Ferry company plugs Isle of Wight cycling festival

The Isle of Wight hosts an annual cycling festival. This year’s festival programme will involve over 4,500 cyclists taking part in over 40 rides, varied to suit everyone from beginners and families, to experienced cyclists and mountain bikers.

Travel from Southampton to East Cowes, Isle of Wight on Red Funnel’s Vehicle Ferry and bicycles travel for free. Return fares for foot passengers cost £12.

This year’s festival launches at Seaclose Park, Newport on 19th September, with the annual Sink or Swim event in which intrepid inventors attempt to ‘ride’ across the River Medina using pedal powered vessels. Other challenges include the 70-mile Cycle the Wight event, or the Hills Killer Challenge.

Families can take part in the Cycle Safari looking for wildlifel or the Cowes Kamishibai Story Cycle, which involves a gentle cycling trail accompanied by storytellers.

Over half of the Island is designated as an “area of outstanding natural beauty”.
Red Funnel is offering camping, and bed & breakfast deals.