View of Solent 2

On the Farm

Whilst we do like to shout about the wonderful things on offer around the Isle of Wight, we wouldn't like you to miss out on something right here on the farm.

Image of the The Cow Restaurant & Bar Cow

The Cow Restaurant & Bar

01983 758725

Welcome to our family and dog friendly restaurant and bar which champions the finest in home grown and locally sourced produce, and specialises in home-made award-winning burgers, including vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options.

Open seven days a week from 12noon - 9pm. Plenty of outside seating with great views. Limited seating inside which must be booked online in advance.

Image of the Tapnell Farm Park Cow

Tapnell Farm Park

01983 758722

Our all-weather Farm Park provides so much to see and do, areas to explore and adventures to be had, with just as much indoors as outdoors! There’s go-karts, jumping pillows, sledge slides and straw barn fun plus don’t miss our daily animal activities!

Please note the Farm Park operates two daily session times (morning/afternoon) to allow cleaning in between.

Image of the Isle of Wight Aqua Park Cow

Isle of Wight Aqua Park

Our awesome Aqua Park – bigger and better for 2022 - and the only one on the Island.

This bouncy attraction will have you splashing, sliding and laughing all the way round over 20 obstacles!

Suitable for those confident in the water (aged 7+).

If you are staying at Tapnell Farm, please ask the accommodation team for your special guest discount code before booking a session online.

Image of the Football Golf Cow

Football Golf

New for 2021 - the Island's only Football Golf course!

Great fun for all the family. If you can kick a ball, you can play football golf! Choose between two 9 hole courses or combine the two and do all 18 holes. Book online.

If you are staying at Tapnell Farm, please ask the accommodation team for your special guest discount code before booking a session online.

Image of the Archery & Axe Throwing Cow

Archery & Axe Throwing

Whether you are a complete novice or a modern Robin Hood, our experienced team will provide you with quality coaching to ensure you get the most from your session.

Our archery and axe throwing sessions are delivered in purpose built ranges, housed inside a covered barn, allowing us to run the sessions whatever the weather, whilst maintaining a safe, comfortable outside environment.

Online booking only. Minimum age 11 years.

If you are staying at Tapnell Farm, please ask the accommodation team for your special guest discount code before booking a session online.

Image of the Top Targets Cow

Top Targets

07799 668506

Tucked away at the edge of Tapnell Farm is an exciting Clay Pigeon Shooting and Rifle Range facility, operated by Top Targets.

Image of the The Clubhouse Cow

The Clubhouse

01983 758725

The Clubhouse, located in the wooden cabin alongside The Cow Restaurant & Bar is a great place to relax with a drink and enjoy some TV, or why not challenge someone to a game of pool, table tennis, table football or darts!

Image of the Wight Herd Cow

Wight Herd

To celebrate the farm's heritage, The Cow Restaurant & Bar has a display of life size model cows - Wight Herd, all painted in colourful, creative designs that reflect many of the Island’s local events, business and people. When you join us for lunch, take a wander round outside and check out the first ever "art herd"!

Image of the Tapnell Trail Cow

Tapnell Trail

The Tapnell Trail is a popular 6-mile circular walking route, that runs right through the middle of Tapnell Farm, with easy access from Tom’s Eco Lodge. The trail leads up onto the downs, for spectacular views over the 1970 Isle of Wight Festival site, and the south coast of the Island.

Image of the Cycle Hire Cow

Cycle Hire

01983 761800

We now have bike hire onsite for our staying guests, courtesy of Wight Cycle Hire, who also provide helmets and map of cycling routes.

It’s easy to book, just ‘phone them on 01983 761800 and they will provide a code to unlock one of the bikes in the cycle hire store – or they’ll deliver a different bike if required. Step by step instructions and pricing can be found in the cycle hire store. Local cycle map can be viewed here.

Please note, that whilst bike stock is low, guests will need to contact Wight Cycle Hire directly and they will deliver the bikes to Tapnell

Best Places for Breakfast

The first meal of the day is the most important meal of the day, that’s a fact! Make sure to make the most of the Island’s breakfast offerings because there are some seriously tasty options including the best Eggs Benedict and full English this side of The Solent. Here are a few ideas to pep you up for the day ahead.

