A walk from Cowes Town to Newtown, with some lovely places to stop along the way… 13 Jul 2023
In our latest instalment from our walking series, our Cowes branch tells us their favourite local walk from Cowes Town to Newtown, with some lovely places to stop along the way.
The coastal path starts on the west Cowes side of the floating bridge and continues through the High Street where you will find plenty of pubs, restaurants and cafes, including some of our favourites such as The Anchor Inn, Gastronomy and French Franks. Pass by the historic and imposing Royal Yacht Squadron with the famous Cowes waters on your right. Head towards Gurnard, a pretty coastal town which, when visited in the evening, offers one of the best sunset spots on the whole of the Isle of Wight. Pass by the wooden beach huts and sailing club, taking the path up to Worsley Road then the first turning into Solent View Road before continuing to Marsh Road before you find the signpost for the coastal path.
Cross over the stile and follow the well-trodden gorse-lined path along the cliff before descending down to Thorness Bay, taking the path that runs through Thorness Bay Holiday Park and follow the signposts that lead you to Porchfield Village. Continue along the road signposted to ‘Shalfleet & Yarmouth’ passing over a bridge. From here, take the road to Newtown on your right and then follow the path signed ‘Newtown’ on your left.
Now a quiet backwater, Newtown was once a bustling medieval town, created in medieval times but fell into decline after being unable to compete with nearby Yarmouth and Newport after facing a series of devastating raids from neighbouring countries.
You’ll cross over several small fields before arriving at the National Trust building, named ‘Noahs Ark’ with the town hall in front of you. Turn right here and follow the road as it leads you down into the National Trust-run Newtown Nature Reserve. Covering over 400 acres, the reserve comprises a stunning blend of salt marshes, woodlands, and estuaries. It is home to a diverse array of bird species, including migratory birds, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise. Kids will love wandering through the wildflower meadow before trying a spot of crabbing at the historic harbour.
