Isle of Wight Festival of Running
WW
From West Wight Sports & Community Centre
5.0 ·
1 review
Saturday 7th – Sunday 8th June 2025
Past event
18:00
Freshwater
£21.44–£37.36 · 3 races
5km, 10km, Half Marathon
Event summary
Get ready for an unforgettable weekend of running at the Isle of Wight Festival of Running, organized by the West Wight Sports & Community Centre! Taking place from Saturday, June 7th to Sunday, June 8th, 2025, this exciting event is set against the stunning backdrop of Freshwater, Isle of Wight. Runners of all abilities will have the chance to explore picturesque circular cross-country routes amidst dramatic cliffs and beautiful coves.
Participants can choose from an array of races, including the scenic Tapnell 10k, the beginner-friendly Freshwater 5K, and the challenging Needles Half, which features breathtaking coastal views and rugged terrain. Families can also get in on the fun with the Junior Fun Run, designed for younger athletes. With local running clubs welcoming visitors and exclusive accommodation discounts available, this festival promises a fantastic experience for everyone. Don’t miss out on the chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the Isle of Wight while participating in one of the region's biggest sporting events!
Participants can choose from an array of races, including the scenic Tapnell 10k, the beginner-friendly Freshwater 5K, and the challenging Needles Half, which features breathtaking coastal views and rugged terrain. Families can also get in on the fun with the Junior Fun Run, designed for younger athletes. With local running clubs welcoming visitors and exclusive accommodation discounts available, this festival promises a fantastic experience for everyone. Don’t miss out on the chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the Isle of Wight while participating in one of the region's biggest sporting events!
Isle of Wight Festival of Running
This event has taken place
Congratulations to everyone who took part. We're waiting on information about the next edition of this event.
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Previous editions
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Reviews
5.01 review
KB
Kris Barnfather
Reviewing the 2019 edition · 7 years ago
Excellent Event. Well organised event. The event village is well set-up, showers, cafe and food stalls. The route is one of the most picturesque I've ever done, it was well marshalled with friendly volunteers.
Races
-
Tapnell 10k 2025
Entries closedSaturday 7th Jun 2025 (18:00)
£26.74
-
Freshwater 5k 2025
Entries closedSunday 8th Jun 2025 (10:00)
£21.44
-
Needles Half Marathon 2025
Entries closedSunday 8th Jun 2025 (12:00)
£37.36
Event information
The Centre is located next to a pay and display Isle of Wight Council car park. There is also further parking in Avenue Road, which is a 5-minute walk from the Centre. The Centre is located in a residential area so there is some limited on street parking.
We are based in the centre of Freshwater village, next to the Isle of Wight Council pay and display car park. We are only a 2.5ml walk or cycle along the scenic cycle track from Yarmouth.
By Car from Yarmouth
Follow A3055 into Freshwater and down School Green Road. Turn RIGHT towards Brookside Road and then LEFT into the Moa Place car park. West Wight Sports & Community Centre is at the top of the car park. Only a 5-minute drive!
By Car from Newport
Follow Newport Road (also known locally as ‘Middle Road’) to the junction with Afton Road. Turn RIGHT and follow Afton Road until it joins School Green Road at the roundabout. Travel along School Green Road to the junction with Brookside Road. Moa Place Car Park is immediately on your LEFT. West Wight Sports & Community Centre is at the top of the car park. Roughly a 30-minute drive.
Ferry Travel
Both Red Funnel and Wightlink Ferries run regular crossings to the Island.
Wightlink
Portsmouth – Fishbourne (Car Ferry)
Portsmouth – Ryde (Foot passengers only)
Lymington – Yarmouth (Car Ferry)
Red Funnel
Southampton – East Cowes (Car Ferry)
Southampton – West Cowes (Foot passengers only)
For full details on how to get to the Island visit the Island’s official tourism website
Bus Travel
The bus service on the Island is operated by Southern Vectis. Bus services run from all the ferry ports into the central bus station in Newport. From here, both the number 7 and number 12 routes stop close to the Sports Centre.
More details and timetable can be found on the Southern Vectis website
Rover tickets offer flexibility and value for money, valid for 24 or 48 hours unlimited travel from the moment you board and beep on the contactless machine, and valid for use all Southern Vectis green network, night and seasonal buses – including the open tops.
From Newport Bus Station, use routes 7 and 12 for West Wight and the Isle of Wight Festival of Running.
