Family Walking Adventure at Freshwater Bay

Family-friendly walks

Our family holidays offer the choice of up to 4 guided walks each day  – you can choose an Easier Walk one day and switch to a Harder Walk the next. Our routes range from short strolls that are ideal for little legs, to longer walks that will appeal to active teenagers.  

Tennyson Down & the Needles

Family Walk: We stroll along the coast path to Tennyson Monument and the Needles with panoramic views of the Solent. There is an opportunity to see the famous sands of Alum Bay and descend to the beach by chair lift. We return by the open-top ‘Breezer’ bus with time to enjoy the swimming pool or play in the grounds. 3 miles (5km) with 600 feet (180m) of ascent.

Easier Walk: Our walk takes us to Alum Bay, then onto the Needles on the edge of Tennyson Down before ascending to the old Rocket Base. Our  return passes Tennyson’s Monument with spectacular views as we descend back to Freshwater Bay. 6 miles (9.5km) with 700 feet (210m) of ascent.

Medium Walk: We take quiet lanes and footpaths to Totland Bay, then ascend over the heather clad ‘Warren’ for wonderful views, continuing to Alum Bay and the ‘Batteries’ and the famous ‘Needles’. We return along the spine of Tennyson Down. 8 miles (13km) with 1,100 feet (330m) of ascent.

Harder Walk: A circular walk along the Yar Estuary to Yarmouth, returning along the coastline with superb views across to Hurst Castle on the mainland and the boating scenes of the Solent. Walk round the coast to a glorious finish over Tennyson Down. 12 miles (19km) with 1,200 feet (360m) of ascent.

Carisbrooke Castle or the three trails

Family Walk: Starting from the pretty hamlet of Bowcombe we take field tracks to join the ‘Shepherd’s Trail’. We continue to the impressive Carisbrooke Castle where we will have ample time to look round the castle and enjoy the special events - jousting and treasure hunts, and see the famous donkey-powered well. 3 miles (5km) with 200 feet (60m) of ascent.

Easier Walk: From the village of Shorwell we ascend onto the High Downs with panoramic views across the island. We continue over farmland onto the Shepherd’s Trail which will lead us on to Carisbrooke Castle. We also will have time to explore the castle. 5 miles (8km) with 400 feet (120m) of ascent.

Medium Walk: After visiting the pretty village of Brighstone we ascend to Limerstone Down with extensive views before descending for a morning break in Shorwell. We ascend onto Westridge Down and Carisbrooke Castle eventually comes into view. Time to visit the castle. 7 miles (11km) with 1,000 feet (300m) of ascent.

Harder Walk: A classic walk along the chalk spine of the Isle of Wight. Our walk starts at Carisbrooke Castle and continues westwards taking the Shepherd’s, Worsley & Tennyson trails over the high chalk downs. Our final descent is over Compton Down to Freshwater Bay. 13 miles (21km) and 1,500 feet (450m) of ascent.

Sandown and the home of the dinosaurs

Family Walk: From the hilltop at Bembridge Windmill, we walk to the coastline before ascending to Culver Down. We continue on the coastal path with views of Sandown ahead where we can visit the island’s excellent Dinosaur Museum and large play area or spend time on the beach. 3 miles (5km) with 300 feet (90m) of ascent.

Easier Walk: After visiting the historic village of Brading we take the Bembridge and Yar River Trail to the Bembridge Windmill. After visiting the mill we continue on the same route as the Family Walk with ample time to spend in Sandown and its attractions before our return. 6 miles (9.5km) with 600 feet (180m) of ascent.

Medium Walk: From Brading Down we descend into a shaded wooded valley before continuing to the historic town of Brading. We now continue to Bembridge Windmill and rejoin the coastal path to Sandown in time for refreshments. 8 miles (13km) with 600 feet (180m) of ascent.

Harder Walk: From Arreton craft village, we walk along the valley under the downs before ascending Brading Down and walking along the chalk ridge, enjoying the views across the Solent to the mainland. We’ll continue over Culver Down and along the coastal path to Sandown. 11 miles (17.5km) with 800 feet (240m) of ascent.

Ventnor Botanic Gardens & Shanklin

Family Walk: From the east side of Ventnor, we walk to the old village of Bonchurch and visit the tiny old church before descending to the promenade at Ventnor where we can paddle in the paddling pool. We follow the coastal path to pretty Steephill Cove, with its lovely beach then onto Ventnor Botanic Garden, with its play area, visitor centre and café. 3 miles (5km) with 500 feet (150m) of ascent.

