Tapnell Farm Park, Yarmouth

Once a dairy farm, these days Tapnell Farm Park is an award-winning, all-weather attraction with something to delight everyone. And for half term this year, they're putting on 'Shaun the Sheep: Farmathlon Live’! 

From Monday the 26th to Friday the 30th of May, you and the family can take part in Shaun's take on the Heptathlon. Think sports day merged with a day out at the farm, and you're on the right track. There are seven activities in total, including a 20m sheep hopper race, cabbage shot put, and the hilarious sty jump. Plus, if your little ones are obsessed with the show, they’ll love the meet and greets with the main sheep himself.

Aside from all that farmyard frolicking, you could explore the go-karts, mini golf, archery, axe throwing, football golf or clay pigeon shooting. Plus, pack your goggles, it's home to the Island's only aqua park. It's a fabulous spot too, tucked away in the countryside, boasting views over the Isle of Wight and the Solent beyond. Immerse yourself in the pastoral surroundings and walk the Tapnell Trail, a 6-mile circuit that'll take you onto the downs. 

Feeling peckish after your stomp? Head to The Cow, a family and dog-friendly restaurant and bar serving up homegrown and locally sourced meals. Go for an award-winning burger or check out the vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. 

The Needles, Alum Bay

It's hard not to think of The Needles when you think of the Isle of Wight, as this iconic landmark is synonymous with the Island. One of the most photographed groups of rocks the world over, this row of chalk stacks - the outermost impressively topped with a lighthouse - is a must-see sight on your next trip to the Island. 

Why not enjoy the view with a ride on the popular chairlift? On the journey down the cliffs, you'll spot the impressive rock stacks, as well as the multi-coloured sand cliffs of Alum Bay below. Hop off and enjoy the beach before you take the return journey back up. 

As well as being home to this Island legend, The Needles is an attraction in its own right too, with an eclectic mix of activities to suit everyone. You could have a go at glass blowing, try your hand at sweet making, or take a ride on a traditional Italian fairground carousel or nostalgic tea cups. There's even a 4D cinema experience, complete with squirting water, air blasts, and moving seats!

You’ll also find a tea room, where you can tuck into homemade cakes, pots of tea, and speciality coffees. Or head to Café Marconi’s for a wholesome meal or tasty sandwich.

Sandown Beach, Sandown

You can't beat a good old-fashioned day out at the beach during half term on the Isle of Wight, and one of the best spots to do just that is Sandown Beach. With mile upon mile of sweeping golden sands and boasting its very own pleasure pier, Sandown is popular with locals and visitors alike. 

Have yourself a traditional day out at the beach and hire a deckchair, sun lounger, and windbreak to get yourselves set up for the day. And if packing a picnic sounds too much like hard work for a holiday, head to one of the local chippies instead. 

The esplanade is packed full of buzzing seaside cafes, cute souvenir shops, and handy beach shops. Be sure to explore the pier while you're here too, as there are amusements and even a crazy golf course. Tucked behind the beachfront, you'll find the high street if you fancy further perusing. 

You can hire an all-terrain wheelchair at the seafront too, ideal for anyone with mobility difficulties. They're suitable for all ages and can be adapted to suit different support needs. 

Monkey Haven, Newport

Fancy a bit of monkeying around? Head to Monkey Haven, the Island's award-winning primate rescue centre. There's plenty to keep the whole troop entertained here. Head to the eco primate lodge and watch the capuchin family enjoy their new solar-powered home, or check out the rescued birds of prey, including eagle owls. You can get up close to a snake in the reptile lodge, plus there are two play areas perfect for running off steam. If you're feeling peckish, pop into Xhabu’s Tea Room for hot and cold refreshments or head to the ice cream lodge for a cool sweet treat. 

This half term, from the 23rd to the 26th of May, you can celebrate Endangered Species Day with them. This special awareness event aims to highlight the impact of unsustainable palm oil on one of the world’s most endangered primates: the Gibbon. Visitors can enjoy colouring and activity sheets, gibbon-themed crafting, and follow the gibbon trail in the hopes of scoring a prize. Plus, afterwards, why not swing by the education lodge for a palm-oil-free bake sale - delish!

Newport Roman Villa, Newport

Step back in time with a visit to Newport Roman Village, the site of a Roman farmhouse built sometime around 280 AD. Archaeologists have since learned a lot about the Roman way of life on the Island and discovered they were excellent designers and engineers. The hypocaust system showcases the legendary Roman central heating invention, and the village even has the remains of a traditional Roman bath. 

Head there on Wednesday the 28th of May, this half term for a day of Roman fun. Over the day, you could build your own working catapult as you learn about the Roman army, go on a picture hunt around the villa ruins, and spend time exploring the site, ruins, and herb garden.

Blackgang Chine, Ventnor

If you and the family are seeking thrills, head to Blackgang Chine, the oldest theme park in the UK. It first opened its doors in 1843 and today it's home to dozens of fun-fuelled rides, like a ten-seater drop tower positioned 400ft above the sea, or Waterforce, the Island's biggest waterslide.

If hunger strikes after all that fun, head to Chine Café for a wide range of home-cooked meals, sandwiches, and lunch packs. Or get a table at La Cantina, a western-themed restaurant perfect for hungry cowboys and cowgirls.

Speaking of western themes, from the 24th to the 31st of May, you can enjoy Wild West Week! You can expect thrilling shows and an action-packed cowboy performance, plus on Wednesday the 28th of May it's Wild West Fest, where the park stays open late and there'll be a live DJ, mega foam party, and firework finale. Plus, one standard ticket comes with seven days of unlimited free returns.

If you haven’t booked your half-term stay yet, it’s not too late! Explore our range of charming Isle of Wight holiday cottages and plan your best May getaway yet.