New Walks Added As Headline Sponsor Announced For Spring Isle Of Wight Walking Festival

The second wave of walks added to the Spring Isle of Wight Walking Festival, to be held between 10 and 18 May.

The event, now sponsored by Outdooractive, invites walkers of all abilities to explore the breathtaking landscapes, charming villages and stunning coastline.

With 68 walks to choose from, this much-loved event promises a mix of guided walks, scenic trails and community spirit.

Newly added to the programme of walks is the Hidden Gems of Ryde with the Isle of Wight Bus Museum, a short and gentle walk that visits the Isle of Wight Bus Museum, Monkton Arts Studio and Appley Tower.

Led by your knowledgeable guide, learn more about this historic seaside town and enjoy the lesser-known stories of its landmarks.

For a beautiful walk through Whitcombe Valley, join Under the Clock - the story of Whitecroft Hospital and follow this 3-mile circular route around Whitcombe, Marvel and beyond to learn about the fascinating history of Whitecroft Hospital and the Whitecroft Estate.

For a chance to see some red squirrels, join the Newchurch anecdotal history and Red Squirrel Walk and follow the trail of the executed king; the queen who never was, the hanged man and the Celtic magic wand.

For a walking and talking route, join Walking Talking Reading J.B. Priestley for a circular downland and coastal walk around Brook Hill House - the home of J.B. Priestley until 1959. With readings from his 1949 book 'Delight’.

Cats Protection is back with a stroll from its Isle of Wight Cat Centre in Ryde, along to Appley and then a return visit to the Cat Centre where tea and cake can be purchased and a visit around the Cattery to see their current residents.

Speaking about the Spring Isle of Wight Walking Festival, Amy Summers from Visit Isle of Wight said:

“We’ve had a fantastic response to the walks so far with over 750 registered walkers signed up, with 76% of people visiting from mainland UK and overseas.

"With the new walks added, we have plenty of opportunities for people to sign up and get involved in the festival.

“We’ve had a great response from local businesses providing special offers on accommodation, travel, and food and beverage to support the festival, and my thanks to Outdooractive for supporting this year’s festival and becoming the headline sponsor.”

Outdooractive, Europe’s largest outdoor activity and tourism digital platform, has been working with Visit Isle of Wight for the past two years to provide an interactive outdoor activities map to showcase walking and cycling routes on the Island.

Craig Wareham, Global Director B2C & UK CEO of Outdooractive said:

“Outdooractive is proud to partner with Visit Isle of Wight as the headline sponsor for the Isle of Wight Walking Festival.

"This festival captures the spirit of exploration for everybody and being more connected with nature - values that are at the heart of Outdooractive’s mission. 

“We are passionate about empowering people to explore the great outdoors and the Isle of Wight offers some of the UK’s most spectacular walking routes.

"We are excited to support this incredible festival and inspire even more people to step outside and discover the Isle of Wight’s remarkable landscapes and rich heritage."

To view a full range of walks in this year’s Isle of Wight Spring Walking Festival, visit https://isleofwightwalkingfestival.co.uk/