Isle of Wight & Osborne House - Turkey & Tinsel

Delight in a slice of Christmas festivities before the main event on this truly magical getaway to the Isle of Wight. From our base in charming Shanklin, enjoy an itinerary overflowing with trips to great destinations all over the island, as well as lots of festive fun at the hotel, including a Christmas dinner with all the trimmings! Don't miss our included excursion to Osborne House - the perfect opportunity to explore the former royal residence all decked out in Victorian Christmas decorations. A truly magical experience.What's Included?
IncludesReturn coach travel & ferry crossings4 nights at a selected hotel on the Isle of Wight (JG2 rating) with dinner & breakfast (includes traditional 'Christmas' dinner)Mince pies & coffee/tea on one afternoonEntertainment some eveningsExcursions to Ventnor, Alum Bay, Yarmouth, Newport, Osborne House, Cowes & Ryde

Itinerary
Day 1After joining the coach, we cross over on the ferry and make our way to our hotel.Day 2 - Island HighlightsOur fabulous Island Highlights tour takes us to many of the island's famous sights. We visit Ventnor, a lovely resort built on a series of terraces and Alum Bay to admire the multi-coloured cliffs and famous chalky outcrop, The Needles. We also visit the historic port town of Yarmouth, which contains some of the island's oldest architecture, including a 16th-century castle. We continue to Newport, regarded as the capital of the Isle of Wight, with a historic quayside and a selection of independent shops.Day 3 - Osborne House & CowesToday we have the chance to explore Queen Victoria's one-time residence on the island, Osborne House at this most magical time. Enjoy the many decorations throughout the house and see what a royal Christmas was like during Victorian times. Built as a holiday home and rural retreat in the late 1840s, the Italianate palace reflects Queen Victoria and Prince Albert's tastes and boasts spectacular views across the Solent. It is no wonder that Victoria herself once said, 'it's impossible to imagine a prettier spot.'Afterwards, we head to Cowes, a vibrant and sophisticated resort home to the world-famous regatta that swells the local population each August. Enjoy a stroll along the seafront, browse the boutique shops, or admire many of the town's ornate buildings which date from Queen Victoria's time, in the style popularised by Prince Albert.Day 4 - RydeWe make our way to Ryde, with its stunning gardens, eclectic mix of shops and England's oldest pier. Take a moment to watch the many boats moored in the town's bustling harbour or stroll across Appley Beach's fine golden sand.Day 5After breakfast, we check out of our hotel and head home.

The Isle of Wight
With a wonderful mild climate, shimmering waters and sixty miles of award-winning sandy beaches, the Isle of Wight has been a favourite coach holiday destination for generations.
Discover the incredible range of things to do for all ages and interests, from seaside towns and enchanting villages to fun-packed theme parks and magnificent heritage sites including Queen Victoria's favourite retreat, Osborne House, with spectacular grounds and sumptuous royal apartments. Or how about climbing aboard the Isle of Wight Steam Railway for great views around the island?
Hotel
Medehamstede Hotel, ShanklinJG2 ratingThe family-run Medehamstede Hotel is situated in the coastal town of Shanklin. Set within spacious, well-kept gardens, the Victorian building has plenty of character.Please note: The Medehamstede Hotel has no lift but has some ground floor rooms (with a few steps to navigate).\n\nHotel RatingJG2 ratingHotels with a JG2 rating are a mixture of larger hotels and privately owned properties. Décor and furnishings may be simple but are clean and well maintained. All bedrooms have en-suite facilities, TV and may have tea/coffee making facilities. Food may be buffet style in some of the larger hotels. Services may be limited but efficient.