Here is a short guide to walking and cycling on the Isle of Wight.

As far as the conventions of the route are concerned, the Island is covered by the same Countryside Code as the rest of the UK.

Walking

Certain sections of many routes are along roads. If you have to walk on or near a road as part of your chosen route, please:

  • Walk on the pavement if there is one
  • Keep to the verge if conditions make this possible
  • If there is no alternative and you have to walk on the road, you should generally keep on the right-hand side, and stay as close to the edge of the road surface as possible.
    You may feel safer crossing to the left before a road curves sharply to the right - keep a look out in all directions when both crossing and on the 'wrong' side.
    If possible, put on an item of bright clothing, or carry a torch at dawn, dusk or in night conditions.

    Route signage

    There are various standards of sign for the routes on this website. Please be aware that few of the names & route numbers used on this site are usually displayed.
    A sign found at a T-junction of paths
    Type of Route Main signs Smaller waymark Permitted users

    Coastal Footpath

    		 Sign for Coastal Path, with yellow 'Footpath' arrow
    Sign for Coastal Path, with seagull route logo

    None

    Most sections for walkers only

    Public Footpath

    		 Sign for Public Footpath near Compton
    Sign for Public Footpath near Brighstone     		Yellow Arrow marker

    Walkers only

    Public Cycle Route

    Walkers and Cyclists.
    Horses only if signs indicate

    Public Bridleway or Bridlepath

    		 Sign for Public Bridleway near Chale
    Sign for Public Bridleway near Freshwater     		Blue Arrow marker

    Walkers, Cyclists and horses

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