Welcome to the Blog page of The Wandering Walkers IOW. This page shows some Videos from our YouTube Channel and a little bit of Info about the Walks.
Visit to Whitecliff Bay, Isle of Wight
During a very warm weekend day in June we decided to go park up at Whitecliff Bay Holiday resort and walk down to Whitecliff Bay. This is a very popular beach for visitors and, you can see why! This long stretch of coast can be found inbetween Bembridge and Sandown and is a very popular beach.
Belvoir Bay, Herm, Channel Islands
We once again left the Island in June to go stay a week on the beautiful Island of Herm. This beautiful little Island is located next to Guernsey and is a 20 min boat ride over. The Island has 1 Hotel, a few self catering cottages and Campsites. The Island is such a little Gem and, we fell in love when visiting Guernsey so decided we needed to spend a week here! We stayed in the fantastic White House Hotel, and, on our YouTube Channel you can see a video of our room Tour as well as other Videos. While here we visited the famous Belvoir Bay, which is such a beautiful sheltered Beach/Bay located on the far side of the Island.
Visit to Shorwell Shute Bridge, Isle of Wight
If you have ever drivel through Shorwell, heading towards Newport or, either from Newport maybe towards Blackgang Chine you will have most likely driven under the very picturesque Shorwell Shute Bridge! Myself and Candi have always walked to explore this a bit more and have a walk around. We had noticed over the past week a lot of people posting on social media about the Wild Garlic that is also growing here during May, so, we decided one weekend to go for a drive, park up and enjoy a walk around! Now… I am not a major fan of Garlic but was very interesting to see! You also really get hit by the strong scent! But the history of the Bridge was very interesting. Its a shame you can no longer walk over it! If you are interested in visiting the Bridge it can be located here: Shorwell Shute Footbridge is a Bridge located at B3323, Newport, PO30 3JG, GB.
Walk through Borthwood Copse, Isle of Wight
If you are looking for something different, maybe a woodland walk with the Dog or kids i would really recommend a visit to Borthwood Copse! Such a peaceful place and full of character! While Candi was at work, i decided to go a very early walk through this lovely woodland. It was coming to the end of May and i wanted to catch the Bluebells in bloom! If you are interested in visiting Borthwood Copse it is located Alverstone Rd, Sandown PO36 0JS.
Walk up The Cripple Path, Niton Undercliff, Isle of Wight
On a warm sunny April weekend day, we both decided we wanted to go somewhere different on the Island. We had seen a lot of pictures of the famous Cripple Path, that is located along the Niton Undercliff. So we set out to finally find this fantastic walk! And, once found, we were not disappointed! If you are planning on doing this walk please research the weather conditions as it can be quite a steep climb, and if it has been raining will be bad underfoot. Once half way up its not to bad, and you are greeted with such a picturesque location!
Walk to Steephill Cove, Isle of Wight
On a windy day in March 2023, I decided to go for a walk down to Steephill Cove. Been a while since we have done this walk i thought, although a windy day it would be a great walk! Steephill Cove is such a lovely place to visit! The perfect little Island gem that, if you are visiting you need to visit here before leaving!
Visit to Bath and the Roman Baths
Candice has always wanted to visit Bath, so one weekend we decided to go spend a couple of days up there during February. Was such a fantastic weekend! The hotel we stayed in was great, and we had a fantastic room overlooking Bath! As well as walking round Bath and taking in all of the sites, we decided to go visit the famous Roman Baths. Only a short walk from our hotel, we booked a time slot and visited this fantastic place! Such history! We both recommend a visit here!
Walk up to Headon Warren, isle of Wight
A frosty but warm December weekend day, we decided to go visit one of our favourite places on the Island. We set off early and drove over to the West side of the Island to enjoy a walk up to Headen Warren, which is a beautiful walk and has fantastic views over toward the Needles. It can be quite a challenging walk but, is well worth it for the views! See our video above!
Bembridge Lifeboat Station to Bembridge Harbour Walk, Isle of Wight
It was such a lovely morning considering it was in November. Candi was working so I decided to go visit a part of the Island we don’t visit to often which was the village of Bembridge. Bembridge is a lovely place to visit, with some fantastic walks and a beautiful beach. I started my walk by the Lifeboat Station (which some often just refer to as Bembridge Pier) and then enjoyed a walk round to Bembridge harbour. The tide was out and was a lovely day. See the video above!
Shanklin Chine, Isle of Wight
During October one of our favourite places known as Shanklin Chine, turns into a great place to visit for Halloween. Its such a beautiful place to visit during the day however, its even more magical at night. Come and take a look at the video above with my walkthrough of Shanklin Chine at night!
