Eco Island
We Love!
November 7, 2011
The Owl & Monkey Haven is the Isle of Wight's newest award winning attraction.
It provides a safe, happy environment for homeless primates & birds of prey. The Haven is not a zoo or animal collection, but a sanctuary built to the highest standards with large bespoke enclosures to suit the inhabitants needs.
Visitors of all ages are welcome to visit this exceptional sanctuary, where many rare and endangered species that have never been seen on the Island before are cared for.
Owl & Monkey Haven
It provides a safe, happy environment for homeless primates & birds of prey. The Haven is not a zoo or animal collection, but a sanctuary built to the highest standards with large bespoke enclosures to suit the inhabitants needs.
Visitors of all ages are welcome to visit this exceptional sanctuary, where many rare and endangered species that have never been seen on the Island before are cared for.
Owl & Monkey Haven
We Love!, Things to do
November 4, 2011
Steephill Cove is a traditional, unspoilt fishing cove with a sandy beach, nestled between rocky cliffs and smugglers' coves. And it has a great reputation for the freshest crab and lobster.
Enjoy traditional pleasures, from rock- pooling, watching children building sandcastles, the fishermen unloading their catch, to feeding the donkey or simply relaxing in the sun.
Possibly the prettiest place on the Island, it is situated by the Victorian seaside town of Ventnor. The bay has no road access, so it is noise and pollution free beach.
Hidden Gems, We Love!
October 20, 2011
Built by Thomas Cubitt in the mid 1800s, Osborne House became Queen Victorias beloved country getaway on the Isle of Wight and is an English Heritage site.
Enjoy a guided tour of the house which is filled with original furnishings and priceless artworks, and get a real insight into royal family life 200 years ago.Wander through the beautiful gardens which have stunning views over the Solent.
The Swiss Cottage has child size furniture for the little ones to play in, and was built to encourage children to learn domestic skills. There is also a play area, or they can take a horse and carriage ride.
Osborne House
Enjoy a guided tour of the house which is filled with original furnishings and priceless artworks, and get a real insight into royal family life 200 years ago.Wander through the beautiful gardens which have stunning views over the Solent. The Swiss Cottage has child size furniture for the little ones to play in, and was built to encourage children to learn domestic skills. There is also a play area, or they can take a horse and carriage ride.
Osborne House
We Love!, Things to do
October 14, 2011
Ben Cooke, head chef of the Little Gloster, spent several years sailing round the world serving the finest food on some of the worlds premier super yachts, before returning home to the Isle of Wight.
He now creates unpretentious eclectic menus, served up in a relaxed atmosphere and great location in Gurnard with stunning views across the solent.
The Little Gloster - 01983 298 776
He now creates unpretentious eclectic menus, served up in a relaxed atmosphere and great location in Gurnard with stunning views across the solent.
The Little Gloster - 01983 298 776
Dining Out, We Love!
October 13, 2011
Wight Locations are delighted to announce that we are linking up with Matt and Cat and their Isle of Wight Eating Out Guide to give our guests the very best recommendations for dining out on the island.
During your stay at one of our self catering properties why not take a break from the cooking and treat yourself to a quality meal out. And if you are not sure where to go, refer to Matt and Cats reviews as your guide.
Watch this space for imminent exclusive Dining Club card deals for Wight Locations guests!
Matt and Cats Eating out Guide
During your stay at one of our self catering properties why not take a break from the cooking and treat yourself to a quality meal out. And if you are not sure where to go, refer to Matt and Cats reviews as your guide.
Watch this space for imminent exclusive Dining Club card deals for Wight Locations guests!
Matt and Cats Eating out Guide
Food & Drink, We Love!
October 12, 2011
Wight Locations are delighted to have teamed up with Hovertravel as their prime self catering holiday provider to launch Hoverbreaks.
We have over 120 properties across the island in coastal or rural locations, many Visit Britain rated.
Book your self catering accommodation with Wight Locations and then book your travel to the Island with Hovertravel for a 20% discount on standard return travel tickets.
Simply show your booking confirmation at Southsea Terminal on the day of travel to gain the discount. Terms & Conditions Apply - Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer or discount. For full terms go to Hovertravel.com
Click on the link and go to the bottom of the page to read more...
