Isle of Wight Half Marathon

On the Isle of Wight these days there’s something groovy in the air. For decades this slab of rock anchored off Portsmouth has been a magnet for family holidays, and it still has seaside kitsch by the bucket and spade. But now the proms and amusement arcades are framed by pockets of pure funkiness. A brace of music festivals draws party-goers, just-caught seafood is served in kooky fishers’ cafes, and cool camping rules – here sites are dotted with ecoyurts and vintage campervans. Yet still the isle’s principal appeal remains: a mild climate, myriad outdoorsy activities and a 25-mile shore lined with beaches, dramatic white cliffs and tranquil sand dunes. With that being said, Isle of Wight Half Marathon is the place to be.

The Isle of Wight Half Marathon is organised by Ryde Harriers. It is a highly rated, low-key race limited to 500 runners. The route is an undulating, town and rural, single lap course passing through Yaverland, Whitecliff, Bembridge, St. Helens and back towards Sandown via Brading.