April to September 2013

Explore the Island’s countryside and coast with local experts as your guides n this programme of outdoor events waterproof would be sensible. Organisers have and guided activities for all ages, local indicated, as far as possible, those events that are I experts share their knowledge and special strenuous or may pose difficulties. understanding of Island wildlife, conservation, No walk or activity in the programme will be landscape, history and rural economy. cancelled before it’s due to start. Whatever the It’s a chance to explore the Island’s unique weather, the leader will be at the start of the countryside and coast during friendly outings walk, but may decide to vary the route or, in in the company of fellow walkers. Hampshire extreme weather, may cancel there and then. and Wildlife Trust has brought this Please take your litter home with you. Dogs, where programme together and is grateful to all this permitted, must be on a lead. Please avoid causing season’s contributors. obstructions or damage to verges if you travel by Before setting off car to the starting point and park considerately. For many activities, there’s no need to book - just turn up on the day at the stated time. Activities which require a reservation or confirmation Thank you and enjoy your walk beforehand are indicated. Please note that the event end time given is only approximate. Where Disclaimer: Whilst every care has been taken in compiling this information, no responsibility can there is a charge for an event, this is stated; be accepted for any change that may subsequently otherwise the event is free. occur. Those attending any of the events in this Footpaths and bridleways may be muddy in programme do so at their own risk. places, so always be prepared. Good strong If you have any queries regarding this leaflet, shoes or boots, and possibly wellies and a please phone (01983) 760016.

Discover the Island the easy way... CELEBRATING FIFTY YEARS AONB 50: Exploring the Friday 5 10.30am In 2013 it will be 50 years since half Landscape - Part 3 the Isle of Wight was designated an Celebrate 50 years of the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty with Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). a walk along The Undercliff, Cove and St Lawrence with return along top of inland cliff. Picnic lunch. To celebrate this milestone the IW AONB Leader David Howarth, IW Ramblers Tel 01983 759823 Meet Steephill Down Road cul de Partnership is holding 50 events over the sac, Upper GR 555 776 Duration 6 miles Cost Free course of the year. Wildzone: Newtown Nature Thursday 11 10am to 11.30am Reserve: Spring Lambs Have fun meeting the sheep and making spring lambs with real wool from National Trust sheep to take home. All children (aged 3 to 13) must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Sorry assistance dogs only. Suitable for younger children. Booking essential. wightaonb.org.uk @Wight_AONB Leader National Trust Tel 01983 741020 Meet Newtown Old Town Hall NT car park Look out for this symbol GR 423 906 Duration 0.5km on level ground Cost £3 per child aged 3 and over. No charge for anniversary walks. Find us on Facebook for supervising adults, but donations to the National Trust are welcomed. Thursday 11 The Breezer 10am The coastal path to Barnes High then inland to , and Wolverton Manor. Up to Down and then down to April Brighstone. Apple stop. Leader Carol Hamilton, IW Ramblers Tel 01983 566463 Meet Brighstone Village car park Monday 1 Newtown Nature Reserve: Easter Egg Trail 10am to 1pm GR 427 827 Duration 7 miles Cost Free. Follow the trail and see if any black Hebridean lambs have been Friday 12 Family Pond Dip 1pm born yet. Then when you’ve completed the trail collect your All sorts of amazing creatures creep, crawl, slither and swim chocolate egg! All children (aged 5 to 13) must be accompanied by a beneath the surface of Forest’s ponds. What will turn up responsible adult. Sorry assistance dogs only. Booking essential. in your net? All equipment provided. Wear old clothes and wellies and expect to get muddy! Sorry, no dogs. Children must be accompanied. Leader National Trust Tel 01983 741020 Meet Newtown Old Town Hall NT car park GR 423 906 Cost £1.50 per child aged five and over. No charge for supervising adults, but Maximum of two children per adult. Booking essential. donations to the National Trust are welcomed. Leader Kathy Grogan, HIW Wildlife Trust Tel 01983 760018 Meet Bouldnor Forest Centre: follow track from main road to forest parking site near Bouldnor Forest Centre (entrance Wildzone: Newtown Nature Wednesday 3 10am to 12.30pm off Yarmouth Road, Newport) GR 378 896 Cost Donation to the Wildlife Trust. Reserve: Spring to Life! Make your own model bird nest. Look for signs of spring in the Newtown woods and meadows. All children (aged 5 to 13) must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Sorry, no dogs. Booking essential. Leader National Trust Tel 01983 741020 Meet Newtown Old Town Hall NT car park GR 423 906 Cost £3 per child aged 5 and over. No charge for supervising adults, but donations to the National Trust are welcomed.

