Isle of Wight Festival of Running

About

Explore our island through running

Dramatic cliffs, beautiful coves, a stately home, a world famous pop festival site… the Isle of Wight Festival of Running boasts an unparalleled location!

Full programme of running events

The Isle of Wight Festival of Running is back in 2025 and a list of events can be found on the programme. The programme includes the iconic Needles half marathon, a children's fun run, the Freshwater 5k, a 10k race and a wide range of evening social runs and running related activities.

Week of running events

A week-long island wide event showcasing all things running on the Isle of Wight! Events start on Sunday 1st June, with running related activities offered by the Sports Centre throughout the week and culminate on the weekend of 7th/8th June with the Tapnell 10k race on Saturday and the Freshwater 5k, Needles Junior Fun Run and Needles Half Marathon on Sunday. During the week island running groups, organisations, businesses and charities will be hosting events about and for runners of all abilities.

Needles half marathon 

The Needles half marathon 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.

Tapnell 10k

The Tapnell 10k is perfect for anyone who is experienced at park runs and wants to try a slightly longer distance. This cross country route begins at the Sports Centre and winds through the stunning West Wight countryside, including a scenic stretch past Tapnell Farm, before looping back to finish at the Sports Centre.

Freshwater 5k

The Freshwater 5k is ideal for beginner runners and off-road racers alike. The route passes the historic site of Alfred Lord Tennyson’s magnificent home, Farringford, skirting Tennyson Down and taking in Afton marshes. 

Junior fun run

Younger members of the family can join the junior fun run, around fields adjoining the West Wight Sports & Community Centre.

Join us 

Find your perfect running event and enter here.