2026 Tournament: Registrations now open — Feb 16–22, Ryde, Isle of Wight. Register now →
Isle of Wight coastline

Contact Us

Questions about registration, prize claims, accommodation, or anything else? We're happy to help.

We'd Love to Hear From You

Whether you're a prospective player, spectator, journalist, or potential sponsor — our team is ready to help.

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Email

info@iowchess.com

We aim to respond within 2 working days.

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Tournament Venue

Ryde School with Upper Chine
Queen's Road, Ryde
Isle of Wight, PO33 3BE, UK

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Getting to the Island

Ferry services from Portsmouth (Wightlink & Hovertravel), Lymington (Wightlink), and Southampton (Red Funnel).

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Accommodation

Book early — a list of hotels and B&Bs near the venue is available on request.

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We'll get back to you as soon as possible.

Getting to the Isle of Wight

The Isle of Wight is easy to reach from the south coast of England — a short, scenic ferry crossing away.

Coastal harbour
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From Portsmouth

Wightlink Fastcat to Ryde Pier Head — 22 minutes

Hovertravel to Ryde Esplanade — 10 minutes

Both services run frequently and are very close to the venue.

From Southampton

Red Funnel car ferry to East Cowes — 55 minutes

Ideal if travelling by car. From East Cowes, take a bus or taxi to Ryde (~30–40 min).

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From Lymington

Wightlink Car Ferry to Yarmouth — 40 minutes

Convenient for players from the New Forest area. Ryde is ~50 min by bus from Yarmouth.

Tip: Book your ferry crossings in advance, especially if travelling with a car — the Island gets busy during tournament week.

Accommodation in Ryde

Plenty of options in and around Ryde — book early as the Island is popular in February.

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Hotels

Several hotels within walking distance of the venue and the seafront.

From ~£80/night Ryde town centre
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B&Bs

Numerous friendly bed & breakfasts throughout Ryde offering great value.

From ~£50/night Wide choice
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Self-Catering

Holiday cottages and apartments — ideal for families or longer stays.

From ~£70/night Great for groups

Camping

Several sites on the Island for the adventurous. Book very early.

From ~£25/night Limited availability

Need personalised accommodation advice?

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