The tunnels, Niton Isle of Wight
After a very short time researching, there is not much information on why these tunnels are here. Most are saying they are smugglers tunnels, others say they lead to a manor house. What ever the reason, they make an interesting walk and only a short walk up from The Buddle inn where you can stop for a drink and some food. This is an easy enough walk, however there are a few steps so taking a pushchair or wheelchair may not be advisable. To find this walk you can follow the public foot path number NT30 or a quick search on google maps for Niton tunnels shows you exactly where it is. If you do know the purpose of these tunnels please let us know by commenting on our Youtube video and please don’t forget to like and subscribe.
Morning walk through Grange Chine, Isle of Wight October 2022
Grange Chine is located South West of the Island, along the Military road near the famous Compton Bay. Also benefiting from the very popular Grange Farm which hosts a great campsite. Within this campsite you can hire caravans, cottages or pitch up a tent! Benefitting from such a picturesque setting and a stones through away from the beach I would highly recommend staying here when visiting the Island if you are into camping! The website for more information can be viewed here: https://grangefarmcamping.co.uk/
Here is a little more information on Grange Chine:
‘Grange Chine is the location where the first fossils of the dinosaurs Neovenator and Brighstoneus were discovered, following a storm that resulted in a landslide on the chine in 1978.
To the west of the Grange Chine is a holiday park consisting of a campsite and a small number of static caravans. The beach here is often covered in litter.
The Isle of Wight Coastal Path crosses the Grange Chine via a wooden footbridge near the beach.’
Morning Walk Along Ventnor Seafront, Isle of Wight October 2022
What a beautiful morning it was during this October visit to Ventnor seafront. We are so lucky to have this on our doorstep, and, while the sun rose it was such a peaceful walk along the beach. If you look closely during the video you can even see a brave man entering the sea for a morning swim! We are very lucky to call Ventnor ‘Home’.
Isle of Wight Steam Railway September 2022
The Steam Railway at Havenstreet offers a unique experience to go back in time and see what it was like to travel in style by steam train. A great day out for everyone. While you are there why not also visit the Train story where you will be immersed in the history of the steam railway. Check out the website below for ticket prices, opening
Visit to Godshill, Isle of Wight June 2022
What a great sunny Sunday morning it has been today! While Candice was at a training session today I decided to go visit the popular village of Godshill. I walked around the main high street and then up to the famous church. Please see the video above.
Visit to The Longstone, Isle of Wight June 2022
We are back on the Isle of Wight! After an amazing holiday in Guernsey we decided to think of new places we had not visited on the lovely Isle of Wight. Candice really wanted to visit the famous Longstone, which is located in Mottistone, so on a warm sunny Saturday afternoon in June we decided to go for a drive and then enjoy a walk to visit the Longstone! Above is the video and below is a little information on the famous Longstone from the National Trust website:
‘It has now been shown that the stones are what remains of a 6,000-year-old Neolithic communal long barrow for burying the dead: 31m long, 9m wide and 2m high. Long barrows in this part of England that aren’t on chalk or limestone are rare. It is thought that bodies were laid out for birds and animals to feed, then the bones were buried in chambers and the soil heaped up into a mound.
In Neolithic times the mound was likely to have been higher. People probably worshipped the sun and moon; this may be the reason why the Longstone barrow is aligned west–east.’
Walk along Cobo Beach, Guernsey May 2022
As much as we love the Isle of Wight we decided this year to go back to the fantastic Guernsey and stay at the Cobo Bay Hotel. This island has a special place in our hearts as we stayed at this location for our honeymoon. Above is a video showing off the Cobo Bay Beach with white sands and clear blue sea. For us, its the best beach in Guernsey but we are a bit biased!
Visit to Herm, Channel Islands May 2022
While on holiday in Guernsey we also visited the beautiful small Island called Herm. We also stayed here for 1 night at the White House Hotel. Herm is a real gem of paradise and tranquillity and Candice fell in love with this island. Here are some facts from the website http://www.herm.com:
‘A few minutes down the path leads to the Seagull campsite, a lovely, relaxing place to set up for a week or two, with beautiful scenic views over the water to Sark. On the other side of the island is the harbour village, the hub of island life. Here you can enjoy delicious food and Herm’s very own golden ale at The Mermaid Tavern and courtyard, or stock up on little treasures and souvenirs at the Herm Shop. The White House Hotel has been established on the island for many decades. Famously there are no TVs or telephones in the rooms, and the whole ambience is geared toward a peaceful, stress-free holiday. It’s two restaurants are a lovely place to sit and relax, with The Conservatory offering stunning views of the sea and sunsets.
