A coastal stroll in Ryde 4 Aug 2023
Make the most of the warmer weather with a walk from our Ryde branch which takes in some of the Island’s most popular seaside towns and villages…
The Ryde Coastal Path begins its scenic journey at Ryde Esplanade, a bustling waterfront area that serves as the gateway to the Island’s eastern coast. The Esplanade offers captivating views of the Solent and over towards Portsmouth and Southsea and passes by bustling cafes and classic seaside fun fairs along the way.
Continuing along the coastal path, you’ll soon reach the sandy shores of Appley Beach. The soft golden sands and shallow waters make this beach a popular spot for families and beachgoers. Take off your shoes and feel the sand beneath your feet as you stroll along the shoreline and pass by the iconic Appley Tower.
The coastal path leads you further along to Puckpool Park, a delightful playpark that was once a Victorian fort. You’ll find The Dell Cafe just on the outskirts of the park. A hugely popular cafe with locals, the menu offers a vibrant menu inspired by the owner’s travels abroad.
Continuing on, you’ll pass through Seaview, a charming coastal village renowned for its scenic beauty and sailing heritage. The village offers a selection of cafes and boutiques, making it an ideal spot to pause and indulge in some local treats. Admire the elegant architecture of the beachside cottages and partake in a spot of celebrity spotting at Seagrove Bay – a regular haunt for those escaping city life in the summer. This & That is an eclectic interiors shop where you’ll find lots of charming items to adorn your home.
Diverting slightly inland before arriving back at the coast, as you carry on along the coastal path, nature lovers will enjoy a stop at Nodes Point which offers an excellent opportunity to observe a diverse range of coastal wildlife, including seabirds and marine life. The path reaches the shore once more near the ruins of St Helen’s church.
The path runs across an area of grassland known as St Helens Duver, formerly a golf course, given to the National Trust in 1961 and now returned to a more natural state of sand dunes. Wildlife abounds here and is home to a flock of Hebridean sheep, alexanders flowers, red squirrels, blackcap and many other small birds.
At the end of your walk, take a rest on the beach or treat yourself to a pizza and a glass of something nice from Steve’s Bar at The Duver Cafe.
