The Isle of Wight is the sunniest place in the UK (Image: Getty)
There are many places in the UK that are perfect for a and some of them are even good enough to replace a sunny holiday abroad. The Isle of Wight, off the south coast of England, is the in the nation, boasting 1,976 hours of sunshine per year. Last year, the Isle of Wight Met Service recorded a high of 34.7C on the island, but thankfully, its beaches and promenades make it the perfect spot to soak up all the sunshine.
Despite having a population of around 140,000 people, the attracts approximately 2.6 million visitors every year and with the many things to enjoy on the island, it is no surprise that it is so popular. Along with the stunning beaches, there are plenty of coastal paths that provide the perfect opportunity to explore the island’s landscape.
:
Over 2.6 million people visit the island every year (Image: Getty)
One town on the Isle of Wight, Ventnor, was described as having one of the best beaches in the UK by Conde Nast Traveller.
They added: “Navigate the winding roads down through the cliffs and the cascading gardens, and onto the golden beachfront of the Victorian town of Ventnor, which has something of a Riviera feel.”
Once you’re done with admiring the landscape, there are plenty of activities and attractions to check out. Of course, taking part in is a must, and if you aren’t a pro, then its okay because there are a number of leading watersports schools which offer teaching in many activities, including kayaking, sailing and surfing.
In fact, the island is one of the best destinations on the for surfers, it also host world-class sailing events such as the Round the Island Race and Cowes Week when the island becomes a “centre of sailing” attracting sailors and spectators from every corner of the Earth.
If watersports isn’t your thing but you’re still up for something active, then the Isle of Wight houses 200 miles of cycle tracks, byways, and bridleways that are perfect for a cycling adventure.
Don’t miss… [TRAVEL] [REVEAL] [LIST]
The Donkey Sanctuary is a family favourite (Image: Getty)
The island is also a great choice for families as it has various fun attractions which are suitable for all ages. The Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary is a family favourite. Visitors can meet and interact with donkeys, take part in quizzes and try and spot all the donkeys using their ‘Donkey Spotting Sheet’. The sancturary is also dog friendly meaning absolutely no member of the family misses out.
A visitor on TripAvisor said: “What a beautiful place where they save donkeys. No entry fee or car park fee. It’s donation as you walk in. All the donkeys here are rescued and very well looked after. There is a small children’s play area and a cafe. It took us about 1 hour 20 minutes to walk around to see the donkeys and read their journey. Would definitely recommend.”
Visitors can also learn so much during a trip to the Isle of Wight, which is full of culture and heritage, from Royals to architectural wonders and fossils. Queen Victoria made her family home on the island at Osborne House in the town of East Cowes and Carisbrooke Castle, which overlooks the island’s county town, Newport, was home to Charles I days before his execution.
With all that there is to do at this sunny destination, it makes sense as to why millions head there every year.