Ryde Travel Guide

Explore the stunning natural attractions, cultural landmarks, local food and drink scene, and welcoming people of Ryde in this ultimate travel guide.


Introduction to Ryde

Nestled in the Isle of Wight off the south coast of England, Ryde offers a perfect mix of vibrant local culture, stunning natural scenery, and sporting opportunities. With heritage sites, outdoor activities, and a thriving downtown core, Ryde is a wonderful vacation destination for families and solo travelers alike.

List of Places to Visit in Ryde

Whether you’re a history buff, an avid hiker, or just looking to relax on beautiful beaches, Ryde has something to offer. So check out the list below and plan your trip accordingly.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you’re a history buff, you’ll love the wide variety of museums and historical places in Ryde. Here are just a few highlights:

  • Ryde Barracks Museum: Located on the site of the historical Ryde Barracks, this museum provides insight into the British Army’s history on the island.

  • All Saints Church: This historic church dates back to the 12th century and offers a breathtaking view of the Solent River.

  • Appley Tower: This historic tower has served as a landmark in Ryde since the 19th century and is now used as a holiday vacation rental.

Natural Attractions of Ryde: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, Ryde will capture your heart with its beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities.

  • Beaches: Ryde’s beaches are beautiful and offer a stunning view of the Solent River. They are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports enthusiasts.

  • Wootton Creek: This tidal estuary is famous for regattas and is a great spot for kayaking and a variety of other water sports.

  • Isle of Wight Coastal Path: This breathtaking path offers stunning views of the Solent River, beautiful beaches and cliffs, as well as wildlife and flora diversity.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ryde

Ryde boasts many beautiful hiking and biking routes. Some of the most popular routes are:

  • The Wight Way Trail: This 12-mile long trail runs through the beautiful countryside of the Isle of Wight and is a must for any hiking and outdoor enthusiast.

  • Monktonmead Brook Trail: This beautiful path is only two miles long but offers great exercise and stunning views of the countryside.

  • The Duke’s Trail: This 10-mile long trail is a popular biking spot, offering challenging terrain and breathtaking views of the sea.

Best Things to Do in Ryde: Activities and Tours

Besides hiking and biking, here are some other fun activities to do in Ryde:

  • Ryde Miniature Railway: This is a great experience for families with young children, offering a leisurely ride on the historic mini train.

  • Ryde Super Water Slide: This exhilarating slide is a great way to cool off and have some fun with friends and family.

  • Ryde Ghost Walk: Perfect for the curious ones and history lovers, this ghost walk offers amazing stories of the island’s past.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ryde

To get the most out of your trip to Ryde, consider following this week-long itinerary:

Day 1 - Museums and Historical Places

Spend the day visiting Ryde Barracks Museum, Appley Tower, and All Saints Church. End the day at one of the many beachside restaurants to try some of the local seafood.

Day 2 - Water sports and Beaches

Spend the day on Ryde’s beaches and try out some water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding at Wootton Creek.

Day 3 - Coastal Path

Hike along the Isle of Wight Coastal Path and take in the stunning views of the cliffs, the beaches, and the sea.

Day 4 - Duke’s Trail

Rent a bike and bike along the Duke’s Trail, stopping at viewpoints along the way.

Day 5 - Family-Friendly Activities

Enjoy family-friendly activities like visiting the Ryde Miniature Railway, the Super Water Slide, and the Island Film Club.

Day 6 - Ghost Walk and Local Food

Experience the Ryde Ghost Walk and end the day with dinner at one of the popular local restaurants, like Three Buoys or The New York Brasserie.

Day 7 - Fishing

Spend the day fishing in the tidal rivers or the ocean, or take a fishing tour with a local captain for the best catch.

Food and Drink Scene of Ryde

No trip to Ryde is complete without trying out the local food and drink scene. Check out some of the best dishes and local beverages below:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Crab and lobster: The ocean around Isle of Wight is home to some of the freshest seafood. Try some of the fresh crab or lobster for a true taste of the area.

  • Garlic mushrooms: This local favorite is a must-try. Served as a starter, the flavors of the mushrooms, garlic, and butter combine to make the perfect dish.

