A ticket to Ryde: Book an Isle of Wight trip and you could win with Wightlink’s Big Autumn Giveaway promotion

Catch the FastCat from inside Portsmouth Harbour railway station and take a short break in Ryde this autumn. No car required.

A new welcome to the Isle of Wight

Wightlink has reinstated an old Victorian tramway on Ryde Pier to create a brand-new walkway. Visitors arriving on the FastCat can enjoy a relaxing stroll on their way to the town or beach, stopping to take in the breathtaking views across the Solent.

What can I do in Ryde?

Ryde offers a wonderful escape from the mainland, even if you can only manage a few hours away. Expect golden sandy beaches, coastal walks, great boutique shops and a host of independent eateries.

Pretend you’re in a fairytale at the Instagrammable Appley Tower. Wander along the bustling seafront and enjoy an ice cream or a bag of chips (or both). Wade barefoot through the shallow waters. Stop for a cocktail overlooking the Solent.

You’ll find so much on the high street; vintage stores, art galleries and secret gardens tucked behind boutiques. It’s easy to spend a few hours browsing.

Foodies will love Pickle & Dill (cheese, wine and tapas), fine dining at The Heron or The Duck, all the chocolate goodness at Chocolate Apothecary and excellent artisan coffee at No. 64. Whiskey lovers won’t want to miss Sip & Smoke, a boutique cigar and whiskey shop.

Feel like being a bit more active? Goodleaf Tree Climbing offer you the chance to spend a magical two hours in the canopy of a majestic oak tree. If you enjoy walking, there are plenty of routes from Ryde. A walk along the coast heading eastwards will take you along to Appley, Seaview and Seagrove. Or head west towards Quarr Abbey, to explore a monastery that’s home to woodland paths and resident pigs.

If the weather doesn’t live up to your expectations, you can always head indoors to the Isle of Wight Bus and Coach Museum, The Museum of Ryde or The Lost Crypt Escape Room. Or try a spot of all-weather karting (it’s apparently more fun in the rain!).

Did you know?

- It’s the UK’s oldest pier and at half a mile long it’s the second-longest seaside pier in the country.

- Although it’s referred to as ‘Ryde Pier’, it’s really three piers in one. The promenade pier opened in 1814. The second was built in 1864 for horse-drawn trams and in 1880, rail companies built a third pier to carry a double-track rail line.

- It costs less than you think! Travel across after noon and save with Wightlink’s Afternoon Flyer ticket. For just £21 per adult ^, you can stay late into evening (as long as you come back by 4.30am the next day).

Big Autumn Giveaway

Start planning your next escape with Wightlink and you could win fantastic prizes this autumn.

In honour of the season of golden hues and cosy nights, Wightlink is offering loads of great giveaways. And all you need to do to be in with a chance of winning is book a sailing.

Book online between 18 September and 15 October (for travel at any date)* and ensure you select the 'Big Autumn Giveaway' option in the checkout.

Imagine the thrill of winning a dream holiday, or scooping up weekly prizes that range from exciting adventures on the Isle of Wight to enchanting attractions on the south coast.

Book now

For more inspiration and to book your ferry, visit wightlink.co.uk

For full terms & conditions visit wightlink.co.uk/terms or wightlink.co.uk/BAG

Photos thanks to Wightlink and Ryde Town Council