3-Day Isle of Wight Itinerary Featuring Shanklin and The Needles via Ferry

Day 1: Arrival and Shanklin

Shanklin, Isle of Wight, UK on May 6, 2025

8:00am

Ferry to Isle of Wight from Southampton

Start your journey by taking an early ferry from Southampton to East Cowes on the Isle of Wight. The crossing takes approximately 45 minutes offering scenic views of the Solent.
GBP25, 0h45m

9:00am

Breakfast at The Cabin Bar & Grill, Shanklin

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at this cozy spot known for its fresh local produce and seaside views. It opens at 8:00am, perfect for starting your day.
GBP12, 1h

10:00am

Visit Shanklin Old Village

Explore the charming streets of Shanklin Old Village with its thatched cottages, boutique shops, and tea rooms. A great way to soak up the local culture and history.
Free, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at The Crab Shed, Shanklin

Dine on fresh seafood, particularly crab, in this well-loved local eatery just a short walk from the beach.
GBP20, 1h

1:30pm

Shanklin Beach Walk and Old Church Visit

Enjoy a relaxing walk along Shanklin beach and visit the historic St. Blasius Church nearby. The beach is perfect for scenic seaside exploration.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Check-in at Hotel

Rest and freshen up before dinner. Choose a beachfront hotel in Shanklin for convenience and beautiful views.
GBP100, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at The Westhill Kitchen

Enjoy a delicious dinner featuring local Isle of Wight ingredients in a friendly atmosphere. Open till 9:00pm.
GBP25, 1h30m
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Day 2: The Needles Exploration

Alum Bay and The Needles, Isle of Wight, UK on May 7, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Start your day with breakfast at your hotel, enjoying fresh local produce and a scenic view.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Drive to The Needles

Travel from Shanklin to The Needles, a striking chalk formation on the western tip of the island, known for spectacular views.
Free, 1h

10:00am

Visit The Needles Landmark Attraction

Explore the visitor centre, enjoy the chairlift down to Alum Bay beach and marvel at the colorful sand cliffs. The attraction opens at 9:30am.
GBP15, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at The Needles Old Battery Cafe

Enjoy lunch with sea views at this historic battery site near The Needles cliffs.
GBP18, 1h

2:00pm

Boat Trip to See The Needles

Take a 30-minute boat tour (operating from 10am to 4pm) for spectacular close-up views of The Needles and surrounding cliffs.
GBP12, 0h30m

3:00pm

Walk and Explore Alum Bay beach

Stroll along Alum Bay’s sandy beach and explore the famous multi-coloured sand cliffs.
Free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Return to hotel in Shanklin

Relax back at the hotel after a full day of sightseeing.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at The Beach House Restaurant, Shanklin

Savor fresh seafood and local dishes in a cosy setting by the sea. Open till 9pm.
GBP28, 1h30m
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Day 3: Cowes and Departure

Cowes, Isle of Wight, UK on May 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Beach Bistro

Enjoy a locally sourced breakfast with a view of the Solent in Cowes.
GBP15, 1h

9:00am

Visit Cowes Yacht Haven and Maritime Museum

Explore Cowes’ maritime heritage and the bustling yacht haven area, perfect for a morning stroll. The museum opens at 10:00am.
GBP8, 2h

11:30am

Lunch at The George & Dragon

Enjoy traditional British pub fare close to the waterfront before heading back.
GBP18, 1h

12:30pm

Return ferry to Southampton

Take the afternoon ferry from East Cowes back to Southampton. The ferry runs frequently, so book a slot around 1:30pm for convenience.
GBP25, 0h45m
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