Ferry crossings

For as long as can be remembered, Weymouth has been linked with the Channel Islands and northern France by ferry. So if you are embarking or disembarking from the Condor, then why break your journey with an extra day or two before or after your tiring journey.

Before the main cross Channel cargo became that of people, it was a regular trade link with the Channel Islands was first established in 1794. The town was suffering from a reduction in trade due to the continuation of the American Civil War and so new trade routes and thus revenues were being sought. The cross Channel activity was mainly limited to trade until in 1857 when The Great Western Railway became interested in establishing a service to link the Channel Islands to the port. The Weymouth and Channel Islands Steam Packet Services began regular sailing schedules and in 1865, the railway line was extended to the Ferry Terminal itself. This formed a unique Quay Tramway with services linking passengers and goods from major UK towns and cities directly to the gangplank of the ship itself. The ‘boat trains’ continued regular passenger services well in to the 1990s and the tracks are still in place to this day. However, the days of the man with the red flag and shoppers holding their breath whilst quashed against the wall to let the train pass are only reserved now for special trains.

The current service is operated by Condor who run daily services to Guernsey, Jersey and St Malo in France during the summer months. The service does run during the winter months but on a reduced timetable. For further information, timetables or to make a booking, please visit www.condorferries.co.uk.

The Esplanade, Weymouth Seafront Slideshow: Rob’s trip to Weymouth was created with TripAdvisor TripWow!