Ninham Country Holidays

Poised in the southeast of the aptly nicknamed ‘garden isle’, Ninham Country Holidays is a campsite with a secluded rural feel, yet one that remains a short distance from one of the nicest resorts on the seafront. With its functional new town and quaint, thatched old town, Shanklin has been a popular part of the Isle of Wight since tourism began here. Where its cluster of houses merge into the woodland beyond, anyone with a good eye will spot the potential for fantastic campsites to be found. And, no sooner have you hopped, skipped and jumped into the green, inland countryside, then Ninham appears in the grassy midst, a family-run camping park ideal for exploring the island.

Although admittedly a large site, Ninham Country Holidays thankfully has none of the commercial atmosphere you might expect. This is a family-owned and family-focused site based around the original farm buildings. The site's 230 pitches are also divided across two separate fields, split by a wooded valley and surrounded by mature deciduous that provide shelter and shade on warmer days. This secluded, countryside feel is only accentuated by the long, private drive that takes campers down to the site, cutting them off from any road noise whilst also acting as a speedy cycle path back to the outside world.

Campers have a choice between two fields: ‘Orchard’, the larger of the two with ultra-modern eco-facilities that do clever things with solar and rainwater-harvesting technologies (and which happen to include an extremely handy family room with specialist showers and a baby bath), and ‘Willow Brook’, with its own separate facilities that – although more basic – are functional and well-kept. In both camping areas, pitches are kept mostly to the edges of the field, providing ample room in the centre and ensuring campers aren’t crammed together in the 18 acres of space. Those still wanting more from their pitch can even ask for the ‘XL’ option so motor homes, awnings and cars can all easily be accommodated in one spot.

If the weather turns, wander back to the main reception block and you’ll find a welcoming indoor games room with a pool table, air hockey and more, along with free Wi-Fi and space to relax with a coffee or ice cream, served onsite. Outside, Ninham also boasts a sports area and a heated swimming pool – ideal if the weather is a little too nippy to enjoy the sea at nearby Shanklin Beach.

The best way to explore the island is on two wheels. Surrounded by mature woodland and rolling countryside, there is a fabulous network of footpaths and cycle routes that lead directly from the campsite across Ninham Farm's sprawling 120 acres. Those who head south can link up with the famous Shanklin Chine, a twisting pathway with steps leading down into a mossy gorge, enlivened by the sound of a cascading waterfall. Meanwhile, by car, the rest of the island is open to experience, its plethora of attractions and summer festivals providing all with an entertaining itinerary, whatever your taste.