Isle of Wight Beer and Buses 2016

[Birdbrain]

So I know it's a long time away, but I just wanted to let you know about this years's beer and bus event on the Isle of Wight taking place on Saturday 15th and Sunday 16th October. This will be the biggest event we have ever staged with over 70 vehicles in operation. If you like Bristol/ECW buses then you'll be in luck with 15 Bristol VR's and 8 RE's. You can see the fulll list of operating vehicles here: http://iwbeerandbuses.co.uk/buses.php

As for the routes, there will be a comprehensive network across the Island. Once again we will be linking with Island Line services at Shanklin and Ryde Esplanade. We are increasing frequencies on many routes to provide more seats. See the network map here: http://iwbeerandbuses.co.uk/map.php We will also link with the Isle of Wight Steam Railway at Wotton who will be providing FREE travel to Havenstreet for those who buy a Beer and Buses programme. For more details on this see http://www.iwsteamrailway.co.uk/events/beer-and-buses-event.aspx

If you have any questions comments or suggestions please post them on this thread. I can keep this updated with any more news nearer the time also. Hopefully see you there!

Our Facebook page:https://www.facebook.com/events/973182279414133/

 

[83G/84D]

I visited the Island for the first time last year for this event and really enjoyed it. Great pubs and a good selection of buses.

I have already booked accommodation and travel for this year and am looking forward to it.

 

[Birdbrain]

Just to let you all know that you can now buy your copy of the programme. If you buy online before the event you can take advantage of our special deal with Wightlink Ferries! This link has all you need to know http://iwbeerandbuses.co.uk/programme.php

 

[christopher]

A really must go to event, Last year was superb! By far the best event about

 

[Birdbrain]

Thanks! Going to be even bigger and better this year with almost a 50% increase in the amount of departures!

 

[83G/84D]

Thanks! Going to be even bigger and better this year with almost a 50% increase in the amount of departures!

Any plans for deckers to go up to Culver Down this year? I missed the VR that went up there last year and wouldn't mind to sample one this year.

 

[richw]

Any recommendations for cheap accommodation? I'm in early planning of a 3 in 7 freedom of the southwest for sept/oct time, maybe could go to Pompey or Lymington and then go across to Wight to make things more interesting!

 

[Birdbrain]

@83G/84D As you can see on the route map we are running the Culver route from Ryde this year. The plan is that every departure on this route will be double deck which will of course involve plenty of VR action!

@richw I think this would fit well into a FOSW. If you come during our event you could arrive via Lymington and leave via Portsmouth perhaps and use our free bus network in between. Routes B/C connect with ferries at Yarmouth and Route Y serves the bottom of Ryde Pier. Whilst cheaper B and B accommodation may be filling up you might find the new Travelodge in Ryde has space or the new premier inn at Lake. There are other Travelodges/Premier inn at Newport near the main event hub.

 

[theblackwatch]

I've booked myself accommodation in Shanklin for 2 nights - found a place for £28 for a single with breakfast a couple weeks ago. It does seem the island is filling up though (unsurprisingly).

When is the event programme/timetable likely to be available to buy?

 

[83G/84D]

I've booked myself accommodation in Shanklin for 2 nights - found a place for £28 for a single with breakfast a couple weeks ago. It does seem the island is filling up though (unsurprisingly).

When is the event programme/timetable likely to be available to buy?

See post #3.

 

[Birdbrain]

Programmes available now! http://iwbeerandbuses.co.uk/programme.php Shanklin is a good choice, three routes serve the railway station and the old village. First departure 1045 last 1915

 

[theblackwatch]

Excellet, thanks. I looked when I booked my accommodation and only the 2015 programme was available then failed to spot #3.

The only reason I chose Shanklin was because I found a decent and reasonably priced place to stay! Forum meet/beer(s)/bus bash anyone one day?