Drawing sailors and landlubbers alike to the north shores of the Isle of Wight, Cowes Week is the biggest event of its kind and one of the UK’s longest-running sporting events. First launched into action in 1826, it’s been a highlight of the British sporting calendar for nearly 200 years, and 2025 is set to be an absolute corker.
With over 7,000 competitors taking to the Solent – from Olympic-level pros to enthusiastic weekend sailors – Cowes Week is a glorious celebration of all things nautical. And you don’t need sea legs to enjoy the fun! Whether you're there for the thrill of the races, the bustling festival atmosphere, or simply the excuse to sip something bubbly by the water, there’s plenty to keep you grinning.
Taking place between the 2nd and 8th of August in 2025, you can expect over 800 yachts racing over the week, including classic yachts and ultra-modern designs – and everything in between. So, whether you’re a yachtie or simply want to sample the action, it’s a highlight of the Isle of Wight festival calendar you won’t want to miss.
And when you need a breather from the buzz? The Isle of Wight's stunning landscapes, golden beaches, and charming villages are all waiting to be explored between races. With sun, sea, and a splash of adventure, it’s the ultimate British summer staycation.
Top tips for spectating
You don’t need to be sailing to be part of the racing. Here are the best ways to be a Cowes Week spectator…
Watch ashore
There’s no doubt that the best place to start your day is the area between the Castle of the Royal Yacht Squadron and the cannons. This is where you’ll find the start line and hundreds of boats fighting it out for prime position. Revel in the excitement as you immerse yourself in the pre-race anticipation, before the start is announced at around 10am with a loud bang from the cannons.
For a quieter position, find a space on one of the beaches lining the north of the Island and wait for the boats to race their way past. In the afternoon, head towards Egypt Point via the Green to watch the boats as they pass the finish. Or, for a truly special spot, Little Gloster is one of the best locations to enjoy an Isle of Wight sundowner, with views over the Solent making it ideal for waterside watching.
Spectator boats
To get up close to the action, you can book onto a spectator boat, which offers hour-long trips. They depart 10.30am, 12.00pm, and 1.30pm from Trinity Landing on Cowes Parade. Bookings can be made on the day from where the boats depart, or in advance if you want to be certain you won’t miss out.
Staying up to date with the action
To stay up to date with the races and results, download the Cowes Week app for live information. It also includes an events guide and venue map, so you can make the most of the shoreside entertainment. You can also tune into the Cowes Week radio station, which tells you everything you need to know – so whether you’re watching from the waterfront, or enjoying from one of the local pubs or restaurants, you’ll still be up to date with what’s going on.
Shoreside venues and entertainment
Away from the racing, the Island comes alive with an aprés-sail atmosphere. So grab your deck (or dancing!) shoes and make your way to one of these venues to enjoy the shoreside entertainment…
Cowes Regatta Village
The Regatta Village on Cowes Parade is a hub for all to enjoy. Complete with a Club House and Crew Bar, you’ll find a beer tent, decked garden, and plenty of seating with views across the harbour. There’s also a food court for alfresco meals and live music between 3pm and 11pm, so you can really get into the festival atmosphere.
Cowes Yacht Haven
Cowes Yacht Haven is where the energy really ramps up during Cowes Week. Expect another lively hospitality area, a live music stage, and plenty of family and boat-friendly happenings to keep everyone entertained.
Be sure to swing by the sponsor zone, which is headed up by Range Rover displays. There’s something for everyone – including free refreshments for kids, grown-ups, and canine companions.
If you fancy a break from boats and bands, there’s plenty of retail therapy to be had in and around the marina and along Cowes’ lovely high street, from high street chains to cute independents.
Northwood House
For a more mellow experience, Northwood House is the place to be. Kick back and relax on the lawn with a picnic, sip cocktails on the grass, or indulge in a quintessential British summertime treat with afternoon tea under the trees. There will still be racing updates and live music, including a Fleetwood Mac tribute band and sounds of the noughties. The headliner this year is Chic to Chic on Friday night, bringing all the disco and funk classics from Chic and Nile Rogers.
