Ventnor Pirate Festival
At the heart of the action, at the heart of the community. The Spyglass Inn is proud to be one of the main organising partners behind Ventnor’s most spectacular annual event, Ventnor Pirate Festival.
Why We Love the Pirate Festival
The Spyglass Inn has sat on the water’s edge at Ventnor Bay for over 30 years.
We’ve seen a lot – storms, sunsets, smugglers and even the Spanish! But nothing quite brings this little corner of the Isle of Wight to life like Ventnor Pirate Festival.
Every August, thousands of visitors descend on Ventnor in full pirate regalia, the esplanade fills with music, laughter and the smell of good food, and for a few magical days, this town becomes the best slice of pirate life you’ll find this side of the Caribbean.
More than that, the festival is a genuine community effort. It brings together local businesses, performers, volunteers and visitors in a way that few events manage. That spirit is exactly what The Spyglass Inn is all about, and it’s why we’re so proud to be involved.
Ventnor Pirate Festival 2026
This year’s festival runs from Wednesday 12th to Saturday 15th August 2026, in partnership with Ventnor Carnival.
Highlights include a Kids’ Day on the Thursday, shanty singers, live acts across the weekend and a headline performance from Derek Sandy on Saturday 15th at 3pm, right here at The Spyglass Inn.
Festival-goers can also look out for Gilbert’s Gold, a special festival beer brewed by Island Brewery, available at the bar during the event.
For the latest festival news, visit ventnorpiratefestival.co.uk or follow facebook.com/ventnorpiratefestival.
