Isle of Wight Coastal Path - 6 Days & 5 Nights
- Follow the coastal path along deserted sandy beaches and hidden bays
- Marvel at the island's iconic landmark 'The Needles' chalk rocks
- Stay in bustling harbour towns where a warm welcome is guaranteed
- Admire the white cliffs and far-reaching views from Tennyson Down
- Hunt for prehistoric fossils on deserted sandy beaches
Gallery
Itinerary
Day 1 Starting Point: RydeRyde is located on the East coast of the Isle of Wight and is serviced by regular transport from Portsmouth (South England). You can catch a high-speed passenger catamaran (Wightlink) which connects with railway stations at either end in less than 22 mins.
Direct mainline train connections run from Portsmouth to London Waterloo (1.5 - 2 hrs), Brighton (1.5hrs), Bristol (2.5 hrs) and Southampton (1hr) frequently. If you are planning to drive to Portsmouth then you can leave your car at the port in the long-stay multi-story car park for a charge. You can also catch the superfast hovercraft (Hovertravel) service from Southsea to Ryde in just 10 mins.
Ryde itself boasts wide beaches with shallow waters and a beautiful Victorian Pier. Ryde is the gateway to the Island, a busy seaside town full of life.
Sue & Gary offer a warm welcome at Sorrento Lodge Bed & Breakfast. The outlook from the property is simply stunning, with fantastic views out over the Solent and harbour, right across to the Spinnaker Tower at Portsmouth. It is a Grade II listed early Victorian building, the rooms are simply furnished and have all the amenities you require.
The stately Ryde Castle sits on Ryde Esplanade. Character, history, and fantastic sea views across the Solent make this majestic building the ideal place to stay on the Isle of Wight.
Some of their rooms have four-poster beds, most have fantastic sea views, but all are inviting, and offer wonderful comfort, fabulous décor and the promise of a restful night’s sleep.
Park Ryde B&B is a small B&B offering a very warm welcome in the centre of Ryde. Enjoy their tasty breakfasts and a good night's sleep in their comfortable rooms.
Leaving Ryde you pass the church at Binstead, where since Norman times there has been a place of worship. Strolling through woodland you reach the ruins of the original Quarr Abbey before the latest incarnation a little further along the trail. Crossing Wootton Creek you enter Wootton and minor roads take you into small copses and onto Osborn house which is worthy of a slight diversion. After East Cowes, you cross the floating bridge and into the historic town of Cowes.
From Cowes, this walk follows the seafront westwards to Gurnard Bay. Then along the coast path proper, down to Thorness Bay with excellent views of the Solent and across to Hampshire. From here the route takes you inland, across farmland to the small hamlet of Newtown then on to Shalfleet. As there are limited accommodation options in Shalfleet, you will be transferred to Yarmouth for overnight accommodation
The Bugle Coaching Inn is a charming 16th century flagship freehouse inn situated in the very heart of Yarmouth’s market square and a stone’s throw from the sea and harbour.
The Highdown Inn and B&B is a beautiful example of a traditional country pub, set in outstanding natural Isle of Wight surroundings, and complimented by a rich history across the West of the Isle of Wight. As one of the best rated pubs on the Isle of Wight, they well known for the charm, charisma and idyllic positioning which certainly makes your visit one to be remembered.
Built in 1871 by William George Ward and his wife Mary, Weston Manor sits on Moonshill and boasts its own Chapel listed as a heritage site by the national trust. En-suite bedrooms with elegant decor and tea and coffee making facilities.
There are superb views over the Newtown River wetlands and the Solent on today’s walk. Lymington and Hurst Castle spit are clearly visible on the Hampshire coast. Red squirrels are common in the woods around Hamstead and all manner of wading birds inhabit the estuary so take some binoculars just in case.
From Headon Warren, the Hampshire Coast with Hurst Castle Spit looks almost close enough to touch, with Yarmouth and the Solent over your shoulder. Arriving at the Needles, take the short detour to the battery viewpoint for the best panorama of the sea stacks and lighthouse. From Tennyson Downs, you have views of both sides of the island stretching into the distance. On a clear day, you should be able to make out Portsmouth and the Spinnaker Tower in the distance.