Friday 5 Spring Walk 10am to 12 noon Find out about the National Trust’s winter work in the woods and look for the spring wildlife that benefits from this work. Dogs on leads welcome. Leader National Trust Tel 01983 741020 Meet Parish Council car park at Queen Bower, Road, near , Borthwood GR 566 843 Cost Donation to National Trust. Saturday 13 Tree Trail 10.30am Explore some of Ryde’s most magnificent and historical trees May with Natural Wight. Travel the old packway, pass through ancient woodland and see Ryde’s tallest and most stout tree! Find out more Sunday 5 Dawn Chorus 4.30am about the role trees play in our landscapes, their wildlife value and also pick up some basic tree identification tips along the way. A chance to marvel at the spring dawn chorus on a short walk Stout footwear recommended. Some stiles and uneven ground. along the cycle track at Alverstone and . Leader Tina Whitmore and Natural Wight Tel 01983 824275 Meet Junction of Ringwood Leader Ian Boyd, Natural Enterprise Tel 01983 296244 Meet Southern Water Works Road and Road, Binstead GR 578 923 Duration Approximately 5 miles Cost Free. (opposite Orchard, Longwood Lane) GR 588 850 Duration 2 hours/2 miles Cost £2 donation to Gift To Nature. Sunday 14 Wild Food Walk: St Helens 2pm Jack and Boo’s Wild Wood Walk Discover more about nature’s larder this spring. Stout footwear or Sunday 5 10am to 12 noon and Scavenger Hunt wellies recommended. Booking essential. Leader Rowan Adams and Natural Wight Tel 01983 824275 Meet By ruined church at Follow in the footsteps of Island book characters, Jack and Boo, St Helens Duver car park (bus route 8) GR 637 894 Duration 1 to 2 miles Cost Free. on this family walk amidst the wild bluebells of . This walk for young children will also involve spotting spring nature AONB 50: Welcoming the Sunday 21 10.30am and is organised by local author Philip Bell of Beachy Books. You