Herm Island has been home to monks, Nazi soldiers, and even a famous writer. It’s beauty and charm have attracted many interesting characters over the years. A lot of our ways and traditions have been in place for several generations, having been established by the Wood family who ran the Island from 1949, followed by the Starboard Settlement, which took over their guardianship from 2008.’
Visit to Sark, Channel Islands May 2022
We went on holiday! With a weeks stay on Guernsey in the Channel Islands staying in Cobo Bay at the Cobo Bay Hotel we also visited the beautiful Island of Sark. This Island is famous for not having any vehicles other than tractors to travel around. You can also travel by horse and cart or by hiring a bike for the day. Here is a little info from the beautiful Sark:
‘Sark is the crown jewel of the Channel Islands, nestled in between Guernsey and Jersey. Car-free with spectacular scenery, bays, coastal paths and cliff top views. Sark offers a truly unique holiday experience for those wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of modern-day life. Whether you walk, cycle or take a tour on a horse and carriage, you will be creating memories that will last a lifetime.
We have no street lights to pollute the skies and Sark became the World’s First Dark Sky Island in 2011. If you are staying overnight, you will be able to see the majesty of the stars, as long as the clouds allow. You could visit our observatory which is open nightly or upon request and learn more about the stars, constellations, galaxies, milky way and much more.’
Evening Walk up Wroxall/Ventnor Down, Isle of Wight May 2022
Another sunny warm evening in May and we decided to go up and visit St Boniface down which is a stones throw away from where we live. Some fantastic views over Wroxall and all around the Island. During this time of year the downs also had some fantastic bluebells in bloom which looked beautiful with the sunset and views. The downs is also the destination for the old Radar station. Here is some information below:
‘St Boniface Down is a chalk down near Ventnor, on the Isle of Wight, England. Its summit, 241 metres (791 ft), is the highest point on the island,[1] with views stretching from Beachy Head to the east, Portsmouth to the north and the Isle of Portland to the west. It is 1 kilometre (0.6 mi) north of the town.[2] There is reputed to be a wishing well on its southern slope, which requires the wisher to climb up from the south without looking back. In 1545, a French invasion force attempted this against a force of the Isle of Wight Militia commanded by Sir John Fyssher – which allegedly included several women archers- and were routed. In 1940, the radar station was bombed by Ju 87 Stuka dive bombers, which is reconstructed in the film “The Battle of Britain“. The top is surmounted by a round barrow.
At the eastern foot of the down, on the A3055 road between Bonchurch and Luccombe, a path descends into Bonchurch Landslips via a scenic rock cleft, the Devil’s Chimney.’
A Visit to Quarr Abbey, Isle of Wight April 2022
A lovely visit to Quarr Abbey on a sunny day in April. Such a peaceful place to visit, and even if you are not religious it also has a lovely Cafe and Shops that you can enjoy on your visit. Quarr Abbey is found in Binstead and as well as a book shop, Cafe, farm shop it also has an area where you can see/feed the pigs! Here is a little info below on Quarr Abbey:
‘The abbey took its name from the quarry to the east of it. It had a library and an infirmary: some of the monks were doctors and pharmacists who tended islanders. The abbey maintained the bridge at Wootton, tide mills and salterns (for producing salt). It had an establishment at the entrance to Wootton Creek at Fish-house, now Fishbourne, from which its ships could sail. Monks from Quarr were responsible for many surrounding granges (large agricultural establishments) and churches, including for a time Saint Nicholas’ chapel at Carisbrooke Castle.
In 1147 the whole congregation of Savigny, including Quarr Abbey, joined the Cistercian congregation. Foundations were made from Quarr Abbey at Stanley in Wiltshire in 1154 and at Buckland in Devonshire in 1278. Following the French attack on the Isle of Wight in 1377, the Abbey fortified Fish-house and the mill on Wootton Creek; a few gun-ports were set into the enclosure wall facing north.
Despite the good reputation of its monks, the Abbey was closed under King Henry VIII in July 1536. The last abbot, with one of his monks, crossed the Solent to resume their religious life at Beaulieu, while two other monks went off to Quarr’s daughter house at Buckland. The abbey was purchased and demolished by Mr John Mills of Southampton. Some of its stone was used for building Yarmouth Castle.’
Another fantastic walk to Castlehaven, Isle of Wight April 2022
Castlehaven is a lovely place to visit on the Isle of Wight. Located in Niton, this place can be found either from walking along from St Catherine’s Lighthouse or, can park up near the Buddle Pub and walk down. It also has a lovely Cafe/Restaurant where you can relax and enjoy the fantastic scenery. The coast location isn’t really for beach dwellers and is more of a cove. See info below from the caravan site located here:
‘Situated in Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty close proximity to St. Catherines Point on the Isle of Wight’s southernmost shore, Castlehaven Caravan Site is a small privately owned and run retreat set close to the water’s edge, enjoying incredible sea views.
