Are you ready to lace up your walking shoes and explore the stunning beauty of the Isle of Wight? With just 1 week to go, the multi-award-winning Isle of Wight Walking Festival is set to kick off…
From 5th-13th October, this year’s festival promises an incredible line-up of guided walks, ranging from gentle strolls to invigorating hikes, all led by friendly local experts. Whether you’re a seasoned walker or just looking for a fun day out with friends and family, there’s something for everyone.
With over 100 walks to choose from across the Island, here are some of the highlighted walks on offer: New for Autumn 2024 includes the Wildheart Animal Sanctuary’s Culver Down Circular (5-miles), the Afton Marsh and Golden Hill Country Park with Gift to Nature (4.5 miles) and the 4-mile stroll around Yarmouth & through Mill Copse by Wight Nature Fund.
Get the heart rate going on the 18-mile North to South trek, from Egypt Point in Cowes to St Catherine’s Lighthouse, or for something more leisurely, take a stroll along Cowes Seafront with MP for the Isle of Wight West, Richard Quigley. Join guided walks in and around the Island’s towns and villages on The Lost Crypt Walk and Walk on the Wilde Side – both in Ryde – the Newport Volunteer Walk, Historic Carisbrooke to Newport Minster, Meanders with Malcolm – in the picturesque town of Yarmouth – and a series of Dickens themed walks in Bonchurch.
Short walks in and around wildlife include Naturezones’ Nature’s Table and Nettlecombe Farm’s popular family friendly animal feeding walk. A Walk through the Heavens takes you on an incredible solar system walk, enjoy a gentle stroll through history with Friends of Northwood Cemetery, head to the beach with Planet Aware in search of the elusive nurdle or walk in the footsteps of Roman farmers on the Brading Down Pits and Paths.
Amy Summers, Sustainable Travel, Trade & Exhibitions Manager at Visit Isle of Wight, said:
“With only a week to go, we’re already seeing record-breaking figures from registered walkers and those coming over from the mainland and overseas to join us. I’m really looking forward to the event starting next week and my continued thanks to all the volunteer walk leaders, businesses and transport providers for their support.”
The Isle of Wight Walking Festival is organised by Visit Isle of Wight, thanks to support and funding by Island business Wight BID levy payers.
To book a walk please visit isleofwightwalkingfestival.co.uk.