Isle of Wight Takeover
Now in its 11th year, enjoy a family-friendly annual event celebrating car enthusiasts passion for their cars!
Travel Offer:
Foot Passenger Day Return - Adult: £14 | Child: £7
Foot Passenger Period Return - Adult: £23 | Child: £11.50
15% Off Vehicle Ferry Travel
Valid: 10-24 May
T&C's apply, see below.
What's On
Every year in May, the Isle of Wight Takeover presents a perfect opportunity for car enthusiasts to enjoy a driving holiday with their car club and friends.
This event on the Isle of Wight invites car clubs from all over Europe, creating a memorable experience for participants and their cars. The event welcomes everyone, with activities like a doggy show and a family zone with activities for the kids. The Rev Off Competition and Audio Battle are beloved by car enthusiasts, alongside a live dyno available for booking all weekend. This gives you a chance to see some of the best modified and performance cars in the UK without leaving the Island.
Join the Party! Alongside the main event, there's an amazing Takeover Party for Saturday night. This ticketed add-on event, which can be conveniently purchased online or on the door, promises an unforgettable evening filled with live music, fireworks, dazzling entertainment, and a mouth-watering array of food and drinks.
Find full details on the IOW Takeover Website.
Getting There
The Isle of Wight Takeover car show and party will both be held at Royal County Showground.
By car: Royal County Showground, Cowes PO31 8QU
By bus: Take the Southern Vectis No 1 to Newport and alight at the Royal County Showground
Travel Offer T&C'S
Vehicle Ferry: Valid for a period vehicle ferry crossing between 10-24 May 2026, or a day return crossing on dates between the 10-24 May 2026, with up to 7 people (additional passenger rates available) in a car. Subject to availability. Conditions: Not valid with any other Red Funnel offer or concession, including standard Travel Card holder discounts. Valid for new bookings only. We reserve the right to withdraw this promotion without prior notice. Standard conditions of carriage apply †A £5 handling charge applies to telephone bookings. Offer available online only.
Red Jet: Valid for a day-return trip on dates between the 10-24 May 2026 or a period return between 10-24 May 2026, on any sailing between Southampton and West Cowes. Carriage is subject to availability and is on a first come first served basis. Note: It is not possible to pre-book specific sailing times with these tickets. Offer available online only.
For traders and participant discounts, please contact Isle of Wight Takeover.
Other events you may like
Spring Buggin’ – The Camp Out
Enjoy a relaxed weekend of camping with friends, family, and fellow vanlife enthusiasts over the Early May Bank Holiday weekend!
Wildheart Wire Walk
The ultimate test of balance and bravery, the Wildheart Wire Walk will be flanked by some of the Sanctuary’s resident big cats, giving participants a truly unforgettable highwire experience for those bold enough to channel their inner lemur!
Monster Truck Motorfest
This large-scale family motorsport and entertainment event features live monster truck action, arena shows, stunt performances, live music, fairground attractions, food vendors, and family entertainment you won't want to miss!
Riverfest
Riverfest is a fun free community event which takes place every May by the River in the heart of Newport.
Wolverton Folk & Blues Fair
A day long festival of Folk & Blues set in the stunning grounds of Wolverton Manor, with fantastic bands and locally produced food, children's activities, tea tent and real ale tent!
The Isle of Wight Dance Weekender
The Isle of Wight Dance Weekender lands on 9th & 10th May 2026 bringing two days of high-energy dance music with House, Garage and throwback pop with full-on festival fun to the heart of Robin Hill Adventure Park.
Cowes Fringe
Back for 2026, Cowes Fringe features an exciting and diverse line-up of nine events spanning theatre, live music, comedy, family entertainment and creative workshops.
Ticket to Ryde - May Bank Holiday
Situated along the seafront just a stone’s throw from Ryde’s golden sand beaches, this free-to-attend mini-festival provides a rich mix of bank holiday entertainment for both Island residents and visitors!
Playing the Field Festival
Join us at Playing the Field Festival 2026 in Southampton – a two-day celebration of live music, family fun, and unforgettable festival vibes!
Three Rivers Festival
Three Rivers Music Festival returns bringing three days of music, creativity, wellness and community to the beautiful rural setting of Durrants Farm, Porchfield.