The line from Ryde to Shanklin was constructed between 1862 and 1864, and opened to passenger traffic on 23 August 1864.

This brought all the railway services on the island under one management, and considerable modernisation.

When the line was closed, children from outlying villages going to the Sandown Schools were then transported by bus, the current situation.

All services at Sandown are operated by Island Line using Class 484 EMUs.

The typical off-peak service in trains per hour is:[3] These services call at all stations, except Smallbrook Junction, which is served only during operating dates for the Isle of Wight Steam Railway.