School’s out! Your guide to summer on the Isle of Wight
Summer on the Isle of Wight has a laid-back, fun vibe that makes it the perfect place to unwind. The beaches are busy with families building sandcastles, people swimming in the sea, and others just soaking up the sun. There’s always something going on—whether it’s a carnival, a food market, or just a cozy pub garden buzzing with chatter. You can take scenic walks along the cliffs, hop on a bike and explore the countryside, or chill with an ice cream while watching the waves. It’s the kind of place where time slows down and everything feels a bit brighter. With
Blackgang Chine Announces Brand New Family Train Ride for 2026
Former Robin Hill favourite, the Cows Express, is set for a magical Blackgang revival Blackgang Chine, the UK’s oldest theme park, has announced. The exciting new attraction set to launch in 2026 reimagined with all the quirky charm and imagination the Isle of Wight attraction is famous for. The ride will be familiar to fans of the Island’s sister park, Robin Hill, where it previously operated as the Cows Express. Now, the much-loved train has undergone a full refurbishment, has a new colourway and will have a whole new theme. Whilst details of that remain unknown, Blackgang Chine have exclusively confirmed to
Island pubs unite to bring out the ‘Spirit of Carnival’
Four of the Island’s leading pubs have collaborated to support four of the Island’s traditional carnivals. The ‘Spirit of Carnival’ awards aim to recognise and encourage participation in these much-loved community events. Isle of Wight carnival is steeped in heritage and vibrant tradition with some of the UK’s favourite and longest-running carnivals. The Spirit of Carnival Award was founded in 2017 by Neil, Andrew and Jane Gibbs with the aim of rewarding those people who make the best effort to get involved. Especially if it’s for the first time. Awards, kindly sponsored by The Bargeman’s Rest, The Spyglass Inn, The Steamer Inn,
Red Funnel teams up with WRS to elevate onboard ReFuel café experience
Red Funnel, the Isle of Wight ferry operator, has announced a new partnership with Newport-based technology provider WRS, marking a significant step in enhancing the onboard customer experience across its vehicle ferry fleet. As part of the partnership, Red Funnel has rolled out advanced electronic point-of-sale (EPOS) systems in all ReFuel cafés onboard its ferries. This upgrade is designed to improve transaction speed, streamline service, and create a more seamless experience for customers. ReFuel cafés are a beloved feature of Red Funnel's onboard offerings, providing passengers with high-quality food and beverages during their crossing. The cafés offer a variety of options, including
Isle of Wight Festival 2025 review
The Isle of Wight Festival delivered a high-production, nostalgia-driven experience with something for everyone - veteran acts, pop hits, family zones, and interactive setups. Thematically playful with its “Neon Jungle” aesthetic, and backed by Sky’s massive presence, it felt polished and engaging. Sting kicked off Friday with full Police-era thowbacks, supported by Faithless, which had everyone in the mood for what was going to be a festival to remember. Stereophonics delivered a rock-heavy Saturday set, energising the crowd with their hits spanning over 30 years. Pop royalty such as Jess Glynne, The Corrs, Busted, Texas, Olly Murs and Amy MacDonald brought crowd-pleasing
Timetables and technology upgrades hot topics at Red Funnel’s latest Customer Forum
Recently customers of Red Funnel met with the leadership team, as part of the cross-Solent ferry firm’s Customer Forum initiative, to discuss topics at the front of customers minds. The evening’s discussions saw senior members of the Red Funnel team speak openly with customers to tackle some of their most pressing matters, including hospitality and vessel technology upgrades, as well as timetables, reliability and punctuality. Red Funnel’s Customer Forums provide the Island community with a regular opportunity to have face-to-face with the leadership team, who respond to questions and gather feedback to help directly inform future plans, projects and priorities. Red Funnel’s CEO,
Isle of Wight Carnival Dates 2025
The Island is always brimming with excitement when a carnival is taking place and this year will see the return of many favourites. Carnival season is not only popular for Islanders, but for visitors too! Below is a list of Isle of Wight carnivals due to take place in 2025. This list as a guide only, so do please check with the carnival you are wishing to attend prior to the procession taking place. Why not check Facebook, to see if a carnival has a dedicated page, which will announce up to date information. Information last updated on June 16th 2025 with
Blackgang Chine Launches Exceptional Value Summer Season Pass for Island Families
Blackgang Chine is excited to announce the launch of its Summer Season Pass – offering unbeatable value for local residents looking to make the most of the school holidays. For just £40 per person (for visitors over 1 metre in height – under 1 metre go free), families can enjoy unlimited visits from 21st July to 31st August 2025, including access to the park’s hugely popular Summer Fest events. There will be 5 of these vibrant summer evenings feature late-night opening, a high-energy foam party, live DJ sets, and fireworks displays – all included at no extra cost for pass holders. There
Just for You Holiday Homes Wins Prestigious Shortzy Award for Sustainability
Leading the Way in Eco-Conscious Travel on the Isle of Wight Just for You Holiday Homes, a standout independent holiday agency based on the Isle of Wight, has proudly been awarded a Shortzy Award for Sustainability — a well-deserved recognition of founder Justine’s pioneering efforts in creating eco-friendly, guest-focused holiday experiences. Founded in 2017 by Justine, who returned to her beloved Isle of Wight after a successful career in London’s investment banking sector, Just for You Holiday Homes was born out of a passion for the island and a deep-rooted desire to protect its future. With a portfolio of over 30 high-quality
DADS GO FREE WITH RED FUNNEL THIS FATHER’S DAY
This Father’s Day, Red Funnel is giving Dads the VIP treatment with free foot passenger travel to and from the Isle of Wight! On Sunday 15th June, Red Funnel is offering all Dads free foot passenger travel between West Cowes and Southampton on its Hi-Speed Red Jet service when travelling with a paying “child.” – So, whether you're 5 or 55 (or more, or less) and travelling with your dad, stepdad, or a father figure who’s played a special role in your life – this is your chance to treat him to a day out with our ‘Dads Go Free’ offer. To