Isle of Wight Story Festival

19 – 21 February 2026
Quay Arts, Newport

This February half term, the Isle of Wight Story Festival, taking place at Quay Arts in Newport, will feature appearances from big names in the world of children’s books.

CBeebies star and writer Joseph Elliott, author of the Young Bond novels, Steve Cole, and British Book Awards 2025 Illustrator of the Year, Rob Biddulph, are among the headliners for the 2026 Isle of Wight Story Festival, which will return to Newport next February half term. They are joined by celebrated authors Emma Carroll, Lucy Strange, Cathy Reay and the Island’s own talented Kieran Larwood and Neal Layton.

The three days will have some fantastic story telling from these famous names, along with performances from mainland and local theatre groups, talks and hands-on activities from local creative artists and much more. View the full event line up.

The IW Story Festival is a special place for children and families to have fun together; where you can all create, inspire and imagine.

You can book tickets for individual sessions here. So what are you waiting for? Let your imagination run wild in the presence of some of the best children’s authors and illustrators around.

Plus, get 20% off your ferry travel

Save 20% on foot, car and motorcycle ferry fares to the Island for IW Story Festival, between 18 February 2026 and 22 February 2026.

Simply book using the button below to receive your discount.