A visit to Castlehaven gives you the chance to relax in unspoilt surroundings and is an ideal setting for families, walkers, nature lovers and those just wanting to get away from it all.’
A walk around the Ponds at Robin Hill, Isle of Wight April 2022
Enjoying a fantastic April walk around the very picturesque Robin Hill Park. This Park is owned by Vectis Ventures and is the sister park to Blackgang Chine. It’s a fantastic place to explore and above is just one part of the grounds you can enjoy visiting. Please check the web site below for more information and how to book your visit!
A fantastic visit to Osborne House, Isle of Wight March 2022
Candice decided on a lovely sunny week day to go visit the former home of Queen Victoria, the fantastic Osborne House. The House is in East Cowes on the Isle of Wight and more information can be found below from the English Heritage website:
- Victoria and Albert bought the Osborne estate in 1845, and built a new mansion here as an escape from court life in London and Windsor.
- The royal family took delight in their seaside home and each year spent as much time as possible here and at Balmoral, celebrating many special occasions, including Victoria and Albert’s birthdays, at Osborne.
- Victoria used Osborne for more than 50 years, finding solace here after Albert’s death in 1861. She entertained visiting kings and queens and ministers at the house as well as her own extensive family.
- Today, the story of a marriage, a family and an empire is revealed in the richly decorated rooms. Visitors can see even Osborne’s most private rooms, including the children’s nursery and the bedroom where Victoria died in 1901.
- The Italianate design of the house, in which Albert was closely involved, became known as ‘the Osborne style’ and was imitated throughout the British empire.
- Albert also took a keen interest in the gardens and wider estate, and much of the planting today is to his designs.
First Visit to Blackgang Chine 2022 Season!
Our first visit to Blackgang Chine for the 2022 Season! Just a small highlights video. We love this place! If you would like to book your visit to this fantastic place feel free to view there website for more information: https://blackgangchine.com/
A lovely trip to Alverstone mead Nature Reserve visiting Red Squirrels, Isle of Wight
What a lovely spring morning visiting one of our favourite places, Alverstone Mead nature reserve. Its such a peaceful place with lots of wildlife to watch including the lovely Red Squirrels! please see our video above to witness such a fantastic place to visit and, wait till the end to see the quick but fantastic Red Squirrels as they come right up to me! Here’s a little info on the reserve below:
Mead is the ancient word for water meadow and it has channels of water flowing through the land to drain it sufficiently to produce hay, although it is cut late in the year to encourage wildlife during the summer months.
At the south of the reserve is the spectacular hide accessed via a raised walkway just beneath the canopy of the surrounding trees and it’s a great place to spot the red squirrels.
The hide has a wonderful view across the Mead and offers good facilities to nature watchers with binoculars to borrow, bird and animal charts and books to consult and good disabled access and aids. Visitors can leave their observations in a file on the window sill.
Lots of sturdy food containers hang from the trees and are covered in birds – blue tits and chaffinches on the day we visited. Looking out over the mead you could see the flailed bullrushes that had been cut to give the grass a chance and moorhens were swimming in the ‘pond’ in front of the hide.
The Wight Nature Fund wardens lift the sluices before Christmas and the beds flood and then the wildfowl return: ducks, geese and snipe. Kingfisher will come up to the pond and the barn owl hunt and nest there as they like rough scrub. Barn owls take a long time to fledge their babies and late summer is the best time to see them as they venture out before dusk.
The Mead is home to little owls nesting, wood crickets and white admiral butterflies in the woods. It also attracts buzzards, kestrel and sparrow hawk; there is a kestrel nest in a box by the river. Sometimes Siskins, visit in winter, as do hares who have their babies in the meadow.
A sunny February walk from Blackgang Chine Viewpoint, Isle of Wight
A lovely walk along the clifftop, starting at Blackgang Chine Viewpoint/car park heading toward St Catherine’s Lighthouse. Although quite a windy day the sun was shining and was a fantastic views not only over Blackgang Chine and toward the Needles, but also out to St Catherine’s Lighthouse.
If you need directions please click on this link to see where this location is. https://mapcarta.com/W274568017
A walk along Brook Chine Beach, Brook, Isle of Wight
A lovely February early walk along the beach at Brook Chine. Not to far away from the popular Compton Bay. Please read a little info below about Brook Beach:
Brook Beach can be found on the unspoiled south west coast of the Isle of Wight, and is a beach made up of golden sands adjacent to the popular Compton Bay. Brook is a great beach for many activities, from cricket on the beach, to kite and wind-surfing for the more adventurous. Swimming is popular from this beach, although care should be taken as it can be quite rocky at certain points in the tide.