By Car from Yarmouth
Follow A3055 into Freshwater and down School Green Road. Turn RIGHT towards Brookside Road and then LEFT into the Moa Place car park. West Wight Sports & Community Centre is at the top of the car park. Only a 5-minute drive!
By Car from Newport
Follow Newport Road (also known locally as ‘Middle Road’) to the junction with Afton Road. Turn RIGHT and follow Afton Road until it joins School Green Road at the roundabout. Travel along School Green Road to the junction with Brookside Road. Moa Place Car Park is immediately on your LEFT. West Wight Sports & Community Centre is at the top of the car park. Roughly a 30-minute drive.
Ferry Travel
Both Red Funnel and Wightlink Ferries run regular crossings to the Island.
Wightlink
Portsmouth – Fishbourne (Car Ferry)
Portsmouth – Ryde (Foot passengers only)
Lymington – Yarmouth (Car Ferry)
Red Funnel
Southampton – East Cowes (Car Ferry)
Southampton – West Cowes (Foot passengers only)
For full details on how to get to the Island visit the Island’s official tourism website
Bus Travel
The bus service on the Island is operated by Southern Vectis. Bus services run from all the ferry ports into the central bus station in Newport. From here, both the number 7 and number 12 routes stop close to the Sports Centre.
More details and timetable can be found on the Southern Vectis website
Rover tickets offer flexibility and value for money, valid for 24 or 48 hours unlimited travel from the moment you board and beep on the contactless machine, and valid for use all Southern Vectis green network, night and seasonal buses – including the open tops.
From Newport Bus Station, use routes 7 and 12 for West Wight and the Isle of Wight Festival of Running.
The Freshwater 5k is perfect for anyone who has completed a Couch to 5K programme. Starting out from the Sports Centre the 5k route passes through the beautiful countryside of Freshwater with views across the rest of the West Wight.
The race will also take you through the twists and turns of footpaths running through the stunning Freshwater countryside, finishing back at the Sports Centre.
Date: Sunday 8th June 2025
Race start time: 10:00 AM
Venue: Start and finish at the West Wight Sports & Community Centre
Minimum age: 16yrs
Facilities: Showers, changing rooms, secure room, toilets and cafe.
Prizes: Medal
The race will also take you through the twists and turns of footpaths running through the stunning Freshwater countryside, finishing back at the Sports Centre.
Date: Sunday 8th June 2025
Race start time: 10:00 AM
Venue: Start and finish at the West Wight Sports & Community Centre
Minimum age: 16yrs
Facilities: Showers, changing rooms, secure room, toilets and cafe.
Prizes: Medal
The Tapnell 10k is perfect for anyone who is experienced at park runs and wants to try a slightly longer distance. Starting out from the Sports Centre the race is a cross country route through some of the spectacular West Wight countryside, finishing back at the Sports Centre.
Taking in the stunning landscape of our sponsor Tapnell Farm; why not make a weeen of it and stay in style!
Date: Saturday 7th June 2025
Race start time: 6pm
Venue: Start and finish at the West Wight Sports & Community Centre
Minimum age: 16yrs
Facilities: Showers, changing rooms, secure room, toilets and cafe.
Prizes: Medal
Taking in the stunning landscape of our sponsor Tapnell Farm; why not make a weeen of it and stay in style!
Date: Saturday 7th June 2025
Race start time: 6pm
Venue: Start and finish at the West Wight Sports & Community Centre
Minimum age: 16yrs
Facilities: Showers, changing rooms, secure room, toilets and cafe.
Prizes: Medal
Our Needles Half Marathon is one of the toughest and most scenic half marathons in the country. The 13.1 mile route will take you over downs and heathland, past historic monuments and of course you’ll glimpse the most iconic landmark on the Isle of Wight – The Needles.
Date: Sunday 8th June 2025
Race start time: 12:00 PM
Venue: Start and finish at the West Wight Sports & Community Centre
Minimum age: 17yrs
Facilities: Showers, changing rooms, secure room, toilets and cafe.
Prizes: Medal
Date: Sunday 8th June 2025
Race start time: 12:00 PM
Venue: Start and finish at the West Wight Sports & Community Centre
Minimum age: 17yrs
Facilities: Showers, changing rooms, secure room, toilets and cafe.
Prizes: Medal
Tapnell Farm
Set in acres of unspoilt countryside, with amazing views in every direction, Tapnell Farm is home to a unique collection of accomodation choices, including eco pods, wood cabins, safari tents, modulogs, meadow domes and farm cottages.
