Dog-Friendly Isle of Wight: 4 Days of Pawsome Adventure

Dog-friendly Isle of Wight delivered more than I expected—4 days of beach runs, castle views, and caravan life with my adventure pup.

Dog-Friendly Isle of Wight: Our 4-Day Adventure Begins 🐾

This wasn’t just a simple repeat of our first peaceful escape. Instead, it marked a bold, deeper dive — much like my emotional journey documented in my Healing Retreat with My Dog on the Isle of Wight article — into secret dog-friendly beaches, unexpected hidden gems, and charming towns bursting with pet-friendly character. From one thrilling discovery to the next, we roamed freely, connected with locals, and followed Cookie’s nose to places no typical dog-friendly travel guide could have revealed.

Therefore, whether you’re planning a quick dog-friendly holiday or seeking an unforgettable pet-approved adventure, our 4-day journey across the dog-friendly Isle of Wight offers powerful inspiration and insider tips you won’t want to miss.

Day 1 – Dog-Friendly Isle of Wight: Ferry & Train Arrival 🚆

Our journey continued from Ryde by dog-friendly bus, offering unexpected views and a peaceful start to our Isle of Wight adventure.

Dog-Friendly Ferry & Train Route via Ryde Pier ⛴️

Departing from London Waterloo felt seamless, and Cookie settled in right away—our adventure had truly begun.

This time, we took the pet friendly Wightlink ferry from Portsmouth Harbour to Ryde Pier—just 22 minutes across calm waters. It was fast, smooth, and surprisingly scenic.

As we approached the Wightlink ferry, Cookie’s excitement grew—she could sense adventure just ahead.

Immediately, it was clear why this route is a local favourite.
The Ryde Pier stretches far into the sea; on one side, foot passengers enjoy a calm walk.
Meanwhile, the other side holds a charming town train to Ryde.
At the pier’s end, the bus station awaits. Therefore, transfers are quick and smooth.
Moreover, traveling with a dog was effortless and comfortable.
In fact, this is one of the most stress-free pet-friendly routes available.

The view from the ferry as we approached was astonishing. The sea shimmered, and the pier felt like a peaceful runway to something new.

How to Get to the Dog-Friendly Isle of Wight via Ryde 🧭

It’s a route I’ll likely choose again—and one I’d recommend to anyone traveling with a dog. Plus, everything connected so smoothly:

🚆 Trains from London Waterloo run every 20 minutes, so you won’t wait long to start your adventure.

⏱️ The journey to Portsmouth Harbour takes around 1 hour and 35 minutes. That gives you time to relax.

🏞️ Better yet, the ferry terminal sits right inside the train station. There’s no need to switch platforms.

⛴️ From there, Wightlink ferries run up to 40 times a day, offering plenty of flexibility.

🚉 Once you arrive, a small town train waits just outside the ferry terminal to take you into Ryde.

🚌 Finally, the local bus station stands at the end of the pier, making your last transfer smooth—even with paws in tow.

Dog-Friendly Routes to the Isle of Wight: Which One’s Better? 💡

There are two main ways to reach the dog-friendly Isle of Wight from London. I’ve tried both, and here’s how they compare:

Dog-Friendly Route: Portsmouth to Ryde 🟢

🚆 Train from London Waterloo to Portsmouth Harbour (1h 35min)
⛴️ Wightlink Ferry to Ryde Pier (22 min, pet-friendly)
🚉 Easy transfer: ferry terminal inside the train station
🚍 Bus and local train available right at the pier
⭐ Smooth, scenic, and highly efficient—ideal for solo travellers with dogs

Dog-Friendly Route: Portsmouth to Fishbourne 🟡

🚆 Train from London Waterloo to Portsmouth Harbour
⛴️ Wightlink Ferry to Fishbourne (45 min, pet-friendly)
🚖 Requires a taxi or bus to reach your accommodation
💡 Less direct and takes longer, but still a good option depending on your destination

📎 Want step-by-step details from my first journey?
Check out: Isle of Wight Dog-Friendly Camping: My Solo Travel with Cookie

Ready to see how our dog-friendly Isle of Wight journey began? From boarding the ferry to scenic views from the top deck, Day 1 was packed with moments that set the tone for an unforgettable adventure.

