The Isle of Wight has been recognised as one of the UK’s top ten destinations for British holidaymakers
During the 2005/06 season, almost a million overnight trips were made to our shores, and this staggering figure ensures the Island is placed alongside major city destinations such as London and Edinburgh as one of the top holiday venues in the British Isles.
The findings of this new survey, conducted by the Association of British Travel Agents, correlate with the IW Council’s own studies into tourism, which have revealed a significant increase in short breaks to the Island, in addition to the traditional longer stay holiday makers. More specifically, in the past two years there has been a 24 per cent increase in short breaks, while longer stay trips have increased by 12 per cent.
The continued growth of tourism on the Island can be attributed in part to outdoor events such as White Air, the Isle of Wight Rock Festival and Bestival, whilst the impressive visiting figures are also largely thanks to the island’s natural beauty and unrivalled countryside.
Isle of Wight Council cabinet members have recognised the achievement as a great accolade, with the Island being one of only four coastal locations in the top ten.