One of Brook Beach’s most unique features is the fossilised forest of huge trees which appears from beneath the waves at Hanover Point at low tide. Beyond this is a sandstone ledge with the fossilised footprints of dinosaurs imprinted within it. To the back of the beach, closer to the cliffs, fossils can also be found amongst the pebbles along with the casts of further dinosaur footprints. These three toed lumps of rock are again best discovered with a guide who will be able to recognise them.
A walk along Freshwater Beach and to the Caves at low Tide, Isle of Wight
What a fantastic weekend in January we had with great sun, so we decided to go over to the West side of the Island and visit Freshwater Bay. Lucky for us, the tide was also out so we managed to walk round to the caves which, according to some old stories were used by smugglers. If you are looking into doing this walk I highly recommend researching the tide times and planning your trip. We on this occasion were very lucky to have visited while the tide was out. Here is a little history on the caves:
‘Smugglers once used the caves around the bottom of the chalk cliffs that are exposed at low tide – if you wish to explore them it is best to find a local guide as you can become cut off by the tide. Kayaking is the ideal way to see them and the other small bays, Watcombe and Scratchells, that are also hewn from the chalk. This beach is popular for surfing and watersports and boats will moor offshore to come ashore. The Freshwater Independent Lifeboat is launched from this bay when required by those in trouble at sea.’
A walk up Tennyson Down from Freshwater, Isle of Wight
Another gorgeous sunny weekend in January… you would think its the summer! We decided to take advantage of this and drive over to the West side of the Island and visit Freshwater. A very picturesque part of the Island and known for many great walks along the cliffs/downs. We both decided to walk up to Tennyson monument from Freshwater bay, a walk I haven’t done myself in a long time but well worth it with the views around the west side of the Island. Below is a brief history of the Tennyson monument:
‘The imposing memorial to Alfred, Lord Tennyson, the Victorian Poet Laureate, stands on the highest point of Tennyson Down (formerly High Down), a long chalk ridge with sheer cliffs on its south side.
A late work designed by J.L. Pearson, it dates from 1897. A marble Celtic cross with a tapering stem on a stepped base, it was built by Farmer & Brindley. The views over land and sea are superb.
Tennyson and his wife, Emily, lived at Farringford in Bedbury Lane for thirty-nine years. Visitors included many of the most illustrious names of Victorian Britain. The couple rented the house close to Freshwater Bay in 1853 and bought it in 1858. The Charge of the Light Brigade and other famous poems were inspired by the magnificent scenery the poet enjoyed as he walked on the down, often with friends, and in all weathers. He famously said: “The air is worth ‘sixpence a pint.'”
After the poet’s death in 1892, a fund was set up to pay for the memorial. It stands on the site of the old Nodes signal beacon that used to give warning of invasion threats. The inscription on the memorial pillar reads: ‘In memory of Alfred Lord Tennyson this Cross is raised as a beacon to sailors by the people of Freshwater and other friends in England and America’
A walk along Ryde Pier, Isle of Wight
While visiting Ryde, I also had chance to walk up the fantastic Ryde Pier. This Pier also benefits from a Train travelling the full length of the pier which drops off and picks up customers who travel across to Portsmouth using the Wightlink Fastcat service. Please read up on some info below about this beloved Pier:
‘After the passing of a parliamentary act in 1812, plans were drawn up by John Kent of Southampton. Work commenced on 29th July 1813, and the 1740 foot pier opened on 26th July 1814. It was extended in 1824 to 2040 feet and the pier-head was enlarged in 1827. Further extensions in 1833 took it to 2250 feet while the pier-head was expanded again in 1842 and 1856-60. A tramway pier which opened on August 29th 1864 was added alongside. The railway pier, adjacent to this, opened on July 12 1880’
A walk from Puckpool to Appley Tower, Ryde, Isle of Wight
What a gorgeous January weekend we had. The sun was shining and I decided to go for a few walks over in Ryde on the Isle of Wight. Parking up at Puckpool Park, i decided to walk along the seafront toward Appley Tower. This walk is very popular in and out of season, also benefiting from the lovely long beach and a view over to the mainland on a clear sunny day. Appley Tower also has some great history, below is some information about it:
‘The tower was originally part of the Appley House estate, owned by the Hutt family and later by Sir Hedworth Williamson. The House is now gone, but the castellated tower remains, at the eastern end of the Esplanade in Ryde.