Easier Walk: Starting from the village of Niton we walk first to Whitwell and visit its historic well. Our walk continues to the inland cliffs with good views of the Channel. We then follow the coast path to Ventnor’s Botanic Gardens with its large play area and exhibitions. 5 miles (8km) with 400 feet (120m) of ascent.

Medium Walk: A walk around the south eastern corner of the island from Niton through the Botanic Gardens, Ventnor and onto Shanklin. Great sea views, wonderful scents in the gardens, an old church, then on through the lush landslip to Shanklin. 8 miles (13km) with 800 feet (240m) of ascent.

Harder Walk: Starting from Chale village, we follow the coastal path around St Catherine’s Point and then through the Undercliff to Ventnor Botanic Gardens. We continue on the coast path through Ventnor, pretty Bonchurch and through the landslip to Shanklin. 10 miles (16km) with 1,200 feet (360m) of ascent.

The Yar Valley or Tennyson Trail

Family Walk: Walking from Freshwater Bay House we follow the Yar Valley through a nature reserve and a disused railway line to the old ferry town of Yarmouth. Time to walk on the pier, visit the castle, play on the green, or have an ice cream before returning on the open-top bus. 3 miles (5km) with negligible ascent.

Easier Walk: We take the Freshwater Way through woods and farms arriving at the historic port of Yarmouth at lunchtime. We have time to explore the town, watch the boats or walk on the pier. Our return is along the old railway track and through the Yar Valley Nature Trail. 7 miles 11km) with 200 feet (60m) of ascent.

Medium Walk: Crossing Freshwater Bay golf course we follow the Tennyson Trail with the magnificent views across the Solent. We descend through woods and on to the coastline. We return to Freshwater Bay House along the coast path, possibly partly on the beach. 8 miles (13km) with 800 feet (240m) of ascent.

Harder Walk: After walking east on the Tennyson Trail we visit the ancient Longstone before descending to the village of Brighstone. Field paths take us to the coast at Chilton Chine where we return on the coast, following the route of the Medium Walk. 13 miles (21km) with 1,100 feet (330m) of ascent.

Holiday information

Child friendly walks: we select the most child-friendly walks with shorter distances and plenty of interest along the route. The shorter walks usually allow plenty of time to enjoy the beach or pool before the evening meal at 6.30pm.

• Expert leaders: our friendly walks leaders will ensure that families get the most out of the walks
• Activity leaders: our activity leaders are on hand to organise children’s activities and games for younger children before dinner. These could include rounders, beach games, or crafts.
• Peace of mind: only families can book on our dedicated Family holidays - the kids get the run of the Country House in a safe environment
• Free day: on our 7 night holidays, enjoy a day without walks to get out and make the most of the nearby family-friendly attractions

Terrain and transport: Our Family and Easier Walks finish earlier in the afternoon to suit little legs - walks are not suitable for pushchairs. Easier Walks have gently undulating gradients whilst the Medium and Harder Walks have occasional steeper sections.

On some days the walks start or finish at Freshwater Bay House; on other days we use hired transport at the start and/or end of the walks. The cost of all transport to and from the walks is included in the price of your holiday.

Activities at Freshwater Bay House:

Before dinner the activity leaders will run an activity suitable for the younger children. After a sociable evening meal you could join in an evening activity created specifically for all the family or use the Country House facilities.

Your leaders will inform you about the choice of walks for the next day and answer any questions you may have. After a sociable evening meal you could join in an evening activity created specifically for all the family or use the Country House facilities.

See our Family Adventure Guide for more information about our holidays, and accommodation.

^{Images supplied by visitisleofwight.co.uk} 

Discover the Isle of Wight

The Isle of Wight is a delightful haven away from the bustle of the mainland, easily reached by ferry. Broadly diamond shaped, the island is 25 miles long and 15 miles wide. This makes it ideally sized for a week’s walking and exploration.

Freshwater Bay
Freshwater Bay is a small semi-circular cove at the foot of the garden of Freshwater Bay House. There is a pebble beach here, or better sandy beaches approximately 3 miles away at Totland Bay or Colwell Bay. Shops and banks are located in Freshwater village, about 30 minutes’ walk away.

