With 57 miles of coastline, the Isle of Wight is a natural destination for watersports enthusiasts. But there's so much more to it than that - read on to discover just
a few of the many sporting opportunities both on
and off dry land.
a few of the many sporting opportunities both on
and off dry land.
The Isle is a golfer's paradise, with many
courses including
18-holers at Freshwater Bay and Shanklin & Sandown. Westridge is the island's only pay-to-play course, with 9 holes, a floodlit driving range, a large golf shop, and a putting green all available to non-members.
You can also get lessons from fully qualified PGA pros, aided by video analysis and state-of-the-art training equipment.
Call Westridge Golf Centre on 01983 613131.
Located on the Ryde Esplanade, this is the only ice rink on the island.
During the ice hockey season you can watch the Wightlink Raiders compete against teams from the mainland in the English Premier Ice Hockey League, with prices as low as £20 for a family ticket.
If you fancy getting your skates on yourself, the rink also holds public skating sessions - call the arena on 01983 615155 to check as times are subject to change. There is a junior ice hockey league with teams from under-12 to under-18, with younger kids and beginners also welcome.
There is a thriving cricket scene on the island, with dozens of cricket clubs scattered all around the island - including many junior teams.
For those looking to hone their skills with bat and ball, the Isle Of Wight Cricket Academy offers expert coaching and advice, from 1-on-1 training to group sessions for schools and clubs.
The facility uses bowling machines, video analysis, and changeable pitch underlays to help you improve every aspect of your game.
Isle of Wight Cricket Academy: 01983 857763
Isle of Wight Cricket Board website
If keeping fit and active is your idea of relaxing then you'll be within easy reach of the leisure centres on the island. Each of the main centres have fitness and toning zones, 25 metre pools, saunas, and Badminton courts. Squash, tennis, and climbing walls are available at other
sites.
sites.
The Isle of Wight is well known as an excellent location for water sports, including canoeing, surfing and sailing. There are also several watersports events held on the island, the most well known being Cowes Week, which lasts for a week, and has been running since 1826.
Based in Cowes, the internationally renowned UKSA offers training in windsurfing, dinghy sailing, kayaking, and much more.
The residential courses can be tailored to your specific requirements but can last anything from one day to about a week. Anyone from age 8 and upwards can take part, regardless of your skill or experience level.
If you prefer to venture under the waves then Island Divers are the people to see. They have dives for beginners and the more experienced. Don't worry about bringing your own gear, they have it all to hire or buy at their shop in Cowes. There are no fees to join the local weekly dives - just lots of hightly enjoyable diving. They also offer UK and worldwide diving adventures.
If you're looking for a quick, fun introduction to the thrill of watersports, Wight Water in Lake is the answer.
As well as longer professional courses, they offer 2 hour "splash" courses in body boarding, kayaking, surfing, and more. They are particularly popular with school parties, but all ages are welcome
to book.
to book.
