With a great selection of outdoor activities that are guaranteed to get kids and adults having fun in the fresh autumnal air, the Isle of Wight is the perfect destination for an adventurous family holiday this half term. What’s more, with Wightlink’s Kids Go Free offer, kids travel free as foot passengers between 20 October and 4 November 2018, so it’s the perfect excuse for families to take a trip to the Island.

With so much to choose from, here are Wightlink’s recommendations for outdoor adventures suitable for the whole family this October half term.

Goodleaf tree climbing

Goodleaf is an award-winning recreational tree climbing company that has built a brilliant reputation on the Isle of Wight. It is a great activity for anyone aged 8-80 with an adventurous streak in them, as the friendly staff cater to everyone’s needs to ensure a fun time is had by all – the highlight for some may even be the drinks and flapjack that they provide after the climb. The main two-hour climb takes place on a 70 ft oak tree at Appley Park and boasts breathtaking views across the Solent. Visitors can relax in tree top hammocks or carry on climbing higher to practice the new techniques they’ve learnt. The experience costs just £29.50 per climber for a group of 4, but is cheaper for a larger group so it could be worth getting the whole family involved!

IOW Adventure Activities

Adventure Activities Isle of Wight is the perfect option for thrill-seeking families that love to try new activities. As the largest and most well respected Adventure Company on the Island, there are plenty of activities to try out, from archery and axe throwing to stand up paddle boarding and coasteering. Mountain boarding is a great option for thrill seekers both young and old. For just £12 for children and £14 for adults, visitors can enjoy an hour long session with an instructor to either learn the basics or develop their existing skills. The off-road course is a great starting point for beginners but also challenges the more experienced with slopes, jumps and berms. With options for both rainy days and sunny autumnal weather, visitors will be spoilt for choice for an adventure-filled day out at Adventure Activities. Prices vary depending on the activity, but all the details can be found on their website.

We’re Going on a Bear Hunt

For a slightly younger audience, the We’re Going on a Bear Hunt experience is a great way to explore the Island and bring this well-loved story to life this October half term. Visitors can pick up a free Isle of Wight Bear Hunt adventure guide at different locations across the Island or print off this downloadable copy, then use it to hunt down locations on the Island that look just like the film and book. Kids will love a stumble trip through Borthwood Copse and walking through the swishy swashy grass at St Helen’s Duver, making memories as they go.

West Wight Alpacas

One way to get up and close with some of the Island’s residents is to take part in a guided walk with West Wight Alpacas. Set within 23 acres of beautiful countryside, this alpaca and llama farm is open all year round and offers a wide range of activities, including short and long farm walks and even llama agility. Children must beover aged 8 to walk an alpaca or llama, but younger children can still participate if assisted by an adult. Prices start from just £14 per person and include entry to the farm, which is home to miniature donkeys, pygmy goats, rabbits and much more. There’s also a great bistro on site, The Llama Tree, which offers delicious made-to-order wood fired pizzas – the perfect treat after a country walk with a furry friend.

Island Riding Centre

Families can take advantage of Wightlink’s £5 off all experiences* at the Island Riding Centre when they book an incredible horseback experience this half term. With its stunning beaches and picturesque countryside, the Isle of Wight is the perfect backdrop for a horse riding lesson, and the Island Riding Centre has experienced and qualified instructors to guide riders of all ages and abilities. Visitors can choose courses ranging from a 15 minute introductory walk to a beach or trail ride as part of a 3 day riding holiday.

Whether it’s trying out a new adventure sport or getting up close and personal with nature, there are plenty of options for families to make the most of the outdoors this autumn on the Isle of Wight. Thanks to Wightlink’s amazing kids go free offer, parents can take up to two children aged 5 -15 for free with every adult day return ticket when travelling by foot. And with sailings starting from just £57 for a return ticket travelling by car (based on a departure at 0800 on 23rd October 2018), there are plenty of varied options to travel to the Island. For more information and to book, please visit www.wightlink.co.uk.

*Offer expires 31st October 2018 and is available Monday to Friday.