If you are looking for a railway journey that combines seaside nostalgia, unique rolling stock, and stunning coastal views, look no further than the Island Line. Operated by South Western Railway, this charming 8.5-mile route running down the east coast of the Isle of Wight is more than just a way to get from A to B—it is an attraction in its own right.
Often affectionately described as “the Tube on holiday,” the line is famous for running former London Underground trains. But don’t expect a cramped, dark commute. The recently introduced Class 484 trains (upgraded D78 District Line stock) have revolutionised the journey, offering modern comforts like Wi-Fi and USB charging while retaining that classic, quirky character that rail enthusiasts and holidaymakers adore.
From the moment you rattle over the waves at Ryde Pier to your arrival at the thatched charm of Shanklin, here is why the Island Line is a must-travel route.
What makes this route special
The Island Line is a heavy rail anomaly that feels like a heritage railway but runs as a vital public transport link. Its defining feature is its fleet. Because the tunnel under Ryde is smaller than standard UK railway tunnels, the line has always relied on smaller trains—specifically, retired London Underground stock.
Stepping onto the train feels delightfully familiar to anyone who knows the London network, yet entirely different as you gaze out at the Solent rather than a tunnel wall. The “new” Class 484 trains are spacious and bright, with a “step-free” connection to the platform at most stations, making the line more accessible than ever.
The journey begins (or ends) spectacularly. Ryde Pier Head station is situated at the end of the UK’s second-longest seaside pier. Traveling by train over the sea is a rare thrill, offering panoramic views of the hovercrafts zipping by and ferries crossing from Portsmouth.
The journey: stop by stop
The route takes approximately 25 minutes from end to end, but you could easily spend a whole day hopping on and off.
Ryde (Pier Head, Esplanade & St John’s Road)
Most travellers arrive at Ryde Pier Head directly from the Wightlink catamaran. The train waits on the wooden planks of the pier, ready to whisk you inland. A minute later, you arrive at Ryde Esplanade, the transport hub of the island. Here, you can switch to the Hovercraft or the extensive bus network. The train then dives into the tunnel under the town, emerging at Ryde St John’s Road, the location of the depot where these unique trains are maintained.
Smallbrook Junction
This is one of the most unusual stations in the UK. Accessible only by rail (there are no roads or footpaths leading here), Smallbrook Junction exists solely to connect the Island Line with the award-winning Isle of Wight Steam Railway. Stepping off the modern electric train and walking across the platform to board a Victorian steam locomotive is a magical time-travel experience.
- Note: Trains only stop here when the Steam Railway is operating, so do check the timetable.
Brading
As you head south, the scenery turns to rolling green fields. Brading is a historic town known for its beautifully preserved station building, which houses a heritage centre and a tearoom. It’s a perfect stop for history buffs; the incredible Brading Roman Villa is just a short walk away, offering some of the best-preserved mosaics in Britain.
Sandown
As the line approaches the coast again, you arrive at Sandown. This is a classic British seaside resort, boasting one of the island’s finest sandy beaches. From the station, it’s a downhill stroll to the esplanade, the pier, and the famous Dinosaur Isle museum—the island is, after all, the “Dinosaur Capital of Great Britain.”
Lake
A quiet, often overlooked stop, Lake serves a residential area but is a hidden gem for walkers. It offers easy access to the cliff path that connects Sandown and Shanklin, providing stunning elevated views of the Bay without the crowds of the main towns.
Shanklin
The terminus of the line, Shanklin, is arguably the prettiest town on the route. The station is a gateway to the “Old Village,” famous for its thatched tearooms and the spectacular Shanklin Chine, a deep, tree-lined gorge that cuts through the cliff to the beach. The station itself is a Grade II listed building, providing a fittingly picturesque end to the line.
Practical details and value for money
Frequency and reliability
The Island Line typically operates a service every 30 minutes throughout the day, ensuring you never have to wait long. Early mornings and late evenings may see an hourly service. The journey from Ryde Pier Head to Shanklin takes roughly 24–25 minutes.
Tickets and fares
The line is part of the National Rail network, meaning:
- Railcards (such as the 16-25, Senior, or Two Together) are accepted and offer 1/3 off fares.
- You can buy through tickets from any mainland UK station to “Shanklin” or “Ryde,” which includes the ferry crossing (usually via Portsmouth Harbour and the Wightlink FastCat).
Value for money tip: The Day Ranger
If you plan to make a return journey or stop at multiple stations, the Island Line Day Ranger is excellent value. It allows unlimited travel on the line for a day. It is often cheaper than a standard return ticket if you are hopping off at Brading or Sandown along the way.
Accessibility
The new Class 484 trains have dedicated wheelchair spaces and level boarding (via a sliding step) at most major platforms, a significant upgrade from the old tube trains.
Planning your day out
For the ultimate “Rail and Sail” day trip:
- Morning: Catch the catamaran to Ryde Pier Head. Board the Island Line train immediately—grab a window seat on the left for sea views.
- Mid-morning: Change at Smallbrook Junction for a round trip on the Steam Railway (allow 2 hours).
- Lunch: Rejoin the Island Line and head to Shanklin. Walk down to the Old Village for a crab sandwich or cream tea.
- Afternoon: Walk along the revetment or cliff path to Sandown (about 1.5 miles), enjoying the sea air.
- Evening: Catch the train from Sandown back to Ryde. If you have time, enjoy fish and chips on Ryde Esplanade before hovering or sailing back to the mainland.
Year-round appeal
While the Isle of Wight is a summer favourite, the Island Line runs 365 days a year. In winter, the warm, bright interiors of the trains provide a cosy vantage point to watch the dramatic Solent waves crashing against the Ryde sea wall. Whether you are a rail enthusiast coming to ride the unique “Island Flyers” or a family heading to the beach, this little railway line punches well above its weight in charm and convenience.
