I visited the Isle of Wight for the first time in March and would recommend it for a short break. Taking the ferry across adds a little excitement and gives great views of the Solent. We stayed at Ventnor, a small town on the south coast. Like most of the island it is from an earlier era, faded Victorian gentility comes to mind.The town is built into the hillside tumbling down to the sea giving great sea views. There is a coastal walk all around the island, some at sea level along by the many beaches, some along the splendid cliff tops. The walk by The Needles is particularly beautiful and if you visit out of season as we did you will have it almost to yourself. We thought that the shopping area at the car park was a bit of an eyesore but don’t be put off. Follow the the National Trust signs and you will be rewarded with wonderful views.There were lots of good eating opportunities in Ventnor and a great pub at the western end of the beach called the SpyGlass Inn with a band that played Irish music on St Patrick’s Day. What could be better if like me you are Irish and born on St Patrick’s Day!