Dog-Friendly Stay at Landguard Holiday Park, Isle of Wight 🏕️

After arriving at Ryde, we took a short bus ride to pet friendly Landguard Holiday Park, part of Parkdean Resorts. The bus stop and the town train station were each about a 10-minute walk from the park entrance, making it easy to get around without a car. Everything felt accessible, even with bags and a curious pup in tow.

Our dog-friendly caravan was clean, cosy, and fully equipped. Not only was it practical, but it also felt peaceful. It was ideal for cooking, relaxing, or simply sharing quiet moments with Cookie. 🐶

If you’re curious about what to expect, I’ll share some interior pictures below.

In both directions, just 10–15 minutes away, I found Lidl, Tesco, and Morrisons. Therefore, shopping for essentials or planning meals was quick and easy.

There’s something deeply grounding about having your own space while traveling—especially when you share it with a dog who makes any place feel like home.

That first evening was calm. After unpacking the bags, Cookie curled up nearby, already at ease. Most importantly, everything I needed was there—comfort, stillness, and the start of something exciting.

Day 2 – Hidden Beaches and Historic Garden on the Dog-Friendly Isle of Wight🏖️

Right after arriving, our dog-friendly stay at Landguard proved its worth. Without wasting time, Cookie and I set off on a scenic walk toward Shanklin Beach — a peaceful, pet-friendly route that set the tone for the days ahead.

Dog-Friendly Walk from Caravan to Shanklin Beach 🚶‍♀️

The day began peacefully. First, I brewed a strong espresso with my manual machine—still one of my best holiday buys! Then, I took Cookie for her morning walk. While we were out, I met a helpful staff member and mentioned the boiler wasn’t working perfectly. Thankfully, within just 10 minutes, it was fixed. Small kindnesses like that always make a difference.

If you’re curious about our pet friendly caravan, Cookie made a quick tour—tail wags included. 🎥👇

Curious about where we stayed on our dog-friendly Isle of Wight trip? Our pet-friendly caravan at Landguard Holiday Park offered the perfect balance of comfort, space, and easy access to nature.

Scenic Pet-Friendly Walk Through Historic Shanklin 🌿

Rather than take the 15-minute pet friendly bus ride to the coast, we decided to walk instead. The 30-minute route gave us time to enjoy the fresh air and explore at our own pace. Along the way, we passed winding streets lined with crumbling old houses. Each one had its own charm. Some looked like film sets— half-forgotten, yet full of stories. As we continued, I paused more than once. After all, it was easy to imagine the lives that had once filled those walls.

Although Shanklin isn’t a large village, it has a warm and welcoming feel. In addition, cosy pet friendly cafés, traditional pet friendly pubs, and cheerful pet friendly restaurants lined both the main street and the beachfront. However, even though we passed several tempting seaside cafés, I stayed focused on one thing: finding a dog-friendly beach for Cookie.

Shanklin Beach: A Dog-Friendly Surprise with a Catch 🪨

At the far end of the promenade, we finally found the pet-friendly section of Shanklin Beach.

First reaction?

Disappointment.

The tide was high, and the ‘dog-friendly’ area was nothing but jagged rocks and slimy boulders.

Still, I looked at Cookie and said, “If this is our spot, here we stay.” So, we stood there—soaking up the sun and waiting.

After all, not everything in life turns out as expected. However, sometimes, with a little patience, things unfold beautifully.

Eventually, the tide pulled back—and with it, revealed a wide, soft, stunning beach. Cookie raced across the sand, while I stood still—feeling gratitude and quiet joy.

