All Aboard for a Family Day Trip to Tapnell Farm

15th April 2025

Are you ready to embark on a family adventure to remember this summer?

Round up the family and set off on a car free, unforgettable journey from the New Forest to the Isle of Wight, where Tapnell Farm promises fun for everyone – from tiny tots to adventurous teens, and grown-ups too!

With Wightlink and Summer Links you can enjoy an exciting family day trip to Tapnell where a plethora of activities await.

From all weather play and amazing animals in the Farm Park to the Aqua Park (age 7+), Football Golf and Archery & Axe Throwing (age 11+), there's something for all the family to enjoy!

With transport sorted, activities galore, and delicious food options, this day trip is an easy win for families looking to escape the ordinary and dive into a day of Island adventure.

Please note: ferry and bus times, and offers in this article are specific to school holidays.

Journey to Fun Starts here

The day begins in Lymington, where you’ll hop aboard the Wightlink ferry as foot passengers for a 10am sailing across the Solent. Sit back, enjoy the scenic 40-minute voyage, and soak in the fresh sea air and coastal views as you head toward Yarmouth on the Isle of Wight.

And here’s some great news for families – with Wightlink’s Kids Go Free deal, available during the school holidays, it’s never been easier (or more affordable) to plan a day out. Up to two children aged 5–15 travel free with every adult, and under 5s always travel for free!

Onwards with Summer Links

Once you arrive in Yarmouth, it’s just a short hop to Tapnell Farm thanks to the Summer Links bus service. Departing at 11:15am, this convenient ride costs just £3 per person (single fayre) – and up to two children under 5 ride free with each adult.

In no time at all, you’ll be pulling up at Tapnell Farm at 11:30am, ready for five action-packed hours of family fun.

Explore and Play at Tapnell Farm

Tapnell Farm is bursting with activities to keep everyone entertained.

Start with the all weather Farm Park with its adorable animals, indoor, outdoor play, and additional summer activities.

Older kids and thrill-seeking adults can take on the exhilarating Aqua Park (ages 7+), test their aim with Archery & Axe Throwing (ages 11+), or get competitive with a round of Football Golf.

Check summer opening times for the attractions and restaurant.

Please note: All activities must be booked in advance and have separate admission rates.

Time to Refuel

Feeling hungry? You’re spoilt for choice! Inside the Farm Park, the Coffee House serves up barista brews, tasty snacks, pastries, cakes, and more – perfect for a mid-morning pick-me-up.

For something heartier, head to The Cow restaurant for the Island’s best burgers, juicy steaks, and spectacular views. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are all available.

Advance booking essential for indoor seating at The Cow. Outside seating on a first come basis.

Plan your Adventure

Ready to embark on an epic family adventure this summer holiday?

Explore our website to plan your day trip,

Example Itinerary:

10am - Depart Lymington via Wightlink ferry
10.40am - Arrive in Yarmouth (a pretty little town with cafes and independent shops)
11.15am - Depart Yarmouth via Southern Vectis Summer Links Bus
11.30am - Arrive at Tapnell Farm & enjoy your day out, whether that’s exploring Tapnell Farm Park, making a splash at theAqua Park, releasing your inner warrior with Archery and Axe Throwing, kicking it on the Football Golf course or sinking your teeth into the Island’s best burgers at The Cow restaurant.
4.23pm – Depart Tapnell Farm via Southern Vectis Summer Links Bus
4.35pm – Arrive in Yarmouth
5.05pm – Depart Yarmouth via Wightlink ferry
5.45pm – Arrive in Lymington

Please note:

Each activity has it's own opening times
All activities and The Cow restaurant must be booked in advance.
Only guide dogs are allowed in the Farm Park.
Wightlink's Kids Go Free is only available during the school holidays
Summer Links bus times refers to school holidays only,.

Why not book a short break?

Choose from luxury glamping and farm cottages to Tapnell Manor

CHECK OUT ALL TAPNELL FARM HAS TO OFFER