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Located just off the South coast of England, The Isle of Wight is a must-visit destination for its stunning landscapes, charming villages, beautiful beaches, and a wide range of outdoor activities. From coastal walks to historic landmarks, there is something for everyone. With its peaceful and scenic atmosphere, the Isle of Wight is the perfect getaway.
In this blog post, I will share some of the best walks that I have tried and tested on the Isle of Wight, as well as recommend some great places to stay and eat during your visit.
Best Walks
The Needles and Tennyson Down Walk is one of the most iconic walks on the Isle of Wight. It takes you to the famous Needles landmark and offers breath-taking views of the coast and surrounding countryside.
The walk starts from Alum Bay, where you can take a chairlift down to the beach and explore the fascinating rock formations. From there, you will make your way along the dramatic Tennyson Down, named after the famous poet Lord Tennyson who lived on the island. The down offers stunning panoramic views of the coast, with the Needles standing tall in the distance.
The walk is approximately 6 miles long and is suitable for all levels of walkers. It can be a bit challenging in some parts due to the hilly terrain, but the views make it well worth the effort. Along the way, you can also spot wildlife and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the countryside.
After your walk, you can visit the Needles Park, where you can learn more about the history and geology of the area. There are also shops, cafes, and a chairlift that takes you down to the beach where you can explore the Needles up close.
For those who (like me) enjoy coastal walks, the Isle of Wight offers a stunning coastal path that stretches for 67 miles around the island. The path takes you through charming seaside towns, beautiful beaches, and rugged cliffs.
You can choose to walk the entire path or select specific sections depending on your preferences and fitness level. Click here to explore an excellent free blog guide that divides the path into manageable sections. We've tried and tested all of these walks and they're very easy to follow with excellent tips!
Some highlights along the way include the picturesque village of Ventnor (pictured above), the stunning Compton Bay, and the historic town of Yarmouth.
St. Catherine's Oratory Walk: (The Monk and the Merchant walk)
The St. Catherine's Oratory Walk is a beautiful walk that takes you to the St. Catherine's Oratory, also known as the Pepperpot. This medieval lighthouse is located on St. Catherine's Down and offers panoramic views of the island.
The walk starts from Blackgang viewpoint car park and takes you through rolling hills and peaceful countryside. It is a relatively easy walk, perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll.
Along the way, you can enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding landscape and take in the peaceful atmosphere. Once you reach the St. Catherine's Oratory, you can explore the lighthouse and take in the breath-taking views from the top. The Pepperpot is a unique and historic landmark that adds to the charm of this walk.
These are just a few of the many wonderful walks available on the Isle of Wight. Whether you prefer coastal paths, countryside strolls, or historic landmarks, the island has something to offer for every type of walker.
Now that we have explored some of the best walks on the Isle of Wight, let's move on to where to stay and eat during your visit.
Where to Stay:
The Isle of Wight offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Here are a few top choices:
High Budget Luxury Option: Haven Hall in Shanklin
With its stunning sea views and peaceful atmosphere, Haven Hall blends country house glamour with guesthouse friendliness, offering grand, luxurious accommodation and a truly memorable experience.
High Budget Luxury Option: Sentry Mead in Totland Bay
With its beautiful views and relaxing atmosphere, Sentry Bay is a stunning country home by the sea, offering luxurious accommodation for a truly memorable experience.
Mid-Range Option: The White Lion B&B pub in Niton
Situated in the heart of the village, The White Lion is a beautifully renovated village pub with luxury B&B rooms. It offers a comfortable stay and a friendly atmosphere.
Mid-Range Option: Ryde Castle Hotel by Greene King Inns in Ryde
With its convenient location on the seafront, Ryde Castle Hotel offers historic charm and beautiful views of the Solent.
Budget-friendly option: The Ryedale B&B in Shanklin
With its convenient location -in close proximity to the seafront- The Ryedale is a 4 star guest house that offers clean, comfortable accommodation and a friendly service.
Budget-friendly option: The Braemar B&B in Shanklin
Tucked away in Shanklin's Old Village, The Braemar is a family run, home from home B&B, offering comfortable accommodation and a friendly service.
Where to Eat:
When it comes to dining on the Isle of Wight, you will be spoiled for choice. The island is known for its fresh seafood, and you can find excellent seafood restaurants in almost every town. Check out top choices to suit a range of budgets.
High-end choice: The Royal Hotel in Ventnor
This elegant hotel offers a fine dining restaurant with a menu featuring locally sourced ingredients and creative dishes. With its stunning sea views and elegant atmosphere, it is the perfect place for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.
Mid-range: The Crab & Lobster Inn in Bembridge
This charming pub and restaurant specializes in fresh seafood, offering a delicious menu with dishes such as crab linguine, lobster thermidor, and fish and chips. The cosy atmosphere and friendly service make it a great place to enjoy a relaxed meal with family or friends.
Budget-friendly: The Garlic Farm in Newchurch
This unique restaurant specializes in dishes infused with their own homegrown garlic, creating unique and flavourful meals. From garlic bread to garlic chicken, there are plenty of options to satisfy your garlic cravings. The relaxed and rustic setting adds to the charm of this dining spot.
In conclusion, the Isle of Wight offers some of the best walks in the UK, with stunning coastal paths, rolling hills, and breath-taking views. Whether you choose to explore the iconic Needles, walk along the coastal path, or visit the St. Catherine's Oratory, you are guaranteed a memorable experience. And after a day of walking, you can relax and indulge in the island's excellent accommodation and dining options. So pack your walking boots and get ready to explore the beauty of the Isle of Wight!
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