When you live with depression, people often say: go to the doctor. I didn’t.

My treatment is this:

Cookie, sun, and sea.

We spent hours there—walking, playing, and simply existing without pressure. After all, the sound of the waves and Cookie’s joy were all I needed in that moment.

We waited… and finally, the beach transformed. Cookie’s joy says it all. 🐾👇

Dog-Friendly Beaches in Shanklin: What to Know About the Tide 💡

🐾 The pet-friendly section of Shanklin Beach is only usable when the tide is low.
📱 Therefore, always check local tide times online before heading out.
🐶 Off-lead dog zones do exist, but they’re located farther out from the town centre—a longer walk in either direction.
🪨 At high tide, the dog area near the promenade is mostly rocky and limited—but if you wait, it’s worth it.

Dog-Friendly Attraction: Cookie Visits Shanklin Chine 🌿

Just as we were preparing to leave, Cookie—sniffing with purpose—pulled me toward a narrow set of stone steps tucked between buildings.

Naturally, I followed.

But thanks to Cookie’s nose, we found a space filled with shade, quiet, and something close to wonder.

At the top, we discovered a charming tearoom that opened into a sprawling green space. Without realising it, we had stumbled upon Shanklin Chine—a historic gorge transformed into a peaceful pet friendly garden. The same magical historic gorge that brought me peace during our first healing retreat.

We had no idea this place even existed.

But thanks to Cookie’s nose, we found a space filled with shade, quiet, and something close to wonder.

We stayed for hours—wandering through leafy trails, sitting in the dappled light, and letting time slow down. As a result, everything felt quieter, softer, and somehow more meaningful.

🌿 Curious to see more of this enchanted place? Tap below to unveil our full pet friendly Shanklin Chine adventure—dino encounters, quiet paths, and waterfalls included!

Day 3 – Dog-Friendly Isle of Wight by Bus: Best Pet-Friendly Stops 🚌

Although the weather wasn’t ideal for a beach day, we didn’t let that stop our dog-friendly Isle of Wight adventure. While sipping my morning espresso, I did a little research and discovered a few promising stops: the Model Village in Godshill and the Donkey Sanctuary, both just a bus ride away.

Even though I wasn’t sure if they were pet-friendly, I decided to take the risk. After all, that’s what exploring is about. For the afternoon, the plan was to head to Carisbrooke Castle, one of the most historic and dog-friendly spots on the island. Therefore, no sand between our toes—but it was shaping up to be a full day of pawsome discoveries.

Exploring Dog-Friendly Godshill: A Village Full of Charm 🏘️

When we arrived in Godshill village, I was in awe. It felt like I had crossed a hidden portal and landed in a storybook. I’d only planned to visit the Model Village, but the real village itself quickly stole the spotlight.

Suddenly, our dog-friendly Isle of Wight adventure turned into something magical. In fact, the thatched-roof cottages, winding lanes, and postcard charm were impossible to ignore. Naturally, I had to explore this fairy tale wonderland with Cookie by my side.

Godshill Model Village: A Dog-Friendly Isle of Wight Gem 🏡

Without hesitation, we stepped into one of the Isle of Wight’s most unique dog-friendly attractions. Tucked within Godshill, the Model Village delivered a surreal mix of charm and detail that surprised us both.

A Tiny World for Giants – Inside Godshill’s Model Village 🧸

Just 10 minutes from the Godshill bus stop, we found the biggest surprise of the day. To our delight, the Model Village was dog-friendly! Even better, entry cost just £8, and dogs go free—yes, free! 🐾

There’s no time limit once inside. As a result, you’re free to explore at your own pace with your dog. You’re surrounded by miniature scenes of 1940s–50s England. The buildings are small, detailed, and utterly charming.

Meanwhile, Cookie sniffed curiously at the miniature gardens where posh families were ‘gathered.’ Then, she wandered past the model railway, where trains paused at platforms far too small for her paws. In addition, the airstrip was filled with tiny planes, busy mechanics, and suited pilots.

