Ryde is the major ferry port and so is often the first place on the island that visitors pass through.  It’s just a short sea crossing from Portsmouth or Southsea.  The beach here has miles of golden sand and shallow waters, it’s just perfect for beach games.  The Esplanade area has a marina and beautiful gardens as well as offering a wealth of family activities such as amusements, play parks, pitch and putt, a boating lake, and a swimming pool with a retractable roof.  The town also has a range of interesting shops and boutiques. 

Nearby is Quarr Abbey, the ruins of which date back to 1132.  Today the new abbey founded in 1907 is open to the public.  Other attractions include the Isle of Wight Steam Railway, and the Brickfields Horse Country with its fabulous shire horses and an equine museum.