Website: https://tapnellfarm.com/
Contact: 01983 758772
Skinners Farm
Skinners is a working farm with self catering holiday caravans based in Cowes, under 30 minutes drive from West Wight Sports & Community Centre.
The farm and holiday accommodation are found at the end of a 400 metre lane. Skinners is one mile from Parkhurst Forest, just over a mile from the secluded Thorness Bay, and three miles from both Cowes and Newport. The farm buildings and caravans are surrounded by the 150 acres of farmland.
Website: skinnersfarm.co.uk
Contact: [email protected] or 01983 292449
The Bay Boutique B&B
THE BAY is a small, family run boutique bed and breakfast accommodation located in a quiet road just a few minutes’ walk from Freshwater Bay in West Wight; an area of outstanding natural beauty. Having had ties to the Island for several decades, in 2014 the owners found this beautiful Victorian property and decided to move full-time to Freshwater Bay on the Isle of Wight. A loving and complete restoration took over two years, with a desire to be as eco-friendly as possible.
Website: https://stayfreshwaterbay.co.uk/
Contact: [email protected] 01983 641 143
Farringford Self Catering Cottages
Situated within the historic and picturesque Farringford estate, these self catering cottages are equipped with every comfort from home, and include dog friendly accomodation, and flexible arrival and departure dates.
Website: https://farringford.co.uk/self-catering-isle-of-wight/holiday-cottages
Contact: 01983 752 500
Calborne Mill
One of the most picturesque holiday locations on the Isle of Wight. Centrally placed in the middle of West Wight within easy travelling distance to all of the island’s main attractions.
On-site, fully licensed Cafe, serving delicious meals and Sunday roasts.
Website: https://www.calbournewatermill.co.uk/holiday-accommodation/
Contact: 01983 531227
Stoats Farm
Stoats Farm is a quiet family and dog friendly campsite with first rate facilities and well stocked on site shop. Located at the most westerly point of the Isle of Wight, Stoats Farm is nestled within spectacular countryside only a short walk from the heritage coastal path, an area of outstanding natural beauty with magnificent downs, chalk cliffs and sea views. We have a stunning newly renovated self catering cottage and links with glamping partners.
Website: www.stoatsfarm.com [email protected]
Contact: 01983 759608
Orchards Holiday Park
If you are looking for a holiday park providing camping and caravanning on the Isle of wight or motorhomes or a holiday park with swimming pools, look no further.
The Orchards Holiday Park offers a peaceful holiday location, with quality facilities in beautiful natural surroundings.
They are an award winning, family owned Holiday Park, in Newbridge, near Yarmouth, on the western side of the Isle of Wight.
Website: orchards-holiday-park.co.uk
Contact: 01983 531 331
Visit Isle of Wight
Our official accommodation provider is Visit Isle of Wight and you can find a host of accommodation options by visiting their website.
Website: www.visitisleofwight.co.uk
Contact: [email protected]
Set in acres of unspoilt countryside, with amazing views in every direction, Tapnell Farm is home to a unique collection of accomodation choices, including eco pods, wood cabins, safari tents, modulogs, meadow domes and farm cottages.
Website: https://tapnellfarm.com/
Contact: 01983 758772
Skinners Farm
Skinners is a working farm with self catering holiday caravans based in Cowes, under 30 minutes drive from West Wight Sports & Community Centre.
The farm and holiday accommodation are found at the end of a 400 metre lane. Skinners is one mile from Parkhurst Forest, just over a mile from the secluded Thorness Bay, and three miles from both Cowes and Newport. The farm buildings and caravans are surrounded by the 150 acres of farmland.
Website: skinnersfarm.co.uk
Contact: [email protected] or 01983 292449
The Bay Boutique B&B
THE BAY is a small, family run boutique bed and breakfast accommodation located in a quiet road just a few minutes’ walk from Freshwater Bay in West Wight; an area of outstanding natural beauty. Having had ties to the Island for several decades, in 2014 the owners found this beautiful Victorian property and decided to move full-time to Freshwater Bay on the Isle of Wight. A loving and complete restoration took over two years, with a desire to be as eco-friendly as possible.
Website: https://stayfreshwaterbay.co.uk/
Contact: [email protected] 01983 641 143
Farringford Self Catering Cottages
Situated within the historic and picturesque Farringford estate, these self catering cottages are equipped with every comfort from home, and include dog friendly accomodation, and flexible arrival and departure dates.
