Over half of the island is recognised as an AONB, and what better way to explore this than putting on your walking boots and getting out there! There are over 60 miles of beautiful coastline, and over 500 miles of footpaths to discover for all abilities and tastes.
Here are some of our favourites:
The Seaview Experience: This is a lovely walk to do on a sunny day! Starting in Ryde enjoy the sea views as you make your way across the seafront to Seaview. Once you get to Seaview you can make your way further along to St Helens Duver. This can be accessed along the beach if the tide is low, or through the footpaths along Seagrove Bay if not. ‘
This is a 2.5km walk, mainly flat but there are some hills, which should be good for children and dogs too!
Brading Marshes: This is a beautiful walk. There are various different places you can start and finish the route.
If you fancy a bit of a challenge; you can start at Bembridge Windmill and make your way down, through Brading, back through St Helens and along Bembridge Harbour. Alternatively, you can walk along the footpath along Bembridge Harbour, which is all flat, and still get to experience the beautiful sights and wildlife that the marshes have to offer!
The Tennyson Trail: This is one of the harder walking routes on the island. However, it is worth it for the amazing views once you get to the top of Tennyson Down and to The Needles! The Tennyson trail is a dog friendly 7mile walk, that is up hill for the most part. It will take you up to Tennyson monument, across the down and along to The Needles Old Battery, towards Alum Bay.
The Isle of Wight Walking Festival: The Isle of Wight Walking Festival takes place twice a year. The Spring event starts on the 13th of May and continues through to the 21st. There is a second event in the Autumn, this runs from the 7th of October through to the 15th. This festival has been recognized as one of the UK’s longest running walking festivals. It started in 1997 with 39 different routes, and now boast over 80 different routes to choose from!
You can find details and routes for this Spring’s walking festival here.
