Just a stones throw from the mainland, the Isle of Wight is heralded as the sunniest place in the UK, making it the ideal holiday destination for sun-seekers. With its stunning beaches, picturesque villages, and vibrant outdoor activities, getting to this coastal paradise has never been easier. Join us as we explore the best ways to travel to the Isle of Wight and how to make the most of your sunny adventure!
Ferries
Travelling to the Isle of Wight is an adventure by itself, and one of the most enjoyable ways to reach the island is by ferry. With a variety of routes available - with multiple daily crossings, you can easily find a suitable crossing that suits your itinerary and travel style.
You can chose from routes from two main operators WightLink and Red Funnel. Routes include Southampton to Cowes, Portsmouth to Fishbourne, Lymington to Yarmouth. These routes are via vehicle ferry - whereas if you prefer to travel via a foot passenger exclusive route via high speed routes such as Southampton to Cowes, Southsea to Ryde and Portsmouth to Ryde Pier are available routes to travel to the Isle of Wight.
Our top tip for ferry travel is to book your tickets in advance. Prices can rise sharply if you wait until the day of travel, planning ahead can lead to considerable savings.
Check our latest blog post on Ferry Travel to the Isle of Wight
Coaches
Travelling to the Isle of Wight via coach is a super affordable way to get to the island. There are many bus stations operating to each mainland ferry terminal, meaning getting from coach to ferry is a seamless changeover.
Trains
Travelling to the Isle of Wight via train is another seamless way to get to the island. Although (of course) trains aren't connected from mainland UK to the Isle of Wight, many trains operators include stations close to a ferry terminal. A short walk is usually more than enough to changeover from train to ferry - especially if you're coming into Lymington Pier, the platform runs besides the car lanes for the ferry.
Flights
If you're travelling to the Isle of Wight via some distance including international, you can still get to the Isle of Wight. Although from airports such as London Heathrow, you'll need additional travel either by car, coach, train to get to a ferry port.
If you're travelling via private plane you'll be able to land in either of the Isle of Wight's small airports, Bembridge or Sandown airport. These airports are for light aircraft (props) which also include helicopters. If you're flying private in a jet, you'll have to land on the mainland. After all, the island is only 23 miles wide.
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Frequently asked questions
Do you need a passport to travel to the Isle of Wight?
No, you do not need a passport to travel to the Isle of Wight. It's really that simple. The Isle of Wight is part of the United Kingdom.
How can I get cheap ferry travel?
Book in advance to get discounts on your travels.
What's the population of the Isle of Wight?
The Isle of Wight has a population as of 2021 of 140,459. The most popular area is in the centre of the island in Newport with 25,405 people. With Ryde coming in second place with 24,105 people.
Check the 'Office for National Statistics' for further information. (External Link)
Where should I stay?
This all depends on your requirements. Are you after Scenic? Beach-front? Somewhere Quiet? Whatever your requirements are, the island should be able to cater to them.
Do I need a car to visit the Isle of Wight?
Ideally yes, this allows for greater flexibility. Although the island has plenty of coverage with routes covered by bus, taxis and a small train track operating between Ryde and Shanklin.
Does the Isle of Wight have an airport?
Yes, the island has two! Operating in Bembridge and Sandown. These are for light aircraft, so don't expect to be landing in a 737.
Do people live "ON the Isle of Wight" or "IN the Isle of Wight"?
We are an island after all, so if you think, you live "ON" an island not "IN" one. Whereas you could live "IN" London and not live "ON" London. But you do live "IN" Newport not "ON" Newport. Slightly confusing maybe, but you'll get there.
How long is the ferry travel to the Isle Of Wight?
Foot travel can be as little as 10 minutes on hovercraft from Portsmouth to Ryde via Hovertravel. Or as quick as 40 minutes (usually quicker) from Lymington to Yarmouth via car ferry.
What is the speed limit on the Isle of Wight?
The speed limits are pretty much the same as the mainland UK. Although we have 1 stretch of about 200 metres which is a 70mph dual carriageway in Newport. The rest is a mix of 60mph,50mph,40mph,30mph and 20mph.
What is the language of the Isle of Wight?
The main spoken language just like the mainland UK, is English. Although the Isle of Wight does have some unique words such as "Somewhen" (Some point), "Nipper" (Young Person) and "Gurt" (Big) something the island isn't...
How big is the Isle of Wight?
The Isle of Wight is only 23 miles wide and 13 miles "tall". This equates roughly to 147 square miles or just over 3 times the size of Jersey.
Does the Isle of Wight have a Hospital?
Yes. This is located in the heart of the island in Newport - called St.Marys.
