Free and low cost activities

child lying in colourful autumn leaves holding leaves over their eyes and smiling

Fun for Island Families – Holiday Activities 

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 time as a family 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. 


Half term activities. Image shows a scary mask made from clay and an ammonite fossil.

Island Museums 

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


A little girl peering around a corner making a scary face and holding a pumpkin lantern. Getty Images

Library activities

Families across the Isle of Wight are invited to enjoy a selection of free activities at local libraries this October half term.

Full list of library half term activities

Visit the library web pages for more information on how to join


More activities to enjoy this half term

Fort Victoria adventures

£3 per person / £10 per family (cash only)

Come rock pooling and fossil hunting with our ranger at Fort Victoria! Meet outside the ranger’s office, sessions last 1 to 1.5 hours. No booking needed, just turn up (if space allows).

  • Monday 20 October at 2:30pm
  • Tuesday 21 October at 2:20pm
  • Wednesday 29 October at 10:30am
  • Thursday 30 October at 11am
  • Friday 31 October at 11am

Also happening this half term:

1Leisure will be running a range of activities across its centres, and has a holiday swim timetable


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