Known as the Gateway to the Island because it is so easy to reach, Ryde is just a short sea crossing from Portsmouth or Southsea. With the construction of the pier, in 1814, and the establishment of a regular ferry service in 1825, the town became an elegant Victorian seaside resort.
Ryde''s main attraction is its miles of glorious golden sand and shallow coastal waters that extend all the way around the coast to Springvale and Seaview. The Esplanade has a marina, beautiful gardens and activities for all the family, such as bowling green, children''s amusement park, ice rink, tenpin bowling, nightclub, boating lake, swimming pool with retractable roof and the dotto train. Stroll along the sea wall to Puckpool Park, with café, tennis and children''s play park. Appley Park has pitch and putt and the Victorian landmark Appley Tower. Regattas have attracted crowds to Ryde for around 150 years. Union Street and the long High Street beyond are packed with interesting shops, pubs.