Isle of Wight Discovery - 3 days
3 Days Starting in London, United Kingdom and ending in Portsmouth, United Kingdom
Visiting: London, Isle of Wight, Portsmouth
Tour operator:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
2 - 16
Age range:
5-
Trip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating 3-day journey with the Isle of Wight Discovery tour, exploring the rich history and stunning landscapes of England. Begin your adventure in London, traveling to Portsmouth where you can explore the historic Spinnaker Tower and the Mary Rose. Cross the Solent to the Isle of Wight, visiting the serene Quarr Abbey and the charming village of Shanklin. Discover the island's treasures, including the majestic Osborne House, The Needles, and the picturesque St Catherine's Down. Return to the mainland to explore Winchester, the former Anglo-Saxon capital, and conclude your journey at the historic site of Runnymede, where the Magna Carta was signed. Enjoy comfortable accommodations, guided tours, and scenic ferry rides, all while traveling in a cozy 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach. This small group tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: London
Location: London
Accommodation Name: Somerton Lodge B&B, Knights Rest B&B or similar
London - Portsmouth - Isle of Wight. Setting off from London, we head south to the coastal city of Portsmouth. There's free time here to climb to the top of Spinnaker Tower for views of the city and the Isle of Wight. You could also follow the historic harbour trails or visit King Henry VIII's warship, the Mary Rose. After a few hours of sightseeing at your own pace, it's time to board the ferry for our crossing to the Isle of Wight. The journey takes less than an hour and you can enjoy drinks and snacks onboard.
Arriving on the Isle of Wight, our first visit is to Quarr Abbey, a beautiful building blending French, Byzantine and Moorish architecture and design. We then make our way to the small village of Shanklin, where the evening is at leisure.
Please note: Check-in closes at 09:00 on day 1 (tour departs at 09:15) - Stance 3, Greenline Coach Terminal London, Bulleid Way, Victoria, London, SW1W 9SH.
Accommodation: Somerton Lodge B&B, Knights Rest B&B or similar
Day 2: Isle Of Wight
Location: Isle of Wight
Accommodation Name: Somerton Lodge B&B, Knights Rest B&B or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today we are exploring the Isle of Wight. Departing after breakfast, our first stop is the Yarborough Monument. Celebrating the life of a wealthy earl from the 19th century, this is the tallest monument on the island. We also make a photo stop at Brading Downs, where endless green fields roll across the landscape.
Next we enjoy an included visit to the holiday home of one of England's most famous monarchs - Queen Victoria. She once said of Osborne House "it is harder to imagine a prettier spot" and you will find yourself agreeing with her as you explore the house and its pristine gardens. Built in an Italian style, Osborne House is equally as impressive on the inside, with golden rooms and historically important artefacts and furniture.
From the man-made to the natural, we then visit the main natural feature on the Isle of Wight. The Needles are a series of white stacks protruding from the ocean. Photograph them from the shore or opt for a boat ride out to The Needles for a closer look.
As the sun begins to set, we make a final stop at St Catherine's Down to admire the cliffs and surrounding green valleys. Watch the sunset before we return to Shanklin for the evening.
Accommodation: Somerton Lodge B&B, Knights Rest B&B or similar
Day 3: Portsmouth
Location: Portsmouth
Meals Included: Breakfast
Isle of Wight - Portsmouth - Winchester - Runnymede - London. This morning we catch the return ferry back to Portsmouth, and make our way to the historic city of Winchester. Once the capital of Anglo-Saxon England, Winchester is famous for its association with Alfred the Great and is home to a majestic cathedral and the impressive Norman Great Hall. There's free time to take in some of these sights, enjoy a coffee in a quaint local cafe, or browse one or more of the local museums.
Departing Winchester, we have time for a stop in Runnymede. This is where the famous Magna Carta, which limited the power of kings and queens, was signed by King John (renowned as one of England's worst ever kings, and the antagonist in the tale of Robin Hood) in 1215. We then complete our journey to central London, where our tour comes to an end.
Please note: This tour ends at 19:30 - London Victoria Drop Off, Stance 3, Greenline Coach Terminal, Bulleid Way, Victoria, London, SW1W 9SH.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Simple guesthouse (hotel upgrade available) -
2 breakfasts
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2 nights simple guesthouse (hotel upgrade available)
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Escorted by a local driver-guide
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Transportation in 16 seat Mercedes mini-coach with air-conditioning
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Return ferry from Portsmouth to the Isle of Wight
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Entrance to Osborne House
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All road tolls
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14kg luggage - see Trip Notes for details
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Note: This tour is operated in conjunction with our trusted partner and you will join travellers from different operators, not solely On The Go.
What's Not Included
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International flights & visas
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Airport transfers (pick up and drop off information can be found in the Trip Notes)
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Meals not specified in itinerary
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Tipping - an entirely personal gesture!
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Entry fees unless specified
Age Policy
Min:5yrs with an adultChild discount available for 5-15 yrs sharing with 2 adults
Mode of Transport
Travel in style with a 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach equipped with air-conditioning, and enjoy a scenic ferry ride from Portsmouth to the Isle of Wight and back.
Accommodation
Enjoy two nights in simple yet comfortable guesthouses such as Somerton Lodge B&B or Knights Rest B&B, with the option to upgrade to a hotel for a more luxurious stay.
Check out our Q&As
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What type of transportation is used during the Isle of Wight Discovery tour?
The tour uses a 16 seat Mercedes mini-coach with air-conditioning for transportation.
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Is there a guide provided during the tour?
Yes, the tour is escorted by a local driver-guide.
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What is the luggage allowance for the tour?
The luggage allowance is 14kg, and further details can be found in the Trip Notes.
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Is the entrance to Osborne House included in the tour?
Yes, entrance to Osborne House is included in the tour.
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What is the accommodation like on the Isle of Wight Discovery tour?
The tour includes 2 nights in a simple guesthouse, with a hotel upgrade available.
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Is the ferry to the Isle of Wight included in the tour?
Yes, the return ferry from Portsmouth to the Isle of Wight is included in the tour.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1998
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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CTS demo white label allows you to make 20 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
CTS demo white label requires a minimum deposit of 55% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 30 days before departure.
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