Ventnor Fringe
Discover the best new music, comedy and theatre at the Isle of Wight's largest arts festival, Ventnor Fringe. Taking place over 10 days the festival transforms the Island's southernmost town and surrounding coastline to become a stage for hundreds of performances, with venues in even the most unlikely locations.
Travel Offer:
Foot Passenger Day Return - Adult: £14
Foot Passenger Period Return - Adult: £23
15% Off Vehicle Ferry Travel
Valid: 16 - 27 July
T&C's apply, see below.
What's On
A unique Island tradition, during Ventnor Fringe the Isle of Wight’s southernmost town is totally transformed into a whole world of pop up venues and bars in every conceivable space, hosting over 100 different shows.
From cutting-edge cabaret to spectacular circus, the Fringe offers something for everyone, all set within a unique setting in the heart of a National Landscape and UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Events take place in tents, ancient churches, secret coves and enchanting woodlands, local's front rooms and even a 1930s Parisian bus!
Pick and choose which ticketed events to see or simply explore the many free events on offer.
Press Reviews
"One hell of a homegrown festival....an authentic, bohemian festival experience" The Independent
"..rapidly becoming the country's most surprising and inspirational multidisciplinary arts festival" The Sunday Times
"With its balmy microclimate, the Isle of Wight’s south tip is an idyllic setting for this bijou festival." The Telegraph
“Head to the hilly streets of Ventnor… for alt festivities – with a side order of beachy vibes. Art lovers will discover a whole creative world.” Time Out
Stay up to date with announcements for the 2026 line up on the Ventnor Fringe website.
Getting There
From Southampton: Set sail to East Cowes with your car and up to 7 passengers, or hop on our hi-speed Red Jet service as a foot passenger and arrive in West Cowes in under 30 minutes. Onward bus connections are available from both our Island terminals.
By car: You'll find Ventnor on the Island's southern coast - see the route here.
By bus: From West Cowes, take the Southern Vectis no.1 to Newport, or from East Cowes, take the no. 5 to Newport. Change bus in Newport to the no. 3 for Ventnor. Plan your journey here.
Travel Offer T&Cs
Vehicle Ferry: Valid for a period vehicle ferry crossing between 16-27 July 2026, or a day return crossing on any date between 16-27 July 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 taken on any date between 16-27 July 2026 or a period return between 16-27 July 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.