Island Steam Fair at Isle of Wight Steam Railway

About

Bank Holiday celebration at the Isle of Wight Steam Railway 

Get ready for one of the Isle of Wight’s biggest and most exciting Bank Holiday events as the Island Steam Fair returns to the Isle of Wight Steam Railway for its spectacular 51st year. Taking place at Havenstreet Station from 28 – 31 August 2026, this much-loved event combines steam power, vintage transport, live entertainment and traditional fairground fun for an unforgettable family day out. 

With steam trains running throughout the day, a packed main arena programme and plenty of attractions for all ages, the event offers a fantastic celebration of heritage and entertainment in the unique surroundings of the Isle of Wight Steam Railway. 

Steam Festival

At the heart of the Island Steam Fair are the magnificent steam traction engines, including road rollers, showman’s engines and miniature steam engines. These mighty machines create an incredible spectacle as they parade around the showground and demonstrate their power in the main arena throughout the day. 

The sights, sounds and smells of steam fill the air around Havenstreet Station, perfectly complementing the heritage atmosphere of the Railway and will transport you back to the golden age of steam power. 

Main arena entertainment

The Main Arena is the centre of the action during the Island Steam Fair, with an exciting programme of entertainment running throughout the day. This year’s event includes performances from Reel Stunts in Action.

Other entertainment includes Topper Doing Walkabout of the site, as well as two daily arena shows from Stannage Stuntworld and the popular Dog & Ducks displays. 

With something happening throughout the day, the arena programme offers entertainment for all generations, from thrilling stunt displays to family-friendly performances and traditional steam fair fun. 

Vintage vehicles and historic displays

Alongside the steam engines, the Island Steam Fair showcases a rich collection of historic vehicles and transport exhibits. You can explore the displays of vintage cars, military vehicles, commercial vehicles, motorbikes and tractors, all lovingly restored and proudly exhibited by their owners. 

Wander through the showground to discover beautifully maintained classic vehicles, chat with passionate exhibitors and watch many of the vehicles taking part in arena displays throughout the event. Whether you are a motoring enthusiast or simply appreciate classic design and engineering, there is something to admire around every corner.

Traditional fairground fun

The Island Steam Fair also delivers plenty of traditional family entertainment, with a vintage fairground creating a nostalgic atmosphere around the station grounds. The fairground gallopers remain a favourite attraction for visitors of all ages, while younger ones can enjoy traditional games including coconut shys.

Live music 

Live music adds even more atmosphere to the event, with performances taking place on the Music Stage between midday and 4pm each day. You can relax with food and drinks while enjoying live entertainment as the sounds of music drift across the showground and station platforms. 

Steam train rides

No visit to the Island Steam Fair would be complete without travelling aboard the Isle of Wight Steam Railway’s beautifully restored steam trains. You can enjoy unlimited journeys throughout the day, travelling in Victorian and Edwardian carriages hauled by magnificent steam locomotives through the stunning island countryside. 

The Railway operates an extensive timetable during the event, giving you plenty of opportunities to experience heritage steam travel while enjoying everything else the Steam Fair has to offer. 

You can also explore the Train Story Discovery Centre, home to an impressive collection of locomotives and carriages spanning more than 150 years of Isle of Wight railway history.

Book your tickets

Tickets include entry to the event and unlimited steam train travel throughout the day. Kids go free - up to 3 children go free with every full priced adult ticket purchased. Book your tickets here.