The Oldest Pier in Britain
Having opened for the first time in July 1814, this much loved seaside pier is nearly 200 years old.
Book Top Experiences and Tours in Isle of Wight:
If youʻre booking your trip to Isle of Wight last minute, we have you covered. Below are some of the top tours and experiences!- English Heritage: Attractions Pass for Overseas Visitors
- Isle of Wight: Osborne Admission Ticket
- Portsmouth: Hovercraft Flight to the Isle of Wight
Ryde Pier
Ryde Pier on the is Britainâs Oldest Pier. Having opened for the first time in July 1814, this much loved seaside pier is now nearly 200 years old. These days, the pier is still vital to Ryde town and the Isle of Wight, as the home to one of Wightlinkâs ferry terminals linking the island to the mainland England. The pier supports both the Isle of Wight train which still travels to the end of the pier, plus is open to cars with a car park for Wightlink customers.
Party on the Pier
Party on the Pier originally started in 2011 to celebrate the pier re-opening to traffic, after being shut for a while due to essential maintenance works⦠not surprising really, sheâs an old lady now! Wightlink are now holding the event once a year to celebrate this superb part of British history. This year celebrated 200 years since the laying of the foundation stone. Every year this Isle of Wight event is growing and you can expect next year to be even better, celebrating the pierâs 200th birthday.
Party on the Pier 2013 was traditional, great British fun. Having been usually cold for spring so far, this much milder, sunny day bought plenty of tourists and islanders. The pier always looks her best when the sun is shining of course â with blue sea all around and the beautiful wooden and iron design being a credit to Ryde town.Â
There was plenty to see too, with a variety of cars from the Island Classic Car Show, along with modern motor bikes from Isle of Wight Speedway and even a couple of racing cars. There were also quite a few stalls to browse around, not to mention the ice-cream van of course where many people would have been enjoying their first ice cream of the season! The event also supported the Earl Mountbatten Hopsice and St.Catherineâs School.