ISLAND LIFE

When we think about escaping to an island for a relaxing holiday, it’s easy to let your mind drift to images of sun-blessed Caribbean spots, or perhaps one of Thailand’s tranquil, paradisical isles. But the answer can be found a lot closer – just a short ferry ride away, in some cases.

Within the British Isles (the clue really is in the name here) sit a range of islands that provide fantastic destinations. We’ll be taking a closer look at some over the next couple of issues, starting far south in the English Channel at the Isle of Wight, then moving up to the Isle of Man in the Irish Sea, before continuing north to Scotland, where we’ve selected three favourite spots.

ISLE OF WIGHT

If you’re the Queen of England you can holiday wherever you like, so the fact that Queen Victoria chose the Isle of Wight for her much-visited holiday home surely says something about this island off England’s south coast. Start with a visit to that very holiday home – Osborne. Victoria and Prince Albert spent a lot of time at this splendid, Italianate-styled construction, which you can now tour, along with the verdant grounds. If you prefer your history a little more ancient, visit Anglo-Saxon Carisbrooke Castle, which held Charles I prisoner during the Civil War. It was later adapted by Princess Beatrice (Queen Victoria’s daughter) into – what else – a holiday home.

The Isle of Wight is one of the UK’s sunniest areas so do take in a beach or two from the island’s 57 miles of coastline. Sandown and Shanklin both offer sandy expanses and picturesque views, while Colwell Bay in the west is a small, peaceful spot, supplying views of Hurst Castle on the mainland.

Chug leisurely through the ten-mile route taken by the Isle of Wight Steam Railway, enjoying the restored Victorian carriages. And do delve into the island’s homegrown produce. Tomatoes and garlic both thrive here thanks to a warmer climate, which you can learn more about at the much-loved Garlic Farm.

Ferries to the island leave from four locations – Portsmouth, Southampton, Lymington and Southsea.

ISLE OF MAN

Located in the Irish Sea and measuring 32 miles long and 14 miles wide, the Isle of Man is not part of the UK but is a self- governing British Crown Dependency. It’s also a nature-rich destination, confirmed when it was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2016 – the only whole nation to be given the title. Get a closer look at that natural goodness on foraging walks or a stargazing tour, or by helping to preserve the landscape on a beach clean session with the Beach Buddies charity. Alternatively, walk part of the 95-mile- long Raad ny Foillan coastal path.

Anyone that loves a scenic train journey will enjoy the heritage railway network,which includes the Isle of Man Steam Railway (opened in 1873 and still using some original carriages), the Snaefell Mountain Railway (Britain’s only electric mountain railway, with views from 2,036 feet) and the Victorian-built Manx Electric Railway.

The island has impressive culinary and drinks scenes. Foraging Vintners makes non-grape-based wines, such as rhubarb fizz, using foraged produce, while Noa Bakehouse, utilises island-milled flour and local potatoes for its breads. Alternatively, tour Okell’s Brewery where beer has been brewed since 1850.

Take a ferry to the island from Heysham, Belfast, Liverpool, Birkenhead and Dublin.

ISLAY

Perhaps the perfect place to toast the Highlands’ world-renowned whisky credentials, Islay boasts nine distilleries where you can find out about and sample its famously peaty, smoky single malts. And while whisky is a big part of Islay’s identity, it’s by no means the only activity. As with so many Scottish islands, you’ll find gorgeous beaches, with the smooth sands and jagged rock formations of Saligo Bay creating a particularly photographic scene – the sunsets here are mesmerising. Boat trips provide a fun way to view Islay’s highlights, including the dramatic Mull of Oa coastline, where you might spot golden eagles.

EIGG

With a population of fewer than 100 and three wildlife reserves, it’s no surprise that Eigg is a peaceful wildlife paradise. Look out for seals, dolphins, whales, otters and abundant birdlife, which you can discover more about on the weekly wildlife walks. Elsewhere, climb to Eigg’s highest point, An Sgùrr, stroll the beautiful beaches and enjoy a meal with unrivalled views at Galmisdale Bay Cafe & Bar or the Lageorna restaurant. Or grab a beer from Eigg Brewery, made with local spring water. For a memorable accommodation choice, bed down in a shepherd’s hut or a bothy.