Summer Migrants can collect maps and spotter guides from Philip at the start of Bird watch and walk to welcome the first of the summer migrants. walk and also ask him your questions. Please note children must be Booking recommended. accompanied by a responsible adult and there is limited parking. Leader Ian Boyd, Natural Enterprise Tel 01983 296244 Meet Landslip car park, Luccombe Leader National Trust Tel 741020 Meet Main Borthwood entrance, Alverstone Road by GR 580 789 Duration 2 hours Cost £2 donation to Gift To Nature. number 8 bus stop GR 566 842 Cost £2. AONB 50: Exploring the Friday 26 10.30am Sunday 5 The Secrets of Stream 11am Landscape - Part 4 A Newport Green Town event. Gunville Stream is an urban stream Celebrate 50 years of the AONB with a walk entitled ‘Intensive in need of love and care! It supports water-voles, bats and newts Agricultural Land’, round Knighton, , and and has a history involving lepers, syphilis, petticoats and soldiers. Langbridge. Picnic lunch. Join in to find out more. Leader David Howarth, IW Ramblers Tel 01983 759823 Meet Newchurch car park Leader Carol Flux, Natural Enterprise Tel 01983 296244 Meet Town Gate Pond (in front of opposite Primary School off School Lane GR 561 854 Duration 6 miles Cost Free. Sainsbury’s) GR 498 894 Duration 3.5 miles/2 hours Cost £2 donation to Gift To Nature. Saturday 27 Tree Trail 10.30am Discover the veteran trees of Brading and with Natural Wight. Follow the ancient boundaries, learn more about the role Green Towns these magnificent trees play in the landscape and their importance Positive eco-action in for wildlife and admire some of the biggest and oldest trees on the Island communities Island along the way. Stout footwear recommended. Some stiles and uneven ground. Island 2000 Leader Tina Whitmore and Natural Wight Tel 01983 824275 Meet Bull Ring, Brading is delighted Gift to Nature GR 606 871 Duration Approx 2.5 miles Cost Free. to sponsor Places for people and Sunday 28 Wild Food Walk: 2pm Wight Summer wildlife across the Island Discover more about nature’s larder this spring. Stout footwear or Walks and we wellies recommended. Booking essential. look forward Plant Positive Stopping Leader Rowan Adams and Natural Wight Tel 01983 824275 Meet Corner of Rylstone to seeing you the spread of invasive Gardens and path to Appley Steps from Popham Road (bus route 3) GR 585 808 on our themed plants on the Island Duration 2 to 3 miles Cost Free. events: Newtown Nature Reserve: Tuesday 7 5.30am to 7am Wednesday 8 A Secret Garden 10.30am Dawn Chorus Walk No knowledge of bird song is required, just the ability to get up in A walk through riverside woodlands and flower-rich meadows time to see the sun rise over Newtown Harbour. Stroll through the looking at the wildlife and management of this private and meadows and woods with the chance of hearing a nightingale (but secluded ‘garden’. Booking essential. not guaranteed!). Afterwards we will have breakfast at Leader Richard Grogan, HIW Wildlife Trust Tel 01983 760016 Delicatessen. There is a charge for breakfast, payable on the day. Bring Meet Information given at time of booking Cost Donation to the Wildlife Trust. binoculars if you have them. Booking essential. Leader National Trust Tel 01983 741020 Meet Newtown Old Town Hall NT car park Wednesday 8 Wetland Walk 10.30am GR 423 906 Duration 2km/1.5 hours plus breakfast Cost Free. Explore Sandown Wetlands and Gift To Nature community orchard, Tuesday 7 Amble 10.30am looking for signs of water voles and kingfishers. Enjoy the wonderful views of the surrounding landscape on this Leader Samantha Buck, Natural Enterprise Tel 01983 296244 Meet Supply works off Golf Links Road GR 588 850 Duration 1.5 miles/1 hours Cost £2 donation to Gift To Nature. guided walk over the chalk downland and through the Wildlife Trust’s woodland reserve of Eaglehead and Bloodstone copses. Wednesday 8 A Secret Garden 2pm Stout footwear required. Several stiles, uphill walk. Sorry, no dogs. Leader Jamie Marsh, HIW Wildlife Trust Tel 01983 760018 Meet Large lay-by at the foot A walk through riverside woodlands and flower-rich meadows of Ashey Down GR 575 874 Cost Donation to the Wildlife Trust. looking at the wildlife and management of this private and secluded ‘garden’. Booking essential. Wednesday 8 Big Bouldnor Bear Hunt 10am Leader Richard Grogan, HIW Wildlife Trust Tel 01983 760016 “We can’t walk over it, we can’t walk under it, oh no! we’ll have to walk Meet Information given at time of booking Cost Donation to the Wildlife Trust. through it!” If you’re under five and up for adventure, grab your Wednesday 8 Guided Wildlife Walk 10am for 10.30am start grown-up and your wellies and join our bear hunt around Bouldnor A walk through part of the military training area near Newtown to Forest Nature Reserve. Healthy snack provided. Wear old clothes and look at the different natural treasures, including one of the best wellies and expect to get muddy! All children must be accompanied. sites in the British Isles for green-winged orchid. Maximum of three children per adult. Sorry, no dogs. Booking essential. Mostly on paths, but stout footwear/wellingtons needed. Limited Leader Kathy Grogan, HIW Wildlife Trust Tel 01983 760018 Meet Bouldnor Forest Centre: wheelchair access. Sorry, no dogs. follow track from main road to forest parking site near Bouldnor Forest Centre (entrance off Yarmouth Road, Newport) GR 378 896 Cost Donation to the Wildlife Trust. Leader David Maidment Tel 01983 523503 Meet Jersey Camp car park, Locks Green, PO30 4PF GR 444 907 Duration Approximately 2 hours Cost Donation to Conservation Fund. Thursday 9 The Newport Mill Trail 11am Helping to conserve and enhance the important A Newport Green Town event. Explore the heritage of Newport habitats of the Isle of rivers visiting the sites of some of the many mills that once flourished along the and the Lukely Brook. Wight's western area and encourage people to Leader Claire Hector and Bill Shepard, Natural Enterprise Tel 01983 296244 Meet Propeller/bench opposite Quay Arts GR 502 895 Duration 3 miles/2.5 hours explore and celebrate its Cost £2 donation to Gift To Nature. rich culture and heritage. Thursday 9 Heathland Haven 2pm

