The path around the Isle of Wight’s coastline now has the first two stretches of the King Charles III England Coast Path completed on the island.
The work forms part of a national programme to create a coastal path around the whole of England. Once completed this will be the longest managed coastal walking route in the world and the UK’s longest National Trail at around 2,700 miles long.
A stretch of 12 miles from Chilton Chine to Colwell Chine on the southwest and west of the island and nearly three miles from Gurnard Luck to West Cowes Chain Ferry on the north coast are now open.
In establishing the new trail there has been legal provision for the trail to ‘roll back’ in response to coastal erosion for most of the 12 miles between the Chines, while on the shorter stretch roll back provision has been made on the seawall at Marsh Road where there has been previous erosion and at Gurnard Cliff. This secures people’s rights into the future and protects the investment being made now.
Chilton Chine to Colwell Chine
This 12-mile stretch of the King Charles III England Coast Path offers a blend of dramatic coastal scenery, beaches, and landmarks passing through vast areas of National Landscape and designated Sites of Special Scientific Interest.
Starting at Chilton Chine, the route follows a cliff top path along grassland with views of the sea and rolling green hills inland. There are access points to beaches at Chilton Chine and Brook Bay, and also Compton Bay known for its wide sandy beach, surf-friendly waves, and fossil-rich cliffs. Heading away from the cliff edge, the path passes over Afton Down. Here there are views of the route ahead including Freshwater Bay and Tennyson Down and Monument.
As the path nears Alum Bay, the route offers glimpses of the iconic Needles. The Old and New Battery is an historic military and secret rocket testing site with views and a visitor centre. The route then heads down to The Needles Landmark Attraction where a short detour from the route gives access to Alum Bay, known for its multi-coloured sand cliffs and views of The Needles. The route then heads down to Totland Bay and joins a promenade walk to Colwell Bay, both locations providing facilities for families, swimming, water sports, and panoramic coastal views.
Gurnard Luck to West Cowes Chain Ferry
This short but scenic 2.8-mile section offers a relaxed experience with plenty of opportunities to enjoy seaside views, maritime heritage, and local charm. From Gurnard Luck, the path follows a narrow wall providing a close-up coastal experience; after a short inland section the route descends through Lynda’s Wood via steps and boardwalks to arrive at the locally known “secret beach”.
Further to the east is Gurnard Beach, with traditional green painted beach huts, a children’s play area, and café. The beach is well-loved for sailing, watersports, and its sunsets. The route then follows the Esplanade Walk—a flat, accessible promenade.
Along the way, walkers are treated to views across the Solent. The route passes The Green, a spacious grassy area with benches and a pebble beach. Sailing enthusiasts will enjoy spotting yachts racing offshore, especially during events like the Round-the-Island Race and Cowes Week. As the path continues into the town, walkers can enjoy a quick dip at Cowes Beach, explore the bustling harbour, and browse the cafés, restaurants, and boutique shops along the High Street.
One of the new features in the Gurnard Luck section has been the installation of steps, gravel paths and boardwalks from Worsley Road through Lynda’s Wood down to the beach. This work finished ahead of schedule at the end of July.
The woods are owned by Richard Murphy who bought the land with his late wife, Lynda, planting over 500 trees, with further investment planned. He hopes the woods will be a lasting tribute to his wife, who was the visionary for woodland improvements at the site.
Councillor Paul Fuller, who represents the Cowes West and Gurnard ward and is vice-chair of Gurnard Parish Council, said: “This is a fantastic improvement for our community, and I’m especially pleased to see the path made safer and more accessible for everyone. It’s been especially moving to learn the personal story behind this project. A heartfelt thank you to Richard Murphy, whose dedication has truly gone above and beyond.”
Allison Potts, deputy area director for Natural England, said: “These improved stretches of path take in some of the best views on the Isle of Wight and much-loved places that have been attracting visitors for many years.
“With the improvements to the path and the additional access rights, we hope it will continue to give people the chance to get out and enjoy nature, as well as continue to bring visitors to the island, since tourism is so vital to the local economy.”