Website: https://farringford.co.uk/self-catering-isle-of-wight/holiday-cottages
Contact: 01983 752 500
Calborne Mill
One of the most picturesque holiday locations on the Isle of Wight. Centrally placed in the middle of West Wight within easy travelling distance to all of the island’s main attractions.
On-site, fully licensed Cafe, serving delicious meals and Sunday roasts.
Website: https://www.calbournewatermill.co.uk/holiday-accommodation/
Contact: 01983 531227
Stoats Farm
Stoats Farm is a quiet family and dog friendly campsite with first rate facilities and well stocked on site shop. Located at the most westerly point of the Isle of Wight, Stoats Farm is nestled within spectacular countryside only a short walk from the heritage coastal path, an area of outstanding natural beauty with magnificent downs, chalk cliffs and sea views. We have a stunning newly renovated self catering cottage and links with glamping partners.
Website: www.stoatsfarm.com [email protected]
Contact: 01983 759608
Orchards Holiday Park
If you are looking for a holiday park providing camping and caravanning on the Isle of wight or motorhomes or a holiday park with swimming pools, look no further.
The Orchards Holiday Park offers a peaceful holiday location, with quality facilities in beautiful natural surroundings.
They are an award winning, family owned Holiday Park, in Newbridge, near Yarmouth, on the western side of the Isle of Wight.
Website: orchards-holiday-park.co.uk
Contact: 01983 531 331
Visit Isle of Wight
Our official accommodation provider is Visit Isle of Wight and you can find a host of accommodation options by visiting their website.
Website: www.visitisleofwight.co.uk
Contact: [email protected]
Organiser's description
Dramatic cliffs, beautiful coves, a stately home, a world-famous pop festival site… the Isle of Wight Festival of Running boasts an unparalleled location. This Festival has become one of the biggest sporting events on the Island and a favourite of runners from all over the South of England. Over a week, athletes of all levels can choose from circular cross-country routes, in the breath-taking west of the Island.
The programme includes:
- Tapnell 10k - A scenic summmer evening 10k from Freshwater village into the rural countryside and through the fields of our Festival sponsor Tapnell Farm, returning to Freshwater through National Trust and nature reserve land.
-The Freshwater 5K is ideal for beginner runners and off road racers alike, and passes Alfred Lord Tennyson’s magnificent home, Farringford, skirting Tennyson Down and taking in Afton Marshes.
- The famously tough Needles Half, which follows a spectacular trail along the coast from Colwell Bay to Totland Bay, over the heathland of Headon Warren to The Needles. Runners then traverse rugged Tennyson Down to Tennyson Monument, before descending to Freshwater Bay and across Afton Marsh, to the finish.
- Younger members of the family can join the Junior Fun Run, around fields adjoining the West Wight Sports & Community Centre.
Local running clubs and crews welocme visitors and new members throughout the week, with road, trail and cross country routes to suit everyone!
With exclusive accomodatation and travel discounts for participants - book for the weekend and enjoy the beauty of the Isle of Wight,
The programme includes:
- Tapnell 10k - A scenic summmer evening 10k from Freshwater village into the rural countryside and through the fields of our Festival sponsor Tapnell Farm, returning to Freshwater through National Trust and nature reserve land.
-The Freshwater 5K is ideal for beginner runners and off road racers alike, and passes Alfred Lord Tennyson’s magnificent home, Farringford, skirting Tennyson Down and taking in Afton Marshes.
- The famously tough Needles Half, which follows a spectacular trail along the coast from Colwell Bay to Totland Bay, over the heathland of Headon Warren to The Needles. Runners then traverse rugged Tennyson Down to Tennyson Monument, before descending to Freshwater Bay and across Afton Marsh, to the finish.
- Younger members of the family can join the Junior Fun Run, around fields adjoining the West Wight Sports & Community Centre.
Local running clubs and crews welocme visitors and new members throughout the week, with road, trail and cross country routes to suit everyone!
With exclusive accomodatation and travel discounts for participants - book for the weekend and enjoy the beauty of the Isle of Wight,
Location
West Wight Sports and Community Centre, Moa Place, Freshwater, PO40 9XH
Freshwater Skate Park, Freshwater, PO40 9AS, United Kingdom
Isle of Wight Festival of Running
WW
West Wight Sports & Community Centre
We provide running and swim events based from our charity run Centre in the beautiful West Wight
On Find a Race
Since
2017
Events
6
Avg. review
5.0
