The Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Edward, visited the Isle of Wight today (Thursday), undertaking a number of engagements in Newport, Ventnor and Brading.
His Royal Highness visited Quay Arts in Newport, the well-known hub for arts and culture on the Isle of Wight, on what was his first visit to the Island since taking on his new title.
The visit to Quay Arts also included nearby Jubilee Stores, where local artists are based in dedicated studios, forming a key part of the Island’s creative community. During his time in Newport, His Royal Highness met with organisations including Shademakers, The New Carnival Company and IW Open Studios.
At the Anthony Minghella Theatre, The Duke heard about the ‘CAN YOU HEAR US?’ programme, delivered in partnership with Creative Lives. The initiative supports community-led creative projects running between March and October 2026, including craft workshops, music, storytelling and performance, with a focus on bringing people together through shared creative activity.
In Ventnor, His Royal Highness visited Ventnor Exchange and Ventnor Arts Club, where he met with a local choir and film club.
During the visit, the team at Ventnor Exchange and The Duke discussed the town’s famous fringe festival, the work of Brave Island in supporting training and opportunities for young people, and shared plans for Ingrams Yard as a new community and learning space.
Following a wonderful performance by the Exchange’s Community Choir, The Duke walked to Ventnor Arts Club. There he met staff, members and community groups including Jack’s Comedy Club, the Book Group and Ventnor Film Society.
In the afternoon, the Duke visited Brading Roman Villa in His Royal Highness’ capacity as Patron. He toured the Roman Villa with representatives from the museum sector.
The afternoon finished with a visit to Brading Youth and Community Centre, where local youth and community activities are based. It’s here that he presented the King’s Award for Voluntary Service to Ginny Byrne, chair of Brading Community Partnership.
The Duke spoke to children who use the youth club and those completing their Duke of Edinburgh Award under the guidance of centre volunteers.
The Royal Flight helicopter was waiting in the adjoining fields ready to fly Prince Edward back to the mainland, marking the end of his first visit to the Isle of Wight as the Duke of Edinburgh, having assumed the title in 2023.
He has visited the Island numerous times in the past in his former role as the Earl of Wessex.
I hear he was picking a new teddy bear for Andrew
Even Ed didn’t want to use the ferries, better by chopper.
Lol
Andrew missed out on this island trip
I heard he was buying a special teddy bear for Andrew