Mountbatten Isle of Wight and the team behind the popular annual Isle of Wight cycling event, Randonnee, are excited to announce new plans for 2026, including a new date and a change in who runs this famous celebration of cycling.

CLICK HERE for more about Randonnee 2026

From next year, in the biggest shake-up in the family-friendly event’s 40 year history, Mountbatten will take over this historic round-the-Island cycle. And, instead of its usual weekend in May, the next Randonnee will be held on 6 September 2026.

Until now, Randonnee has been organised by members of The Wayfarer Cycle Touring Club. Their hard work has created a must-take-part cycling challenge, which is proudly NOT a race.

Around 3,000 participants cycle: 100km clockwise around the Island, incorporating a climb of around 1,500 metres; or 55km, including part of National Route 23 and the Island’s east coast.

Randonnee attracts cyclists from the mainland as well as Islanders, and people of all ages take part. Participants traverse scenic routes and quiet roads and lanes, through some of the most beautiful scenery on offer. 

Since it began, in 1985, this incredible cycling event has supported local charities through generous donations, online and at checkpoints, and via the sale of commemorative badges.

Now, Mountbatten Isle of Wight becomes the guardian of an event with incredible history and heritage. This is hugely important to the hospice charity, which will continue to work with the current organisers, through a committee, to support the delivery of Randonnee with Mountbatten 2026.

'Thank you'

The Wayfarer Cycle Touring Club said: “We’d like to thank Islanders for their support, including the businesses, schools and villages that have let us use their premises for the feed stations so enjoyed by the participants.

“After 40 years, it’s time to pass the handlebars over to Mountbatten Isle of Wight for the next exciting phase of this enduring and hugely successful annual cycling challenge.”

'Beyond delighted'

Mountbatten Isle of Wight CEO, Becky McGregor said: “We’re beyond delighted to be chosen as the new organisers of the fabulous Isle of Wight Randonnee which, in its four decades, has done so much for schools and charities across the Island.

“We are excited for Randonnee 2026, on its new date of 6 September. We can’t wait for what we know is going to be an exhilarating ride.

“Thank you so much to the Wayfarer team. Your dedication has made this an incredible event and we look forward to working with you in future.”

Schools around the Island set up pit-stops for riders and enjoy a fundraising boost from Randonnee. The Mountbatten Isle of Wight team is dedicated to continuing these amazing partnerships (and also to trying out these delicious refreshments first hand!).

Register your interest to take part in Randonnee 2026, using the above link. Further details to follow soon.