A walk through the countryside at Cranmore to look at local wildlife such as nightingales and butterflies, including the Wildlife Trust’s nature reserve at Common. Leader Gareth Shelley, HIW Wildlife Trust Tel 01983 760018 Meet Ningwood recycling centre GR 401 892 Cost Donation to the Wildlife Trust. Thursday 9 Hidden Chines 3.30pm Monday 13 Wildlife 2pm to 4.30pm

A circular walk along the beach and cliff top looking at the secret Join our local ranger on a walk looking for flowers and butterflies past and hidden present of some of the Island’s chines. on this dramatic stretch of downland. Moderately strenuous with a short but steep descent. One kissing gate and muddy if wet. Leader Martin and Susan Gibson, Natural Enterprise Tel 01983 296244 Meet Chilton Chine car park (next to IW Pearl car park) GR 409 822 Leader National Trust Tel 01983 741020 Meet High Down chalk pit car park GR 325 855 Duration 6 miles/3.5 hours Cost £2 donation to Gift To Nature. Cost Donation to National Trust.

Friday 10 Ventnor Wildlife 9.30am to 11am Monday 13 Wandering Chine 6pm Search for wildlife and possible migrant birds on a leisurely walk A circular walk around looking at the local streams and the over Ventnor Downs. changing chines they feed. Leader Martin and Susan Gibson, Natural Enterprise Tel 01983 296244 Meet Whale Chine Leader National Trust Tel 01983 741020 Meet Dakota car park, just before the radar car park GR 470 784 Duration 3 miles/1.5 hours Cost £2 donation to Gift To Nature. station GR 565 785 Cost Donation to National Trust. Tuesday 14 Wonderful Wetlands 2pm Friday 10 Woods, Wetlands and Water 10am A walk around the Wildlife Trust’s nature reserve at Sandown A longer walk through the landscape of the East Wight to discover Meadows to find out more about the wildlife of this wonderful the wildlife, including Wildlife Trust reserves at Knighton Down and wetland habitat. Sandown Meadows. Sorry, no dogs. Leader Gareth Shelley, HIW Wildlife Trust Tel 01983 760018 Meet Entrance to Newport to Leader Jamie Marsh, HIW Wildlife Trust Tel 01983 760018 Meet Large lay-by at the foot Sandown cycleway, Perowne Way, Sandown GR 594 849 Cost Donation to the Wildlife Trust. of Ashey Down GR 575 874 Cost Donation to the Wildlife Trust. Saturday 11 East ’ Secret Copse 11am Wednesday 15 Over the Undercliff 10.30am

An Green Town event. Explore the new community A circular walk to look at the wildlife and landscape of St Lawrence woodland in East Cowes. Learn how proposed management will Undercliff including nature reserves at Pelham Woods (Wight help wildlife and make a pleasant place. Be amazed by the wildlife Nature Fund) and St Lawrence Field (Wildlife Trust). Sorry, no dogs. thriving in a small urban space. Leader Richard Grogan, HIW Wildlife Trust Tel 01983 760016 Meet Opposite St Lawrence Leader Carol Flux, Natural Enterprise Tel 01983 296244 Meet outside pedestrian entrance Village Hall GR 540 768 Cost Donation to the Wildlife Trust. of Waitrose GR 503 957 Duration 1 mile/1 hour Cost £2 donation to Gift To Nature. Wednesday 15 Fort & 1.30pm to 4.30pm Monday 13 West Wight Geocaching Walk 2pm An interesting guided walk exploring some of the Island’s local Find out about the game of geocaching from local experts, and history and heritage, beginning with a taster tour of Bembridge then enjoy a walk around a country park hunting for treasure. Fort. There are some stunning views along the way of this circular All equipment provided; booking essential. route. A moderate walk with some challenging slopes, please wear Leader Pinkeye Graphics Ltd (Supported by West Wight Landscape Partnership) stout footwear. Dogs on leads welcome. Booking essential. Tel 01983 616771 Bus Number 7 Golden Hill Meet Golden Hill Country Park car park Leader National Trust Tel 01983 741020 Meet Bembridge Fort GR 624 860 GR 337 879 Postcode of start location PO40 9TD Duration 2 miles/1.5 hours Cost Free. Cost Donation to National Trust.