  • Stargazy Pie: This is a traditional dish from Cornwall, but you can find it in Ryde. Made of fish, cooked potatoes and onions and covered in a puff pastry.

Local Beverages

  • Isle of Wight Gin: Produced on the island, this gin combines local botanicals with traditional gin ingredients to create a unique flavor.

  • Goddards Brewery: This brewery produces a variety of beers, including the award-winning Slice of Summer, a fruity IPA perfect for the summer season.

  • Island Roasted Coffee: This local coffee company produces high-quality coffee made from ethically-sourced beans.

Where to Stay in Ryde: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

When it comes to where to stay in Ryde, there are plenty of options for all budgets. Here are a few recommendations:

  • The Royal Esplanade Hotel: This historic hotel offers beautiful views of the sea and is centrally located in Ryde.

  • The Gracellie Hotel: This family-run hotel is known for its comfort and homeliness, offering a great home away from home.

  • Ryde Castle Hotel: This historical castle, built in the 16th century, is located a short distance from the center of Ryde and offers great views of the coast.

What to Buy in Ryde: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

There are plenty of souvenirs and local products to bring home from Ryde. Here are some suggestions:

  • Isle of Wight garlic: Grown on the island, this garlic is known for its unique flavor and is available at local markets.

  • Seaglass: Collected from the island’s beaches, seaglass is a beautiful and unique keepsake.

  • Isle of Wight honey: This local honey is made by bees that feed on the wildflowers and hedgerows of the island.

Local Culture and Customs of Ryde

The people of Ryde are known for their warm, friendly nature and their love of the outdoors. The local market is bustling with activity and the town has a strong live music scene, especially during the summer months.

Best Time to Visit Ryde

Ryde is a great place to visit year-round, but the best time to go is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is sunny and warm.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ryde

When visiting Ryde, keep the following do’s and don’ts in mind:

Do:

  • Try out the local seafood and drinks like the Isle of Wight Gin and beer.

  • Visit the museums and historical landmarks and learn about Ryde’s interesting past.

  • Take the time to explore Ryde’s beautiful outdoor scenery.

Don’t:

  • Litter the beaches or natural areas.

  • Interrupt or intrude in the locals’ religious practices or festivals.

  • Trespass on private property while hiking.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ryde

Ryde is generally a safe place to visit, but you should follow the standard safety measures when traveling. Be aware of your surroundings when walking alone at night and take precautions to avoid theft and harassment. Always supervise children when swimming in the sea and obey the swimming flags and signs on the beach.

Health in Ryde

There are no major health concerns in Ryde, but visitors should make sure they have adequate health coverage in case of an emergency.

Getting to Ryde: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Ryde

The closest airport to Ryde is Southampton Airport, located approximately 27 miles away. Other nearby airports include Gatwick and Heathrow airports.

Bus Stations Near Ryde

The main bus station in Ryde is located near the harbor, with connections to other towns and routes across the island.

Other Options

Ferries are the most popular way to travel to Ryde, with regular services from Portsmouth Harbor and Southampton. The ferry ride is an enjoyable 20-minute ride, offering stunning views of the coastline.

How to Get Around in Ryde

The best way to get around Ryde is by foot or bike. Rental cars are also available but are not necessary, as the island is relatively small and easily navigable. Public transportation, including buses and trains are also a reliable means of transportation.

Where to Go Next from Ryde: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to extend your stay beyond Ryde, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Cowes: Located on the northern shore of the Isle of Wight, Cowes is a bustling harbor town famous for its sailing regattas.

  • Alum Bay: This stunning bay, located on the western tip of the Isle of Wight, is known for its multi-colored sand cliffs and picturesque views.

  • Rosemary Vineyard: This is one of the famous vineyards in the area, in Sandown. Here, you will find English sparkling wine and fruits liqueurs made from the local produce.

Conclusion

Ryde is a stunning vacation destination that offers something for everyone, from cultural landmarks and outdoor adventures to local food and drink scenes. Whether you’re traveling solo or with your family, Ryde is sure to leave a lasting impression with its natural beauty, warm hospitality, and wonderful local culture.

Appley Tower Appley Tower A3055 A3055 A3054 A3054