Later, we even spotted a wedding at All Saints Church. Naturally, Cookie made herself part of the guest list. Suddenly, a floating dirigible caught her attention—she thought it was a giant ball. Nearby, a doll-sized football match unfolded with dramatic flair.

It felt like we had stepped into a tiny version of the world

—except Cookie was a giant sweet monster towering over everything.

But the highlight? A replica of Shanklin Chine—the real one we’d explored just the day before. It had looked enormous then. Now, we were the giants looking down. The contrast was oddly beautiful.

This wasn’t just a novelty—it was a playful, dog-friendly Isle of Wight experience that made us feel part of a story. Cookie and I didn’t rush. We just enjoyed.

Cookie’s giant paws explored every corner of this miniature world—and I captured the best bits just for you! 🏡 Tap below to see the highlights of our Model Village adventure:

Memory Anchors: Souvenirs from the Model Village Gift Shop 🛍️

Before leaving, we walked through the Model Village Shop—yes, it’s also pet-friendly!

Inside, shelves were stacked with tiny versions of what we’d just seen: model houses, tiny trees, trains, even whimsical dogs and cottages. It was like walking through the village all over again—only this time, you could take pieces of it home.

Want a peek inside the shop where we met another furry explorer? Let’s take a video stroll together!

Of course, I opened my wallet for Cookie.

After all, what kind of dog mum would I be if I didn’t?

These weren’t just souvenirs. They were memory anchors—a way to hold onto the wonder. A cottage here, a football game there… little scenes from a miniature world now tucked safely into a small paper bag.

🛑 But if you’re traveling with limited luggage space, be mindful. This was the only moment of the trip I truly wished I had a car.

Even so, I left smiling—souvenirs in hand, Cookie beside me, and that warm afterglow you only get from being somewhere truly special.

The Old Smithy Garden: A Dog-Friendly Gem in Godshill 🧚‍♀️

As we wandered deeper into Godshill village, something unexpected pulled us in. Hidden just beyond the main lanes, we stumbled upon The Old Smithy Garden—a free, pet-friendly world filled with enchantment.

Here, you’ll meet witches, gnomes, fairies, and creatures straight out of a fantasy tale. The air itself felt charged with imagination. Cookie led the way, nose twitching at every magical corner.

Although this isn’t a traditional stop on most dog-friendly Isle of Wight itineraries, it absolutely should be. The space is open, creative, and welcoming to pups and dreamers alike.

All around the garden, you’ll find pet friendly charming cafés, restaurants, and bars—perfect for a break, a snack, or just a breath of stillness. Even the shops nearby are an experience. They’re filled with magical gifts and quirky finds. Honestly, your imagination will want to buy everything.

Tucked behind the shops, The Old Smithy Garden gave us a calm moment to breathe and recharge. Cookie loved the peaceful vibe—and you can watch it too!

Capture the Magic — If You Can 🔋

Dog-Friendly Donkey Sanctuary on the Isle of Wight: A Gentle Pause 🐴

When we arrived at the bus stop, I realised we had taken the same bus route number—just in the opposite direction. That meant, logically, we should have started the day with the donkeys.

But you know me: when it comes to directions, I’m often improvising. And believe it or not—this wasn’t my only detour of the day.

Still, I was genuinely grateful that the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary was pet-friendly. As someone who adores animals, being able to visit with Cookie felt like a blessing.

As soon as we arrived, Cookie and I joined the herd—quite literally! 🐾 This fun welcome set the mood for a tail-wagging visit.

Cookie was completely fascinated. These were animals she had never seen before, and she spent the whole time alert—sniffing, observing, and soaking in all the new scents.

The pet friendly sanctuary offers more than just views—it tells stories. Each donkey has a name, a past, and many have heart breaking beginnings. Yet here, they live with love, care, and safety. Seeing their happy endings in real life adds depth to the experience.

