Britain’s largest island, situated just off the south coast and separated from the mainland by the Solent Strait is a popular all-year-round holiday destination, with attractions such as the fun and frisky Black Gang Chine, and historic Osborne House and Carisbrooke Castle.
Plus there are are a whole host of stunning beaches, interesting harbours, and crab-filled rock pools to explore. But once the day is done, tourists and locals alike go out in search of some more entertainment, and, apart from one or two festivals, while the island certainly isn’t known as a party destination, there are still plenty of places to explore and enjoy.
So let’s look at some things you can do in the evenings on the Isle of Wight.
Events and Festivals
The Isle of Wight festival has been held on the island every year since 1968, and the 1970 edition made an indelible impression on the counterculture of the era, with such acts as Jimi Hendrix gracing the stage, as well as a legendary performance by the Doors, shrouded in darkness, and Miles Davis, whose set was released as a DVD in 2004. Today, the festival continues to attract thousands of punters who party until all hours to a spectacular array of cultural festivities as well as bands and performers from around the world.
A far cry from the mud and joy of the festival is Cowes Week, one of the world’s oldest sailing regattas, with 40 daily sailing races, around 500 boats, and 2500 eager competitors ranging from Olympic and world-class professionals to amateur enthusiasts competing in the tricky waters of the Solent. After the sun sets, the action doesn’t stop, however, as each night of the week you’ll find several bands and solo artists entertaining an enthusiastic crowd. There is still time to book tickets for this year (the regatta runs from 2nd—8th August), where, amongst many others, you can expect to find music from Helter Skelter, Lazerhearts, and local heroes 30Ten, playing absolute belters!
Clubs and Bars
If it’s dancing you’re in the mood for, then Ryde boasts the lauded Balcony, a sea front dancing Mecca with great local bands, established DJs, as well as tribute acts and talent nights. For more alternative sounds, head to The Loft in Newport, which shares its name and eclectic, left-field music policy with the legendary 1970s New York nightspot.
Relaxed Evenings Outdoors
For a more chill or romantic way to spend your evening, why not watch the sunset from Alum Bay? This beach famous for its rainbow sands looks even more magical in the twilight. The spot has become a massive tourist attraction due to its rainbow colours and the curious intrigue surrounding them. This fascination with rainbows has seeped into our entertainment, creating games such as the popular rainbow riches slot available at online casinos, and music like the Rolling Stones tune ‘She’s a Rainbow’ – sadly not part of their spectacular set at the 2007 edition of the island’s festival.
The Isle of Wight might not conjure up the image of a place of wild nighttime abandon, but there are plenty of options to keep night owls occupied during their visits. Whether one of the big festivals is on or not, punters will find themselves spoilt for choice on the island.
