Free and low cost activities

Happy, smiling children playing tug o' war.

Summer Fun for Island Families – Holiday Activities and Food Programme 2025

The Isle of Wight Council is excited to bring you a fantastic line-up of free and low-cost activities designed especially for Island children and families.

From creative workshops and outdoor adventures to sports, games, and tasty food, there’s something for everyone to enjoy – all delivered by our dedicated council teams who care about making your summer special.

Whether you're a parent, carer, grandparent, or simply have young people in your life, this is your invitation to join in the fun and make the most of the school holidays together. Let’s make summer 2025 one to remember!


kids drinking shakes in sun hats by beach huts

HAF – Holiday Activities and Food Programme

The HAF programme is back – bigger, brighter, and bolder than ever! Children eligible for benefits-related free school meals can enjoy free activities and nutritious meals all summer long.

What’s on offer?
A wide range of fun-filled activities, including:

  • Animal care
  • Arts and crafts
  • Creative play
  • Dance
  • Day trips
  • Football
  • Gymnastics
  • Horse riding
  • Tennis
  • Theatre skills
  • Water sports

Every session includes a hot meal or packed lunch, and some even let kids help prepare it!

Book online: HAF Booking System
Got questions? email: holidayactivities@iow.gov.uk
Who qualifies? information for parents and carers provided on our Holiday activities and food programme (HAF) webpages 

Wooden catapult and runic stones with logos for Newport Roman Villa, Isle of Wight Council, and museum

Island Museums  - Family Fun This Summer!

Museum of Island History (Newport Guildhall)

Step back in time and explore the Island’s story from prehistory to the present day.

Family-friendly trails and pop-up exhibits

Opening Times: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10am to 1pm

Entry: £1 per adult and 50p per child – no booking needed!

Visit the Museum of Island History webpage for more details

Newport Roman Villa

Get hands-on with history! Make mosaics, dress like a Roman, explore a real Roman villa and more!

Opening Times: Monday to Saturday, from 10.30am (Last entry 2.30pm)

Entry: Family tickets from £12.50 (2 adults and 2 children) – no booking needed!

Visit the Newport Roman Villa webpage for more details


Dinosaur Isle, Sandown.

Dinosaur Isle and Fossil Walks

Discover real fossils on guided beach walks and explore the prehistoric world at Dinosaur Isle!

Fossil walks in Yaverland and Shanklin - booking essential.

For dates and times of the fossil walks visit dinosaurisle.com

For the latest updates follow Dinosaur Isle Facebook page 

A spider crab. A little girl is patting its shell.

Fort Victoria ranger activities 

Nature adventures await!

Join in with regular rock pooling, bug hunts, woodland crafts sessions. throughout the school holidays!

All these adventures take place at Fort Victoria Country Park
For updates throughout the summer holidays, check our Isle of Wight Council Facebook page 

Family of four swimming underwater in swimming pool together

Make a Splash This Summer with 1Leisure!

Looking for fun ways to cool off?

Join us for daily fun swim sessions at The Heights and Medina – complete with floats and balls for all ages!

Open as usual on Bank Holiday Monday.

Great Value for Families

  • Group of up to 4: £15.00
  • Adults: £6.50
  • Juniors: £3.25
  • Under 4s: Go free!
Also free for:
  • One Card holders
  • children enrolled in junior swim lessons via Direct Debit

Check the Holiday Swim Timetables

For Medina or the Heights holiday swim timetable visit 1Leisure website

Plan Your Visit

Download the 1Leisure App from Google Play or the Apple App Store for up-to-date swimming timetables, fitness class schedules, the latest offers and promotions, booking options, and much more!

Call us:

For the latest updates follow the 1Leisure Facebook page


family playing in garden on tyre swing laughing

Start for Life and Family Hubs – Here for Your Family

Whether you're pregnant and expecting a baby or raising a young person up to age 19 (or 25 with SEND), Family Hubs are here to support you every step of the way.

What We Offer

  • Friendly advice and guidance
  • Fun activities for children and families
  • Resources to help your family thrive

Supporting Families with SEND

We provide tailored support for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

Find Out More 

For full details and local services visit IW Start for Life and Family Hubs 
For the latest updates follow the IW Family Information Hub Facebook 


Summer Reading Challenge cartoon graphic

Libraries – Summer Reading Challenge 2025

Step into the magical world of Story Garden -  this year’s theme celebrates imagination, nature, and creativity.

Children aged 4 and over are invited to read six books over the summer holidays to earn stickers, rewards, a medal, and a certificate! 

What’s included:

  • read any books – including audiobooks via BorrowBox
  • mini Challenge available for babies and toddlers
  • runs until  Saturday 6 September 2025
  • join in-person or online for virtual badges, games, and book recommendations.

More information provided on the Summer Reading Challenge webpages

Plus! Libraries across the Island are hosting lots of other free craft events and activities all summer long. 

For the latest updates follow the Isle of Wight Libraries Facebook page 


Child cycling in road safety training, ages 8–11, Isle of Wight Council and Bikeability banner

Bikeability summer holiday sessions – Booking essential

Boost your child’s cycling confidence with a fun and safe Level 1 Bikeability course.

Perfect for ages 8 to 11!

Location: Medina Leisure Centre,  Bikeability course delivered in a safe, playground environment.
Date: Tuesday 5 August 2025
Times:
  • session 1: 10am to 12 noon
  • session 2: 12.30pm to 2.30pm

Ages: 8 to 11 years

Booking essential: email: sports.unit@iow.gov.uk with:
  • your child’s name and age
  • your preferred session time
  • number of places needed

What to bring: Must bring a bike, helmet, and be able to ride

Reward: Certificate and badge awarded on completion