The tower was built as a garden folly about 1875. It is circular in plan, with a turret and decorative oriel window, and on the wall is a plaque with the Appley coat of arms. The Tower is constructed of coursed rubble, dressed with ashlar. Over the years it has become one of the most iconic of Wight buildings, and a symbol of Ryde.
Beside the tower is a memorial to the HMS Sirius, which acted as an escort vessel for the first fleet from England to sail to Australia in 1787. The Sirius later undertook a voyage to South Africa to find food to protect the New South Wales colony from starvation. The plaque was erected here in 1991 by the people of Mosman, Australia, near the place where the Sirius first set sail.’
Walking along Priory Beach, Priory Bay, Isle of Wight
Known as one of the hidden gems on the Isle of Wight is Priory Beach, located in between Seaview and St Helens. Its a lovely beach to visit and relax on a sunny day. Here is a little information about the beach and bay:
Priory Bay is a small privately owned bay on the northeast coast of the Isle of Wight. It lies to the east of the village of Nettlestone and looks out to Selsey Bill and its shoreline is approximately 600m in length, which has golden sand and woodland behind. The northern part of the bay has a straight coastline and is sandy with some pebbles.
At the southern end the bay curves round to the east. Here the coast is rocky with evidence of walls and buttresses that were built to protect the coastline. The bay is surrounded by woodland known as Priory Woods owned by the National Trust. The sea bottom is predominantly sandy. A shallow sandbank called Gull Bank exists just offshore which keeps a long thin pool of water next to the beach at low tide. Beyond the bank, the bottom is gently shelving. The bay can be accessed by walking round Horestone Point from Seagrove Bay
Walking along Seagrove Bay, Seaview, Isle of Wight
Surprisingly we had a lovely sunny day during January and we decided to go visit Seagrove Bay, which is located next to Seaview on the Isle of Wight and is known for its pictures of the bridge at the end of the bay. Please see the video above and dont forget to like and Subscribe. Here is a bit of information about the Bay supplied by Visit Isle of Wight:
Seagrove Bay sits between Seaview beach and Priory Bay on the north east coast and boasts some of the largest and most imposing seaside properties on the Isle of Wight.
When the tide is out Seagrove Bay has a large expanse of golden sands, making it popular for a whole range of beach activities and watersports. There is also a slipway running down into the sea which is a regular launching platform for boats.
The seawall at the rear of the beach leads to Priory Bay, which is owned by Aria Resorts above the high water mark. There are toilet facilities at the bottom of the lane which leads down to the beach.
A very wet but lovely walk around Rylstone Gardens, Shanklin, Isle of Wight
What else can you do after eating all that food over Christmas? That’s right.. go on a nice walk! Unfortunately it was very wet but that didnt stop us! We both love the Rylstone gardens which is located in Shanklin on the Isle of Wight. Here is a little info of the Gardens:
Rylstone Gardens lie within the Shanklin Conservation Area. They are situated on the south side of Shanklin Chine and bordered by coastal cliff to the east. There are extensive sea views.
The house, Listed Grade II, is now Rylstone House Hotel. It dates possibly to the 1860s or 1870s, and is in the form of a cottage orne. It is constructed of stone rubble with decorative timber work.
The public gardens feature a number of mature trees. There is a café and a Crazy Golf course on the site of the former kitchen garden.
The gardens include a chalet (Listed Grade II) built in about 1880, constructed of stone rubble with a wooden verandah. The inspiration for this building was the Swiss Chalet at Osborne House. Stylistically it has affinities with the Keats Inn, Shanklin and may be by the same hand.
Little walk in Bonchurch, Isle of Wight
On a cold but dry day in December I decided (Lee) while Candice was at work to go enjoy a walk in Bonchurch. Starting at the pond, I then walked down to the seafront which comes out at Horseshoe bay, then a small walk along to Monks Bay. For a little info on Monks Bay please visit the website below:
https://www.isleofwight.com/listing/monks-bay-bonchurch-isle-of-wight/
Candice enjoying feeding the Tigers at the Wildheart Animal Sanctuary, Yaverland Isle of Wight
While we visited the Wildheart Animal Sanctuary in Yaverland Isle of Wight, formally known as the Isle of Wight Zoo. Candice finally got to enjoy a present which was bought 2 years earlier to feed the tigers up close. She had the pleasure of feeding the 3 gorgeous tigers known as Natasha, Zoppa and Antonella. You will notice in the video Zoppa was very vocal but i promise she did get some food lol. If you wanted to read more about these beautiful animals please see the Wildheart Animal Sanctuary website below:
https://wildheartanimalsanctuary.org/animals/tigers
Also below is a link to the animal experiences which I do recommend see below
https://wildheartanimalsanctuary.org/animal-experiences
Wildheart Animal Sanctuary, Yaverland, Isle of Wight
We enjoyed a fabulous trip to the Wildheart Animal Sanctuary (known as the Isle of Wight Zoo to islanders by its previous name). It was a cold day being November however, was also a very sunny day and we both had a great time seeing the animals. Candice also had a great experience which was a birthday present, but due to Covid we had to wait a bit before we could both be free to enjoy the trip. The experience was the Tiger feed, and Candice got to get up close and personal with the 3 beautiful Tigers Natasha, Zoppa and Antonella. Stick around to the end of the video to watch the Tiger feed! Also dont forget to like and subscribe!
