Grab that Easter bonnet and head out for the day to discover everything the Isle of Wight has to offer this spring 2024. From historic castles, heritage railways and animal attractions, we have ideas to keep the whole family happy.
Spring is a magical time for the Isle of Wight. The varied flora covering the Island’s rolling green hills erupts into blossom, while the sounds of songbirds begin to fill the air. It feels like the Island’s awakening after a long winter slumber. As idyllic as this sounds, unfortunately, the typical unpredictability of British weather can often put a bit of a dampener on things.
Get in The Easter Spirit
‘Tis the season for egg hunts and duck races, and luckily the Island has plenty of options available to get you into the Easter spirit. For those looking for something traditional, The Great Railway Easter Hunt 2024 at Isle of Wight Steam Railway offers families the chance to search for giant eggs that are hidden around the entire attraction, solving clues to get your coveted chocolate prize.
The hunts take place daily from 29 March – 12 April 2024, alongside falconry displays and a bonnet-making competition on Easter Sunday! While you’re there, be sure to catch a ride on the majestic 19th-century steam train, and experience outstanding views across the Island’s picturesque countryside.
For something a little more unconventional, head on down to Tapnell Farm Park for Alice’s Easter Wonderland. This special event promises to transport guests to Lewis Carroll’s weird and wonderful world, with activities ranging from potion-making with Alice to exploring the twists and turns of the Mad Hatter’s Maze. The event runs from Tuesday to Thursday, 2 – 4 and 9 – 11 April 2024, and will take place no matter the weather. If you get peckish, The Cow restaurant is located onsite, serving up home-cooked, award-winning burgers.
Be sure to also check out the Sandown Esplanade’s Easter Firework Eggstravaganza on Sunday 30 March 2024 at 19:30 to end your Easter weekend on the Isle of Wight with a bang!
Step Back In Time
Spring is the perfect time to explore the Island’s rich history and heritage, with many attractions hosting special events during the Easter holiday. Carisbrooke Castle, sitting high and proud in the heart of the Isle of Wight, allows holidaymakers to walk in the footsteps of King Charles I, and climb its imposing walls to experience breathtaking panoramic views. You can also meet the castle’s resident donkeys, who have been drawing up water in the well-house for hundreds of years. Demonstrations in the well-house take place throughout the day.
Fancy feeling like royalty for a day? At Osborne, you have the chance to take an intimate look into the life of Queen Victoria, who resided here for much of her life. Explore the labyrinth of sumptuous rooms of the grand house, and take a wander around the colourful flower-filled gardens, just like Her Majesty would all those years ago. There’s plenty to keep the kids entertained here this spring too – take part in The Giant Brick Build Session, where children over the age of four can get creative by helping to build a LEGO® sculpture of Queen Victoria herself, guided by expert brick artists.
From 23 March until 14 April 2024, both Carisbrooke Castle and Osborne House will offer kids the chance to embark on an Easter Adventure Quest, with an egg-citing hunt around the grounds, whilst uncovering fascinating history in the process. A tasty chocolatey treat awaits those who manage to finish their quest!
Animal Adventures
Looking to make furry or four-legged friends? You’re in luck, as there are plenty of animal-themed attractions dotted around. One of these is the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary, located in Wroxall. Open seven days a week from 10:00, the sanctuary allows visitors to enjoy walks around the paddocks, pet the donkeys and tuck into a picnic on one of the numerous benches in their wildlife meadow. Entry is completely free, but donations are welcome to keep the donkeys healthy and happy.
You don’t need to let bad weather stop you either. Amazon World is an all-weather all-season exotic animal haven for all ages. Walk through jungle rainforests with rare colourful birds flying overhead, and crocodiles quietly watching you from their pond. From here, you’ll encounter a variety of different rooms and enclosures, housing over 200 species, from Red Pandas to Ringtail Lemurs! There is also a large soft-play area for your own little monkeys to swing around in as you kick back with a coffee in Adventurers Cafe.
If you’re a fan of big cats, the Wildheart Animal Sanctuary in Sandown should be at the top of your list. Here you can come face to face with Lions, Tigers, Servals and much more. If you’re around for the Easter holiday, be sure to check out their Easter Madagascar Madness event, which takes place from 29 March – 14 April 2024 and promises to be ‘egg-straordinary’ fun for your little cubs!
For more events, see our what’s on guide, and for ideas for days out, visit our attractions page.
Originally produced for Wightlife Magazine
