Island farms are continually considering ways to diversify and many new ventures are tourism related. In addition to offering accommodation to visitors and opening their farms to the public, some now produce delicious ice cream, cakes and puddings. Other cottage industries market foods such as honey, sauces, preserves and biscuits and the Isle of Wight Fine Food Group was formed to promote their quality products.

The Isle of Wight climate has proved favourable to viticulture and wines to award-winning standards have been produced by a number of vineyards, some of which are open to the public. You can also try Island-made beer and cider.

The manufacture of traditional crafts can be seen at several craft centres and studios. Art galleries throughout the Island display the work of gifted local artists. Fine porcelain is made at Chessell and you can see potters at work at Bonchurch, Newchurch, Shanklin, Yarmouth and at Haseley Manor. At Alum Bay and St Lawrence, a range of beautiful glassware is hand blown in the traditional way. The famous multi-coloured sands of Alum Bay have provided popular souvenirs for over 150 years.

Exhibitions of art and craft are held regularly at the Quay Arts Centre, Newport. Country fairs are popular venues for the demonstration and sale of arts, crafts and food products which are also sold in shops, tourist attractions and Information Centres - look for the Origin Approved logo.

As you travel around the Island, you will understand why it is called "The Garden Isle". From spring into autumn, the Island's gardens have an enviable assortment of colourful plantings and many gardens welcome visitors. The National Gardens Scheme and the local branch of the British Red Cross publish annual lists of Garden Open Days. Keen gardeners can also visit the horticultural shows held mainly in the summer in every town and village. A highlight of the year is the annual lsle of Wight Agricultural Show, where livestock and marquees of horticultural exhibits vie for attention at Northwood Showground in July.