Ryde is a seaside village and civil parish situated on the north-east coast of the Isle of Wight in England. It serves as the largest town on the island, rising from the pier into the hills behind. Administratively, it operates under the Isle of Wight unitary authority area, having transitioned through various municipal borough and district statuses since the nineteenth century. The location is defined by its coastal geography and its role as a primary gateway to the island.

The settlement originated as a fishing village with first mentions in 1300, though it was largely destroyed during a French invasion in 1377. It developed from the separate hamlets of Upper Ryde and Lower Ryde, which merged in the nineteenth century to form a seaside resort. The name derives from Old English meaning a small stream, with recorded variations appearing from 1257 onwards. Historical events include the sinking of the Mary Rose nearby and the washing ashore of bodies from HMS Royal George in 1782.

The town is characterized by Regency and Victorian architecture, including All Saints' Church designed by George Gilbert Scott and Ryde Town Hall completed in 1831. A defining feature is the expansive pier, opened in 1814, which is the fourth longest in the United Kingdom and allows vehicles to drive onto ferries. Other landmarks include Ryde Castle, a hotel built in the crenellated style, and twin church spires visible from the sea. The town centre sits on a hill with local shops and chain retailers.

Ryde attracts visitors through its golden sand beaches, esplanade amenities, and cultural events. It hosts England's oldest carnival, featuring processions in August and a lantern parade in December. The area offers numerous attractions including a swimming pool, bowling alley, amusement arcades, and a marina suitable for smaller boats. The town also has a rich history of entertainment, including speedway racing at Smallbrook Stadium and various summer-only bus services connecting to tourist sites.

The parish had a population of 24,096 according to the 2021 Census, while verified facts cite 24,100 as of 2021. Transport links are extensive, featuring a hovercraft service to Southsea and a Wightlink catamaran to Portsmouth. The Island Line railway connects Ryde Pier Head to Shanklin, and the town is a major hub for Southern Vectis buses. The economy benefits significantly from tourism, with day-trippers accessing amenities directly from the pier.