Isle of Wight Walking Weekend  11–13 September

Overview

A long weekend of coastal and downs walking on the Isle of Wight, hosted by Sue Clements, supported by Jill Green, Jim Catchpole. We will be based in Newport and cover three planned walks over Friday–Sunday, combining dramatic sea views, chalk downs and classic island villages. Expect mixed terrain, full day of walking and a friendly, steady group pace.

A classic Isle of Wight walking weekend…..

Contact: Chair.norfolkandsuffolk@ldwa.co.uk

Key details

• Dates: 11–13 September
• Organiser: Sue Clements
• Walk Leaders: Jill Green, Jim Catchpole
• Base: Newport (central for access to all start points)
• Fitness/ability: Suitable for experienced hill/walkers used to 10–16 mile days; moderate to strenuous sections.
• Pace: Moderate; typical walking speed (3 to 3.5mph) with regular short breaks and a longer lunch stop as we will be a bit more up and down than in Norfolk & Suffolk.

Hosts will circulate final joining instructions, exact meeting points and any last??'minute updates via a WhatsApp group nearer the event date. Booking accommodation is the priority if you wish to attend.

Daily itinerary

Friday 11 September — Yarmouth to Tennyson Down (approx 15 miles)

• Start: Yarmouth (morning)
• Route highlights: Coastal paths from Yarmouth, views across the Solent, Tennyson Down ridge with panoramic sea vistas and the Tennyson Monument.
• Terrain: Coastal footpaths, chalk downland, some steep ascents/descents.
• Lunch: Packed lunch en route; café options in Yarmouth or near Tennyson depending on timing.
• Finish: Return to Newport.

Saturday 12 September — Godshill to St Catherine’s (approx 15–16 miles)

• Start: Godshill (morning)
• Route highlights: Picturesque village of Godshill, inland lanes and footpaths, approach to St Catherine’s Point and the lighthouse, coastal panoramas.
• Terrain: Mixed lanes, fields, coastal cliff paths; some exposed sections near the point.
• Lunch: Village café or packed lunch with scenic stop.
• Finish: Return to Newport.

Sunday 13 September — Newport 10mile circular (approx 10 miles)

• Start/Finish: Newport (morning)
• Route highlights: Circular route exploring the countryside around Newport, historic town features, quieter footpaths and farmland views.
• Terrain: Gentle rolling countryside, well??'defined paths.
• Finish: Early to mid afternoon, allowing travel home.

Practical information & logistics

• Meeting times: Typical start times will be 08:30–09:30 each morning; exact meeting points and times will be confirmed by the Leaders.
• Transport: Newport is centrally located; allow time for ferries if arriving from the mainland. Car parking and drop??'off details will be provided with final joining instructions.
• Accommodation: Book in Newport (hotels, B&Bs, self??'catering).
• Food & water: Carry a packed lunch and snacks each day; water refillable bottles recommended. There will be opportunities for café stops but don’t rely on them for every meal.
• Navigation: Routes will be led and waymarked by the Leaders; personal map/phone navigation recommended as backup.

Safety, kit and preparation

• Essential kit guidance: Suitable footwear, waterproof jacket, warm layers, hat, gloves (variable September weather), rucksack, packed lunch, snacks, water (1–2 litres), basic first??'aid items, sun protection, charged mobile phone, Trekking poles, gaiters (if wet), spare socks.
• Medical & emergency: Inform hosts of any medical conditions that we need to be aware of. Hosts will carry a basic first??'aid kit.
• Weather: Expect changeable autumn weather; check forecasts and pack accordingly.
• Booking & confirmation: Ensure your place is confirmed with the event organiser and that you have travel and accommodation arranged in Newport (or close by). Newport has a Premier Inn & Travel Lodge.