When someone says “island getaway”, most people immediately picture airports.
Long security queues. Tiny plastic bags. A gate change announced three seconds before boarding. Someone aggressively reclining their seat directly into your kneecaps.
But here’s the thing.
Some of Britain’s best island escapes don’t require a plane at all.
In fact, many are surprisingly easy to reach using a combination of train and ferry. No baggage carousel. No frantic dash to departures. No paying £7 for a bottle of water because you’re trapped in an airport terminal.
Just trains, ferries, sea views and the satisfying feeling that you’ve discovered something a little different.
Here are some of our favourite island trips you can reach without stepping foot on a plane.
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Isle of Wight
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The classic island escape
Let’s start with the obvious one.
The Isle of Wight has been a favourite holiday destination for generations and somehow manages to feel both nostalgic and surprisingly fresh at the same time.
You’ll find sandy beaches, traditional seaside towns, coastal walks and enough ice cream opportunities to test even the strongest willpower.
Getting there
One of the best things about visiting the Isle of Wight is how easy it is.
Many people assume they need separate train and ferry tickets, but that’s often not the case.
With TrainSplit, you can book through tickets to destinations including:
- Ryde Pier Head
- Ryde Esplanade
- Brading
- Sandown
- Lake
- Shanklin
Simply book your journey as normal and the itinerary includes the necessary rail and ferry connections.
No juggling multiple bookings. No guesswork.
Once you’re on the island, the Island Line railway makes it easy to explore without a car.
Don’t miss
- The Needles
- Shanklin Old Village
- Osborne House
- Ryde Beach
If you’re travelling with a Railcard and booking through TrainSplit, you may be able to combine rail discounts with split ticket savings to reduce the cost of getting there.
Which is always more fun than paying full fare.
Holy Island, Northumberland
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The island with opening hours set by the sea
Holy Island, also known as Lindisfarne, is one of Britain’s most unusual destinations.
Why?
Because sometimes you can’t get there.
The island is connected to the mainland by a causeway that disappears under the sea during high tide.
Imagine your local road occasionally deciding it wants to be a river. That’s basically the situation.
Getting there
Take the train to Berwick-upon-Tweed.
From there, buses and taxis connect to Holy Island during safe crossing periods.
Just make sure you check tide times before travelling.
The local rescue teams would probably appreciate it.
Don’t miss
- Lindisfarne Castle
- Lindisfarne Priory
- Wildlife watching
- Stunning coastal scenery
Isle of Arran
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Scotland’s greatest hits album
Locals often call Arran “Scotland in miniature”.
After visiting, you’ll understand why.
Mountains? Yes.
Castles? Absolutely.
Dramatic coastline? Of course.
Wildlife? Plenty.
It’s like someone took the best bits of Scotland and squeezed them onto one island.
Getting there
Take the train to Ardrossan Harbour.
The ferry terminal sits right next to the railway station, making connections refreshingly straightforward.
For once, everything is exactly where you’d hope it would be.
Don’t miss
- Goat Fell
- Brodick Castle
- Machrie Moor standing stones
- Coastal cycling routes
Isle of Mull
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For people who like their scenery dramatic
Some destinations are relaxing.
Mull is spectacular.
The island is known for rugged landscapes, colourful harbours and some of Britain’s best wildlife spotting.
You might see an eagle.
You might see an otter.
You might spend an hour pretending you’re presenting a nature documentary.
No judgement here.
Getting there
Take the train to Oban.
The railway line to Oban is often considered one of Britain’s most scenic train journeys, so the holiday starts well before the ferry.
From Oban, regular ferries cross to Craignure on Mull.
Don’t miss
- Tobermory
- Duart Castle
- Calgary Bay
- Wildlife cruises
Anglesey
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An island that’s easier to reach than people realise
Anglesey tends to fly under the radar.
Which is excellent news for everyone who visits.
Connected to mainland Wales by bridge, it offers beautiful beaches, rugged coastline and some fascinating history.
It’s also home to a village with a famously long name that most people can only pronounce after several attempts and a strong cup of tea.
Getting there
Take the train to Bangor or Holyhead.
From there, local transport connections make exploring the island straightforward.
Don’t miss
- South Stack Lighthouse
- Beaumaris Castle
- Newborough Beach
- Puffin Island boat trips
Why train and ferry travel feels different
There is something uniquely satisfying about travelling to an island by train and ferry.
The journey unfolds gradually.
Cities become countryside.
Countryside becomes coastline.
Then suddenly you’re crossing open water towards somewhere completely different.
It feels like part of the adventure rather than something you simply have to endure.
Unlike airports, you’re not being asked to remove your belt while balancing your laptop, phone and dignity in a plastic tray.
Save money on the journey
Island escapes don’t have to come with eye-watering travel costs.
Before booking, it’s worth checking whether split ticketing can reduce the price of your rail journey.
TrainSplit automatically searches for valid split ticket combinations and applies Railcard discounts where eligible, helping you find cheaper train tickets without having to compare dozens of fares yourself.
Because spending less on getting there usually means having more money for ice cream, fish and chips or that souvenir you absolutely don’t need but somehow end up buying anyway.
Ready to explore?
You don’t need a passport stamp or a boarding pass to enjoy a proper island adventure.
Whether it’s the beaches of the Isle of Wight, the wildlife of Mull, the history of Holy Island or the coastline of Anglesey, there are plenty of incredible island destinations waiting at the end of a train journey.
All you need is a ticket, a ferry crossing and a sense of adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you visit UK islands without flying?
Yes. Many UK islands can be reached using a combination of train and ferry services, making them a great alternative to flying.
Which UK islands are easiest to reach by train?
The Isle of Wight, Arran, Mull and Anglesey are among the easiest island destinations to reach using rail and ferry connections.
Can I book rail and ferry travel together?
For some destinations, yes. TrainSplit can offer through-ticket options that include both rail and ferry travel where available.
Can I book train tickets to Ryde Esplanade?
Yes. TrainSplit offers through journeys to Isle of Wight stations including Ryde Esplanade, Ryde Pier Head, Sandown and Shanklin.
Is the Isle of Wight accessible without a car?
Yes. The island has rail, bus and ferry connections, making it easy to explore without driving.
What's the best Scottish island to visit by train and ferry?
Arran and Mull are both excellent choices. They offer stunning scenery, outdoor activities and straightforward rail and ferry connections.
Can I use a Railcard for island trips?
Yes. Eligible Railcard discounts can be applied to many rail journeys before connecting with ferry services.
Does TrainSplit work with Railcards?
Yes. TrainSplit automatically applies your Railcard discount where valid and searches for eligible split ticket savings.
Are train and ferry holidays cheaper than flying?
They can be, especially when travelling within the UK. Railcards and split ticketing may help reduce the overall cost even further.
What should I bring for a train and ferry trip?
Travel documents, comfortable clothing and weather-appropriate gear are usually all you need. Unlike flying, there are fewer luggage restrictions to worry about.
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