1966 And All That – Walk the Line: Cowes to Newport 2026

Commemorating the 60th anniversary of the closure of the Ryde to Cowes line

Join our knowledgeable guides to ‘walk the line’ from Cowes to Newport. Learn about the history of the line as we commemorate the 60th anniversary of the last train which ran on the evening of Sunday 20 February 1966.

Starting at the site of Cowes station we’ll trace the line through the town, discovering the entrances to Milll Hill tunnel and the remains of Mill Hill station. Once out of Cowes the line becomes a cycle track which we’ll follow past the site of Medina Wharf to the iron viaduct at Cement Mills. Newport station has been lost beneath the town’s bypass and industrial estate, however we’ll discover the remains of the Medina viaduct and the short tunnel under Fairlee Road.

Date: 21st February 2026

Start: Meet outside Marks & Spencer in Cowes at 09:35. This is the terminus of the No 1 Southern Vectis bus from Newport, and a 2-minute walk from the Red Funnel ferry terminal.

Finish: The walk finishes at Newport station around 12:30. From here there are regular buses to Cowes and the rest of the Island.

Distance: 5 miles (8km)

Total ascent: 100 feet (40 metres). Generally well-graded throughout with no prolonged ascents.

Tickets: £7.50 (children free) – book in advance. All proceeds to the Isle of Wight Steam Railway Ashey Station appeal.

What to wear & bring: Sturdy footwear (the approach to Mill Hill tunnel can be muddy), warm clothing and waterproof jacket, picnic lunch, water bottle.

Book walk tickets here or on the button below.