What can you expect to see?

Honestly, it depends on the donkeys’ moods!

We were lucky. Cookie and I witnessed a full range of donkey life:
🦙 Some were eating peacefully
😴 Others rested under shady trees
👃 A few came curiously to greet us—especially Cookie
😈 And the cheeky youngsters? They teased each other, made their friends run, and even kicked up their heels in playful rebellion

We stayed for nearly two hours, smiling and laughing the entire time. It was a peaceful, joy-filled moment in our dog-friendly Isle of Wight adventure—where the only soundtrack was hooves, brays, and our own laughter.

This was the kind of peaceful, grounding moment I’d longed for since our emotional relocation journey—the kind only animals truly understand.

Before leaving, we stopped at the on-site gift shop, which is also pet-friendly. Entry to the sanctuary is completely free, but donations are welcome—and, in my opinion, truly deserved. Supporting their work felt meaningful, especially after seeing the love and care given to each animal.

We left with a couple of souvenirs and a lighter wallet

—but much heavier hearts, in the best way.

💡 Travel Tips for Visiting the Pet Friendly Donkey Sanctuary with Your Dog
🐶 Always keep your dog on a lead—this keeps both animals and guests safe.
🔕 Although the sanctuary is pet-friendly, avoid visiting if your dog is very vocal or reactive. Loud barking may stress the donkeys.
🙏 Respect their space, stay calm, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere together.

From curious snouts to peaceful views, these extra snapshots capture the sweetest moments of our visit—take a peek below

Dog-Friendly Newport: A Surprise Stop on Our Isle of Wight Route 🏛️

Our final detour of the day? Newport. To be honest, I hadn’t planned to go there at all—I was aiming for Old Shanklin Village.

So, what happened?

Well… I took the right bus. But once again, in the wrong direction. At this point, you might be thinking I’m the kind of person you don’t want to travel with. And maybe that’s fair. But this accidental journey turned into something wonderful.

“A good traveller has no fixed plans and is not intent on arriving.”
— Lao Tzu

The ride was long—over an hour—but I sat on the top deck, right at the front. It felt like a private Pet Friendly Isle of Wight bus tour, with Cookie sleeping by my side. We passed through several scenic villages I’d love to explore one day. But the highlight? Driving into Sandown.

You’re high up, watching the whole town stretch below you…

and suddenly, the bus begins to descend a steep hill. My only thought: Are we going to fall?

The view? Absolutely breath taking.

When we finally arrived in Newport, I felt slightly underwhelmed. It’s a city—a regular English city. Maybe it wasn’t Newport’s fault. Maybe it was because I had just left a magical village behind. Either way, it didn’t quite hit the same.

Still, Cookie and I had a nice walk through the centre before catching the next pet friendly bus. For her, it was a blessing. She was tired, and the return trip gave her a chance to rest and sleep—curled up like the queen of the double-decker.

Old Shanklin Village: A Dog-Friendly Stroll Through Timeless Charm 🛖

Finally, we arrived at Old Shanklin Village, and once more, it felt as though we’d travelled through time into a fantasy land. The quaint cottages, with their distinctive thatched roofs, immediately captured our attention.

These thatched roofs are more than just picturesque; they are a testament to traditional English craftsmanship. Typically made from water reed or long straw, these roofs have been used for centuries and are known for their durability and insulation properties. In Shanklin, many of these thatched cottages date back to the 18th century, originally serving as fishermen’s homes or country dwellings. Today, they contribute to the village’s storybook ambiance, making it a highlight of any dog-friendly Isle of Wight adventure.

As we wandered through the narrow, winding streets, we were enchanted by the well-preserved buildings, each exuding character and history. The pet friendly pubs and shops, with signs written in old calligraphy, added to the village’s nostalgic charm. It was easy to imagine living here, surrounded by such beauty and tranquillity.

