Many of our guests come to the Isle of Wight just because of the walking. The Island has many circular coastal walks and countryside walks and in a short distance you can get an incredible vaiety of views. These are some of our favourites:
Tennyson Down
An invigorating downland circular walk, with a splendid view of the iconic Needles, a 19th-century fort, a Cold War rocket test site and a monument to a Victorian poet laureate. This 7-mile (11km) figure-of-eight walk can be split into two shorter walks of 3 and 4 miles (4.5 and 7.5km). Full details of the Tennyson Down walk.
Newtown Nature Reserve
Enjoy this 3.6 mile (5.8-km) circular trail near Newport with shorted options. This gentle stroll will take you through the varied habitats of the island’s only National Nature Reserve. Along the way you can pass a Town Hall with a colourful past, discover butterflies flitting through the meadows in summer or spy flocks of visiting birds in the cooler months. The best times to visit this trail are April through July. Full details of the Newtown Nature Reserve walk.
St Helens and Seagrove Bay
A 3.5 mile (6 km) coastal and countryside circular walk which takes you across the causeway, which is all that remains of the historic tidal mill, to the Duver and then on to secluded Seagrove Bay. St Helens and Seagrove Bay walk.
Compton Bay and Downs
This 7.5 mile (12km) circular walk enjoys far-reaching views over the ridge of Afton, Brook and Compton Downs. Follow in the footsteps of the dinosaurs and look for their fossilised remains as you stroll back along the coast. Full details of Compton Bay walk.
Godshill and Appuldurcombe
This 5.1 mile (8.2km) hilly circular walk has excellent landscape views. The walk starts at the chocolate box village of Godshill and passes the historic Appuldurcombe House, home of the Worsley family in 18th century. Godshill and Gat Cliff walk.
Headon Warren
A 4.2 mile (6.7km) walk which heads up Headon Warren from Totland. It is an exhilarating walk with great views of the mainland, a classic view of the Needles, and a Bronze Age burial mound to discover. This walk can be shortened to 3 miles (4.8km) by missing out Alum Bay. Full details of Headon Warren walk.
As walking is so popular we get asked lots of questions by our guest, so we thought it would be useful to have an FAQ section:
Are the paths well-marked?
Most official routes have clear signage, but a good map or GPS app is recommended.
Can I bring my dog on these walks?
Many trails welcome dogs, though livestock areas may require leads.
Is there a best season for walking on the Isle of Wight?
Spring and summer offer lush scenery, autumn brings stunning colors, and winter trails tend to be quieter.
Do circular walks include cafes or pubs?
Many pass through villages with excellent refreshment spots
Where can I park for these walks?
Many trails have designated car parks, often at the start or near key landmarks.
Are guided walks available?
Yes, especially during events like the Isle of Wight Walking Festival.
Where can I find detailed maps of circular walks?
Tourist points, websites, and walking apps provide maps and route guides.
All of these walks are accessed easily by car from any of our properties: the 5 bedroom Bermuda House, 4 bedroom Gills Cliff House, Beach View Apartment which has 2 bedrooms plus a stunning view and High Street Suites 3.
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