3-day Isle of Wight & the Southern Coast Small-Group Tour

Hampshire, Isle of Wight



Dinosaurs, Romans, Vikings, and holidaymakers have influenced the Isle of Wight’s ancient landscape. Join this tour and discover the timeless beauty for yourself.

Isle of Wight 3-Day Guided Tour from London

Explore the Isle of Wight's historic sites and natural wonders on this 3-day guided tour from London, suitable for history and nature enthusiasts.

Highlights

  • Discover why Queen Victoria holidayed at Osborne House
  • See the natural landmark of the Needles
  • Visit the architecturally unique Quarr Abbey

Description

Day 1: Depart London and travel to Portsmouth, a historic port city blending maritime history with modern attractions. Enjoy a meal before boarding the ferry at Gunwharf Terminal for the under one-hour crossing to the Isle of Wight. Your first stop is Quarr Abbey, known for its French, Byzantine, and Moorish architectural styles. In the evening, arrive in the village of Shanklin for dinner and overnight accommodation.

Day 2: After breakfast, visit the Yarborough Monument, the tallest monument on the island commemorating a 19th-century earl. Next, stop at Brading Downs for scenic views. Continue to Osborne House, Queen Victoria's former holiday residence, to explore its Italian-style architecture, extensive gardens, and historic interiors. Then, visit the Needles, distinctive chalk stacks off the coast, with an optional boat trip and a nearby historic defensive battery. End the day at St. Catherine’s Down cliffs during sunset before returning to Shanklin for dinner.

Day 3: Depart Shanklin and take the ferry back to Portsmouth. Travel onwards to Winchester to visit the cathedral, ancient mill, museums, and local cafes. Conclude with a visit to the Bombay Sapphire gin distillery. Stop briefly at Runnymede before returning to London by approximately 19:00.

Includes

  • Tour transport in a 16-seat Mercedes mini coach
  • Driver and guide services
  • Two nights bed and breakfast accommodation
  • Admission to Osborne House

Excludes

  • Meals
  • Refreshments
  • Visitor attractions unless specified

Important Information

  • Tour ends at approximately 19:00 on Day 3
  • Children under 5 years are not permitted; children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult
  • Luggage allowance is 20 kilograms (44 lbs) per person: one carry-on sized bag (approx. 55cm x 45cm x 25cm / 22in x 17in x 10in) plus one small personal item
  • Accommodation is in small, locally owned guesthouses and B&Bs with en-suite rooms, typically located 20 to 30 minutes walk from local amenities
  • If you have difficulty with stairs, notify the operator in advance as these properties do not have lifts

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 14 days in advance for a full refund.

For the best experience, bring comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for summer months and weekends.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes Osborne House, the Needles rock formations, Quarr Abbey, and Portsmouth's maritime landmarks.
Yes, the tour is suitable for adults and children aged five years and older.
The tour departs from London and travels to Portsmouth before crossing to the Isle of Wight.
The ferry crossing from Gunwharf Terminal to the Isle of Wight takes under one hour.
Yes, transportation from London to Portsmouth and the ferry to the Isle of Wight are included in the tour.
Queen Victoria's holiday residence, Osborne House, is one of the main stops on the Isle of Wight tour.
A meal is included in Portsmouth before the ferry crossing, but check the website for full meal details throughout the tour.
You will see the Needles, natural rock formations located on the western tip of the Isle of Wight.
Yes, the tour features historical sites including Osborne House and Quarr Abbey.
The ferry departs from Gunwharf Terminal in Portsmouth to reach the Isle of Wight.

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