Dog-Friendly Shops in Old Shanklin: A Display That Stopped Us 🛍️

As we continued exploring, we stumbled upon a small local supermarket that completely stole our attention. It wasn’t just a shop—it was a visual treat. One of the front displays featured fruits and vegetables arranged by colour, forming a perfect geometric pattern that was almost too beautiful to touch.

In another window, produce was placed in vintage baskets, surrounded by flowers and dressed-up teddy bears. It felt more like an art installation than a grocery display. Cookie stood by my side, tilting her head in curiosity, and I couldn’t help but smile.

Even the most ordinary places in Old Shanklin carry a touch of magic.

Reflecting on a Dog-Friendly Day in Shanklin 🌙

After our slow wander through Old Shanklin, Cookie and I returned to our pet friendly caravan—completely exhausted, but with full hearts.

Following a relaxing shower and a simple meal, we stepped outside to take in the starry sky. The silence, the cool air, and Cookie curled beside me… it all felt like peace.

Under the stars, we whispered our thanks for the day.

Later, tucked into our cosy bed, we fell asleep—dreaming of the next dog-friendly Isle of Wight adventure waiting for us just hours away.

Day 4 – Dog-Friendly Isle of Wight Views: Cliffs, Castles, and Awe 🏞️

Our last day on this dog-friendly Isle of Wight journey had a clear plan: Carisbrooke Castle in the morning, followed by The Needles in the afternoon.

Well… that didn’t happen.

But this time, the detour wasn’t my fault!

In summer, some of the Isle’s open-top tour buses double as regular local services—for the same ticket price. Dogs ride free, and the upper deck offers stunning views. Naturally, I chose the open-top. The sun was shining, and Cookie was ready for adventure.

I asked the driver to let me know where to hop off for the castle. He agreed—no worries.

The ride was smooth, this time on flat roads with no steep hills or hairpin curves. The Isle looked even greener than before, and I was soaking up every view. Sadly, I didn’t spot one of the Isle’s famous red squirrels, but the peaceful countryside made up for it.

Then I noticed… we’d been riding for far too long.

I turned to the driver—he looked horrified. He had completely forgotten to tell me to get off.

Guess where his final stop was?

The Needles. Cookie and I had just scored a free island tour—again!

The Needles, Isle of Wight: From Breathtaking Views to a Heartfelt Pause 🗻

Once we arrived at The Needles, we had two options:
🚌 Stay on the tour bus until near the top, then walk about 10 minutes to the cliffs
🥾 Or, get dropped off mid-way and hike the rest of the trail—a 1.5-hour uphill journey

Climbing to the Top with Cookie: A Dog-Friendly Picnic at The Needles 🌊

Of course, I chose the second. It was longer, steeper, and more exhausting—but absolutely worth it. We passed hidden paths, wildflowers, and breathtaking sea views that shifted with every turn. The blue of the sea felt endless.

At the top, I unpacked our small picnic. Cookie rested beside me while I took deep breaths, surrounded by stillness. It was the kind of place made for reflection. Photos don’t do it justice.

Dog-Friendly Discovery: The Old and New Batteries at The Needles 🏰

We had also reached the Needles Old Battery & New Battery, a historic defence site with panoramic views—and a lovely surprise: it’s pet-friendly! Entry is around £9, and dogs go free. You can walk through cannons, explore hidden tunnels, and even visit the small military museum café—all with your furry companion by your side.

Everything was going perfectly… until it wasn’t.

Once we finished the Battery, we made our way down the trail toward the beach and boat rides that get you close to the iconic Needles rocks and lighthouse.

The Dog-Friendly Isle of Wight Let Down: A Sudden Disappointment at The Needles ⛔

It was an easy 2-hour descent. When we arrived, I asked at the ticket stand if Cookie could come aboard. I had double-checked the website just the night before—it said nothing against it.