Image of the The Piano Café & Mezze Bar, Freshwater Bay Cow

The Piano Café & Mezze Bar, Freshwater Bay

01983 472874

ou can find one of the tastiest Eggs Benedict on the Island here. The eggs are always cooked to perfection, the toast is chunky, and the hollandaise sauce is to die for. The selection of teas is huge, from Earl Grey to Orange Blossom Oolong.

10% off for guests when you spend over £10, just mention Tom’s Eco Lodge.

Image of the Off The Rails, Yarmouth Cow

Off The Rails, Yarmouth

01983 761600

Enjoy a spot of bird watching across the wetlands while eating a full English. Off The Rails also cooks up a mouth watering vegetarian breakfast — you can walk back to Tapnell Farm afterwards if you feel like burning a few calories!

Image of the Gossips Café, Yarmouth, Freshwater Bay Cow

Gossips Café, Yarmouth, Freshwater Bay

01983 760646

Fancy a full English before catching the ferry from Yarmouth? This café has the perfect location for a greasy fry up before a long trip home! At the start of the pier, the café has great views of the solent.

Image of the The George Hotel & Restaurant, Yarmouth Cow

The George Hotel & Restaurant, Yarmouth

01983 760331

Family friendly brasserie style restaurant with a light airy interior and uninterrupted views of the Solent. Breakfasts are created and cooked using ingredients from the wonderful natural Isle of Wight larder.

Best Cafes for a Cup of Tea & Coffee

Tea is important here in England — we are basically addicted to the stuff. So below are a few recommendations for the best cuppa on the island. And for those who need a more concentrated caffeine injection we’ve included a couple of coffee joints as well.

Image of the The Cow Restaurant & Bar Cow

The Cow Restaurant & Bar

01983 758725

Welcome to our family and dog friendly restaurant and bar which champions the finest in home grown and locally sourced produce, and specialises in home-made award-winning burgers, including vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options.

Open seven days a week from 12noon - 9pm. Plenty of outside seating with great views. Limited seating inside which must be booked online in advance.

Image of the The Piano Café & Mezze Bar, Freshwater Bay Cow

The Piano Café & Mezze Bar, Freshwater Bay

01983 472874

ou can find one of the tastiest Eggs Benedict on the Island here. The eggs are always cooked to perfection, the toast is chunky, and the hollandaise sauce is to die for. The selection of teas is huge, from Earl Grey to Orange Blossom Oolong.

10% off for guests when you spend over £10, just mention Tom’s Eco Lodge.

Image of the PO41, Yarmouth Cow

PO41, Yarmouth

01983 761105

PO41 Coffee House is inspired by the vibrant artisan coffee culture revolutionising London’s cafe scene. The cafe is both intimate and atmospheric serving gourmet coffee, a select range of loose leaf teas and a delicious array of homemade sweet and savoury treats.

Fast and Easy Takeaway

You certainly don’t have to splash the cash to enjoy the best of the Island. In fact, most of the activities within this guide are all very reasonably priced and you’ll find a number of family/group discounts. But we understand that eating out with a big family can add up so below are a few options where your credit card will still be intact after paying for the bill.

Image of the Rainbow Fish & Chip Shop Cow

Rainbow Fish & Chip Shop

01983 752257

Close by in the local village Freshwater serves locally caught fish open lunchtimes and evenings. Collection only. Closed Sundays and Mondays.

Image of the Double Dragon Cow

Double Dragon

01983 754141

Also in Freshwater, perfect if you are in the mood for a Chinese. This family run business delivers free on orders over £12. Closed Tuesdays.

Image of the Sunbo Cow

Sunbo

01983 759111

In Totland is another Chinese we would definitely recommend. Closed Mondays.

Image of the Domino’s Pizza Cow

Domino’s Pizza

01983 522700

In Newport is a little further away but everybody that knows it loves it!

Image of the Wightwood Pizza Cow

Wightwood Pizza

07955 379642

A vintage Citroen van with a wood fired pizza oven. On a Friday night in the summer, they park up at Freshwater Bay from 5am - 8pm. Check out their Facebook page to find out the other locations they’ll be at that week as these change.

