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Isle of Wight Coastal Walks: Our Top Picks in partnership with Wightlink

By Helen Newman

Published on September 2, 2024

4 min read

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Isle of Wight Coastal Walks

To celebrate Isle of Wight’s annual autumn walking festival which kicks off on 5th October, Ordnance Survey Champion, Helen Newman, brings us her favourite Isle of Wight coastal walks in partnership with Wightlink.

From a picturesque Godshill to Appuldurcombe amble, to the 70-mile challenge that is the Isle of Wight Coastal path. If you want to walk the wight, this is a great place to start!

Can you walk around the Isle of Wight?

People often ask, ‘can you walk around the Isle of Wight?.’ The answer is a resounding yes! In fact, there’s no better way to experience the island than by walking the Isle of Wight Coastal Path, it’s the ultimate way to walk the wight!

This challenging long-distance walking route circumnavigates the entire island, offering an ever-changing panorama of sea views, rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and tranquil countryside.

Covering around 70 miles, this route takes you through a diverse array of landscapes, from bustling seaside towns to quiet, remote stretches where you might have the path all to yourself.

Along the way, you’ll encounter historic landmarks like castles and lighthouses, as well as vibrant wildlife in areas of natural beauty.

This walk is ideal for those looking to experience the Isle of Wight’s rich scenery and coastal charm in all its variety.

You can start and finish at any point and the route is easily broken into stages and is a popular multi-day walk. Some even take on the challenge of running it all at once!

Isle of Wight Coastal Path Route on OS MAPS

Shorter Isle of Wight Coastal Walks

Not everyone will have the time to tackle the entire 70 mile coastline so we also have some great ideas for shorter Isle of Wight walks. Click on the links to get the OS Route Map beneath each walk.

Tennyson Down, West Wight Coastal Walk

Tennyson Down offers a stunning Isle of Wight coastal walk with breathtaking views of the English Channel.

Starting near Freshwater Bay, this route follows a well-trodden path up onto the chalk ridge, leading to the Tennyson Monument, a tribute to the famous poet Alfred Lord Tennyson.

The walk is relatively straightforward, with gentle inclines, and rewards you with panoramic views across West Wight and towards the Needles.

Warren Farm to the west has a lovely farm shop and benches where you can enjoy a homemade slice of cake and a cup of tea.

If you’re up on the Down during dawn or dusk, you’ll see plenty of wild rabbits as you look out to sea.

Tennyson Down, West Wight Walk Route on OS MAPS

Culver Down to Bembridge Walk

This walk from Culver Down to Bembridge is one of my favourite walks on the Isle of Wight.  It’s a delightful blend of coastal and countryside scenery.

Starting on the open grasslands of Culver Down, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the coast and the Solent. The route then meanders through enchanting woodlands and along cliff edges, offering glimpses of sea birds and passing boats.

As you descend towards Bembridge shore, the impressive lifeboat station will come into view. It makes a great photo. Coming out of Bembridge, you’ll encounter picturesque cottages and the serene Bembridge Windmill, the island’s only surviving windmill.

Built around 1700, this Grade I listed building still retains much of its original machinery, giving visitors a unique glimpse into the original milling techniques.

This walk is perfect for those seeking a varied landscape with both natural beauty and a peaceful village atmosphere.

Culver Down to Bembridge Walk Route on OS MAPS

Godshill to Appuldurcombe Walk

This walk from Godshill to Appuldurcombe on the Isle of Wight is a picturesque route that takes you through some of the island’s most scenic countryside.

It starts in the quaint village of Godshill, famous for its thatched cottages and historic church, and feels like it’s stuck in time.

Stock on up tea and scones before leaving this bustling village for peaceful rolling fields and woodland areas.

The highlight of the walk is reaching the ruins of Appuldurcombe House, once one of the grandest estates on the island.

Surrounded by beautifully landscaped grounds and with the dramatic remains of the house standing against the backdrop of the downs, this walk offers a perfect blend of nature and history.

Godshill to Appledurcombe Route on OS MAPS

Explore some more Wightlink recommended routes:

The Western Yar Isle of Wight Route on OS MAPS

Hoy Monument OS Maps Route

Chessel Pottery OS Maps Route

Shanklin Down OS Maps Route

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By Helen Newman