iw beaches

Exploring the Wight

There are hundreds of cycle paths, walking routes and over 280+ bridleways to explore on the Isle of Wight; The National Trust has some great walks listed across the island and with a range of stunning scenery from cliff tops to creek walks, cove meanders and forest jaunts. Dinosaur Isle in Sandown run fossil walks which is great for kids and adults alike and the Isle of Wight Council also have some great information on walks and trails on their webpage.

Check out FreeWight who have a whole host of free stuff to do and see on our gorgeous island.

If you’re cycling there’s a wealth of routes whether you’re looking for off road or tarmac, an easy route for the family is part of the Red Squirrel Trail along the old Railway line in Newchurch with a stop off at Pedallers Cafe for a well earned break. Click here to find out more about the Red Squirrel Trail and its cycling routes.

If you’re a keen runner looking to explore the island in a group then running the Wight Ways is a great way to have a guided tour and a great run.

For an unforgettable way to see the island’s stunning scenery, sitting on top of the “Island Breezer” double decker bus is a memorable day out, click for more information about Southern Vectis and its routes

Happy Adventuring!

Dog Friendly Isle

If your pooch is on holiday with you it’s important to check which beaches allow dogs, this handy map from our friends at The Beach Guide will help you plan your beach trip – dog friendly beaches 

dog beach

What to see and do – Local

Exploring Local – In the mornings you’ll be able to hear the rescued Lar Gibbons singing their sweet whooping songs and a visit to Monkey Haven next door will put a smile on your face. For a spot of lunch head down the road to Briddlesford Lodge Farm where you can buy IW farm produce, tuck into a hearty home cooked meal and pet the calves who are found in the barn next to the cafe. We love a nostalgic visit to the Isle of Wight Steam Railway which is 10 mins down the road in Havenstreet, step back in time and relax as you travel down the line.

If you’re looking for an adventure packed day, Robin Hill is a stone’s throw away and it offers a whole host of outdoor activity fun for the family, they also run epic events from Woodland DJ nights to comedy and live music events.

To check out island events and attractions, head to Visit Isle of Wight to see what’s going on and for family activities Isle of Wight Rocks has a wealth of info.

paddleboarding

With a wealth of beaches and waterways,

paddle boarding is a wonderful way to explore the island’s shores

We love Appley Beach in Ryde and we can be found there with our horses; Focus and Donald cantering along the beach – it’s an exhilarating feeling!

There’s so much to do along the beach, from walking along the promenade (good for pushchairs, wheelchairs and bikes) from Appley to Puckpool. The kids can play in the sand while you sit back and sip a cocktail from one of the many gorgeous beach cafes. At low-tide large warm pools form which is great for kids and adults alike to splash about in and the sand is silky and soft. Under Ryde Pier rare sea horses can be found amongst the sea grass and scallop shells are a plenty to find along the shoreline.

Dogs are able to go on the beach between Appley Tower and Puckpool and it’s like doggy day care early on a Saturday morning – full of pooches having the best time.

The Dell Cafe is in a gorgeous spot overlooking the beach at the Puckpool end and their burgers are to die for.

Cadet Beach Club is situated at the Appley end and serves stunning looking cocktails and mouth watering seafood platters and only a few places on the IW that caters for sushi lovers!

If you’d like to find out more about our bucket list beach rides on Appley Beach click here for more info – happy riding!

dell cafe

Above: The Dell Cafe at Puckpool, on Appley beach, Ryde

What to see and do – West Wight

Further afield – Head across the island to the Military Road and drive the stunning route along the cliff tops, stop at Compton Bay for some surfing and head to Brook Beach (left-side of Compton along the beach at low-tide) to find the dino footprints.

Dimbola Lodge in Freshwater has lovely tea rooms and gorgeous views over Freshwater bay and is steeped in history – they have some fascinating photographic exhibitions. Pop into Yarmouth for a gentle stroll around the picturesque town, take a walk down the pier to have a look at the ancient Hurst Castle and Lymington as you have a locally produced ice cream from the Pier Cafe.

Adventure awaits with cowboys, fairies and dinosaurs at the epic Blackgang Chine which is a hit with all ages of the family and based at the South-West of the Island.

If you’re looking for stunning sea views and a unique way to get to the beach, try the chairlift at Alum Bay at the Needles, for a really memorable holiday experience and a chance to photograph the Island’s iconic rock formations up close take the boat trip from Yarmouth with Coral Star Cruises.

The Needles Old Battery is a fascinating piece of military history with striking views directly overlooking the Needles and the coastline around the West Wight – they also do a fabulous cream tea in the Cafe!

Our trail rides on the West Wight are an adrenaline packed adventure over the cliffs and downs, through countryside and pastures with stunning sea views of the West Wight. Check out dates and availability here.

TRAIL RIDES

We are proud to support local island businesses and the following have collaborated with us to bring our accommodation guests exclusive discounts – please check your accommodation welcome pack for bespoke offers.

Roly’s Fudge Cowes / Briddlesford Farm Shop & Café / Murray’s seafood restaurant / Dimbola Lodge / Coral Star Cruises /