Hythe Pier Railway and Ferry
Ride the world's oldest pier railway and take a scenic ferry across Southampton Water for a charming journey through history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Lively atmosphere
Hythe Pier Railway and Ferry
Best Time
Lively atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ride the world's oldest pier railway and take a scenic ferry across Southampton Water for a charming journey through history.
"A great little journey from Southampton to Hythe - certainly the smallest commercial railway I have ever been on!"
🚢 Ferry Views
Sit outside on the ferry for the best wind and water views!
🚂 Historic Ride
The pier train is over 100 years old – a unique experience!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hythe Pier Railway
Hythe Pier
Ride the world's oldest pier railway, a charming 700m journey over the water.
Southampton Ferry Crossing
Southampton Water
Enjoy scenic views of Southampton Water and cruise ships from the ferry.
King George VI's Seat
Hythe Pier Railway Carriage
Spot the historic seat once used by King George VI on the pier train.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Historic Charm
Plan Your Ferry Connection
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚢 Ferry Views
Sit outside on the ferry for the best wind and water views!
🚂 Historic Ride
The pier train is over 100 years old – a unique experience! +1
💰 Return Ticket Value
A return ticket covers both the train and ferry for a great price.
♿ Wheelchair Accessible
The service is accessible for wheelchair users.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Ferry Views
Sit outside on the ferry for the best wind and water views!
🚂 Historic Ride
The pier train is over 100 years old – a unique experience! +1
💰 Return Ticket Value
A return ticket covers both the train and ferry for a great price.
♿ Wheelchair Accessible
The service is accessible for wheelchair users.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Hythe Pier Railway and Ferry for its unique historic charm and scenic value. The combination of the vintage train ride and the picturesque ferry crossing to Southampton is a highlight, offering great views of the water and cruise ships at an affordable price. Some note the pier's 'gentle decay' adds to its character, though it might not appeal to everyone seeking modern polish.
"Really liked this trip across to Southampton from Hythe. Involves a short train ride to the end of the pier, so grateful they keep this maintained for our pleasure. And rested my bum cheeks in the same seat as King George VI."
glyn moore (ytgvmtv)
"a great little journey from Southampton to Hythe - about 12 mins - then arrive at Hythe Pier (atmosphere of gentle decay) to find there is a 700m rail journey down the pier to Hythe itself. Wonderful 😊 Certainly the smallest commercial?! railway I have ever been on (over 100 years old). Maintaining it obviously a labour of love."
Chris Church
"An excellent way to get into town! We’ve used this historic service for years and it never fails.
It’s around £7.50 for a return, and that includes a train ride up the pier and the ferry ride. (Make sure you look out for the seat that King George sat in on the train)
The ferry offers fantastic, up-close views of the cruise ships, especially when the Queens are in.
When you get into Southampton, it is a 10 minute walk into West-Quay, or you can take a bus for £1."
William Jarrett
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Hythe Pier Railway by car or public transport. The pier itself is the starting point for the railway. If arriving by ferry from Southampton, you'll disembark directly at the pier.
Limited parking is available near Hythe Pier, but it can fill up quickly, especially during peak times. Consider public transport or arriving early.
Yes, local bus services operate to Hythe, with stops a short walk from the pier. Check local bus timetables for routes and times.
The ferry crossing from Hythe Pier to Southampton typically takes around 12 minutes, offering a quick and scenic journey.
Yes, the Hythe Pier Railway and the ferry service are generally accessible for prams and wheelchairs, making it a convenient option for families and those with mobility needs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
A return ticket for the combined Hythe Pier Railway and Ferry service is approximately £7.50, offering good value for the journey and views.
Tickets can usually be purchased on the day of travel at the pier. It's advisable to check their official website or contact them for any specific booking requirements, especially during busy periods.
Operating hours can vary depending on the season and day of the week. It's best to check the official Hythe Pier Railway and Ferry website for the most up-to-date schedule before your visit.
Information on specific discounts for children or seniors is best obtained directly from the Hythe Pier Railway and Ferry operator. It's common for such services to offer concessions.
While the pier is a public walkway, there might be a small fee for pedestrians to access the full length of the pier, which includes the railway. The combined ticket offers the best value.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
At Hythe Pier, you can enjoy the historic train ride, take the ferry across to Southampton, and admire the views of Southampton Water and the cruise ships. There are also benches for relaxing.
The atmosphere is often described as having a 'gentle decay' and a sense of stepping back in time, with a charming, historic feel.
While there might be limited options directly on the pier itself, the village of Hythe and the city of Southampton offer a wide range of cafes, pubs, and restaurants.
The train itself, the ferry crossing with the Southampton skyline, and the views of large cruise ships are excellent photo opportunities. +1
A round trip including the train and ferry can take about 30-45 minutes, but you might want to allocate more time if you plan to explore Southampton or Hythe village.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, around sunrise and sunset, can offer beautiful light for photographing the pier and the water. Midday can be good for clear shots of cruise ships.
You can capture the train on the pier, its historic carriages, and the unique perspective of it running over the water. +1
The ferry provides excellent, close-up views of cruise ships docked in Southampton, making it a prime spot for ship photography.
A standard zoom lens is versatile. If you're keen on ship photography, a telephoto lens can be beneficial. A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the pier's length.
Drone usage is often restricted in areas with ferry traffic and near ports. Always check local regulations and obtain necessary permissions before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing snacks and drinks, as onboard options might be limited. The journey itself is relatively short, making it ideal for shorter attention spans. It’s a memorable experience that combines a bit of history with a scenic boat trip, perfect for a relaxed family day out.
💰 Budget Travelers
Once in Southampton, walking into the city center from the ferry terminal is free, or you can opt for a very cheap bus ride.
couples
Combine your journey with a stroll along Hythe Marina or explore the shops and cafes in Southampton. It’s a simple yet memorable way to spend quality time together, enjoying the coastal atmosphere and unique transport heritage.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Time: The Hythe Pier Railway
Maintaining such a historic railway is a testament to the dedication of its operators and volunteers. It's often described as a 'labour of love,' ensuring that this unique experience remains available for future generations. Visitors often express delight in the simple, yet profound, experience of riding a train that has been in operation for over a century. Keep an eye out for the special seat once occupied by King George VI, a small detail that adds to the railway's historical significance.
The railway's operation is intrinsically linked to the ferry service, creating a combined transport experience that is both practical and picturesque. It offers a delightful alternative to road travel, allowing visitors to soak in the maritime atmosphere of Southampton Water without the stress of traffic.
The Southampton Ferry: Gateway to the City
The ferry is known for its accessibility, catering to wheelchair users and families with prams, making it a convenient option for all travelers. Sitting outside on the ferry allows you to truly feel the sea breeze and experience the water, enhancing the overall journey.
This ferry crossing is more than just transport; it's an opportunity to appreciate the scale of Southampton's maritime industry and enjoy a refreshing break on the water before exploring the city.
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