WALKING THE ISLE OF WIGHT COAST PATH - 77 MILES

ABOUT THE WALK -

Islands have always fascinated me and we in Britain are fortunate having some 1,200 of them. The definition of an island is having sufficient grass on it to sustain one sheep for a year! So far I have walked around more than 900 of them, on walks through the Hebrides, Orkneys, Shetlands and off the English and Welsh coasts.

When I walked around Britain in 1978 I purposefully did not include islands as this would entail going by boat to them and would negate my basic premise of only walking on foot, as a means of travel. I am glad I made that decision for since then I have purposefully sought out many islands and walked round them.

One of them was the Isle of Wight and one of the largest. My first walk on the wisland was when I was aged 4! In 1987 I did my first walk around the island’s coast path and wrote a guide. Since then I have been back many times and updated the book regularly. I hear from numerous people who have walked it,including a party that did it under 24 hours; a great achievement! But you don't have to do that, just enjoy the island and its coastline and take as long as you wish.

In the 77 mile walk there is great variety of sandy beaches, towns and villages, high cliffs, views of The Solent, Downs, monuments, forts and the world famous Needles.

Simply set off with an open mind and enjoy the unfolding scenery at each step. Admire the views, and the winding path as you encircle this mild gentle island so full of history. May the sun shine all day .

A4. Guide. Wire bound and signed by John Merrill.

Special Isle of Wight badge and signed certificate from John Merrill, for successful walkers.

All names added to my Walkers Roll of Honour Page.