News that Shanklin is one of the top ‘staycation’ locations in the UK is echoed across the Island in recent findings by a holiday home bookings company.

After celebrating a bumper summer season, and successful September, the popularity of breaks to the Isle of Wight shows no sign of abating with cottages.com’s October Half-Term bookings already up 10 per cent year-on-year.

Rob Clarke, Business Development Manager for Cottages.com on the Isle of Wight said:

 “It’s great to see that the demand for breaks on the Isle of Wight continues to rise. We’re proud of our beautiful region and we want to show it off to as many people as possible.

“We have a really diverse range of properties in our portfolio here which is great because it means we can accommodate groups of all sizes – and a few furry friends too!”

With the changing seasons comes a changing mindset and travel is no exception. As sun seekers’ holiday days significantly reduce after summer, the convenience of UK ‘staycations’ tops the list for last-minute getaways.

Rob continued:

“The most popular properties in the area boast some spectacular features. One of the most searched for features on cottages.com is for properties with a wood burning stove which may explain why the likes of Riverside Cottage and Beech Cottage are some of the most popular properties in the area. We’re also proud to say that our property owners really take pride in their homes, adding high quality fixtures and fittings to make their homes feel extra special and keep their guests coming back.”

The Island’s top 5 in 2017 are

 Riverside Cottage, Newport, Isle of Wight

This waterfront cottage is nestled near the historic Odessa Boatyard with several vessels moored alongside. It is thought to date back to the 18th century and is widely recognised as one of the first dwellings along the riverbank. This property sleeps 6 people and allows two pets.

Beech Cottage, St Lawrence, near Ventnor, Isle of Wight

Located just off the coastal path this property acts as the perfect seaside retreat for the whole family. Just a short drive away from the Ventnor Botanical Gardens and the isle of Wight Pearl you wont find it hard to find something to suite everyone. This property sleeps four people and allows two pets.

The Boat House, East Cowes, Isle of Wight

Right on the waterfront, this beautiful open plan property is located in the centre of West Cowes. Close to many attractions across the island, The Boat house acts as a prime base for exploring. This property sleeps four people and allows one pet.

Priory Cottage, Moons Hill near Freshwater, Isle of Wight

Priory Cottage is a period, thatched cottage with an abundance of character, dating back to the 19th century. Close to the West High Down, The Tennyson Trail and the Heritage coastline this property acts as the perfect base to explore. This property sleeps ten people and allows two pets.

Coastguards, Freshwater Bay, Isle of Wight

This delightful, Victorian terraced cottage is a great base for a traditional seaside family holiday. Located less than a minute’s walk from the bay with its pebble beach and chalky cliffs, it’s the perfect retreat. This property sleeps four people and allows two pets.