But the answer was firm: “No.”

Because the footpath to the beach was closed, the only way down was via chairlift, and dogs weren’t allowed. I stood there frozen, completely stunned. I tried explaining I had checked online, but it didn’t matter.

We walked around for a few minutes. My heart was heavy. It took me nearly 30 minutes to collect myself and let go of the disappointment. Eventually, we turned away and made our way to Carisbrooke Castle—still trying to shake off the sting.

Must-Know Dog-Friendly Travel Tips for Visiting The Needles 💡

Before you head to The Needles with your pup, a few quick insights can make all the difference. While the views are breath taking and the trails inviting, not every part of the site is fully dog-accessible. Therefore, planning ahead is essential. From hidden picnic spots to pet-restricted zones, here’s what we wish we’d known—so you can enjoy every moment without surprises.

From cliffside surprises to historic forts, our time at The Needles brought raw emotion and scenic beauty together. So, if you’re curious to see more of Cookie’s journey and the views that took our breath away, just tap below and come along. 👇

Exploring Dog-Friendly Carisbrooke Castle: History, Views, and Royal Vibes 🏰

Our visit to the pet friendly Carisbrooke Castle started in the village centre, where the bus dropped us off. There’s no bus route that takes you directly to the castle, so you need to walk, cycle, or drive.

The village itself is charming, with lovely houses and quiet lanes. But the path to the castle isn’t clearly marked—so yes, I got lost again. Still, it didn’t take long to find the hidden forest trail that leads to the entrance.

Cookie loved it. We walked uphill through green woods, feeling like two princesses on our way home.

Tickets and First Impressions at Dog-Friendly Carisbrooke Castle 🎟️

Once at the top, I bought my entry ticket at the gate. Dogs go free, but if you’re planning ahead, you can save money by buying your ticket online.

Inside, there’s so much to explore. The visit begins with a short video about the castle’s history—narrated by a donkey, which makes it both fun and memorable.

Then we wandered through the old rooms: what used to be great halls, dining rooms, and living spaces now hold echoes of the past. Some are still beautifully preserved, with grand windows and doors; others are slowly giving way to time.

Gardens, Donkeys, and Dog-Friendly Royal Farewells 🌸

One of the highlights was walking the castle walls. From above, we could see the entire village below. And tucked into a corner, we spotted a garden—and decided to investigate.

It turned out to be the castle’s Edwardian-style garden, where Cookie and I played a spontaneous game of hide-and-seek. It was a perfect little moment, surrounded by flowers and sunshine.

After a refreshing stop at the on-site café, we finally met the real donkey—the one who lives on the grounds and represents the hard-working donkeys of the past. His presence reminded us of how much these animals contributed to daily life centuries ago.

The only thing we couldn’t visit was the museum—dogs aren’t allowed inside. But that didn’t matter. Cookie and I had already spent our afternoon pretending to be royalty, wandering through this fortress from the Anglo-Saxon era with joy.

We ended our royal walk with a snack in the garden café—Cookie’s treat after pretending to be queen for the day, just like we do on her birthday or Gotcha Day.

We explored winding paths, ancient rooms, and stories carved in stone—click below to follow Cookie’s pawprints through Carisbrooke Castle. 🐾🏰

A Dog-Friendly Pub Garden Surprise Near Carisbrooke Castle 🍺

Before heading to the bus back, we made one last stop—and what a way to finish the day.

We found The Eight Bells, a magnificent pet-friendly pub just a short walk from the castle. I ordered a pint and cheesy chips (just for me—Cookie had fresh water and well-earned cuddles).

The real surprise? The pub has a beautiful beer garden complete with a children’s playground. I’ve never seen anything like it.

A pint, some sunshine, my pup beside me, and a playground in the background? It was the perfect, unexpected ending.

If you’re exploring Carisbrooke Castle with your dog, this place is a must-visit. It’s relaxed, friendly, and the ideal reward after a royal adventure.