Hovertravel and Wight Locations
We have over 120 properties across the island in coastal or rural locations, many Visit Britain rated. Book your self catering accommodation with Wight Locations and then book your travel to the Island with Hovertravel for a 20% discount on standard return travel tickets.
Simply show your booking confirmation at Southsea Terminal on the day of travel to gain the discount. Terms & Conditions Apply - Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer or discount. For full terms go to Hovertravel.com
Click on the link and go to the bottom of the page to read more...
Hovertravel and Wight Locations
Travel, We Love!
September 23, 2011
Wight Locations love the award winning Bembridge Deli. Whilst staying in one of our self catering properties, why not order a hamper of lovely island produce to be delivered ready for your arrival.
Make your stay even more relaxing and save on the chores of cooking. Just pre order from the great selection of delicious hand made tarts and pies or deli meals.
Wight Locations guests are eligible for an Exclusive Discount of 10% off their order.
Wight Kitchen, Bembridge - 01983 873 555
Food & Drink, We Love!
September 12, 2011
The Hambrough is the only 3 Rosette Michelin star restaurant on the Isle of Wight, situated in the beautiful Victorian coastal town of Ventnor, with stunning views over the English Channel.
Chef Robert Thompson has a passion for food and has retained the Michelin star rating for 3 years, helped by a vast amount of local ingredients he has at his disposal.
The Hambrough is currently at number 20 in The Good Food Guide.
The Hambrough, Ventnor - 01983 856 333
Chef Robert Thompson has a passion for food and has retained the Michelin star rating for 3 years, helped by a vast amount of local ingredients he has at his disposal.
The Hambrough is currently at number 20 in The Good Food Guide.
The Hambrough, Ventnor - 01983 856 333
Dining Out, We Love!
September 5, 2011
Situated in stunning parkland in Seaview, just down from Wight Locations, is this multi award winning wildlife attraction. The interactive park encourages visitors to join in with daily hands on wildlife events that are fun, educational and interactive.
Come and enjoy the amazing array of birds and animals, from Penguins to Parrots, Wallabies to Meerkats. Observe the playful Otters, exotic Alpacas, Pelicans and over 100 beautiful flamingos.
Seaview Wildlife Park
We Love!, Things to do
August 23, 2011
When staying with Wight Locations, why not hire an electric bike? There are many cycle routes on the island and these are great for exploring and enjoying the fantastic views of sea and countryside. A great percentage of the island is National Trust land and areas of outstanding natural beauty so well worth the outdoor adventure. And you can do as much or as little of the hard work as you like! Axcess Electric Bikes
We Love!, Things to do
July 27, 2011
Keep an eye out for the imminent launch of Hoverbreaks with Hovertravel in association with Wight Locations!
In September Hovertravel will be promoting short breaks and out of season breaks on the Isle of Wight, perfectly partnered with our self catering accommodation here on the island.
Remember we can take 3 night breaks or more out of season or within 3 weeks of arrival date at selected properties.
Take the train to Portsmouth & Southsea and the Hoverbus Service will take you directly to their Southsea Terminal for just £1.20 per person. Fly over the Solent in just 10 minutes and take a taxi or bus to your accommodation. What could be easier for a mini break?
And did you know you can take up to 30 kilos per passenger?
Travel, We Love!
July 26, 2011
Wight Locations are delighted to be friends with Southern Vectis buses here on the island..
Southern Vectis is the most green bus company in the UK, and have a very comprehensive fluid service covering the island. With most services running every half hour, you can get special passes for 24 hour, 48 hour and 7 days, and 'family' passes to include up to any 5 passengers, so you really do get value for money for your stay.
Why not leave the kids and car at home, fly over on the Hover and get the bus to your holiday retreat and be chauffeured around the island at your leisure?
Why not leave the kids and car at home, fly over on the Hover and get the bus to your holiday retreat and be chauffeured around the island at your leisure?
Or bring the family, and have a public transport adventure! Train or Greyhound to Portsmouth, Hovertravel to Ryde and buy a family ticket to bus all over the Island.
Imagine, not having to worry about having a drink and getting back to your accommodation!
From open top tour buses to Vintage wedding buses, they cater for every occasion.
Imagine, not having to worry about having a drink and getting back to your accommodation!
From open top tour buses to Vintage wedding buses, they cater for every occasion.
Travel, We Love!