September on the Isle of Wight

September is a delightful blend of mellow summer warmth, local harvests, fun events, and dramatic natural beauty. With the busier season winding down, it’s a perfect month to soak in the Island’s charm - from serene coastlines to quirky events and trailing adventures.

Food & Drink

• Cider & Cheese Festival
  Held at the Isle of Wight Steam Railway on 6–7 September 2025, this free-to-enter festival offers more than 30 ciders and a generous selection of cheeses, all complemented by live music and a nostalgic steam train ride.
• Sweetcorn Season
  In September, local sweetcorn is at its peak—juicy, sweet, and freshly harvested. It’s a testament to the Island’s fertile lands, best enjoyed with a farm-to-table twist (oak-smoked garlic butter from The Garlic Farm is a must-try!)
• Mermaid Gin Taster Days at IW Pearl
  Sip, savour, and soak up the sunshine this summer with Mermaid Gin Taster Days at Isle of Wight Pearl. The Mermaid Gin team will be on hand to walk you through all the wonderful flavours, refreshing mixers, and local ales. Pair it all with the cafe’s stunning sea views, indoor and outdoor seating - the ultimate way to enjoy a few relaxing hours. Bliss.

What’s on

• Classic Motor Show, 6th & 7th September
  Transport back to a bygone era with vintage cars and motorcycles on display at Newport Quay and Ryde Esplanade. From stylish motorbikes and elegant vintage cars to classic lorries built to last, the Isle of Wight Classic Motor Show features a stunning collection of vehicles from the golden age of motoring. Whether you're a dedicated enthusiast or just love timeless design and craftsmanship, this event offers something for everyone to enjoy.
• Isle of Wight Steampunk Festival, 26th - 28th September
  Held in Ryde, think stalls, teapot racing, dog shows, A Victoria Fair, loads of live music and much more at this popular event for all the family.
• IW Homes and Interiors Show, 27th - 28th September
  IW Homes & Interiors Show is set to return this autumn to the iconic East Afton Farmhouse. The Isle of Wight’s premier showcase for home design, renovation, and lifestyle inspiration, the show brings together the Island’s most creative minds and businesses under one roof. From interior design and furniture to sustainable living, garden design, kitchens, bathrooms, lighting, and more – this is the go-to event for anyone passionate about transforming their living space.

Stargazing & Outdoor Fun

• Dark Sky Experiences
  The Isle of Wight ranks among the UK’s darkest sky spots. The Military Road on the southwestern coast is a top pick for stargazing; just don’t forget to pack warm layers, snacks, and a stargazing guide.
• Cycle & Hike Explore tranquil paths like the Red Squirrel Trail, or tackle segments of the Tennyson Trail for sweeping views. For those looking for wildlife and scenery, the ride from Tennyson Down to Brading Marshes is also well-known for bird-spotting, perhaps even the elusive white-tailed eagle
• Dinosaur Isle & Fossil Hunting
  Perfect for families and fossil buffs: this museum near Sandown offers life-sized models, guided walks, and real fossil exhibits. And, if you’re lucky, you might catch news of a recent historic discovery - like the massive Iguanodon footprint found earlier this year!