Adgestone Vineyard

Rows of vines stretch across the gentle slopes just outside Sandown, making this one of the Isle of Wight's most established wine producers. The guided tours take you through the vineyard and production areas, explaining how they craft their whites, rosés and reds in what's surprisingly favourable island microclimate. You'll get to taste several wines at the end - the Solaris white is particularly good.

Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the technical detail, though the tours work well for anyone curious about English winemaking. Families are welcome but this is really one for the grown-ups. The shop stocks their full range plus local produce, and there's a small café serving light lunches.

Open Wednesday to Sunday only, so plan accordingly. Tours run at set times and it's worth booking ahead, especially in summer. Allow a couple of hours if you want to browse properly after the tasting.

Location-wise, you're perfectly placed if staying at any of the holiday parks around Sandown - Fairway Holiday Park and Whitefield Forest Touring Park are both within two miles. It makes a civilised afternoon out when the beach loses its appeal, though designated drivers will need to stick to the grape juice.