St Catherine’s Oratory (The Pepper Pot), Chale, Isle of Wight
A fantastic spot to visit is St Catherine’s Oratory, located on the downs just above Blackgang Chine. You can park up at the Blackgang view point (free parking) and enjoy a walk up to this fabulous piece of history, while also taking in the breath-taking views of the Isle of Wight. I do recommend good footwear and, it is quite an incline up the hill but well worth it. Here is some facts below about the St Catherines Oratory (known by locals as the Pepper pot):
The tall, octagonal tower, the shell of a medieval lighthouse, was built in 1314 as a penance for stealing wine from a merchant ship that ran aground on the treacherous rocks of Atherfield Ledge.
The cargo of 174 casks, from Edward II’s Duchy of Aquitaine in France, was salvaged, and much of the wine came into the hands of Walter de Godeton, who owned land in the manor of Chale. Charged with illegally recieving the wine, bound for the monastery of Livers in Picardy, he was ordered to pay a large fine and was almost excommunicated from the Catholic Church. To atone for his sin, Walter built a lighthouse with an oratory for a priest to tend to the light and pray for wrecked sailors.
Affectionately known as the Pepperpot, it stands on one of the highest parts of the Island and is the only medieval lighthouse surviving in England.
Ventnor Botanic Gardens, Ventnor, Isle of Wight
A trip to one of our favourite places on the Isle of Wight, the Ventnor Botanic Gardens. Known for its own climate these gardens are very special, and known for growing very tropical planets which you don’t usually find in the UK. A very peaceful calm place to visit and enjoy a walk around. Located just down the road from Ventnor Park, next too Ventnor Cricket Club. This is part 1, please don’t forget to like and subscribe to our YouTube channel where you will find Part 2!
Compton bay, Freshwater, Isle of Wight
While Candice was off enjoying a Sunday afternoon at the theatre, I decided I would to go for a walk on the West side of the Island. I ended up at the very popular Compton Bay. This beach is very popular with surfers all year round as the waves are spectacular. It is also good for dog walkers, although please check the signage for the times of year dogs are aloud. In this video the tide was in which meant i couldn’t get down to the beach, so instead decided to walk along the cliff top. Please enjoy the video above and don’t forget to like and subscribe.
Shanklin Chine, Shanklin, Isle of Wight
This weekend (23rd of October) we decided to visit Shanklin chine before it shut for the season. We used to visit this very peaceful place a lot but haven’t managed to visit so much over recent years. You can access this wonderful place from simply walking along Shanklin seafront to the end near the fisherman’s cottage, or you can walk down into Shanklin old village and take the path at the side of the crab inn and you will find an entrance there. Please note if entering from the top entrance it may not be suitable for disabled or puchchairs as there are a lot of steps to get down. Check out the website http://www.shanklinchine.co.uk for ticket prices, opening times and more. lastly please enjoy the video above and don’t forget to like and subscribe.
Durdle Door, Wareham
After visiting Stonehenge on our visit to the mainland we decided to visit one of our other favourite spots which we visited on our first holiday together back in 2016 and that was Durdle Door! We couldn’t believe how sunny and warm it was for October, felt like we were in summer. Please enjoy the video above!
Stonehenge, Salisbury
Recently we had a trip off the Island and decided on a weekend to visit Stonehenge! I myself (Lee) had never visited this fantastic site but Candice had when she was little. So we decided to go give it a visit during a sunny October weekend and what a fantastic site it is! See the video above from our visit!
Carisbrooke Castle, Carisbrooke, Isle of Wight
A visit to Carisbrooke Castle. This a fantastic place to visit on the Island plus, if your a member of the English Heritage you can access it all the time! We highly recommend a visit to this wonderful place full of history.
