Come and explore the Isle of Wight National Landscape with us! Whether you enjoy nature, heritage, storytelling, art or landscape views with new friends, there is something for everyone. 15 themed walks with 5 walk leaders taking place between 23rd May – 15th August.
This year Isle of Wight National Landscape and walk leaders are kicking off the walks programme with 5 ‘no need to book’ walks, just come along on day – bring a friend or meet a new one: Arty walk at Freshwater Bay, Golden Tales Freshwater, Historic Landscape at Chillerton, Twilight Woodland Wander in Newchurch and In the Footsteps of The Niton Smugglers – further details below.
Bookings for June, July and August walks opens on 11th May – https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/isle-of-wight-national-landscape-summer-walks-2026-4839058
Arty Walk Freshwater Bay with Lucia Para
Date and time: Saturday 23rd May 10.30-1pm
Meeting point: In front of the Dimbola Museum (Terrace Lane, Freshwater PO40 9QE, grid ref SZ 34341 85972)
For adults and accompanied 14+
Learn how to capture colourful memories in your sketchbook while walking the wonderful path around Freshwater bay. Lucia Para is an Italian artist and illustrator and she will share her favourite techniques to start a sketchbook practice outdoors (or enrich your existing one).
We will stop at view points and do quick sketches focusing on elements of the landscape.
All levels of ability are welcome. Please bring along a sketchbook (or pad or clipboard), your favourite art materials (graphite or coloured pencils, pastels, markers, basic), and something to sit on.
The walk is around 1 and half mile and has few steep steps.
Public toilets on route
Golden Tales Story Walk with Sue Bailey
Date and time: Monday 25th May 11-1pm
Meeting point: Golden Hill Fort, Norton Green, Freshwater PO40 9GDWhat3words: shall.giving.parading
Families with activities aimed at children
A story walk for families around Golden Hill Fort with plenty of stops for stories with a golden theme running through them, solving riddles and finding natural treasures. This will be ideal for children aged 4-10. No need to book. Just turn up.
Historic Landscape at Chillerton with Kelly Wetherick
Date and time: Tuesday 26th June 2.30-4.30pm
Meeting point: Lay by off Berry Shute, Chillerton PO30 3HA
A walk for adults
Discover the fascinating landscape of Chillerton Down. With enigmatic earthworks and evidence of farming throughout the ages, come and explore this impressive promontory.
Twilight Woodland Wander with Kathy Grogan
Date and time: Wednesday 27th May 6-8pm
Meeting point: NEWCHURCH VILLAGE CARPARK, School Lane, Newchurch PO36 0NL (opposite Newchurch Primary School)
A walk for families. No dogs please.
A twilight adventure into the woods where we’ll be celebrating Spring with a range of activities for our young wild explorers to discover woodland wildlife. Come in your pyjamas and wellies with a warm jumper or jacket so you can go straight to bed afterwards! Flat walk. No gates, stiles or steps.
In the Footsteps of: The Niton Smugglers with Chris and Frankie
Date and time: Saturday 30th May 10.30-1pm
Meeting point: Opposite the Buddle Inn, St Catherines Rd Niton. PO38 2NE
Adults and accompanied older children (12yrs+)
Join us for an adventurous hike taking in some sites of historical interest along the Niton Smugglers Trail.
- A CIRCULAR walk pf approximately 5 miles. Some steep climbs on narrow paths but rewarded with breathtaking views from the top. Expect some steps or stiles.
- Takes in Castle Haven, St Catherines Point, Rocken End, and the notorious Cripple Path.
Partnering with the Biosphere Festival
Now in its second year the Biosphere Festival celebrates the key biosphere principles: Value Our Island Heritage, Protect and Sustain Nature, Restore Island Ecosystems, Share Biosphere Knowledge, Celebrate Local Distinctiveness, Build a Liveable Island, Embrace a New Economy, Take Climate Action, Safeguard Future Generations. The Biosphere Festival is a nine day celebration of free or low cost events: 27th June – 5th July. Isle of Wight NL Walk leaders will lead five free walks: In the Footsteps of Lady Ann Worsley, Full Moon Walk Culver Down, Archaeology of Brading Marsh, Byways and Birdsong Wroxall and an Arty Walk along Shalfleet Creek. Walks can be booked on Eventbrite from 11th May – https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/isle-of-wight-national-landscape-summer-walks-2026-4839058
Walks for all
The landscape is for everyone to enjoy. Each year Isle of Wight NL and walk leaders run walks for organisations, ensuring that as many people as possible feel welcome. This year our walk leaders are working with Godshill families, VIVA group, Young Farmers Club, Isle of Wight College and Wroxall school. If you represent an organisation or education group please contact unit@isleofwight-nl.org.uk to find out how you could take part.