On the 12th day of Christmas Red Funnel gave to us, discounts and treats galore
Isle of Wight ferry operator Red Funnel is spreading more seasonal cheer with the return of its popular 12 Days of Christmas advent calendar. From Saturday 13 to Wednesday 24 December, Island and mainland residents can enjoy a daily treat simply by signing up to Red Funnel’s newsletter. Each day will reveal a unique offer behind the online advent calendar doors, including discounted travel for day trips and getaways, onboard food and drink specials, unmissable Island competitions, freebies and more. Fran Collins, CEO of Red Funnel, said: “We’re excited to bring back our 12 Days of Christmas campaign. It’s a great
Five great dog-friendly beaches on the Isle of Wight
Walking your dog on the Isle of Wight is a joy, with miles of beaches, coastal paths, and countryside trails perfect for wagging tails and fresh-air adventures. Here are just a selection of dog-friendly beaches each with its own vibe, good for both you and your pup : Yaverland Beach A long sandy stretch near Sandown with lots of space for dogs to roam. Dogs are welcome all year round on the section between the sailing club and Culver Down. Good choice if you want a relaxed beach day with your dog and some scenic views. Bembridge Beach Located on the east side of
TIS’ THE SEASON! RED FUNNEL’S CHRISTMAS DAY SAILINGS ARE BACK!
Red Funnel will be spreading festive cheer and keeping families and loved-ones connected through a series of crossings on Christmas Day. Vehicle ferry crossings will run from Southampton and East Cowes ensuring those travelling on Christmas Day can celebrate with their nearest and dearest. As the only ferry company scheduled to cross the Solent on Christmas Day, these services are critical to islanders and mainlanders with friends and family on the other side of the Solent. The crossings will depart Southampton at 9am and 12pm and East Cowes at 10:30am and 1:30pm. Neil Chapman, Operations Director, said: “We are looking forward to giving a
Robin Hill launch “Mudder Run” on Saturday 3rd January 2026
Robin Hill Adventure Park is kicking off the new year with a splash and plenty of mud as it hosts the Robin Hill Mudder Run on Saturday, 3rd January 2026. Set in the park’s stunning woodland and hillside trails, the event promises a fun-filled day of fitness, laughter, and teamwork for runners of all ages and abilities. Participants can choose from three muddy challenges: 1K Mini Mudder age 4-14 (10:00) 5K or 10k Mudder Challenge age 14 and over (start times between 11.00 – 13.00) Tickets are £12.00 for the Mini Mudder and £18.00 for the 5k and 10k runs with £2.00 from
Red Funnel celebrates the Isle of Wight’s Best at annual awards
Last night, Northwood House in Cowes was alive with celebration as Red Funnel Isle of Wight Awards returned for its sixth year. The evening was all about championing the Island’s incredible local tourism businesses, attractions and hidden gems that make the Isle of Wight such a special place to visit and call home. A total of 154 businesses entered this year’s awards, with the local community and visitors casting an impressive 52,940 votes to support their favourites. From cosy B&Bs to quirky shops and unforgettable experiences, 50 winners were honoured across 58 awards, with Gold, Silver, or Bronze handed out in
Red Funnel launches Early Bird offers for 2026 Isle of Wight getaways
Isle of Wight ferry operator, Red Funnel, has announced the launch of two new offers for 2026 breaks to the Isle of Wight. From Monday 3 November, Red Funnel has opened bookings for its Camping and Touring Early Bird Offer, giving customers the opportunity to secure 2026 stays at 2025 prices – starting at just £129 for 3 nights with ferry and pitch. The Early Bird offer includes breaks at four of the Island’s most popular holiday parks: Appuldurcombe Gardens, The Orchards, Waverley Park and Whitefield Forest, providing great value for those looking to plan ahead and enjoy an affordable Isle of
Red Funnel offers free Isle of Wight travel to veterans and those serving in armed forces this Remembrance Day
In honour of Remembrance Sunday (8 November) and Remembrance Day (11 November), the original Isle of Wight ferry company, Red Funnel is offering past and present members of the UK Armed Forces free foot passenger ferry travel, across its fleet, to and from the Isle of Wight. (Left to right) Red Funnel Colleagues Mujahid Ahmed, mascot Ted Funnel, Ellysha Downer and Laurie Paget. This offer, is valid on Saturday 8, Sunday 9 and Tuesday 11 November and can be claimed in person at Red Funnel’s ticket offices by presenting either a MOD Form 90 ID card, (including expired cards for veterans), or
Luccombe Hotels Celebrate Double Finalist Success in the Beautiful South Awards 2025
Two of the Isle of Wight’s best-loved coastal hotels, Luccombe Hall Hotel and Luccombe Manor Country House Hotel, have been named finalists in the Beautiful South Awards for Excellence 2025, organised by Tourism South East. Luccombe Hall is shortlisted for Small Hotel of the Year, while its sister property, Luccombe Manor, has reached the finals for Dog Friendly Business of the Year. Both hotels now join an elite list of tourism businesses recognised for outstanding guest experience, innovation, and warm Island hospitality. The winners will be announced on Monday 9 December 2025 at The Grand Hotel, Brighton. “We’re absolutely thrilled to see
Isle of Wight ferry operator, Red Funnel, officially opened applications for its 2026 Charity of the Year Partner
The cross-Solent ferry operator is inviting Isle of Wight charities of all sizes and causes that serve the Island community to apply for the chance to be its next charity partner, with applications closing on Sunday 9 November. Their chosen Charity of the Year for 2026 will be able to benefit from a range of fundraising activity, volunteer support from Red Funnel staff, and PR & marketing to help drive awareness. The initiative forms part of Red Funnel’s ESG strategy, Changing Tides, showcasing its commitment to making a meaningful difference across the Isle of Wight community. Speaking on the opening of Red
Red Funnel vessels set to enter winter refit programme
Cross-Solent ferry operator Red Funnel has announced the return of its winter timetable for the vehicle ferry service, as vessels begin their annual refit programme - designed to improve reliability and resilience. Starting on Tuesday 4 November to Thursday 26 March, the winter timetable will see Red Funnel revert to the standard two-boat service. During this period, the Red Eagle will undergo a major engine service. Red Falcon and Red Osprey will receive minor servicing, with Red Falcon also scheduled for a Voith propeller exchange. In order to improve resilience and long-term reliability across both of its services, Red Funnel will be operating