Upper Ventnor to Appuldurcombe House, Wroxall, Isle of Wight
Above was a Sunday walk from our house in Upper Ventnor toward one of our favourite places Appuldurcombe House. Its around a 30 min walk surrounded by the downs and great views toward Wroxall. So blessed to have these type of walks on our doorstep
Ventnor Esplanade, Ventnor, Isle of Wight
A little trip down to Ventnor Esplanade (also known as ‘Home’ to us) on a sunny September Saturday. When I was a child (Lee)and visited the Island I used to dislike Ventnor beach compared to others on the Island. Now that I am older I have learned to appreciate just how gorgeous this town really is. And I am extra proud to call this our home.
Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary, Wroxall, Isle of Wight
Above video is a visit to the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary. Its a fantastic place to visit and highly recommend it if your visiting the island. With Free parking and lots of space to walk around plus over 100 Donkeys to see plus, a great cafe and shop area what’s not to love! Also, you can adopt a donkey!
Needles Landmark Attraction walk up to The Old Battery, Alum Bay, Isle of Wight
Above Is the Video from our latest Visit on the 4th of September 2021 to The Needles Landmark Attraction and our walk up to the Old Battery. The Needles Landmark Attraction can be located on the West side of the Island consisting of a park with Arcades, Mini Golf, Shops, Glass Making, Cafe/Food outlets and much much more! Also its a short walk up the cliff top toward the Old Battery where you can get fantastic Views of the Needles Lighthouse. You can park here for £6 all day.
Needles Landmark Attraction Chairlift, Alum Bay, Isle of Wight
The Video above while also visiting The Needles Landmark Attraction you can also walk down to the Beach or, take a ride on the famous Chairlift with fantastic views as you drop down over the cliff. Please be warned if you are afraid of heights this wont be the ride for you! Its also £8 per adult so with a return journey your looking at a total of £16 for one round trip!
Flowers Brook to Steephill Cove, Ventnor, Isle of Wight
Above is the video from my visit (Lee) to Flowers Brook and then the walk along to the gorgeous Steephill Cove. Flowers Brook is located in between the coastal walk from Ventnor Esplanade to Steephill Cove. For this walk you could either park up on Ventnor esplanade and walk along the coastal route walk, or, you can also park up at Ventnor Park and walk along the main road (or re-join the coastal path through Ventnor Park) till you hit the gorgeous Flowers Brook. You can then continue the walk along too Steephill Cove. One of my favourite walks on the Island!
Devils Chimney, Bonchurch, Isle of Wight
Above is one of our favourite walks on the Isle of Wight. This is the Devils Chimney which is located in between Shanklin and Ventnor along the coastal drive. I have been coming to this Island since I was 3 years old, and moved here to finally live here nearly 7 years ago. It was Candice that introduced me to the Devils Chimney and its now become one of our favourite walks on the Island. If you do want to take on this challenge please bare in mind its quite steep and you would need appropriate footwear.
Sandown Pier, Sandown Esplanade, Isle of Wight
The video above is from my trip to the famous Sandown Pier. Unfortunately, over the years the Island has lost quite a few piers from its major seafront locations and Sandown Pier is one of the Piers still left standing with an amusements, bowling, a cafe, a bar, crazy golf and much more to see and enjoy! Located on one of the favourite beaches on the Island its very much loved by everyone
Shanklin Esplanade, Shanklin, Isle of Wight
Above is a visit to one of our favourite beaches on the Isle of Wight Shanklin. With much to do on this lovely esplanade with a choice of playing crazy golf, a mini section of rides, an amusements, famous ice cream shop on the front and lots of great restaurants/cafes to choose from for food. Shanklin is well known for being one of the most popular tourist destinations.
Puckpool to Seaview, Seaview, Isle of Wight
Above is the video from a lovely evening walk along the Esplanade between Puckpool and Seaview. This beach is a stones throw away from Ryde Esplanade and is known for Shell Collecting and is just a beautiful beach to walk along. Also known for watching lovely sunsets on a summer evening.
Restricted area 5 at Blackgang Chine, Blackgang, Isle of Wight
One of our videos from visiting Blackgang Chine, a place we hold close to our hearts. Blackgang Chine is the oldest theme park in the UK. Not known for its rides but more for grabbing the imagination of children through themed areas. Myself and Candice have been going here as children and still love to visit here as adults (we are both big kids). Above is the Restricted Area 5… hope you love Dinosaurs!
Cowboy Town at Blackgang Chine, Blackgang, Isle of Wight
Another Video above from our Visit to Blackgang Chine and this is the Cowboy Town (YEEHAH!) which is one of the favourite places for kids to run around and play on all the areas. Be careful though, you might be shot by a cap gun or put in the Sheriffs Jail!
The Wandering Walkers IOW 