Markets and Car Boots

Shopping

Markets are a regular feature of Isle of Wight life. Newport has the most established market tradition, with a general market in St Thomas's Square and a farmers' market on alternate Fridays. Ryde holds regular markets on the esplanade during summer months. Various towns host seasonal markets at Christmas and Easter.

Car boot sales are popular island-wide. The largest regular car boot is at Arreton Barns, held on Sundays during the summer months and attracting sellers and buyers from across the island. Other venues include fields near Newport and seasonal locations around the coast. Car boots are a social event as much as a shopping opportunity, with regulars returning each week.

Arreton Barns itself is a craft and retail centre housed in historic farm buildings, with studios, shops and a pub. It combines shopping with a day out in the countryside. The Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary nearby adds to the visitor appeal of the area.

Charity shops are well represented across the island, with most towns having several. These are popular both with residents and with holiday-makers browsing for books and second-hand goods. The island's strong community spirit means donations are generous and stock turns over quickly. Antique and vintage fairs are held periodically at various venues, including Northwood House in Cowes and the Quay Arts Centre in Newport.