Best family hotels in the Isle of Wight, according to parents

Originally built in 1870 as the Bishop of Portsmouth’s summer palace, Luccombe Hall is perched on a clifftop in the seaside town of Shanklin. It has indoor and outdoor pools, a playground, a giant chessboard, and steps that lead directly down to the beach. Family rooms have bunk beds and a fridge and you can opt for a sea or garden view. Nearby you’ll find the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary, Dinosaur Isle and Blackgang Chine - the UK’s oldest amusement park, which comes highly recommended by Mumsnetters.

Nearest train station: Shanklin (1 mile)

Brambles Chine is a collection of privately-owned and rented chalets near Freshwater, and it’s probably the cheapest way to stay on the Isle of Wight as a family. This chalet has an e-bike hook up, bike racks, a gorgeous sea view and sleeps up to six in two bedrooms and a sofa bed. Situated a stone’s throw from Fort Victoria Country Park and Colwell Bay, the nearest beach is about 200m away.

Nearest train station: Ryde Esplanade (19 miles)

Three minutes’ walk from the beach, staying at the Royal Hotel is a truly luxury experience. Overlooking Ventnor Bay, the hotel is surrounded by subtropical gardens, sea views and has a pool perfect for sunbathing. The Royal’s classic family rooms sleep three or four, and the larger rooms have a separate sleeping area for the children. There’s a listening service available so you can relax and enjoy the hotel restaurant and grounds after bedtime.

Nearest train station: Shanklin (5 miles)

Another Ventnor gem, the Wellington features large family rooms with sea views and balconies. The town is a great spot for exploring the Isle of Wight’s stunning countryside - half the island is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty - including the Ventnor Downs. Drive to the top of the hill and look for the herd of Old English Goats, or scale the steep incline from Ventnor town if you like a challenge.

Nearest train station: Shanklin (5 miles)

This working garlic farm has seven beautiful converted cottages and five luxury yurts for between two and 10 people. Situated between Newport and Sandown, Mumsnetters particularly recommend the Milking Parlour cottage, which has an accessible ramp, private garden, three bedrooms and allows dogs. Isle of Wight Zoo is a short drive away, as well as many lovely beaches.

Nearest train station: Brading (4 miles)

In the heart of Cowes Old Town, Foresters Hall (formerly known as North House) is a luxurious choice for a family trip. Extra beds or cots can be added to rooms for a small extra charge, and there are children’s swim times in the outdoor heated pool. The food is a cut above, with Michelin-star chef Robert Thompson overseeing the hotel’s restaurant. Head to Tapnell Park for an activity-packed day out, or take the Cowes Mystery Treasure Trail for a brain-teasing way to explore the town.

Nearest train station: Ryde Esplanade (13 miles)

Ideal for animal lovers, the accommodation on Chilton Farm is set next door to the working farm and surrounded by countryside. Situated in the picturesque village of Brighstone on the southwest coast of the island, Chilton Farm is a great choice for a peaceful family getaway. Cherry Cottage is one of three cottages and sleeps six plus one dog. If you’re part of a big group, all three cottages can be booked together, offering accommodation for up to 18 people. Brighstone Bay is a shingle beach a short walk away from the cottages, or head inland to explore woodland and rivers nearby.

Nearest train station: Shanklin (13 miles)

The Wight Mouse Inn is a cosy, family-run pub with a big garden, a playground and soft play to keep the kids entertained. It’s a 10-minute walk from must-see Blackgang Chine and a 20-minute drive from Newport or Shanklin. Family rooms are snug with two fold-out sofa beds and some have sea views. The pub has a good kids’ menu and pets are allowed on request.

Nearest train station: Shanklin (9 miles)