East Cowes Community Library

Three hours a week might not sound like much, but East Cowes Community Library punches well above its weight for such limited opening times. This proper community space sits right in the heart of East Cowes, just minutes from the Red Funnel terminal where ferries dock from Southampton.

Books are the main draw, obviously, but it's the local knowledge that makes this place useful for families staying nearby. Staff know every footpath, beach access point and where to grab decent fish and chips. Perfect for a rainy Tuesday evening when the kids need entertaining and you fancy browsing the local history section.

The opening hours are frankly odd - Monday mornings, Tuesday teatime and Thursday mornings only. But that Thursday slot works well if you're planning weekend activities from one of the nearby holiday parks like Waverley Park Holiday Centre or Woodside Bay Lodge Retreat. Pop in for maps, tide times and recommendations.

Families will find a decent children's section, though don't expect anything fancy. It's a community library doing exactly what it says on the tin. The building itself won't win any architectural prizes, but the welcome is warm and the local information invaluable when you're trying to make the most of your Isle of Wight break.