The Isle of Wight has been crowned the UK’s sunniest spot, boasting beautiful beaches and breathtaking views. Loved for its coastal scenery and mild climate, the island has been a popular holiday destination since Victorian times. Even Queen Victoria herself had a retreat there, which has now become a must-visit tourist attraction.
Finding a UK hotspot with stunning scenery and ample sunlight is no easy task, especially with the fleeting British summers. However, new data from the Met Office, collected over three decades, has revealed that the Isle of Wight reigns supreme in terms of sun-drenched days. With over five hours of sunshine a day, it is the only UK destination to enjoy such a privilege. Kent takes second place on the mainland, followed by East and West Sussex.
Here are the top 10 sunniest counties in the UK:
1. Isle of Wight – 5 hours 8 minutes
2. Kent – 4 hours 47 minutes
3. East Sussex – 4 hours 46 minutes
4. West Sussex – 4 hours 42 minutes
5. Essex – 4 hours 35 minutes
6. Dorset – 4 hours 34 minutes
7. Suffolk – 4 hours 34 minutes
8. Hampshire – 4 hours 32 minutes
9. Surrey – 4 hours 29 minutes
10. Cornwall – 4 hours 29 minutes
Travelling to the Isle of Wight from London is a breeze, with just a two-hour journey. It’s the perfect spot for a short break. Trains depart from Waterloo station to West Cowes via Southampton Central Station. Tickets can be easily purchased on Trainline.com, with prices starting from as low as £45.70. Once you arrive, hop on a ferry for a seamless journey. With over 200 crossings a day, you can find more information about routes on the official Visit Isle of Wight website. Additionally, coach stations at Portsmouth and Southampton are just a short distance from the passenger ferries.
The weather on the Isle of Wight is one of its greatest attractions. With a mild climate, the warmest months are from May to September, with an average daily high above 17°C. August is the hottest month, with an average high of 19°C and a low of 14°C.
With the sun shining and the weather on your side, there are plenty of things to do and places to visit on the Isle of Wight. The island boasts several stunning beaches, including Ventnor and Steephill Cove, perfect for those hot summer days.
Isle of Wight: The Perfect Staycation Destination
Escape to the picturesque Isle of Wight for your next weekend getaway. This hidden gem, once dubbed the ‘new Notting Hill’, offers a sun-soaked paradise with a plethora of dining options and charming pubs along the esplanade. The stunning backdrop of the nearby town and cliffs adds to the allure of this coastal haven.
Ventnor, a town on the Isle of Wight, has been described by Charles Dickens as ‘the prettiest place I ever saw in my life, at home or abroad’. With its own unique microclimate and a breathtaking botanic garden, Ventnor is a must-visit destination.
For a taste of traditional island life, head to Steephill Cove, where you can watch local fishermen in action. And if you’re looking for a highly-rated beach, Appley Beach is the place to be. Visitors rave about the incredible views and the opportunity to walk along the extensive sands during low tide.
But it’s not just the natural beauty that makes the Isle of Wight a top choice. There are plenty of attractions to explore, including Osbourne House, a former retreat for Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. Step back in time at Godshill Model Village, which transports you to the 1920s and 1930s. Don’t miss the chance to visit Carisbrooke Castle, The Needles, Quarr Abbey, and the historic Shanklin Chine.
The Isle of Wight is also famous for its annual Isle of Wight Festival, a must-attend event for music lovers. Mark your calendars for June 20-23, 2024, and get ready to experience a weekend filled with incredible performances.
When it comes to accommodation, there are plenty of options to choose from. Consider booking a stay in Shanklin, Sandown, Ryde, Newport, Cowes, Ventnor, or Yarmouth. These major towns offer a range of hotels to suit every budget. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly stay or a more luxurious experience, you’ll find impressive and exceptional options starting from as low as £60 per night.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore the Isle of Wight. Book your staycation today and create unforgettable memories in this idyllic island paradise.