Ladies Day
While not officially confirmed just yet, Tuesday is usually Ladies Day at Cowes Week – and it's always a highlight. By day, it’s all about classic blue and white nautical stripes, and by night, time to glam up. Expect best-dressed competitions, photographers throughout the event, and a fabulous atmosphere. Keep an eye on Northwood House’s event calendar for themed parties, including a Ladies Day lunch or dinner.
The food
Food is a big part of the Cowes Week experience, with everything from laid-back bites to button-popping sit-down meals on offer.
Head to one of the official festival venues like Cowes Yacht Haven or the Regatta Village to sample tempting dishes from local suppliers – perfect for a tasty pit stop between races. Or, if you prefer, wander along the high street for a taste of the Isle of Wight’s local food scene.
For the ultimate breakfast, Sails of Cowes offers everything from full English breakfasts to pancakes and baguettes (and even doggy ice creams!). For a quick coffee and a sandwich, or a refreshing Fro-Yo yoghurt drink, French Franks is where it’s at.
At some point, the call of fish and chips will strike – and if you don’t mind the queues, Corries Cabin is the go-to. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, grab a scoop or two from Paradice Ice Cream Parlour and enjoy it by the water.
When it comes to pubs, there’s a cracking mix of traditional inns and sailing bars lining the high street. Favourites like The Anchor, Pier View and The Globe are perfect for a drink, a spot of pub grub, or just soaking up the atmosphere.
If you're after something a bit more refined, The Coast Bar & Dining Room is a great choice for laid-back dining with seasonal flair. For seafood fans – don’t miss Smoking Lobster at Cowes Marina, where they’ve got Asian Fusion down to a tee.
Things to do nearby
Fancy a spot of R&R amidst all of the excitement? There is plenty of wildlife, history, and culture to enjoy between the parties and spectating. Here are the best things to do on the Isle of Wight within easy reach of the heart of the action.
Set off on foot from Cowes town centre to enjoy the Isle of Wight Coastal Path. Head east to marvel at the Italian architecture and glorious gardens of Osborne House, Queen Victoria’s former holiday home. Or head west to soak up the scenery of the Hamstead Heritage Coast.
For a day spent by the water, watch the racing from the shingle shores of East Cowes or Gurnard Beach. Or, for a true escape from the hustle and bustle, head further west to the long sandy expanses of Ryde or Yaverland.
A 20-minute drive inland from Cowes will take you to Carisbrooke Castle, which once defended an Anglo-Saxon settlement from Viking raids. Alternatively, make your way to Butterfly World to be surrounded by hundreds of free-flying butterflies and explore the Japanese Garden.
Planning your trip
You don’t need tickets to attend Cowes Week, but with over 60,000 visitors expected to flock to the Island this year, plan your transport and accommodation well ahead to avoid disappointment.
Where to stay
Book into one of our Isle of Wight holiday cottages to be sure you don’t miss out on the excitement. To stay in the heart of the festivities, you’ll want to stay near Cowes or East Cowes. This is the centre of the racing and festival entertainment, and everything is easily accessible on foot. For somewhere slightly quieter but with easy access, staying near Gurnard or Newport is always a great choice.
Transport
To get to the Island, you’ll need to catch the Isle of Wight Ferry. Foot passengers can turn up on the day, but you’ll need pre-booked tickets to bring your car. With an influx of visitors, parking in Cowes can be a little difficult to find in August. However, there are regular bus services from Northwood House – one of the festival venues. There’s also a park and ride from Somerton.
If you’re organised (and haven’t indulged in too many glasses of Pimms the night before), grab a space at Cowes long-stay car park early in the morning.
Excited to soak up the salt-kissed atmosphere of Cowes Week? Explore our beautiful holiday cottages on the Isle of Wight and start planning your next memorable stay.