Located a short walk from Freshwater Bay, Buttercup House B&B aims to make you as comfortable as possible in their traditional style large home.
You can expect a warm welcome and friendly atmosphere at Ruskin Lodge. This late Victorian property has been sympathetically and tastefully restored. All their rooms are comfortable and spacious with original art work and period features.
The Bay is a small, family run boutique B&B located in a quiet road just a few minutes’ walk from Freshwater Bay in West Wight; an area of outstanding natural beauty.
The route is a proper coastal path, following the cliff line all the way to Chale. There are good views south-eastwards to St.Catherine’s Point and back to Tennyson Down and the Needles. The change in geology is very marked on this coast with the transition from chalk to softer sandstones and clay. The result is some spectacular coastal erosion and landslips.
From Chale, the path skirts around Blackgang Chine then continues along West Cliff with good views of St Catherine’s Point and the undercliff below. Descending down through the undercliff at St Lawrence, the coastal path follows the low cliff line into the seaside town of Ventnor.
Hillside is a charming 18th century thatched country house overlooking the Victorian town of Ventnor and backing onto National Trust land at the foot of St. Boniface Down. Having recently been extensively refurbished, Hillside fuses contemporary Scandinavian interiors with charming rooms, creating great harmony within the environment and a unique homely feel. The team at Hillside will strive to offer the highest standard in hospitality and service, ensuring your stay is as comfortable, as it is memorable.
Verwood is nestled under the stunning Niton Undercliff along the southern coast of the Isle of Wight. An area of outstanding natural beauty! Facilities include en suite spacious accommodation & a warm friendly atmosphere. The accommodation also has Wi-Fi and FreeSat TV/DVD, hair dryer plus tea & coffee making facilities. You are assured the warmest of welcomes from Beverly, who is also a renowned local artist.
Leaving Ventnor, continue around Wheelers Bay to Bonchurch and the path meanders through the Luccombe Landslip before arriving at Shanklin. Another popular seaside resort on the island. From here the coastal path ascends up to a higher level above Sandown Bay before finally descending to the seafront to finish at the pier.
From Sandown, the coastal path heads northeastwards, towards Culver Cliff and up and over Bembridge Down. Great views are afforded from Bembridge Down in every direction, over the eastern approaches to the Solent and the busy waterway of the Channel. There are lovely coastal sections around Whitecliff Bay and Bembridge Harbour to enjoy. The small coastal village of Seaview is a delight before returning to the more workmanlike ferry port of Ryde. There is a great sense of achievement knowing you have completed the circuit of the island.
Sue & Gary offer a warm welcome at Sorrento Lodge Bed & Breakfast. The outlook from the property is simply stunning, with fantastic views out over the Solent and harbour, right across to the Spinnaker Tower at Portsmouth. It is a Grade II listed early Victorian building, the rooms are simply furnished and have all the amenities you require.
Park Ryde B&B is a small B&B offering a very warm welcome in the centre of Ryde. Enjoy their tasty breakfasts and a good night's sleep in their comfortable rooms.
The seventy room Royal Esplanade Hotel is a listed building pleasantly situated, facing the Solent, in the centre of the attractive sea-side town of Ryde. Every room comes with a flat-screen TV. You will find a kettle in the room. Each room is fitted with a private bathroom. For your comfort, you will find free toiletries and a hairdryer. The newly refurbished Harry’s Bar and Brasserie is open to residents and non-residents and offers a relaxed dining experience. The décor is classically styled - reminiscent of the golden age of Bogarde and Casablanca - complete with Kensian Palms.
After breakfast, your walking holiday will come to an end. Additional nights in Ryde or indeed other places on the island are highly recommended. With the extensive network of paths and bridleways that cross the island, you have opportunities to discover more of the countryside. Otherwise, safe travels during your onward journey.
Other Information
Is it for me?If you enjoy wide, open spaces, stunning sea views and the sound of waves crashing into the high cliffs, then the Isle of Wight is for you. Graded from Easy upwards, walking the coastal path circuit can be enjoyed by everyone.
Classic Routes | If you’re the active, outdoorsy type, who’s interested in taking on the great routes of the world or looking for a challenge, then our Classic Routes are for you. We’re talking the West Highland Way, Tour Du Mont Blanc and the Passau to Vienna Danube Cycle Path, to name but a few!
