Things to do on the Isle of Wight in October

As the crisp winds of autumn start to paint the leaves shades of amber and gold, there’s no better time to set sail to the enchanting Isle of Wight with Wightlink. In October, this picturesque island transforms into a realm of breathtaking beauty and unique experiences that are sure to warm your heart.

Here’s our round up of the hidden gems and vibrant events that make October on the Isle of Wight a must-visit. Whether you’re a walking enthusiast, love spooky stuff or are simply seeking a tranquil escape, the Isle of Wight has something in store for you.

And don’t forget, kids travel for free to the Island during the school holidays with Wightlink.

This pick-your-own pumpkin patch at Westover Farm in Calbourne is set over 10 beautiful acres. There are over 20 varieties of pumpkins, squashes and gourds in various shapes, sizes and colours.

Grab a wheelbarrow and a pumpkin spiced latte then explore the patch to find your perfect pumpkin(s)! With the beautiful West Wight countryside as its scenic backdrop, the pumpkin patch is a picturesque autumn outing for the whole family.

The site is open on selected dates in October. Entry is free and no booking required

This month you’ll see a darker side of Wight, typically known for its sandy beaches, beautiful landscapes and fresh sea air. The Isle of Wight has a long, spooky history and is world-renowned for its paranormal activity, earning the title of the UK’s most haunted island. Head over to the Ghost Island website to learn more.

Isle of Wight Ghost Experience offer the chance to explore some of the Island’s most infamous haunted sites, from Ventnor Botanic Garden and Arreton Barns to picturesque Shanklin Old Village, awaits those brave enough to join Marc Tuckey and his team. These atmospheric, lantern-lit tours blend history, mystery and mischief, bringing the Island’s darkest tales to life.

The Island is also teeming with special events during half term. To really get into the ‘spirit’, check out the Hallowe’en events at various attractions. There’s a range of spooky fun for everyone:

Witches, Wands & Whistles at the Isle of Wight Steam Railway
17–31 October 2026

All aboard for a Halloween adventure with a difference. This half term the Isle of Wight Steam Railway transforms Havenstreet into a world of spooky surprises for Witches, Wands & Whistles. Families can pick pumpkins, make potions, try circus skills, meet Halloween characters and get creative with spooky crafts before boarding the specially decorated Halloween Express. As the steam train winds through the Island countryside, keep your eyes peeled for creepy sights hiding along the route. Entry to the Halloween entertainment is free, with additional charges for train journeys, crafts and pumpkins.

Spooktacular at Robin Hill
28 to 30 October

The woods get wonderfully weird this Halloween as Robin Hill transforms after dark for Spooktacular. Follow the Trick or Treat Scare Walk through darkened woodland, where sweet treats and unexpected characters are hiding among the trees, before joining the Halloween Party Tent for DJs, dancing, games, circus skills and fancy-dress fun. Things get even more colourful with powder fights, while pumpkin painting and Halloween activities add to the family fun. Then, at 8.30pm, look to the skies as a spectacular Halloween drone show brings the evening to a suitably magical finale.

Blackgang Chine – Fiesta of the Dead
23, 24, 27, 28 & 29 October 2026

For one last time, Blackgang Chine is opening the gates to the Land of the Dead as Fiesta of the Dead returns. Inspired by Mexico’s Día de los Muertos, the park transforms after dark into a colourful world of fire, light, music and larger-than-life characters. Follow the rainbow bridge into Cowboy Town, meet roaming performers, watch spectacular fire shows and aerial acrobatics, and soak up the party atmosphere with live DJs, face painting, marshmallow toasting and Mexican-inspired food. It’s a Halloween celebration that swaps traditional scares for colour, creativity and togetherness. 2026 is the final Fiesta of the Dead, so this really is your last chance to experience it.

This destination farm shop, food hall, butchery and lakeside café bar has gathered a solid following from discerning locals.

Set in stunning surroundings in the heart of the Arreton Valley, overlooking lakes dug by the Brown family’s great grandfather, it’s a beautiful place to visit for a few hours and to enjoy the freshest local produce in the café or explore the grounds. Pick up a few foodie souvenirs (and a seasonal pumpkin!) to take home with you, or to enjoy during your visit if you’re staying in self-catering accommodation.

Lace up your walking boots ready for the Isle of Wight Autumn Walking Festival, taking place from 3 – 11 October 2026. The Island is great for walking all year round, but in Spring and Autumn you can enjoy a festival of walks guided by experienced, passionate walkers with a great deal of knowledge about the Island and its stunning landscape and scenery.

This year’s Autumn event features a range of walks to join, from short haunted history routes to meandering coastal journeys – there are over 70 to choose from, perfect for all abilities and tastes. Most walks are free or with a donation to charity.

Autumn is the perfect time to explore the Isle of Wight’s wonderful woodlands. Trees turn from green to gold and when the sun shines through the canopy it bathes the woodland in an invitingly warm light.

Parkhurst Forest and Brighstone Forest are two particularly good spots to see the autumn leaves, and with trails winding through the whole forest you can easily while away a couple of hours. You might even want to try a spot of forest bathing while you’re there. To relax, practice being calm and quiet amongst the trees; listen to the sounds of the forest, observe nature around you and notice the small things – colours, shapes and shadows – while breathing deeply.

For an unforgettable day out, book yourselves onto the Isle of Wight Steam Railway which is based at Havenstreet, just three miles from Ryde. The locomotives and carriages have been restored to an immaculate condition and it’s a thoroughly immersive experience.

Climb aboard and create a new Golden Age of Steam as you puff through the countryside. Operating on various dates throughout October, you can watch out for deer and red squirrels as you pass through the autumnal woodland. It’s easy to do without a car; just cross on Wightlink’s FastCat from Portsmouth Harbour and jump on the electric train to Smallbrook Junction. Here you can board one of the steam trains (check ahead for winter timetables).