3 days in the Isle of Wight with the kids

This is a gentle three days built around big lawns, old houses and animals — the sort of shape that suits short legs. Day one pairs Rotherfield Park with Preshaw House, just 9.3 miles apart, so there's no rushing between them. Day two starts at Cranbury House, 8 miles on, then drops the kids at Marwell Zoo only 3.9 miles later, which states disabled access for buggies and wheels alike. Day three is the biggest hop, 24 miles to Avon Tyrrell House, before lunch at The Sandpiper (food hygiene rating 5/5) 4.6 miles along, and Liberty's Owl, Raptor and Reptile Centre 7.2 miles after that.

For a base, Channel View Hotel sits 0.4 miles from both Shanklin station and Shanklin beach, where the Environment Agency rates bathing water Excellent. Willow Barn sleeps 7 near Ryde, and Thorness Bay Holiday Park adds a pool and hot tub. Coming by train? Shanklin is the nearest station.