Ryde Library

Books and WiFi aren't exactly what spring to mind when planning an Isle of Wight holiday, but Ryde Library proves surprisingly handy for families staying nearby. This proper Victorian building houses the town's main library, complete with children's section, computer access and free internet - a godsend when the kids want to check social media or you need to print boarding passes.

Families with bookish children will find the children's area well-stocked, though don't expect to spend more than an hour here unless the weather's truly grim. The real value comes from its practical services: photocopying, printing, and those essential holiday admin tasks that always crop up. Staff are helpful with local information too, often knowing about events or attractions you might have missed.

It's free to use (though some services like printing cost pennies), and the opening hours are decent - closed Thursdays and Sundays, but open until 7pm on Wednesdays. Located right in Ryde town centre, it's an easy walk from the seafront and shops.

For families staying at nearby parks like Parkdean's Nodes Point or St Helens Coastal Resort, it makes a useful rainy day stop. Not exactly thrilling, but sometimes you need somewhere quiet and dry with proper facilities. The Victorian architecture is rather lovely from the outside, mind you.