Best Places for Posh Nosh

Sometimes it’s worth forking out a little extra to mark a special occasion such as a birthday or wedding anniversary. But if you’re staying at Tapnell Farm you’re most likely on holiday, so go crazy! You don’t need an excuse to go big! Below are fine dining options that will leave you feeling incredibly well catered for.

Image of the The Cow Restaurant & Bar Cow

The Cow Restaurant & Bar

01983 758725

Welcome to our family and dog friendly restaurant and bar which champions the finest in home grown and locally sourced produce, and specialises in home-made award-winning burgers, including vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options.

Open seven days a week from 12noon - 9pm. Plenty of outside seating with great views. Limited seating inside which must be booked online in advance.

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North House, Cowes

01983 209453

A relaxed, stylish and comfortable restaurant, full of character. Dishes focus on fish and seafood from the South Coast with a respectful nod to the seasons. Great for breakfast, lunch or dinner

Image of the The Hut, Colwell Bay Cow

The Hut, Colwell Bay

01983 898637

Sunny seaside hangout in the day and atmospheric restaurant in the evening serving mouthwatering cuisine from lobster to catch of the day.

Image of the On The Rocks, Yarmouth Cow

On The Rocks, Yarmouth

01983 760505

If you fancy something different: The Island’s only specialist Black Rock Grill experience! The food here is exceptional, especially the steak.

Hidden Gems

Here’s some of the Island’s best kept secrets. You might have to try a bit harder to get to these but they are definitely worth it.

Image of the Steephill Cove, Ventnor Cow

Steephill Cove, Ventnor

17 Miles Away01983 855819

Steephill Cove is an unspoilt fishing cove with a safe, sandy beach. With only a handful of cottages, deckchairs, beach huts, lobster pots and an old donkey there’s not a slot machine, car or burger in sight. Surrounding the Cove are fantastic coastal walks. Go west to the Botanical Gardens or east to Ventnor.

Image of the St Catherine's Lighthouse, Niton Cow

St Catherine's Lighthouse, Niton

14 Miles Away

The view from the walk down to the lighthouse is stunning - imagine dramatic cliffs and tumbling landslips with St Catherine’s Lighthouse perched on the edge. Tours of the lighthouse are very reasonable; however, the best bit is soaking up the unspoilt surroundings.

Image of the Quarr Abbey, Fishbourne Cow

Quarr Abbey, Fishbourne

15 Miles Away01983 882420

Quarr Abbey is often dismissed as just a monastery, however it is a beautiful picturesque spot for a stroll. They also have a gift shop and tearooms with tasty local produce to eat or take home.

Image of the Hamstead Point Beach Cow

Hamstead Point Beach

5 Miles Away

A fascinating shoreline for fossil hunters and bird watchers. Not one to visit if you want to go for a swim or sunbathe, but if you have a young Christopher Columbus with you then this is the perfect spot!

Image of the Priory Bay Beach Cow

Priory Bay Beach

20 Miles Away

Just round the coastline from Ryde, this beautiful secluded beach can be accessed at low tide if you are walking around from Ryde seafront. Don’t forget to check tide times first to ensure you can get there and back in time!

Image of the The Duver, St Helens Cow

The Duver, St Helens

20 Miles Away

Once a Victorian golf course the Duver is now maintained by the National Trust. The sand dunes are bordered on the south by Bembridge Harbour and the Solent to the north. There are the ruins of St Helens Old Church and sea wall with brightly coloured beach huts and an excellent beach café.

Best Swimming Beaches

You are never far from the sea on the Isle of Wight and as you might expect, there are some brilliant locations to enjoy a swim. It’s hard to narrow down three because you only need to find a deserted stretch of coastline at sunset to dip your toes and you’ll be in heaven. There are restrictions in place on the Isle of Wight’s main resort beaches between 1st May and 30th September which prevents dogs being allowed to use them. However outside of this season dogs are welcomed as with any of the other beaches.

