Mountbatten Isle of Wight kicked off the launch of Walk the Wight 2026 in style earlier this week (Monday) by challenging walkers to find their fundraising team at a secret location along the iconic route – with goodie bags waiting for the first 10 to arrive.
Ashleigh and Megan from Mountbatten’s fundraising team were stationed at the Carisbrooke Castle checkpoint between 15:30 and 16:30, with eager supporters taking to social media for clues and racing to be among the first to locate them.
The initiative marked the opening of sign-ups for the 2026 event, which will take place on Sunday 10th May, once again supported by Red Funnel and the Isle of Wight Festival.
Those who missed out on goodie bags weren’t left empty-handed, with Mountbatten also handing out reusable water bottles to other visitors who made it to the location.
Registration for Walk the Wight 2026 is now live at www.mountbatten.org.uk/walkthewight2026. Participants can choose from several route options:
- The full 26.5-mile route from Bembridge to Alum Bay
- A half route from Bembridge to Carisbrooke Castle (12 miles) or Carisbrooke to Alum Bay (14.5 miles)
- The 22.5-mile Schools Walk, with a final 4-mile group segment
- The Flat Walk from Sandown to Shide (8 miles)
- Walk the Wight Your Way – a flexible option for supporters
Entry costs £15 per person and includes a full event pack, walker number, sponsorship tools, a progress card and a commemorative medal at the finish line.
Additional merchandise including T-shirts, caps, socks, water bottles and dog bandanas are also available at the time of registration.
Walk the Wight raises vital funds for Mountbatten Isle of Wight, the local hospice providing end-of-life care and support across the community.
