Although the Isle of Wight only consists of a mere 147 square miles in many ways it is England in miniature. Visitors are impressed by the beaches, the downs, the forests, the acres of pasture and, of course, the iconic Needles.

Renting a house in Ventnor, Karl Marx described the place as a paradise. Charles Dickens was also impressed. Staying at Bonchurch, he wrote to his wife, “It is the prettiest place I ever saw in my life.” While Tennyson thought that the island’s invigorating air was “worth six pence a pint.” JMR Turner, the great painter of light, was frequently drawn to the island for its sweeping views.

1. Cruising across

Ferries have sailed to the Isle of Wight since 1420. The rapid Wightlink crossing from Portsmouth to Fishbourne continues the tradition in style.

Leaving their cars on the decks below, passengers relax as they cruise through the Solent, with just enough time to grab a drink and a snack from the cafe.

2. Osborne House

Queen Victoria’s love of the Isle of Wight, as an escape from the stuffy formalities of court, helped raise the profile of the island as a holiday destination during the nineteenth century.

Today, English Heritage care for Osborne House, the Italianate palazzo-styled escape that Prince Albert designed for the family’s summers. Their nine children loved playing in the Swiss Cottage and heading to their private beach.

3. The Royal Hotel, Ventnor

Victoria visited the island before she became Queen. In Ventnor, Fishers Hotel, built in 1832, became a favourite haunt for afternoon tea. In honour of her patronage, the hotel changed its name to The Royal Hotel.

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