Whether it be for fun, for a day out, or to save driving we have often taken the Hythe Ferry from the New Forest side over to Southampton.
This post will tell you all you need to know, including how much it costs, how long it takes, and what to expect.
As usual, I have done a video on this too, which you can see below, or over on my YouTube channel
About the Hythe Ferry and Pier
The Hythe Ferry and Pier has been in operation for over 120 years and provides a quick link between the village of Hythe, near the New Forest, and the main port in Southampton.
The Southampton port is about a 30-minute walk to the main city center. We have often traveled into the city, on the ferry for a cinema trip, or for a day or afternoon out.
If you want to take the trip, then there is a long stay car park in Jones Lane, SO45 6DU. This is just a 5-minute walk to the start of the pier.
The pier stretches about 700 feet into the Solent, and even if you don’t want to take the ferry from Hythe, you can pay a nominal fee to walk the pier. Alternatively, there is a train that runs the entire length.
Prices and Timings
The prices are reasonable. An adult return ticket is £7.50 and a child return is £5.50. There are also Family tickets and Concessions available. More information can be found here.
In terms of Timings, at the time of writing the Hythe Ferry leaves every 30 minutes, from roughly 7am. A full timetable can be found on their website.
The journey time is roughly 15 minutes, plus the train or walk along the pier.
Hythe Ferry Route
As mentioned, the route runs from the end of the pier across the Solent, and into the Terminal near Southampton city.
On the way, you can check out the cruise liners, the container ships, or just sit back and enjoy the ride.
Leaving the Hythe Pier 
Summary and Photos
The Hythe Ferry really is a great way to spend a few hours.
It also takes the stress out of worrying about parking. Especially if you are staying in the New Forest, and you want to visit the city.
Alternatively, perhaps you want are staying in the city, and want to visit the New Forest? Take the Hythe Ferry, and perhaps try the hop-on hop-off bus tour?
Either way, the ferry is a great option, and every passenger that rides it helps keep this old pier and ferry going for just a little bit longer.
Let me know in the comments if you have ridden the ferry, and what you thought?
In the meantime, here are a few more photos of our trip.