Image of the Colwell and Totland Bays Cow

Colwell and Totland Bays

5 Miles Away

Again, you can reach Colwell and Totland Bays in a matter of minutes from Tapnell Farm and once there you will find a charming seafront that merges with a shallow expanse of water stretching far out into the ocean. It’s possible to paddle out hundreds of meters and still be able to stand in the shallow waters. Head to The Hut afterwards for a glass of rosé, burger or sea food platter!

Image of the Compton Bay Cow

Compton Bay

4 Miles Away

One of the Island’s best kept secrets, Compton Bay is a two mile stretch of golden and dark sands framed by multi- coloured sandstone cliffs. If sand is not your thing, then you can relax on the grassy knolls overlooking the beach or climb on a board and surf some waves. Only a short drive from Tapnell.

Image of the Appley Beach, Ryde Cow

Appley Beach, Ryde

18 Miles Away

Ryde promenade stretches from the hovercraft terminal eastwards as far as Seaview. The main pleasure beach is from Appley to Puckpool. This fine sandy beach has numerous entrance points from the promenade. Deckchairs, sun loungers, windbreaks and other items can be hired on the beach. Watersports are popular towards the eastern end, especially kitesurfing.

Image of the Freshwater Bay Cow

Freshwater Bay

3 Miles Away

Only a few minutes from Tapnell Farm, this bay has it all — cliffs, a long beach, shelter from the wind and a great swimming depth. Please be wary taking children to this beach as there can be a sudden dip followed by strong tides. Keep an eye out for the Wightwood pizza van where you can buy delicious, hand made pizzas to regain energy after a paddle, every nice Friday 5.30 – 7.30 throughout the summer!

Best Views on the Island

Sometimes you just have to be honest — Tapnell Farm boasts the best views on the Island! Our elevated position offers panoramas of the English Channel, mainland, Afton & Tennyson Downs, and the stunning Tennyson Monument. But we understand variety is the spice of life so here are a few other options with idyllic lookout spots.

Image of the Tapnell Trail Cow

Tapnell Trail

The Tapnell Trail is a popular 6-mile circular walking route, that runs right through the middle of Tapnell Farm, with easy access from Tom’s Eco Lodge. The trail leads up onto the downs, for spectacular views over the 1970 Isle of Wight Festival site, and the south coast of the Island.

Image of the The George Hotel & Restaurant, Yarmouth Cow

The George Hotel & Restaurant, Yarmouth

01983 760331

Family friendly brasserie style restaurant with a light airy interior and uninterrupted views of the Solent. Breakfasts are created and cooked using ingredients from the wonderful natural Isle of Wight larder.

Image of the The Waterfront, Totland Bay Cow

The Waterfront, Totland Bay

01983 756969

This is the perfect place to catch the sun setting in the west with a glass of wine and a helping of King Prawn Linguine from the new “Mediterranean Kitchen.” Live bands also play every Friday.

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Smoking Lobster, Ventnor

01983 855938

Seafood specialists with great views out to sea on Ventnor beach front

Image of the The Blacksmiths Arms Cow

The Blacksmiths Arms

01983 529263

The Blacksmith’s Arms is a family-run Freehouse located in the heart of the Isle of Wight. Over 400 years old the pub has panoramic views stretching across miles of open countryside to the Western Solent.

Best Village Pubs with Tasty Grub

The Isle of Wight is lucky enough to have a few breweries producing wonderful ales from Yates Brewery (Spring Fever, Sun Goddess, Golden Ale) to Goddard’s Brewery (Squirrel, Inspiration, Ale of Wight). There are dozens of pubs on the island but we have chosen five of the best where you can neck an ale in serene surroundings only a stones throw from Tapnell Farm.

Image of the The Cow Restaurant & Bar Cow

The Cow Restaurant & Bar

01983 758725

Welcome to our family and dog friendly restaurant and bar which champions the finest in home grown and locally sourced produce, and specialises in home-made award-winning burgers, including vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options.

Open seven days a week from 12noon - 9pm. Plenty of outside seating with great views. Limited seating inside which must be booked online in advance.

