Get your Ticket to Ryde: Fun family days out ideas for half-term – and kids go free!

With sandy beaches, quirky shops, great places to eat and plenty to do whatever the weather, it’s the perfect half-term escape that feels like a real adventure, without the hassle of travelling far.

Kids go free

Kids travel free with Wightlink during the school holidays – meaning you can enjoy an Isle of Wight day trip without breaking the bank. For a family of four, that’s as little as £56.40 return on the FastCat in total!*

You’ll sail from Portsmouth Harbour and arrive right at the end of Ryde Pier – a destination in itself. Opened in 1814, it’s the oldest pier in the UK and the second longest, stretching out gracefully over the Solent. Step off the ferry, breathe in the sea air and get ready for a day packed with family fun.

Outdoor adventures

You’ve got a whole week to keep the kids entertained, so get them outdoors and let them burn off some energy – they’ll sleep soundly after an action-packed day on the Island!

• Beach adventures – Play a game of catch, hunt for shells or simply enjoy a blustery walk along Ryde’s wide sandy beach. Dogs are welcome on the whole beach at this time of year, making it a great spot for the whole family.
• Bike rides – Cycle along the scenic seafront promenade, perfect for younger riders, or venture further inland if you’ve got the energy (just remember – Ryde has lots of challenging hills!).
• Go karting – Head to Wight Karting, just outside the town, for some friendly family competition and high-speed thrills on the track.
• Wonderful walks – Enjoy a peaceful stroll through the woods and countryside to Quarr Abbey, where you can visit the resident pigs and explore the beautiful grounds. Or walk east along the coast to the pretty village of Seaview.
• Tree climbing – For something completely different, try Goodleaf Tree Climbing and scale a giant oak under expert supervision – a safe, exciting way to see Ryde from a new angle!

Indoor fun

Let’s face it – even though the Isle of Wight is known as one of the sunniest spots in the UK, we can’t always count on the weather. Luckily, Ryde’s full of fun things to do indoors too, so a little rain won’t stop your half-term plans.

• Bowling and Laser Quest – Challenge the kids to a few frames or a laser tag battle at Ryde Superbowl – perfect for keeping everyone smiling whatever the weather.
• Isle of Wight Bus & Coach Museum – Step back in time and climb aboard beautifully restored vintage buses that tell the story of Island travel through the ages.
• Monkton Arts – Discover this creative community hub with its friendly café, exhibitions and workshops – a lovely place to relax and soak up some local culture.
• Isle of Wight Steam Railway – Hop on the train from Ryde Pier Head to Havenstreet, where you can experience the golden age of steam at the museum and on restored trains.
• Independent shopping – Wander Ryde’s vibrant high street and discover a treasure trove of independent boutiques, vintage shops and local art galleries – perfect for picking up unique souvenirs and gifts.

Book your ticket now

To find out more and book your family ticket visit wightlink.co.uk/kgf

*Based on two adult and two child foot passenger day returns on the Portsmouth Harbour–Ryde Pier Head route, booked in advance. Offer valid from 18 October - 2 November, Take up to two children aged 5-15 for free with every adult or senior foot passenger day return ticket. Visit wightlink.co.uk/terms