As the inaugural event of its kind on the Isle of Wight, this gathering of enthusiasts and fans celebrates a unique blend of art, culture and style.
Whether you are a seasoned steampunk aficionado or a curious newcomer, the Isle of Wight Steampunk Festival promises a memorable experience filled with creativity camaraderie and a dash of whimsical charm.
Join us as we journey through time and revel in the enchanting world of Steampunk.
The Isle of Wight Steampunk Festival is a fantastic event that draws enthusiasts from far and wide. When planning your travel and accommodation for the festival, it is essential to consider a few key points to make the most of your experience.
As the Isle of Wight is an island, the most common way to reach it is via car or passenger ferry, or take the Hovercraft service.
Red Funnel Ferries serve the Island from Southampton, via Cowes and East Cowes.
Wightlink car ferries land at Fishbourne just 15 minutes drive to Ryde.
There are two passenger cross Solent routes from Portsmouth / Southsea via the passenger Wightlink FastCat service, (20minutes) and Hovertravel’s hovercraft services, (10 minutes), and both services land in direct into Ryde town.
Many hotels and B&Bs can provide discount codes or links for the ferries.
Once on the island, public transport options include buses and trains, making it relatively easy to get around to different parts, including the festival location in Ryde.
If you prefer flexibility, you can bring your vehicle on the ferry or rent one on the island.
Parking in Ryde offers a mix of options. Visitors can find pay-and-display car parks and some on-street parking with daytime restrictions. All car parks provide convenient parking solutions for those exploring this charming town and the festival.
Ryde and neighbouring towns offer a range of accommodations, from quaint bed and breakfasts to luxury hotels. It's advisable to book in advance.
We are grateful to the following recommended hotels who are supporting the festival with a special discount and that can include special rates for the ferries (quote ‘steampunk’):
The Dorset Hotel (01983 564327)
www.thedorsethotel.co.uk
The Esplanade Hotel (01983 562549)
Use code word "steam" to get a discount
www.royalesplanadehotel.co.uk
Some visitors opt for campsites around the island for a more outdoorsy experience. Make sure to check for facilities and book your spot early.
Another popular choice is renting a cottage or holiday home, providing a more private and homely feel. Overall, whether you choose to stay in a cozy B&B, a seaside hotel, or camp under the stars, ensuring your travel and accommodation plans are in place ahead of time will help you fully enjoy the Isle of Wight Steampunk Festival and all it has to offer.
The town of Ryde is a culinary haven with a diverse array of food and drink venues to tantalise your taste buds. From charming cafes serving artisanal coffees to seaside restaurants offering freshly caught seafood, there's a food adventure awaiting every visitor.
Unwind in one of the many friendly cosy pubs with a pint of ale and a pub meal. Ryde town's food and drink scene promises a delightful fusion of flavours where every bite tells a story and every sip is a toast to the vibrant spirit of this charming seaside town.
There will be free daytime entertainment galore in and around Ryde with the focus point being along the esplanade in Eastern Gardens.
Watch out for announcements about a multitude of other daytime entertainments and activities planned for this event including the spectacle of teapot racing. Sign-up to our mailing list, or follow us on social media.
The Isle of Wight Steampunk Festival's daytime stage entertainment is entirely free, and will dazzle attendees with an eclectic line up of steampunk performers.
From a steampunk rapper spitting rhymes and the enchanting melodies of a hurdy-gurdy, along with the ethereal sounds of a musical saw lady, the stage will be alive with creativity and fun. Each act will bring a unique twist to the steampunk aesthetic, captivating the audience with their talent and imagination. Laughter, music, dancing and merriment will fill the air, creating a vibrant atmosphere that will perfectly embody the spirit of the festival.
Unveiling the Spectacular Steampunk Vendors at the inaugural Isle of Wight Steampunk Festival in Ryde
The Isle of Wight Steampunk Festival in Ryde will take on a transformative aura with its inaugural edition in 2024, inviting specialised steampunk vendors to showcase their eclectic wares. Stepping into the festival site in the Victorian Eastern Garden along the sea front, attendees will be greeted by a myriad of vendors, each offering a unique slice of the steampunk universe. From intricate clockwork gadgets to elaborate corsets and top hats adorned with gears and goggles.
For those seeking to immerse themselves fully in the steampunk experience, there will be vendors offering bespoke costumes and accessories. From tailored waistcoats and bustle skirts to leather holsters and utility belts, attendees can curate their steampunk persona with the help of these talented artisans.
The Isle of Wight Steampunk Festival in Ryde has truly set the stage for a celebration of creativity, craftsmanship, and imagination.
We welcome vendors to apply to reserve a space on our festival site and enjoy the excitement of the inaugural Isle of Wight Steampunk Festival
Please use the contact form and select the "Vendor" option.