Image of the The Sun Inn, Hulverstone Cow

The Sun Inn, Hulverstone

01983 741124

A short drive and you can be sitting in this 600-year-old pub’s beer garden sipping thirst-quenching ale while soaking up glorious views in no time. It’s a sheltered spot right in the sticks.

Image of the The Red Lion, Freshwater Cow

The Red Lion, Freshwater

01983 754925

Few pubs can match the picturesque setting of Freshwater’s Red Lion pub - it’s tucked away next to a church and reachable via small country lanes one end and sleepy town thoroughfares the other. You can walk there from Tapnell!

Image of the The Pointer Inn, Newchurch Cow

The Pointer Inn, Newchurch

01983 865202

The Pointer Inn is one of the oldest, most historic pubs on the isle of Wight. Famous for its food, ales and friendly service, this was Fuller’s Country Village Pub of the Year in 2012 & 2013. It also was voted one of the best UK pubs for Sunday lunch.

Image of the The New Inn, Shalfleet Cow

The New Inn, Shalfleet

01983 531314

A lovely little pub set in a dip specialising in fresh seafood dishes as well as other local produce.

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The Highdown Inn, Totland Bay

01983 752450

A small traditional country pub set in rolling countryside. Daily specials including seasonal local game and seafood.

Things to do for all the Family

Coming to the Isle of Wight with the whole family is a good idea, there’s so much to do together and you’ll all be a lot closer at the end of it. From high-octane adventure sports to countryside rambling, there is something for every group.

Image of the Tapnell Farm Park Cow

Tapnell Farm Park

01983 758722

Our all-weather Farm Park provides so much to see and do, areas to explore and adventures to be had, with just as much indoors as outdoors! There’s go-karts, jumping pillows, sledge slides and straw barn fun plus don’t miss our daily animal activities!

Please note the Farm Park operates two daily session times (morning/afternoon) to allow cleaning in between.

Image of the Isle of Wight Aqua Park Cow

Isle of Wight Aqua Park

Our awesome Aqua Park – bigger and better for 2022 - and the only one on the Island.

This bouncy attraction will have you splashing, sliding and laughing all the way round over 20 obstacles!

Suitable for those confident in the water (aged 7+).

If you are staying at Tapnell Farm, please ask the accommodation team for your special guest discount code before booking a session online.

Image of the Football Golf Cow

Football Golf

New for 2021 - the Island's only Football Golf course!

Great fun for all the family. If you can kick a ball, you can play football golf! Choose between two 9 hole courses or combine the two and do all 18 holes. Book online.

If you are staying at Tapnell Farm, please ask the accommodation team for your special guest discount code before booking a session online.

Image of the Archery & Axe Throwing Cow

Archery & Axe Throwing

Whether you are a complete novice or a modern Robin Hood, our experienced team will provide you with quality coaching to ensure you get the most from your session.

Our archery and axe throwing sessions are delivered in purpose built ranges, housed inside a covered barn, allowing us to run the sessions whatever the weather, whilst maintaining a safe, comfortable outside environment.

Online booking only. Minimum age 11 years.

If you are staying at Tapnell Farm, please ask the accommodation team for your special guest discount code before booking a session online.

Image of the The Clubhouse Cow

The Clubhouse

01983 758725

The Clubhouse, located in the wooden cabin alongside The Cow Restaurant & Bar is a great place to relax with a drink and enjoy some TV, or why not challenge someone to a game of pool, table tennis, table football or darts!

Image of the Tapnell Trail Cow

Tapnell Trail

The Tapnell Trail is a popular 6-mile circular walking route, that runs right through the middle of Tapnell Farm, with easy access from Tom’s Eco Lodge. The trail leads up onto the downs, for spectacular views over the 1970 Isle of Wight Festival site, and the south coast of the Island.

Image of the The Isle of Wight Steam Railway Cow

The Isle of Wight Steam Railway

01983 882204

Take a Ride behind one of the vintage steam locomotives for a journey back in time. Breathe in the evocative smells of a real steam railway, settle back in beautifully restored Victorian and Edwardian carriages and enjoy a unique view of some of the Island’s unspoilt countryside.

