Isle of Wight Walking Festival runs away with top prize in Chamber Awards

The 2023 Spring Isle of Wight Walking Festival got underway last weekend with a real spring in its step after winning its first award.

The Walking Festival was awarded the ‘Made on the Isle of Wight’ title, sponsored by Red Funnel at the Isle of Wight Chamber of Commerce awards

The popular festival was saved in 2017 following an 11th hour injection of support from Visit Isle of Wight and has now extended to two festivals per year, running in spring & autumn and covering the ‘shoulder’ seasons, attracting visitors in what would be considered less busy times for the tourism industry on the Island.

From May 13-21 the Isle of Wight Walking Festival has over 85 walks on offer, led by volunteers who are proud of their Island and take the opportunity to share their particular passion on a themed walk.

Will Myles, MD at Visit Isle of Wight, congratulated everyone involved in the Walking Festival:

‘To win the Chamber of Commerce ‘Made on the Isle of Wight’ award is a fantastic reflection of the teamwork involved in pulling the Walking Festival together. Our Sustainable, Trade & Exhibitions manager Amy Summers, with festival co-ordinators Jo Hurt and Sarah Alexander, work hard to make the event happen, liaising with the volunteer walk leaders from groups such as the Ramblers to individuals who are passionate about the Island they live on, and without whom, the event would not happen.

‘I also want to thank the Wight BID levy payers; the event is funded by Visit Isle of Wight and supported by the Island’s tourism sector and is recognised as bringing a direct benefit to businesses during the shoulder season, whilst serving as a fantastic advert for the Isle of Wight along with the multiple health benefits of walking.’