Monday 13 Knight-on the Downs 2pm Thursday 16 A Secret Flora 10.30am

A walk across Knighton Down to discover its history, wildlife and A walk from to a secluded botanical jewel including landscape. Ghost stories, butterflies and plants with rude names ancient woodland and flower-rich meadows. Includes spectacular are all found here! Sorry, no dogs. display of orchids. Sorry, no dogs. Places limited so booking essential. Leader Jamie Marsh, HIW Wildlife Trust Tel 01983 760018 Meet Large lay-by at the foot Leader Richard Grogan, HIW Wildlife Trust Tel 01983 760016 of Ashey Down GR 575 874 Cost Donation to the Wildlife Trust. Meet Information given at time of booking Cost Donation to the Wildlife Trust. Thursday 16 A Secret Flora 2.30pm A walk from Havenstreet to a secluded botanical jewel including ancient woodland and flower-rich meadows. Includes spectacular display of orchids. Sorry, no dogs. Places limited so booking essential. Leader Richard Grogan, HIW Wildlife Trust Tel 01983 760016 Meet Information given at time of booking Cost Donation to the Wildlife Trust.

Thursday 16 Spring on the Downs 7pm A walk around the Wildlife Trust’s chalk grassland reserve at Arreton Down to discover the wildlife, landscape and history of this fascinating area. Sorry, no dogs. Leader Jamie Marsh, HIW Wildlife Trust Tel 01983 760018 Meet Arreton community car park, next to the White Lion pub GR 533 867 Cost Donation to the Wildlife Trust. Join the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Friday 17 Bouldnor Baywatch 10am Wildlife Trust in celebrating the A walk through Bouldnor Forest to the beach to discover the Island’s wonderful wildlife. wildlife sights and sounds of this Wildlife Trust nature reserve and Forestry Commission plantation. Wear old clothes and wellies and Details found throughout this leaflet. expect to get muddy! Sorry, no dogs. Leader Gareth Shelley, HIW Wildlife Trust Tel 01983 760018 Meet Bouldnor Forest Centre: follow track from main road to forest parking site near Bouldnor Forest Centre (entrance Sunday 19 AONB 50: Rockpooling 12 noon off Yarmouth Road, Newport) GR 378 896 Cost Donation to the Wildlife Trust. Explore one of the best rockpool shores in the country, the famous Saturday 18 Dawn chorus in Briddlesford Woods 7am Bembridge ledges. Bring a net and expect to get a bit wet (only An early morning walk through Briddlesford Woods to listen for paddling). songs and calls of woodland birds. At this time of day in springtime, Leader Ian Boyd, Natural Enterprise Tel 01983 201564 Meet Bembridge Lifeboat Station the birds will be singing loudly to mark their territories and the GR 656 880 Duration 3 hours Cost £2 donation to Gift To Nature. chorus in this beautiful ancient woodland will be well worth the early start. Light refreshments after walk. Please wear suitable Sunday 19 Bembridge Fort & Culver Down 1.30pm to 4.30pm footwear for walking in a muddy wood and clothes to keep warm early An interesting guided walk exploring some of the Island’s local in the morning. Booking essential as only ten available. Age: over 12s. history and heritage, beginning with a taster tour of Bembridge Leader Diane White, Farmland Bird Advisor and volunteer for People’s Trust for Fort. There are some stunning views along the way of this circular Endangered Species (PTES) Booking www.ptes.org/events or Tel 020 7498 4533 route. A moderate walk with some challenging slopes, please wear Meet Information given at time of booking Cost PTES Supporter: £8 Non-supporter: £10. stout footwear. Dogs on leads welcome. Booking essential. Jack and Boo’s Wild Wood Walk Leader National Trust Tel 01983 741020 Meet Bembridge Fort GR 624 860 Sunday 19 10am to 12 noon and Scavenger Hunt Cost Donation to National Trust. Follow in the footsteps of Island book characters, Jack and Boo, Thursday 23 Bee Spotting and Balsam Pulling 10.30am to 1pm on this family walk amidst the wild bluebells of Borthwood Copse. A gentle circular walk through Gift for Nature’s bee field and down This walk for young children will also involve spotting spring nature to the River Yar where we will look at the problems caused by and is organised by local author Philip Bell of Beachy Books. You Himalayan balsam. Help to spot the plant and pull it up as we go can collect maps and spotter guides from Philip at the