Autumn on the Isle of Wight: Guide to the outdoors and what’s on for half term October 2024

This beautiful island is transformed in autumn as the green leaves give way to russets, reds and golds and there are more opportunities than ever to get back to nature, enjoy the peace and quiet and see the wildlife up close and personal.

Much of the Isle of Isle of Wight is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and there are so many places you can go without it costing you a penny.

Wildlife wonders

The diverse landscape of wetlands, woodlands, coastal areas and nature reserves on the island mean you’ll encounter plenty of wildlife and as the trees lose their leaves, even more become visible. You might see a red squirrel or a bullfinch in Bouldnor Forest Nature Reserve, go bat spotting in Eaglehead and Bloodstone Copse Nature Reserve. Birdspotters will love Knighton Down Nature Reserve where buzzards and kestrels are regularly spotted. And you’re sure to see waders at work at Sandown Meadows Nature Reserve or Newtown National Nature Reserve on the estuary.

Wonderful walks

New England may be famous for its autumn colours, but the Isle of Wight does a pretty good job too. Parkhurst Forest and Brightstone Forest are two favourite spots for making the most of the ‘fall’ foliage, and the winding trails make it easy to spend a few hours wandering amongst the trees and kicking up leaves.

And what’s better than a walk to the pub? With plenty of coastal or countryside walks to explore and no shortage of warm and welcoming hostelries every walk could end with a warming fire and a thirst-quenching drink.

Half term fun

But there’s lots of planned activities too and, if you’re coming here for half term, here are some suggestions of things to see and do during your visit which are bound to keep the kids entertained.

Half term activities on the Isle of Wight

1.    Hallowe’en fun for all the family: Try the Fiesta of the Dead event at Blackgang Chine Land of Imagination theme park. Make the most of a day out with rides, activities, food and drink and plenty to do for all ages. Dates: October 25, 26, 29, 30 and 31 at 5pm-9pm. More information here

2.    Spooks and steam: There will be ghostly goings on at the Isle of Wight Steam railway. Bring your little witches and wizards along for magic tricks, falcon displays, a spine chilling treasure hunt and more – and of course a steam train ride. Dates: October 6 – November 1. More information here

3.    Pumpkins galore: Hallowe’en would not be complete without a pumpkin or two, and at Tapnell Farm you’ll find plenty after a bumper crop. Join the pumpkin trail on October 12-13 and 19-31 or the festival on October 28-31. With lots of activities from pick your own pumpkin and carving to ferret racing, “gourd” games and vintage funfair amusements. This all-weather event has free admission and free parking. More information here

4.    Animal magic: Wildheart Animal Sanctuary is inviting you to test your skill and wits to get through the Myths and Legends Adventure Trail and solve the puzzles of the Escape Room (October 19 to November 3, 10am to 4pm. You can learn more about the rescued animals with daily talks from the carers.  More information here

5.    Creepy castle: What could be more chilling than checking out the gravestones in the castle cemetery, or listening to spooky stories from the spirit world. All this and more awaits at Carisbrooke Castle this half term. From October 19 to November 3 there is family hallowe’en entertainment at the castle from 10am to 4pm. More information here

Step aboard

Wightlink was voted just voted top in the National Transport Awards, making it officially Britain’s best ferry operator. With over 160 years of crossing the Solent, it makes hundreds of journeys a year bringing thousands to and from the Isle of Wight.

You can opt to take the 45 minute crossing from Portsmouth to Fishbourne or the FastCat catamaran from Portsmouth to Ryde pier, which gets you over in 22 minutes.

There’s always plenty of room to sit back and relax as a passenger, and space to stow a bike or luggage and refreshments are available too.

To book your ferry or find out more visit the Wightlink website here