Isle Of Wight Takes Centre Stage In BBC’s The Apprentice

The Isle of Wight was front and centre in last night’s episode of The Apprentice on BBC One — with Island businesses playing a starring role in the hit show’s latest tasks.

The episode saw contestants race across the Island in a “discount buying” challenge, tasked with sourcing a list of nine cryptically named items at the lowest possible cost before heading to a dramatic finish at Hovertravel in Ryde.

Locations featured included The Garlic Farm, Adgestone Vineyard, Wight Bike, Grace’s Bakery, Jurassic Jim’s, and more — with contestants also visiting the likes of Antiek in Ryde and Eddies Surf Academy.

Clues ranged from “something blue” — revealed as sparkling Isle of Wight wine — to a “bird’s nest”, which turned out to be an Island doughnut.

Visit Isle of Wight Chief Executive Dominic Wray says the exposure is a major boost for the Island:

“With millions of viewers on BBC One, plus further coverage across BBC Two and iPlayer, the Isle of Wight has gained exceptional exposure at a key time for holiday bookings.

“With sunshine on the day of filming, the Island was showcased at its very best.”

The episode, filmed in June 2025, saw the teams travel across the Island in a fast-paced race to complete the challenge — with highlights including digging for garlic, visiting local producers and battling to identify the correct items.

Behind the scenes, a wide range of Island organisations helped bring the production together.

The Royal Hotel in Ventnor hosted Lord Sugar’s advisors, while The Wellington in Ventnor accommodated much of the crew. Wightlink transported the production across the Solent, and Film Wight handled filming permissions.

Local businesses were keen to highlight the impact.

The Hut in Colwell Bay hosted early planning scenes, while Grace’s Bakery said it was a “proud moment” to showcase its historic Isle of Wight doughnut recipe.

Wight Bike described the experience as a surprise, while Hovertravel said it was proud to help showcase both its service and the Island.

The episode is now available to watch on BBC iPlayer.

Dominic Wray is set to appear alongside Barnes Edwards from the Garlic Farm on Isle of Wight's Topping in the Morning breakfast show today.