Classes & Workshops in Isle of Wight

If you’re in the mood to learn something new while on the Isle of Wight, you’re in luck. This island has plenty of laid-back classes and workshops that go beyond the usual sightseeing. From pottery sessions at Quay Arts Centre in Newport to seasonal foraging walks along the cliffs near Ventnor, there’s a bit of everything.

One of my favourite things to do is join one of the woodcraft workshops at Blackwater Workshops near Freshwater. It’s a really chilled place to make something useful with your own hands, and you get to hang out with instructors who clearly love what they do. And don’t be surprised if you end up chatting about the island’s history or the best hidden beaches while you’re at it.

If you’re visiting in spring or summer, keep an eye out for the photography workshops held at Shanklin Old Village. They’re brilliant for capturing the island’s softer light and quirky corners. Here’s a local tip: book early if you want to join a seaside cooking class, as spots disappear fast, especially on weekends. The Isle of Wight has a surprisingly rich craft and creative scene once you look past the touristy surface, and getting stuck into one of these classes is a fun way to take a piece of the island back home with you.