Isle of Wight

Meet in Portsmouth and board the catamaran for the short journey to Ryde on the Isle of Wight. From here, join the rail service down the scenic east coast to Sandown. This delightful Victorian seaside resort boasts sandy beaches and views over the English Channel. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for a four-night stay.

• Dinner

Your first visit is to St Mildred's Church in Whippingham, an ornate and beautiful church which has close links to the royal family. After some time here, continue to fascinating Osborne House, Queen Victoria's family holiday home. The house was designed by Prince Albert himself to mirror the beauty of an Italian palazzo after buying it in 1845. This was a place designed to be a hideaway from the pressures and stresses of court life, and it's beautiful and eccentric design features two belvedere towers and extensive grounds. The house continued to be a favourite retreat for Queen Victoria, even after Prince Albert's untimely death, and it is here that she died in 1901.

You are at leisure to explore the exquisite state rooms and private royal apartments, gaining a glimpse into Victorian life for the most privileged members of society. It is particularly interesting to note the difference between the elegant and opulent rooms in the wing known as 'the Pavilion' and the far more comfortable and homely setting of the royal apartments. Outside, explore the vast manicured gardens or perhaps make your way down to the pretty private beach, recently opened to the public.

• Breakfast, Dinner

Enjoy a panoramic tour around the island today, taking in some of the Isle of Wight's best and most beloved attractions. Begin at the stunning cliffs of 'Needles Park', where you can admire the lighthouse and ocean vistas. The sight of the startlingly white needles is an iconic sight of the Isle of Wight, with distinctive stacks of chalk rising dramatically out of the azure sea.

Then, continue to Yarmouth to admire the views from its charming harbour. This port town is located on the opposite side of the Isle of Wight to Sandown, and there has been signs of settlement here that date back well over one thousand years. Over the centuries, raids from the French have affected the layout of the town, and it is said that the bells from the original church here now grace either Cherbourg or Boulogne. Later visit historic Carisbrooke Castle and its award-winning Edwardian garden before ending the day at the picturesque village of Godshill.

• Breakfast, Dinner

Discover the Isle of Wight's heritage railway this morning. Begin by taking the island's public train from Sandown to Smallbrook Junction, where you board the Isle of Wight Steam Railway for a return journey to Wootton. This beautiful line dates back to 1862, and promises an immersive and nostalgic experience, as you wind through unspoilt countryside, traversing through the heart of the island past scenic woodland, lush meadows, and picturesque towns. This truly is a wonderful way to explore the Isle of Wight, as the train takes you back in time to the 'Golden Age' of rail as it journeys the delightful rolling countryside, pulled by a charming steam locomotive Along the way, stop at Havenstreet for a visit to the interesting Carriage and Wagon Workshop.

• Breakfast, Dinner

Take the train to Ryde and board the catamaran back to Portsmouth. Here you are free to depart.

• Breakfast