Pub Walks
ON THE ISLE OF WIGHT
Walkers seeking a stroll and a pub lunch are spoilt for choice on the Isle of Wight.
There are 500 miles of footpath and dozens of country and coastal pubs, all waiting to be explored and discovered.
Here are some favourites courtesy of Robbie Lane, Isle of Wight Guru.
RYDE TO SEAVIEW
Lunch: The Old Fort, Seaview
Distance: 3 miles each way
Our first walk starts from the sandy beach of Appley in the East Wight town of Ryde. This is one of the busiest and most popular beaches on the Island but there is plenty of space at the main car park overlooking the beach.
From here, head East along the coastal path, away from the town's famous pier.
The route is easy to follow but take care along the sections without any railings as there is a big drop onto the beach below.
You'll pass Springvale Beach before arriving in the Edwardian resort of Seaview. Spend a little time in its small high street where you'll find Seaview Art Gallery.
For lunch, take your pick from The Old Fort or The Aquitania at the Seaview Hotel. Both are highly regarded restaurants that have won awards in recent years.
Return via the same route to enjoy further views of the activity on the Solent.
ST CATHERINE'S LIGHTHOUSE
Lunch: The Buddle Inn, Niton
Distance: 2 miles
For this walk, we will park near to our lunch destination. Try to resist the temptation to dine before you walk!
From the Buddle, follow the NT43 footpath or the quiet road down to the beach at Castlehaven.
Head west along the coastal path and you'll soon emerge at St Catherine's Lighthouse. The local cottages are of particular interest as one was home to Marconi during his early telecommunications experiments.
Follow the narrow road from the lighthouse and head back up the hill where you will soon be at The Buddle Inn for lunch!
THE RIVER YAR
Lunch: The Wheatsheaf Inn
Distance: 4.5 miles
This West Wight walk is ideal if you are looking to avoid steep climbs.
The walk follows the River Yar in a circular route, starting from the historic town of Yarmouth.
From Yarmouth, head for the former railway line that is now home to Off The Rails. This is one of many lunch options along the route, with the others including The Wheatsheaf and The Bugle in Yarmouth itself or The Red Lion in Freshwater (via a small detour).
Continue along the railway line until you reach The Causeway at Freshwater. Cross the Causeway and pick up the public footpath on the other side of the river. Head north along this path until you reach the outskirts of Yarmouth.
When you arrive at the main road, cross via the swing bridge to return to Yarmouth for a well deserved pub lunch!
FRESHWATER BAY TO THE NEEDLES
Lunch: The Highdown Inn
Distance: 7.8 miles
Walkers seeking a challenge should tackle this route that delivers some of the best views in the West Wight.
Start at Freshwater Bay before climbing up the steep cliffs to the Tennyson Monument. Enjoy the views from the top at the memorial to Alfred Lord Tennyson, who lived nearby at Farringford.
Continue along the coastal path with its impressive views in all directions until you reach The Needles.
These chalk stacks and lighthouse are a must-visit for many Isle of Wight holidaymakers. Take a while to learn about the headland's role as a military battery and as a rocket testing base.
From here, climb up to Headon Warren with its purple heather and views across to Hurst Castle.
For lunch, stop at The Highdown Inn, where you can enjoy traditional pub favourites and vegan alternatives.
To complete the walk, follow the footpaths back to Freshwater Bay.
THE RIVER MEDINA
Lunch: The Bargeman's Rest
Distance: 9 miles
Our final walk covers the North Wight, beginning in the lively sailing town of Cowes.
Make your way to the start of the former railway line on Arctic Road that leads towards Newport.
This flat and smooth route is popular with walkers and cyclists and can also be completed by children on scooters.
The track follows the River Medina, which separates East Cowes from Cowes.
When you arrive in Newport, treat yourself to lunch at the Bargeman's Rest. This casual pub is a perfect spot on a sunny day with views over the river.
For the return journey, cross over the river and follow the footpath that leads towards The Folly Inn.
As you leave the Folly Inn, join the main road and walk into East Cowes via Osborne. This magnificent estate was Queen Victoria's home for many years and is a fascinating visit for history fans.
To return to Cowes, catch the chain ferry on Ferry Road.
For more Island inspiration, see our Explore section.
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