A Hiker's Guide To England's Isle Of Wight

Culture Trip guides you through everything you need to know about hiking on England’s breathtaking Isle of Wight.

Why go?

The Isle of Wight is a beautiful island perched just off the south coast of England. With 150 square miles to explore, much of which is an officially designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, it’s popular with hikers due to its remarkably diverse landscapes (it’s not known as ‘England in Miniature’ for nothing.)

Difficulty

You can do it! In the grand scheme of things (that is, globally) the Isle of Wight is at the gentler end of the hiking scale. Its wide variety of terrains do mean it has a range of challenges, from gentler strolls to hardcore hikes, but with the right pair of shoes, a decent level of fitness and sensible gear, you’ll be grand.

Type of terrain

This of course depends on the route you’ve picked. There are many popular paths along the stunning clifftops, along manageable village lanes or through muddy woodland. Some of the longer walks require some climbing, so make sure you check your route and footwear before you head out. Keep an eye out for crumbling verges that may collapse after heavy rain. If in doubt, stick to your route and you’ll be in the safe hands of many who’ve marched there before you.

Best time to go

The warmest weeks of the island’s year are in summer. One of a few southern counties claiming to have the best weather in the UK, the Isle of Wight has the most dry days between May and August, where it averages around five to six dry days per week. Prices will subsequently be higher during these months, and sunscreen should be a suitcase essential. June and early July are good options if you want warmth while avoiding the school holiday crowds. Spring and autumn work well as they’re generally cooler but can surprise you with blissful sunshine and an off-peak price tag.

Any specific equipment?

Sensible boots and an emergency waterproof will stand you in good stead. While it’s always best to give your smartphone a break while getting back to nature, keep it on hand for emergencies (while poor signal may be an issue, it’s best to have the option). A detailed map means you can remain largely screen-free, get into the hiking spirit and breathe in those spectacular views. Water and snacks should frankly be a staple in any backpack – no one likes a hangry hiker.

Local points of interest to see

Follow Queen Victoria’s Trail which takes in sights and spaces with a key connection to Victoria and Albert. There are also trails dedicated to the island’s literary heroes such as Lord Tennyson, Lewis Carroll and other writers including some locals. There’s even a trail dedicated to Winston Churchill based around his experience on the island. Take in the stunning Needles and the beautiful Pepper Pot for dreamy sea views.

Anywhere good to stop off and eat?

As well as a cracking range of traditional pubs to choose from for a hearty roast dinner where friendly patrons won’t bat an eyelid at your muddy boots, consider the Three Buoys restaurant. With a lipsmacking menu, super-chic furnishings and a stunning view over Appley Bay, this is a fine place to refuel either midway through your journey or as a post-hike reward.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bb4Hg7XBLoM/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=embed_legacy

landscape with balloons floating in the air

KEEN TO EXPLORE THE WORLD?

Connect with like-minded people on our premium trips curated by local insiders and with care for the world

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.