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Ryde Guide

Ryde Ferry Port

With expansive stretches of sandy beaches, boutique gift-shops and a smorgasbord of seaside entertainment, the town of Ryde on the north-western coast of the Isle of Wight is the perfect destination for holidaymakers looking to relax in quintessentially English style. Known as the “Gateway to the Island” due to its links to the British mainland, Ryde is the island’s largest town and the natural hub for many of the events penned into the busy local calendar. The Ryde Carnival that takes place at the end of every August is a particular highlight; a 5-day extravaganza of live music and dancing mixed with interactive workshops and variety performers desperate to show off their skills. Those disembarking from the port in Ryde will first notice the 19th century pier that stretches into the waters of The Solent, a listed structure with its own train station built upon the timber-planked promenade. Although the ferry terminal itself is small – facilities limited to just a café, waiting room and toilet - it is supported by a vast range of transport links. The Island Line train to and from the Ryde Esplanade station, just minutes from the harbour, is the quickest way to traverse the eastern edge of the island, while a bus terminal at the end of the pier offers trips further afield. Those who prefer to drive can take the A3055 main road that leads into the centre of town, a route that links the port to the island’s Bembridge airport just half an hour away. Fast ferries hosted by Wightlink leave the port of Ryde to Portsmouth multiple times each day. It’s a short jaunt across the Solent, a narrow strait that separates the Isle of Wight from the British mainland, that can only be traversed by foot passengers.