Travel by train to the Isle of Wight

Looking to explore the stunning Isle of Wight? The best way to start your Island escape is by hopping on one of the many train routes to the Island, thanks to convenient connections from all over the UK.

With direct rail links to ferry ports such as Portsmouth Harbour, Southampton Central, and Lymington Pier, reaching the Isle of Wight by train has never been easier. Once there, it’s a simple hop across the Solent by ferry to your Island destination.

Why travel by train?

Choosing to travel by train to the Isle of Wight is not only more sustainable but often quicker!

You can buy “through” tickets that cover both your train journey and ferry crossing, ensuring seamless travel without the need for multiple bookings. Plus, any rail discounts you qualify for (such as Railcards) can often be applied to the whole journey, including the ferry ride.

If you’re planning to explore the Island further, opt for a through ticket that includes travel on the Island Line Train Service. This will get you around the Isle of Wight with ease, stopping at key locations including Ryde, Sandown, and Shanklin.

You can also buy a combined Hover Rover Rail ticket which includes a day return on the hovercraft from Southsea, plus unlimited use of the Island Line trains. 

If you are arriving into Southampton Central train station, hop on the free shuttle Quayconnect bus which takes you directly to the Red Funnel terminals (for either the Red Jet or the car ferry service).

Check train times and tickets

Exploring the Isle of Wight has never been easier! With our handy South Western Railway widget below, you can check train times and prices in just a few clicks. Whether you're planning a day trip, a weekend getaway, or a longer stay, this tool is your go-to for up-to-the-minute information on train services to and from the Isle of Wight.

UPDATE: Engineering works are currently taking place on Ryde Pier. Click here for further details.

Journey times to the Isle of Wight from major UK cities

Curious about how long it takes to reach the Isle of Wight by train from your city? Here’s a quick look at average travel times (including the ferry crossing):

• London to West Cowes: 2 hours 3 minutes via Southampton Central station
• London to Ryde: 2 hours via Portsmouth Harbour station
• Brighton to Ryde: 2 hours 5 minutes via Portsmouth Harbour station
• Oxford to West Cowes: 2 hours 15 minutes via Southampton Central station
• Bristol to West Cowes: 2 hours 46 minutes via Southampton Central station
• Birmingham to West Cowes: 3 hours 25 minutes via Southampton Central station
• Birmingham to Ryde: 4 hours 25 minutes via Portsmouth Harbour station
• Cardiff to West Cowes: 3 hours 40 minutes via Southampton Central station
• Exeter to West Cowes: 3 hours 40 minutes via Southampton Central station
• Manchester to Ryde: 5 hours 20 minutes via Portsmouth Harbour station

Planning your journey to the Island

There are multiple train operators offering routes to the ferry ports connecting the Isle of Wight, making it easy to find a service that works for you. Joint train and ferry tickets are available from many operators, and you can also review schedules online to plan the smoothest route. Be sure to book in advance to take advantage of the best prices, and enjoy a hassle-free journey to the Isle of Wight.

South Western Railway Journey Planner

There are so many different ways you can save when you buy train tickets. At South Western Railway they sell cheap train tickets to everywhere in Britain.

Check train times in advance on the South Western Railway website and get the best price with no booking fee.