Inn to Inn Walking | Walk from place-to-place changing accommodations each night. Generally staying in B&B’s, inns, and guesthouses.
Solo Travellers
The grade of your trip depends on the itinerary you choose. Most of the walks on the Isle of Wight Coastal Path vary from easy to moderate in difficulty but are mainly flat and easy-going with the exception of a few short (and sometimes steep) climbs, such as ‘Devil’s Chimney’ just outside Ventnor. Currently, we offer three variations of this coastal walk, a 9, 8 and 7-day variant. The 9-day version is easiest going, shortening the distances each day, whereas the 8 and 7-day tours are a little bit more challenging with longer days.
The path is predominantly coastal, apart from a few northern sections where the path leads away from the coast and heads inland between Ryde to Yarmouth (first two walking days). These walks bring variety to the route, taking you through fragrant gardens, along high cliffs, and wooded tracks. From Yarmouth onwards the route is nearly entirely coastal, visiting secluded beaches, skirting around cliff edges, and discovering rural areas. It should be noted that due to the natural effects of coastal erosion, there are a few sections (particularly along the south coast) where necessary de-tours have to be made inland where landslips have taken place. These will always be clearly marked but you may find yourself walking on roads for short sections on these de-tours.
One of the highlights of this walking trip is the high standard of accommodations dotted along the coastal route. We have specifically chosen these Inns, Guesthouses and B&B’s to ensure that you enjoy every minute of your stay. They offer a warm welcome to walkers, traditional hospitality and delicious local food. We always try and book your accommodation as close as possible to the line of the trail. Occasionally a short transfer may be required and this is always included in the price of your holiday.
Single Rooms & Solo Walkers
We welcome solo walkers on the Isle of Wight Coastal Path and single rooms can be booked upon request.
Meals
A hearty breakfast is included each morning. Lunch and dinner are not included to allow you to enjoy what the seaside towns have to offer. Most accommodations are more than happy to provide a packed lunch - this can be booked on arrival. Dinner is available either at your accommodation or nearby pubs or restaurants.
Extra Nights
Many of our clients choose to add extra nights along the walk to sample more of the wonderful walking and attractions available on the island. Yarmouth, Freshwater Bay, Chale, Ventnor and Sandown are great choices for extra days. These pleasant and uncrowded towns and villages often feature additional day walks, wildlife opportunities or great beaches that can easily soak up a day!
Ryde and Cowes can offer attractive extensions and you shouldn’t forget Newport in the centre of the island – ideal for additional day walks and visiting the historic and imposing Carisbrooke Castle.
Bird watchers may want to take advantage of the isolation of the island which has preserved areas like the Medina Estuary between Ryde and Cowes, the Newtown Estuary north of Yarmouth, The Yar Estuary south of Yarmouth, and the wetlands at Bembridge—all prime spots to observe the wealth of wildlife on the island.
The route is waymarked extensively and clearly. Usually with wooden posts with 'Coastal Path' noted on them. We also provide detailed maps and route notes you will also have access to the Macs Adventure Smartphone App enabling you to follow the route using your phone's GPS so you will have no problems finding the way. We recommend keeping an eye out for any signposts marking diversions - due to the nature of coastal walking these can happen at short notice.
- Overnight stays in handpicked B&B's, Guest Houses and small hotels
- Door to door baggage transfers
- A detailed information pack, maps, and route notes
- Access to the Macs Adventure smartphone navigation app
- 24/7 Emergency telephone support from our offices
- Lunches, snacks, dinners, and drinks
- Suitable travel insurance
- Travel to/from Ryde and public transport
- Personal equipment
- Extra nights
The Isle of Wight is said to have one of the mildest and sunniest climates in the UK and some areas of the island are sheltered by large cliffs. The Isle of Wight coastal path is best enjoyed between spring and autumn. July and August are the busiest time of year on the island when coastal towns can get quite busy. For a quieter visit, you may want to consider visiting early summer or autumn. That being said, we believe that anywhere between April and October should offer a wonderful experience!
NOTE: Due to the Isle of Wight Festival taking place in mid June, the 17th to the 21st June are not available as accommodation is limited at this time and the island gets very busy.
Getting to the Isle of Wight is easy, it is an accessible island just off the South Coast of England.
