Did you know..? Discover the most frequently asked questions about the Isle of Wight

The Isle of Wight is the perfect pocket-sized place to get away from it all. But while we attract millions (yes, millions!) of people looking for an Island escape every year, there are a few things we constantly get asked about – including whether you need a passport to hop across the Island. So, let’s clear up those common misconceptions once and for all!

Is the Isle of Wight part of the UK?

The Isle of Wight is an English island and county located only a few miles off the south coast. Not only is it part of the UK – it’s England’s largest island. Many people wonder, ‘what’s the currency, and will they accept English money?’ The Isle of Wight uses Pound Sterling, with some establishments accepting Euros.

Do you need a passport to visit the Island?

You don’t need a passport to travel here – and you don’t need a visa, either. That’s what makes a holiday to the Island so easy! Just remember that if you’re an international traveller, you’ll need a passport to enter the UK first.

Do I need a GB or UK car sticker if travelling from England?

No, you do not need to display a sticker when travelling to the Isle of Wight. However, you are more than welcome to buy an Isle of Wight sticker when you are over here!

How do you get to the Isle of Wight?

The Isle of Wight couldn’t be easier to get to! There are over 200 car ferry crossings a day from Portsmouth, Southampton and Lymington, which is one of the most popular ways to travel to the Island – especially if you’re coming over for a longer break.

'If you’re travelling by foot, you can catch the car ferry or use the faster crossings - the Red Jet from Southampton or the hovercraft and catamaran from Portsmouth. There are plenty of train and coach services to all the major mainland ferry ports, too, making your journey to the Island a smooth one. Find out more about getting onto the Island here.

How long is the journey to the Isle of Wight?

Getting to the Isle of Wight is quick and easy! It only takes an hour or less, depending on which travel option you choose. Here’s how long it roughly takes through the most popular routes:

• Ferry from Portsmouth to Fishbourne: 45 minutes
• Ferry from Lymington to Yarmouth: 40 minutes
• Ferry from Southampton to East Cowes: 1 hour
• Catamaran from Portsmouth to Ryde Pierhead: 22 minutes
• Hovercraft from Portsmouth to Ryde: 10 minutes
• Red Jet from Southampton to West Cowes: 28 minutes

How long does it take to get around the Island by car?

As long as you didn’t hit much traffic, you could drive from one end of the Island to the other in about an hour. It would take approximately three hours to circle the perimeter. The route will guide you past miles of stunning coastline, with winding roads taking you on a magical tour of the Island’s magnificent countryside.

Can you get around the Island without a car?

You don’t need a car to explore everything the magnificent Isle of Wight has to offer. The best way to see the Island is by bike or foot. Although not the fastest way to get around, walking and cycling undoubtedly provide the best views.

There’s a reliable train network that operates from Ryde Pierhead to Shanklin via the towns of Ryde, Brading, Sandown and Lake. Or for something a little different, the Isle of Wight Steam Railway offers a nostalgic trip in time from Wootton to Smallbrook Junction, where Island Line trains connect to the steam railway.

The main Isle of Wight bus service, operated by Southern Vectis, is refreshingly visible almost everywhere you go. Regular buses run around the main towns until late, giving you plenty of options. Island Line trains also connect to bus services in Ryde and Shanklin, with a short walk to other bus services in Brading, Lake and Sandown.

Is English spoken on the Isle of Wight?

The Isle of Wight is a part of the United Kingdom – along with England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland – meaning its official language is English. However you might hear locals use words such as nammet (lunch), mallyshag (caterpillar), gurt (big), gally-bagger (scarecrow) and somewhen (at an as yet undecided point in time)!

Does the Isle of Wight have an airport?

Yes, the Isle of Wight has two small airfields in Bembridge and Sandown that are suitable for light aircraft. The nearest major airport to the Isle of Wight is Southampton, with the next being Bournemouth. 

Can I fly to the Isle of Wight?

You can fly into the Island on a private aircraft, but most people arrive by boat or ferry. You can find more about flying to the Island here.

Can I fly a drone on the Island?

If your drone weighs less than 250g, you are legally allowed to fly a drone. However, if it is above that weight, a drone pilot license is required. You do not need to register if you’ll only use a drone or model aircraft that weighs below 250g and is a toy or does not have a camera. Take a look at the registration requirements for drones and model aircraft to find out if you need to register. Source: Civil Aviation Authority register-drones.caa.co.uk/. In relation to areas on the Island that you can fly a drone, some areas are not permitted.

National Trust sites: nationaltrust.org.uk/who-we-are/about-us/flying-drones-at-our-places

English Heritage sites: english-heritage.org.uk/about-us/filming-and-tv-locations/drone-filming/

How big is the Island?

The diamond-shaped Isle of Wight is approximately 23 miles x 13 miles (37 kilometres x 21 kilometres). In total, the Island covers 147 square miles (or 380 square km).

What is the population of the Island?

The current population of the Isle of Wight is just over 142,000 people. Plus, the Island gets around 2.6 million visitors a year!

Does the Island have a hospital?

Yes, St Mary's Hospital is located on the outskirts of Newport town. There are also medical centres serving all main towns and surrounding areas. Visit iow.nhs.uk to find out more.

Can I use my bus pass?

Southern Vectis – the bus company that operates on the Island – accepts English national concessionary bus passes for free travel on their buses between 9.30am and 11pm Monday to Friday and at any time on weekends and bank holidays. Visit their website for more information.

When is the best time to visit?

The best thing about the Isle of Wight is that it’s a beautiful place to visit any time of the year.

The Island’s mild temperatures make spring the perfect time to explore – especially if you’re looking to explore the Isle of Wight’s stunning landscape.

Summer on the Isle of Wight is a wonderful time to make memories with loved ones. The Island tends to be busier during the summer holidays, but it’s a great time to enjoy the warm, sunny days and award-winning beaches.

Bright autumn days are perfect for getting out and about on your bike or foot. There are loads of family-friendly activities during the autumn months, too – including Halloween-style fright nights.

If you’re looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of life, winter is the best time to enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the Island. With deserted beaches and quiet roads, you’ll feel like you have the Island all to yourself.