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.

Enjoy a memorable and nostalgic day out for all the family at the Isle of Wight Steam Railway, with their 1940s Experience from 6-7 July 2024. 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.

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 6 July, where The New Carnival Company will be telling ‘The Story of Carnival’. Next you’ll be able to enjoy a Isle of Wight Pride parade on Saturday 20 July 2024 in Ryde followed by an afternoon and evening of seafront entertainment (with headliners Kimberly Wyatt and Ginger Johnson).

Also on 20 June 2024 you can visit Newport Carnival and on 27 July there’s Sandown Carnival to look forward to.

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 July and September, you can expect a chilled Balearic-style 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.

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 26-28 July 2024, 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.

July is a great month for watching sports on the water. Plan ahead to make sure you get yourself a good vantage point to watch the action from!

From 6-12 July 2024 you’ll be able to see traditional yachts racing in Cowes Classics Week, and enjoy fabulous social events on shore.

Then one of the oldest and most respected regattas in the world takes place on the Island. Cowes Week – kicks off on 27 July 2024. The Green and The Parade are great places to view the action. If you’d rather get on the water yourself, there are some great spectator boat options, offering trips to watch the racing action up close.

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 four 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.

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!

How about Blackgang Chine’s Summer Fest (Wednesdays from 24 July 2024)? As well as the amazing rides at theme park, families can enjoy an evening of fireworks, foam parties and a house DJ. At Tapnell Farm’s Moo Mania kids can enjoy an epic rave on Tuesday nights from 30 July.  Or book into one of the family family-friendly shows at Ventnor Fringe Festival from 19-28 July 2024.

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.