Wight Rural Hub at the Royal Isle of Wight County Show 2025
This year’s Isle of Wight County Show was a true celebration of rural life and we were thrilled to be part of it once again! Teaming up under the Natural Enterprise marquee with our fantastic partners Catchment Sensitive Farming IW and Island Rivers, we brought together a vibrant showcase of local produce, sustainable farming and community spirit.
10 Reasons to Celebrate IW Agriculture
In the lead-up to the show, we launched a social media campaign showcasing 10 Reasons to Celebrate Isle of Wight Agriculture — highlighting the people, produce and practices that make our rural community so special. This campaign culminated in a beautiful local produce display outside our marquee, drawing in visitors and sparking conversations about the value of supporting local food and farming. Special thanks to Robyn Munt of Farm Wight and the NFU for helping making the display possible.
A Feast of Island Produce
Our marquee display was brimming with the best of the Island’s produce, thanks to the generous contributions from local producers:
- Briddlesford Farm
- Farmer Ralph (New Fairlee Farm)
- The Garlic Farm
- Godshill Orchard
- Grazed Knee Cider
- Hazelgrove Farm
- IW Grain
- Isle of Wight Tomatoes
- Isle of Wight Wood Colliers
- John Knox Farms
- Mermaid – Isle of Wight Distillary
- Rodgebrook Farm
- Warren Farm
- Whippance Farm
- Wight Whisky
Exploring the Arts
We also took time to explore the arts area, where we were inspired by the creativity of local artists and makers. It was a pleasure to see work from artists including:
Their beautiful pieces added a vibrant cultural touch to the day and reminded us of the deep connection between the Island’s landscape and its creative community.
Celebrating Rural Excellence
We were delighted Ryan Ingram visited us, who was awarded Sparsholt College Learner of the Year (Agriculture Level 2) – congratulations, Ryan!
Another huge round of applause to the winners of this year’s RIWAS IW Rural Awards 2025 sponsored by the CLA:
- Wight Marque Food & Drink Business – Godshill Orchards
- Countryside Small Business – Compton Farm
- Countryside Business – NFU Mutual Isle of Wight
- Rural Young Person of the Year – Ralph Rickard
Cooling Off in the Woodland
When the sun got a little too warm, we took a break in the woodland area, where we caught up with Tom Murphy and explored the machine used by Isle of Wight Wood Colliers to produce their local barbecue charcoal. It was fascinating to see how sustainably managed woodland is turned into high-quality charcoal – a brilliant example of traditional skills meeting modern sustainability.
Community, Connection & Country Life
We enjoyed drinks in the Members Area, hosted by NFU Mutual IOW and powered by Island Renewables, where we caught up with old friends and made new ones. The “Farming Through the Ages” display in the main ring was a highlight, as was the spirited tug of war between the “old” and young farmers – a crowd favourite (the older generation won 2-1)!
We also explored the beach area, where Appley Tower Beach Hut Hire was being promoted and treated ourselves to delicious cake from the Leverets and the WI. Lunch from The Big Eat Co. was nothing short of amazing – a big thank you to all the food vendors who kept us fuelled throughout the day.
Looking Ahead: IW Farming Conference Photo Competition
We’re making sure that nothing goes to waste — the non-perishable items from our local produce display will be repurposed for a photo competition as part of the upcoming Isle of Wight Farming Conference. Keep an eye on our channels for details on how to take part and celebrate the beauty of Island agriculture through your lens!
Until Next Year…
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who helped make this year’s County Show such a special event in the Island’s calendar. From the organisers to the producers, volunteers and visitors – your passion and support are what make this community so special.
We can’t wait to do it all again next year!