Thorness Bay Holiday Park

The salt-sharp breeze off the Solent hits you the moment you step out of the van — proper island air, carrying the cry of gulls and the faint clank of rigging from the yacht club down the coast.

This is a holiday park on the north-west shore of the Isle of Wight, geared toward caravanners and motorhomers who want a settled base near the water. Newport's just a few miles inland when you need proper shops or the bus links to the rest of the island, but Thorness itself feels tucked away from the main tourist trail. Dogs are welcome by arrangement, so worth checking ahead if you're bringing one along. Campfires need confirming when you arrive — it'll depend on conditions and where you're pitched.

Expect a purpose-built park feel rather than wild camping — this is about having the island's quieter beaches and coastal paths on your doorstep without the Sandown crowds. The vibe's low-key and family-friendly, with enough space to properly unwind between exploring Cowes, the coastal walks, or just watching the ferries churn past.