UK Winter Break Ideas: Things to Do on the Isle of Wight in February and March

If you are looking for UK winter break ideas, the Isle of Wight has plenty to do in February and March: coastal walks, snowdrops, castles, cosy pubs and family days out. Here is a list of ideas from around Shanklin, grouped by the kind of day you fancy.

We have focused on things that offer a mix of relaxation, adventure and island character. Opening days and times change in winter, so check each place before you set off. For a wider list, see our guide to things to do in Shanklin and our post on a winter break in Shanklin.

Quick facts

• Where to stay: The Fig Tree, 10 Queen's Road, Shanklin, PO37 6AN.
• Breakfast is included in every rate, served 8am to 10am.
• Free on-site parking, and free Wi-Fi throughout.
• Afternoon tea every day with 24 hours' notice: £25 per person, or £30 with prosecco.
• The beach is about a 10-minute walk, and Shanklin Old Village and Shanklin Chine are within walking distance.
• Book direct: 01983 241 010 or reception@thefigtreehotel.co.uk.

What are the best relaxing and scenic things to do?

• Coastal walks from Shanklin. The Shanklin to Ventnor coastal path gives sea views from start to finish. Stop at Steephill Cove on the way. For more routes, read our guide to the best coastal walks near Shanklin or our page on walking breaks.
• Rylstone Gardens. A short stroll from The Fig Tree, and a peaceful place for an afternoon.
• Afternoon tea. Cosy up indoors with a traditional afternoon tea at The Fig Tree. We serve finger sandwiches, pastries, cake, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and preserves, and a selection of speciality teas. See our afternoon tea page.
• Stargazing at Shanklin beach. A few minutes' walk away, and the quiet winter nights make for good stargazing conditions.
• Ventnor Botanic Garden. Exotic plants flourish in the island's mild climate, which keeps the garden interesting even in cooler months.

Which attractions suit a day trip?

• Osborne House, East Cowes. Queen Victoria's royal seaside retreat. Wander the elegant rooms and imagine life in the royal household.
• Carisbrooke Castle, Newport. A fascinating day for history lovers. Look out for the donkeys turning the ancient water wheel.
• The Needles and Tennyson Down. A landmark with big views, ideal for a half-day outing followed by a pub stop. The Needles are about 45 minutes' drive from the hotel.
• Shanklin Theatre. Check the programme for comedy, plays or music during your stay.

Where can you eat and drink?

We do not serve lunch or dinner to individual guests, but the island has plenty of choices, and reception is happy to recommend places.

• The Garlic Farm, Newchurch. Sample garlic-inspired dishes and shop for local goodies. A good spot for lunch.
• The Isle of Wight Distillery (Mermaid Gin), Ryde. Tour the distillery and taste the island's gin. A sound rainy-day plan.
• Pubs with cosy fires. The Fisherman's Cottage in Shanklin sits right on the beach for an evening out, and The Buddle Inn in Niton is a traditional pub known for its fires and hearty meals.
• Adgestone Vineyard. Enjoy wine tasting and explore one of England's oldest vineyards, a short drive from Shanklin.

After a day out, our lounge bar has a happy hour every day from 5pm to 7pm, with 20% off all drinks. It is a pleasant way to end a winter afternoon, and our breakfast and bar page has the details.

What is there for families and groups?

• Tapnell Farm Park. Good for families with children, with indoor soft play, farm animals and plenty of space to explore.
• Dinosaur Isle, Sandown. An interactive museum and a fun, educational outing, close to Shanklin.
• Wildheart Animal Sanctuary, Sandown. Meet rescued lions, tigers and lemurs for a wildlife experience close to home.

Selected suites at The Fig Tree take a fold-up bed for a child, so a family of up to three can stay together. See the rooms for more.

Are there special events and seasonal highlights?

• Snowdrop walks at Mottistone Gardens. Beautiful snowdrop displays make a good early spring activity for nature lovers.
• Isle of Wight Steam Railway spring events. A nostalgic journey through the island's countryside. Check their schedule for special events during your stay.
• Mother's Day lunches in March. Treat someone special to a Sunday roast or afternoon tea at one of the island's eateries.

Where can you enjoy nature and wildlife?

• Newtown National Nature Reserve. Birdwatchers will like this tranquil spot, with its winter wildlife and peaceful walks.
• St Catherine's Lighthouse, Niton. A dramatic and scenic spot for coastal views and photography.

How do you book a winter stay?

A winter break works well with a short stay: a day on the coast, a day out by car, and a quiet evening in between. Book Now to see live prices and availability, or look at our offers. If you are still choosing where to stay, our guide to where to stay on the Isle of Wight may help. You can also call 01983 241 010 or email reception@thefigtreehotel.co.uk.

Frequently asked questions

What can you do on the Isle of Wight in February and March? You can walk the coast from Shanklin towards Ventnor, visit Osborne House and Carisbrooke Castle, see snowdrops at Mottistone Gardens, tour the Isle of Wight Distillery, and warm up in a pub with a fire. Check each attraction for current opening times.

Is the Isle of Wight worth visiting in winter? Yes. Winter brings quiet coastal paths, clear air and cosy pubs, and many of the island's attractions suit a day out in cooler weather. Ventnor Botanic Garden stays interesting thanks to the island's mild climate.

Where can we have afternoon tea near Shanklin? The Fig Tree serves afternoon tea every day with 24 hours' notice, at £25 per person or £30 with prosecco. It includes finger sandwiches, pastries, cake and freshly baked scones with clotted cream. Book by phone, email or chat.

Are there things to do for families in winter? Yes. Tapnell Farm Park has indoor soft play and farm animals, Dinosaur Isle in Sandown is an interactive museum, and Wildheart Animal Sanctuary in Sandown is home to rescued animals. Check each attraction before you travel.

How do I book a winter stay at The Fig Tree? Use Book Now for live prices and availability, call 01983 241 010 or email reception@thefigtreehotel.co.uk. Breakfast is included in every rate, parking is free, and booking direct gets you our best rates.