Families

From the islands designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty to the quaint villages and beaches that line the 70-mile-long Coastal Path, the Isle of Wight is full of outdoor activities and fun for the entire family.

IOW Family-Friendly Activities

Beaches

11 out of the 14 beaches on the island have been awarded the highest rating for bathing water quality by the Environmental Agency, so you can splash about and swim, knowing that your family will be safe in the water.

We like Ventnor, Shanklin and Sandown for their facilities, with a variety of cafes and shops and Ryde for the broader expanse of beach and typically warmer waters, which makes it particularly popular with families.

The Needles Park

Quite possibly the Isle of Wight’s most iconic landmark, the Needles are located on the southwestern tip of the island. The chairlift will take you from the clifftop down to Alum Bay and is well worth the ride for the stunning views alone. Back at the top, there’s adventure golf, rides, sweet-making classes, glass-blowing and more.

Wildheart Animal Sanctuary

With lions, tigers, monkeys, meerkats and even wallabies, the Wildheart Animal Sanctuary is probably most famous for its big rescued cats and the incredible conservation work it does, not just on the island, but in India and Madagascar too. There is a terrific stamp trail for the younger ones as well as a play area and café.

Osborne House

Of her ‘holiday home’ Queen Victoria once said “it is impossible to imagine a prettier spot” and we tend to agree! Visit Victoria and Albert’s private apartments, beach and garden terraces with far reaching coastal views across the Solent. There are also two exciting playgrounds, a garden adventure trail and a chance to explore the world of the Victorian royal children in the Swiss Cottage.

Isle of Wight Steam Railway

This is really one for the entire family. Experience the golden age of travel in the beautifully restored Victorian and Edwardian carriages as you take in wonderful views of the islands unspoilt countryside. Most start off at the railways main station, Havenstreet, with the entire journey taking approximatel one hour. However, we recommend leaving extra time to have a proper look around the delightful Havenstreet station.

Kids at Lakeside

We welcome guests of all ages and ensure that the younger amongst us are treated with just as much care and attention during their stay as the adults. With 17 acres of open countryside for adventuring and a host of family-friendly activities on the island, Lakeside Park Hotel & Spa is an ideal spot for your next family holiday.

Childrens Swimming Hours

Our spa is home to a stunning indoor swimming pool. Access to the spa facilities is included with your overnight stay and children are welcome to swim between 8.30am to 10am and 4.30pm to 6pm.

Family Dining

A full complimentary breakfast is included with your stay and children are welcome to eat lunch and dinner from our kid’s menu in the Brasserie, which includes a selection of favourites such as macaroni cheese, burgers, pizza and more.

Family Rooms

For children 12 and under, we can arrange a roll-away bed at a nightly cost of £45, which includes a full breakfast. For families wanting a bit more space and privacy, we have a limited number of interconnecting bedrooms, which provide one king-size bed and two twin beds in a separate bedroom. Alternatively, our suites are a popular option, as a roll-away bed can be set up in the living area, with the bedroom and bathroom behind a separate closed door.

Activities

If you want to take the kids outside to burn off some energy, please visit our team at reception as we have a host of giant outdoor games for the kids to play with as well as adventuring packs to take in to the grounds.