Wightlink's guide to fun family experiences you can enjoy on the Isle of Wight in August

On top of this, the Island also offers beautiful beaches and glorious countryside. The Isle of Wight can be easily reached with Wightlink, offering you and the family an unforgettable break this summer. What’s more, there’s 20% off selected summer holiday ferry crossings when you visit wightlink.co.uk/thenews.

Fireworks at The Needles

Just a short drive from Wightlink’s Yarmouth terminal, The Needles Landmark attraction is a popular year-round favourite for families visiting the Island. The Needles will be open late on Thursdays throughout August for non-stop games, live music and street entertainment - with spectacular firework displays above the Island’s natural coastline, claiming to be the largest taking place on the south coast.

Blackgang Chine’s Big Night Out

The Isle of Wight is home to the UK’s oldest amusement park, Blackgang Chine, opening in the 1840s and located at the southern tip of the Island. The attraction’s Big Night Out returns this August where you can expect entertainers, shows and fireworks every Monday, Wednesday and Fridays. Expect plenty of family fun and summery shenanigans.

Robin Hill’s Jungle Fever

This 88-acre themed park will once again play host to Jungle Fever this summer. Life-sized animal puppets will make their annual migration back to Robin Hill every Tuesday and Thursday in August, in what is sure to be an unmissable experience for the family. Add live music, character meet and greets and jungle-theme performances to the mix, and you have a great day out for the family.

Summer at Tapnell Farm

Looking for the perfect place on the island for indoor and outdoor fun? Tapnell Farm has you covered whatever the weather. The Farm Park makes learning about animals fun with their animal experiences coupled with some of the best views on the Island. Tapnell also offers several activities for all the family as well as great accommodation and delicious food and drink. August is the best time for any family to visit the Farm, so don’t miss out.

Isle of Wight Garlic Festival

Do you consider yourself a foodie and love all things garlic? Set in the rolling hills of central Isle of Wight, the annual Garlic Festival is one of the Island’s biggest and most anticipated events taking place on the 17-18 August. Expect live music, great entertainment for all ages and plenty of cookery demonstrations throughout the weekend;you’ll be spoilt for choice with a wealth of delightful foods.

The 45th Island Steam Show

Steam railways are a great part of history that the Isle of Wight Steam Railway in Havenstreet has preserved. Back for its 45th year, the Island Steam Show promises to be a great family day out, taking place on 23 – 26 August. Hop on a train and explore the great outdoors with the family or visit the main arena where The Hogg Show and Reel Stunts in Action will take stage. A fantastic day of family entertainment lies ahead.

Jack Up The Summer

The Isle of Wight has a variety of family friendly summer events. One of these events is Jack Up The Summer – returning for another weekend of throwback fun on 10 – 11 August in Newport. This event is perfect for anyone looking for a blast from the past and partying the weekend away in acolourful whirl of nostalgia. Acts include Nick Heyward, Space, East 17 and more.

Sandham Gardens

Located on the northern side of Sandown, Sandham Gardens is the ideal place to enjoy time with the family while taking in some amazing sea views. Activities for all ages include Sandham Karts and new for Summer of 2019, Dino Islands: A Golf Adventure. Located just a short drive from Wightlink’s Fishbourne port, this is the perfect family day out in a great location.

Shanklin Chine

Renowned for its picturesque, tranquil location and being a long-established attraction on the Island,Shanklin Chine’s natural beauty has been impressing visitors since the 1800s. August is the perfect time for the family to visit and take in its variety of rare plants, wildlife and waterfalls. In the summer evenings the location comes to life in ‘Chine Lumiere’ – where 200 lights illuminate the attraction resulting in a stunning scene.

Find out more at wightlink.co.uk/thenews