Image of the Robin Hill Country Park Cow

Robin Hill Country Park

01983 527352

Set in 88 acres of beautiful countryside, Robin Hill, the Island’s favourite award-winning country attraction. With great rides - including the 1/4 mile downhill toboggan - amazing falconry displays, adventure play for fun loving families and children, plus relaxing woodland gardens, ponds and walks.

Image of the Goodleaf Tree Climbing, Ryde Cow

Goodleaf Tree Climbing, Ryde

0333 8001188

If you are after an even more spectacular view than Tapnell Farm has to offer it’s worth trying Goodleaf Tree Climbing. Learn the ropes with qualified and experienced instructors who’ll take you to the canopy in Ryde where you can enjoy views of the beautiful countryside and coast while relaxing in a tree top hammock.

Image of the The Garlic Farm Restaurant, Shop, and Café, Newchurch Cow

The Garlic Farm Restaurant, Shop, and Café, Newchurch

01983 865378

The perfect place to take the entire family. You can grab some scrumptious food from the café or garlic inspired produce from the shop and the sprawling grounds are ideal for children to explore.

Image of the Wight Cycle Bike Hire Cow

Wight Cycle Bike Hire

01983 761800

They offer day hire for £14, with free delivery island wide if the total fee is more than £25 (2 bikes or more). Booking needs to be made before 3pm the day before. Hire includes: helmet, lock, maps and maintenance support. 

10% off for guests & free delivery

Image of the Blackgang Chine Cow

Blackgang Chine

01983 730330

Overlooking the south coast of the Island, Blackgang Chine offers an eclectic mix of attractions, magical theme worlds, exciting rides and new adventures around every corner.

Image of the Hill Farm Stables Horse Riding, Freshwater Cow

Hill Farm Stables Horse Riding, Freshwater

01983 752502

There are some great opportunities to go horse riding on the island — what better way to discover the awe-inspiring coast and countryside.

Image of the Chessell Pottery Barns Cow

Chessell Pottery Barns

01983 531 248

Chessell Pottery is a small working pottery on the Isle of Wight, where you will find a pottery painting studio, gift barn and award winning café.

Image of the Ryde Superbowl Cow

Ryde Superbowl

01983 617070

Ryde Superbowl offers full bowling facilities and a fully-licensed café-bar, open seven days a week, 364 days a year.

Image of the Monkey Haven Cow

Monkey Haven

01983 530885

An award-winning sanctuary for monkeys, birds and reptiles. Animals include eagle-owls, gibbons and lemurs, events include keeper talks and marmoset encounters.

Image of the Amazon World Cow

Amazon World

01983 867122

Amazon World Zoo Park has a huge range of unusual rare and exotic animals. At the last count it was somewhere in the region of 200 different species, spanning the entire animal kingdom!

Image of the West Bay - Island Wellness Spa Cow

West Bay - Island Wellness Spa

01983 766202

The Island Wellness Spa is a place for you to enjoy natural and holistic therapies that will make your body and mind feel relaxed, rested and restored and your skin glow.

Image of the Dinosaur Isle Cow

Dinosaur Isle

01983 404344

Located in Sandown, purpose built Dinosaur Isle provides the space and facilities to properly display and conserve the rich geological collections. There are over 1000 fossils on display!

Image of the Wight Karting Cow

Wight Karting

01983 565366

This is an outdoor track, but open in pretty much all weathers! Gear up & get your racing suit on!

Image of the Cycle Hire Cow

Cycle Hire

01983 761800

We now have bike hire onsite for our staying guests, courtesy of Wight Cycle Hire, who also provide helmets and map of cycling routes.

It’s easy to book, just ‘phone them on 01983 761800 and they will provide a code to unlock one of the bikes in the cycle hire store – or they’ll deliver a different bike if required. Step by step instructions and pricing can be found in the cycle hire store. Local cycle map can be viewed here.

Please note, that whilst bike stock is low, guests will need to contact Wight Cycle Hire directly and they will deliver the bikes to Tapnell

Image of the Secret Service Charters Cow

Secret Service Charters

07555 002001

M Renato "Sonny" Levi

Unique private charter experience. Transfers, trips and hampers tailored to your requirements. Luxury charters for two. Maximum passenger capacity 4 persons.