Yarmouth
The small harbour town of Yarmouth is located 3 miles north of Freshwater Bay; either a 10 minutes drive, a pleasant 1 hour walk, or reached using the 'Needles Breezer' open-top bus. Yarmouth has a selection of small shops and pubs, and there's always a bustle of activity around the harbour. Yarmouth's Tudor castle is also worth a visit. www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/yarmouth-castle/ 

Osborne House
Queen Victoria’s island residence, managed by English Heritage, is located near East Cowes at the north of the island. Enjoy the lavish interiors and take time to explore the extensive grounds which slope down to the Solent. Osborne House is about 40 minutes drive from Freshwater Bay. During the main season (May to Sept) we offer an excursion to Osborne on most Wednesdays. www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/osborne/

Carisbrooke Castle
A fine medieval castle situated near Newport in the heart of the island. The castle's most famous 'resident' was King Charles I, who was imprisoned here after the English Civil War. Walk around the impressive walls and visit the castle's famous well where donkeys are used to raise the water using a large treadmill. The castle is around 20 minutes' drive from freshwater Bay, and can also be reached direct using the number 12 bus. www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/carisbrooke-castle/ 

Isle of Wight Steam Railway
Step back in time and ride this vintage steam railway from Wootton to Smallbrook Junction. The railway has a particularly historic collection of locomotives and rolling stock, including many wooden 4-wheeled carriages dating from the the 19th Century. The main station is at Havenstreet where you'll also find a museum and the line's workshops. The steam railway is about 45 minutes' drive away, but can also be reached by local bus, via Newport. www.iwsteamrailway.co.uk

Blackgang Chine
This fantasy theme park is a big hit with children of all ages. Attractions include Cowboy village, 'Fantasyland', maze and the giant snakes and ladders. Adults may also enjoy the maritime exhibition and working sawmill. Blackgang is 20 minutes' drive from Freshwater Bay and in Summer can be reached using the 'Island Coaster' bus. www.blackgangchine.com

Ventnor Botanical Gardens
The island's rich climate enables Mediterranean plants to prosper. Enjoy magnificent floral displays and relaxing gardens. Ventnor is 30 minutes' drive from Freshwater Bay and in Summer can be reached using the 'Island Coaster' bus. www.botanic.co.uk

Travel to Freshwater Bay

Our address is: Freshwater Bay House, Freshwater Bay, Isle of Wight PO40 9RB

	By ferry & transfer - great value! We offer a reduced price ferry and transfer ticket - just £20 return for adults and £10 for children. This includes a foot passenger ticket for the Lymington to Yarmouth ferry, plus a connecting transfer to Freshwater Bay. Our transfers operate every Saturday and Wednesday (Friday and Monday in the low season). These connect with the 1500, 1600 and 1700 ferries from Lymington. On departure day the transfer will get you back to Yarmouth in time to catch the 0845 or 1005 ferries to the mainland. Book your tickets by calling our Reservations team on 0345 470 7558.
	By train: The nearest train station is Lymington Pier on the mainland. This is immediately adjacent to the ferry terminal. For train times and general rail enquiries visit www.nationalrail.co.uk or call 03457 484950 (from outside the UK call +44 20 7278 5240).
	By ferry: The Lymington to Yarmouth ferry is the most convenient for Freshwater Bay - see www.wightlink.co.uk Alternatively the Southampton to West Cowes ferry is often the cheapest option if you want to take your car to the Isle of Wight - see www.redfunnel.co.uk
	By car: From Yarmouth turn right out of the ferry terminal onto the A3054 and over the bridge across the River Yar. After 1 mile turn left down Pixley Hill, signposted to Freshwater Bay. At the double roundabout by the Co-op turn left onto the A3055 and follow this road to the seafront at Freshwater Bay. Turn right passing the Albion Hotel on the left. The entrance to Freshwater Bay House is beyond on your left. Alternatively leave your car on the mainland and travel to the Isle of Wight as a foot passenger. There is a pay and display car park at Lymington Pier - price £8.20 per day.
	Travelling from overseas If you're travelling from Europe the most convenient airport is at Southampton. From Southampton Airport Parkway station (adjacent to the airport terminal) there are regular trains to Lymington Pier - journey time 40 minutes). See www.nationalrail.co.uk for details. For most guests, travelling to either London Heathrow or London Gatwick airport is the best option. See www.nationalrail.co.uk for onward connections by train to Lymington Pier.