There’s nowhere quite like the Isle of Wight for a family getaway, even in February! With milder coastal air, dramatic seascapes, fascinating history, wildlife encounters and plenty of indoor and outdoor activities, the Island comes alive during half‑term with a huge variety of things to see and do for all ages.
Whether your family loves animals, creative challenges, outdoor play, coastal walks, museums or iconic attractions, the Isle of Wight has something to delight every member of the family.
With February half term just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to plan an escape. We currently have Classic Family Rooms available during February half-term from just £161 per night, bed & breakfast, offering a comfortable and elegant base for exploring the Island together.
We’d love to welcome you and your family soon.
For an enriching and low‑cost way to spend part of your half term, the Island’s museums are rolling out special activities. At the Museum of Island History in Newport, children can enjoy imaginative craft sessions, from creating their own paper pop‑up exhibits to exploring fascinating artefacts from prehistory to the modern day. There’s also an interactive trail to uncover hidden treasures on display. Meanwhile, Brading Roman Villa invites families to step back in time among the ruins, with hands‑on activities like mosaic‑making, pottery reconstruction and even Roman dress‑up — making history come alive for all ages. These special family activity days are open throughout half‑term with entry and activities usually priced at just £1 per person.
Historic Houses & Heritage Sites
Osborne House (English Heritage) – Queen Victoria’s seaside residence:
Carisbrooke Castle (English Heritage) – English Heritage page (castle tours & history):
Appuldurcombe House (English Heritage) – Historic house ruins near Wroxall:
Farringford House – Historic home of Alfred, Lord Tennyson (info via Wikipedia / booking details often on tourist sites):
Roman & Archaeological Sites
Brading Roman Villa – Official site with visitor info:
Newport Roman Villa – Isle of Wight Council heritage page:
Museums
Museum of Island History (Isle of Wight Heritage Service) – Council museum page:
Landmark
St Catherine’s Oratory (“The Pepperpot”) – English Heritage info page:
Animal lovers will find plenty of reasons to smile across the Island. Tapnell Farm Park in West Wight is a firm half term favourite — offering everything from friendly farm animals and petting experiences to go‑karts, jumping pillows and barn play areas. It’s a great all‑weather option with indoor and outdoor fun for younger children.
Elsewhere, Amazon World Zoo Park lets families get up close to over 100 species, including sloths, giant anteaters, reptiles and colourful birds, with a soft‑play area for energetic little ones. Animal sanctuaries and smaller wildlife attractions also add to the Island’s family‑friendly animal experiences — perfect for curious minds and anyone fascinated by the natural world.
Wildlife & Animal Attractions
Wildheart Animal Sanctuary – Wildlife sanctuary and rescue centre in Sandown:
Tapnell Farm Park – All-weather farm park with animals and family activities:
Amazon World Zoo Park – Exotic animal attraction with rainforest environments and over 100 species:
Monkey Haven – Award-winning primate rescue centre:
Butterfly World – Indoor butterfly house and tropical gardens:
Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary – Free-entry sanctuary caring for donkeys and ponies:
Island Reptilarium – Reptile and terrapin sanctuary within Fort Victoria Country Park:
For bigger thrills and outdoor excitement, Robin Hill Adventure Park (part of the Island’s impressive attraction line‑up) offers acres of woodland, treetop canopy walks, playgrounds and seasonal family activities. A brilliant spot for running wild and exploring nature with a twist of adventure.
And even in winter, the Island’s coastline provides stunning scenery. Wrap up warm and take a seaside stroll on wide, sandy beaches. From Sandown Bay and Shanklin Beach to quieter coves like Compton Bay, where fossil hunting or simple wave‑watching can be unforgettable family moments.
Robin Hill - Offers over 35 rides and attractions across 88 acres of woodland and countryside — perfect for outdoor family adventure and exploration.
Isle of Wight Steam Railway - Experience a nostalgic steam train journey along beautifully restored Victorian and Edwardian carriages through rural Island scenery.
Quarr Abbey - A peaceful Benedictine monastery offering serene gardens, historic architecture, a tea shop and visitor centre — ideal for a tranquil family visit.
Half‑term is also the time for imagination at the Isle of Wight Story Festival at Quay Arts Centre in Newport. This three‑day event brings authors, illustrators and creative workshops together, offering activities such as origami, cartoon design and storytelling that keep young minds inspired and entertained throughout the holiday.
Don’t forget the simple joys of Island life. Scenic spots like Brading Marshes RSPB Reserve, and Newtown Creek are open year‑round for nature walks, ideal for families who love the outdoors and wildlife. Ventnor Botanic Garden, is open and flourishing with thanks to Ventnor's unique microclimate. Discover Britain's hottest garden, minutes from The Royal.
From hands‑on museum fun to thrilling rides and farm adventures, coastal walks and storytelling, the Isle of Wight has so much to fill your February half term with joy and discovery. There’s no better place for families to reconnect, explore and create wonderful memories together.
We are experiencing an unprecedented demand for bookings at the current time.
When booking rooms online, please be advised that if our Dinner, Bed and Breakfast or Ferry Inclusive Packages are not available, our restaurant is fully booked for your chosen dates.