By Air—The closest airports to Portsmouth/Southsea (for ferries) are Bournemouth and Southampton. Slightly further afield you have London Gatwick, with many international connections.
By Rail—Portsmouth is on the main train line and takes approx 2hrs from London, 1.5hrs from Brighton and from Bristol its 2.5hrs.
By Car—the M27 spur runs off the M3 directly into the heart of Portsmouth, making driving an option.
You can save money and reduce the impact of tourism on the island by leaving your car in Portsmouth and catching a passenger ferry. You can leave your car in the multistory car park for a nominal fee.
By Sea—Passenger ferries run from Portsmouth (crossing time 22 mins). Hovercrafts run from nearby Southsea (an incredible short crossing time of only 10 minutes)
If you need to take a car you should catch a ferry from Portsmouth to Fishbourn, followed by a short drive to Ryde.
For more information about trains, ferries, or flights please read our Getting To & Around The Isle of Wight blog.
By Air—The closest airports to Portsmouth/Southsea (for ferries) are Bournemouth and Southampton. Slightly further afield you have London Gatwick, with many international connections.
By Rail—Portsmouth is on the main train line and takes approx 2hrs to London, 1.5hrs to Brighton and to Bristol it's 2.5hrs.
By Car—the M27 spur runs off the M3 directly into the heart of Portsmouth, making driving an option.
You can save money and reduce the impact of tourism on the island by leaving your car in Portsmouth and catching a passenger ferry. You can leave your car in the multistory car park for a nominal fee.
By Sea—Passenger ferries run to Portsmouth (crossing time 22 mins). Hovercrafts run to nearby Southsea (an incredible short crossing time of only 10 minutes)
If you need to take a car you can drive from Ryde and then catch a ferry from Fishbourn to Portsmouth.
A good source of reference for travel details is the travel line website: www.traveline.org.uk
Enjoy the ease of having your luggage transferred daily, allowing you to walk with just a light daypack and your packed lunch. Your bags will be transferred from your accommodation as per your itinerary and moved on to your next overnight accommodation. We ask you to limit your luggage to one bag of up to 15kg per person.
The distances and ascent/descents are approximations of the recommended routes.
Coastal Path diversions
It should be noted that the Isle of Wight Coastal Path is subject to numerous path diversions year on year due to coastal erosion and path maintenance. An up to date list of the current closures is found here: https://www.iow.gov.uk/Residents/Rights-of-Way/Public-Rights-of-Way/Current-Closures.
Walking Direction
Our itineraries follow an anti-clockwise direction, as this is the preferred route for baggage transfer services.
Dogs
Unfortunately, we are unable to accommodate walkers with dogs as many of the accommodation providers do not accept pets.
You will need good walking shoes (ideally waterproof), comfortable walking clothes, waterproof jacket and trousers, a daypack as well as sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. This route involves a few climbs where you may find it useful to have your walking poles. As this route primarily follows the coast, we recommend bringing windproof clothing to make it easier to progress.
It is a requirement of booking this tour with Macs Adventure that you have suitable travel insurance which covers you for the activity, emergency evacuation and hospital care.
We offer a range of itineraries with differing daily distances so you can find an itinerary that suits your preferred level of activity. If you currently don’t enjoy an active lifestyle we suggest regular walking in hilly terrain supplemented by cardio vascular exercise prior to your walk. A good gym or personal trainer will be able to draw up a personalised training programme.
We suggest you book as soon as your plans are finalised as the Isle of Wight is extremely popular especially over April/May and July/August. You will find up to date availability on our website and we will always try and accommodate your plans.
You will need good walking shoes/boots (ideally waterproof), comfortable walking clothes, waterproof jacket and trousers, a daypack and hats/gloves etc.
The Isle of Wight offers longer sunnier days than most places in the British Isles. Of course, the tendency for rain or cooler weather still exists. We operate the walk from late April to late October.
Unfortunately we are unable to accommodate walkers with dogs as many of the accommodation providers we use do not accept pets.
You can use public transport or local taxis to continue to your next overnight stop. In some cases the baggage transfer service that takes your bags on to your next accommodation may be able to assist. Our office can assist with helpful advice should you need to arrange transport for yourself or anyone in your party.
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