Final Dog-Friendly Hours on the Isle of Wight: Skipping Ryde 💤

We had planned to explore Ryde before catching the ferry back—but exhaustion had the final word.

After four unforgettable days, Cookie and I were simply done. Our legs were tired, our hearts were full, and my arms were heavy with souvenirs and memories.

We stayed near the pier, enjoyed the breeze, and watched the ferries come and go. Cookie rested by my side, and I sat quietly, letting everything sink in.

Not every adventure ends with a grand finale. Some end with a sigh, a smile, and the simple joy of being still.

And honestly? It felt perfect.

12 Top Dog-Friendly Things to Do on the Isle of Wight 🐾

Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a longer stay, these dog-friendly activities will help you make the most of every paw-some moment on the Isle of Wight.

🛖 Start with Old Shanklin Village – Wander through thatched-roof cottages, storybook shops, and peaceful winding streets.
🏖️ Then, head to a pet-friendly beach – Although not all beaches allow dogs, patience and tide timing reveal quiet gems where pups can relax.

🌿 After that, explore Shanklin Chine – This lush historic gorge surprises visitors with waterfalls, greenery, and a pet-friendly trail.
🏡 Visit the Model Village in Godshill – While you feel like a giant in mini-England, your dog roams freely beside model trains and weddings.
🧚‍♀️ Don’t skip The Old Smithy Garden – Even better, it’s free and full of fairies, gnomes, and enchanted corners to explore.
🐴 Next, meet rescued donkeys – The Donkey Sanctuary is peaceful, educational, and lets you experience real animal rescue stories.
🏛️ Step into history at Carisbrooke Castle – If you love old stones and royal vibes, this is your chance to walk the walls with your pup.
🗻 Climb toward The Needles – The trail is steep but scenic, with panoramic views and a pet-friendly clifftop fortress at the end.
🍽️ Pause at The Eight Bells pub – After so much walking, enjoy a pint in a pub garden (bonus: there’s a playground!).
🚌 Take a scenic open-top bus ride – Especially in summer, dogs ride for free and the island views are unforgettable from the top deck.
🌸 Roam gardens and secret trails – From Edwardian flower beds to forest paths, there’s always a place to breathe and sniff.
🥪 Finally, plan a picnic together – Whether on a cliff, in a garden, or by the sea, bring food, water, and a leash—it’s all you need.

How the Dog-Friendly Isle of Wight Changed Us 💫

This second trip to the Isle of Wight wasn’t just a holiday. It was a reminder that we can grow, heal, and find new wonder—even in places we’ve already been.

I didn’t come for peace this time. I came with strength, ready to explore—and the island gave me everything: cliffs, castles, unexpected turns, and laughter in between.

Cookie was by my side through every step, every wrong bus, every picnic, and every moment of stillness. We didn’t see it all. We didn’t do it all. But what we shared was enough.

Perfect memories start with one brave step—and a dog’s unwavering paw leading the way.

Even now, back home, I can still feel the warmth of the Shanklin sun, the breeze from the cliff tops, and Cookie’s peaceful joy as she rested by my side.

Most importantly, this wasn’t the end — instead, it marked another beginning. After all, more adventures are always waiting… just one pawstep at a time.

FAQs About Dog-Friendly Isle of Wight Trips ❓

Let’s Keep the Paw-ty Going!💌

So, did this adventure inspire you to plan your own dog-friendly Isle of Wight escape?

Alternatively, maybe you’ve already been and want to share your favourite pup-approved spots?

🐾 We’d love to hear from you!
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💚 We read every message, and we’re always excited to discover new dog-friendly experiences. If you know a hidden gem, we might even feature it in a future post!

Want to know who’s behind these paws-on-the-road stories? Discover our journey and what led us here.👣🐾

Ready for the next pawstop? Follow our trail to more dog-friendly places and unforgettable moments on the road. 👣🐾

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