This new line ran from Smallbrook Junction, near Ryde on the I.W.Railway, through Ashey, Haven Street and Whippingham to Newport where it connected with the Cowes & Newport Railway. It opened on 20th December 1875, and the two railways were operated by a Joint Committee. This line closed on 21st February 1966, but the section from Wootton to Smallbrook Junction is now the Isle of Wight Steam Railway.