Things to do on the Isle of Wight in July
As July unfolds its warmth and radiance, the Isle of Wight beckons with open arms, promising a British summer escape like no other. Embark on a journey to this idyllic island paradise and uncover the many reasons why July is the perfect time to visit. From sun-kissed beaches and family attractions to charming villages and vibrant events, the Isle of Wight offers a wealth of experiences to delight adventurers, families, and nature enthusiasts alike.
Go back to the 1940s
Enjoy a memorable and nostalgic day out for all the family at the Isle of Wight Steam Railway, with their 1940s Experience from 4-5 July 2026. Spend your day wandering 1940s street scenes, sing along and dance to the music of the era and get up close with an authentic Spitfire. Need an outfit? There will be plenty of pop-up shops selling clothes of the era.
Make time for a steam train ride, too. Sit back in one of the Edwardian or Victorian carriages for a relaxing hour’s ride through the Isle of Wight countryside.
Catch Carnival Fever
July marks the start of the Isle of Wight carnival season, so you’re in the right place for a summer street party! It all starts with the Isle of Wight Mardi Gras in Ryde on Saturday 4 July 2026, where The New Carnival Company will be celebrating ‘Folktastic Isle: Stories, Myths and Legends’.
Next you’ll be able to enjoy a Isle of Wight Pride parade on Saturday 18 July in Ryde followed by an afternoon and evening of seafront entertainment. On 25 July there’s Sandown Carnival to look forward to.
Enjoy drinks on the lawn
The iconic Northwood House, set in beautiful Northwood Park in the heart of Cowes, has a rich history of hosting lavish parties and events. In the summer months, you can channel your inner lord or lady with a refreshing drink at the manor house’s Lawn Bar.
Open every weekend between May and September, you can expect a chilled vibe and a range of wines, gins, pitcher cocktails and craft beers. Imbibe alfresco or head into the stylish marquee if the weather doesn’t live up to your expectations. Freshly wood-fired pizzas will also be available from So Much Dough.
Live the beach sports life
July is a great time to get into beach sports – not just because it’s better weather, but because Appley Beach on the Isle of Wight is host to the Wight Wave Beach Fest.
From 24 July- 2 August 2026, hundreds of beach sports competitors will hit the sand during this family friendly festival. You’ll be able to watch beach volleyball, beach soccer, beach running, foot-volley, beach netball, beach tennis, beach rugby, paddle board racing and more to a backdrop of laid-back music on one of the UK’s most beautiful beaches.
Visit Ventnor Fringe
Discover the best new music, circus, comedy, cabaret and theatre at the Isle of Wight’s largest arts festival, Ventnor Fringe. Taking place over 10 days (19-26 July 2026) the festival transforms the Island’s southernmost town with a whole world of pop-up venues and bars in every conceivable space, hosting over 150 different shows offering something for everyone.
Experience the thrill of Speedway
The Isle of Wight is a great place to introduce yourself to the high-octane motorsport of Speedway. Never heard of it? British Speedway explain: “Speedway bike have no brakes, just one gear, a clutch and 500cc engines which run on methanol fuel”. The bikes can accelerate to 60mph – faster than a Formula 1 car!
Head to the Wightlink Warriors Shale Track Racing Club in Smallbrook and watch one of the races in July. You can even benefit from a 20% discount on your ferry travel, which is open to all speedway fans travelling to the Island during the season.
Have fun with the family
Of course, it’s the start of the school holidays too, which means there are lots of fun things happening for families later in the month. School holiday activities take place at attractions all over the Isle of Wight and in the evenings they come alive!
For starters, how about Blackgang Chine’s Summer Fest (Wednesdays during the school holidays)? As well as the amazing rides at theme park, families can enjoy an evening of fireworks, foam parties and a live DJ. Tapnell Farm is host to AJ’s Summer party (Tuesdays and Thursdays during the school holidays) where families can enjoy music, games, puppets shows, dance competitions, plus the big rave and balloon drop from 28 July onwards.
Visiting at a different time of year? Find out what else you can do during your time on the Isle of Wight on our Things to Do web pages.
