Half term on the Isle of Wight: Plan your break from ferry deals to great days out

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.

Save with Wightlink

Under 5s always travel free with Wightlink but when the schools break up, you can also take up to two children aged 5-15 for free with every adult or senior foot passenger day return ticket. The offer is valid this October half term, between 18 October and 2 November 2025.

You can opt to take the 45-minute crossing from Portsmouth to Fishbourne or the FastCat catamaran from Portsmouth to Ryde Pier Head, which gets you there in just 22 minutes.

Visit wightlink.co.uk for the latest offers.

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 (and special deals)

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.

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. 24 – 30 October, 2025.

2. Wizard Week: 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. 19– 31 October, 2025.

3. Autumn heaven: Tapnell Farm is bursting into autumn with full on seasonal vibes. During these two weeks you’ll be able to experience a umpkin Pick’n’Mix, Autumn crafts and activities and a family Halloween Monster Ball! 18 – 31 October, 2025.

4. Animal magic: Half Term is the perfect time to see Wildheart Animal Sanctuary’s new European brown bears, Benji and Balu. Catch one of the fascinating Animal Talks, where you can learn more about the rescued animals from their carers. And enjoy the special 2-for-1 offer – buy one child admission ticket, and get one FREE.

5. Creepy castle: Gather your little monsters for a ghoulishly good day out at Carisbrooke Castle. Follow the quest to solve creepy clues, and gather round to listen to spooky stories. Step into the shadows with Carisbrooke’s very own ghost hunters as they tell spine-tingling tales and spooky stories from the castle’s past. 18 October – 2 November, 2025.