start of along. Sturdy footwear and long trousers/sleeves recommended. Bring walk and also ask him your questions. Please note children must be gardening gloves if you want to help pull balsam. accompanied by a responsible adult and there is limited parking. Leader Nicola Wheeler, HIW Wildlife Trust and Claire Hector, Plant Positive Leader National Trust Tel 741020 Meet Main Borthwood entrance, Alverstone Road by Tel 01983 760016 Meet Newchurch car park opposite Primary School, off School Lane number 8 bus stop GR 566 842 Cost £2. GR 563 855 Cost Donation to the Wildlife Trust. Saturday 25 Riverfest 11am to 3pm Heritage, community, businesses and wildlife associated with the FREE health walks! historic River Medina will be celebrated on this fun, family event Led every week* by Walking Health Initiative (WHI) with local food and entertainment. trained volunteer health walk leaders, all short walks Leader Footprint Trust Tel 01983 822282 Meet Newport Quay GR 502 895 Cost Free. are fairly level and you can walk at your own pace. Sunday 26 Wild Food Walk: Ryde 2pm Brading Ryde Discover more about nature’s larder this spring. Stout footwear or Last Saturday of the month at 2pm Every Tuesday 10.30am Meet Ryde wellies recommended. Booking essential. Meet Inn, Brading Esplanade outside Ryde Superbowl Leader Rowan Adams and Natural Wight Tel 01983 824275 Meet Bus stop near corner of Brighstone (short) Sandown East Hill Road and High Park Road (bus route 3 and 8) GR 613 918 Duration 3 miles First and third Tuesday of the month First and third Tuesday of the month Cost Free. at 1.30pm Meet Old Brighstone at 10am Meet Sandown Library, High Library, New Road, Brighstone Street Tuesday 28 Isle of Wight Bioblitz 10am to 4pm Cowes Shanklin Mondays 10.30am Meet Northwood Second and fourth Tuesday of the Come to Yarmouth Green and help experts and amateurs look for House car park off Ward Avenue month at 10.15am (4 to 5 miles) Meet as many species of wildlife as we can including birds, bugs and small mammals. Fun for all the family! East Cowes (short) First Saturday of the month 10.15am Wednesdays at 10am Intermediate walk (6 to 7 miles) Meet The Pavilion, Vectis Road Leader IW Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Tel 01983 823855 Meet St. Blasius Church car park Meet Yarmouth Green GR 354 895 Cost Free, although car parking charges apply. (intermediate) Tuesday 28 West Wight Geocaching Walk 2pm Last Tuesday of the month at 10.30am First Tuesday of the month 10.15am, Meet United Reform Church, Upton intermediate/advanced (3 hours), Find out about the game of geocaching from local experts, and and Corbett Road junction, Haylands. some inclines, ask before walk Meet Shorwell Shute, opposite Dell then enjoy a walk around a country park hunting for treasure. Lake Path Centre All equipment provided; booking essential. Thursdays at 10.15am for 10.30am start. Beginners/improvers contact St Helens Leader Pinkeye Graphics Ltd (Supported by West Wight Landscape Partnership) Sylvia on 401630, intermediate/ Wednesdays at 10am Tel 01983 616771 Bus Number 7 Golden Hill Meet Golden Hill Country Park car park advanced contact Louise on 538003 Meet Car park, The Green GR 337 879 Postcode of start location PO40 9TD Duration 2 miles/1.5 hours Cost Free. Meet By bench on Lake Common West Wight AONB 50: Exploring the Newport Mondays at 1pm, beginners/ Wednesday 29 10.30am Fridays at 10.30am Meet At bus improvers Meet Foyer of West Wight Landscape - Part 5 shelter opposite Downside Middle Sports Centre. Wednesdays at 10am, Celebrate 50 years of the AONB with a walk entitled “Chalk Downs”. School, Furrlongs, Pan Estate advanced (3 hours) Meet Brookside Health Centre, Upper Moa Place Freshwater Bay, Tennyson Down, , Headon Warren and Farringford. Picnic lunch. Last Monday of the month 10.30am Wootton Meet Parkhurst Forest car park, Thursdays at 2.15pm Meet Wootton Leader David Howarth, IW Ramblers Tel 01983 759823 Meet Freshwater Cliff car park off Forest Road Community Centre, Brannon Way (free) east of the bay on the Military Road GR 350 857 Duration 6 miles Cost Free. Wildzone: Friday 31 9.30pm to 11pm Please contact Richard Dent, Nordic Walking Manor Garden: Moth Night Volunteer Coordinator, Walking with poles, burns 20% In the evening set light traps and look for moths around the on 822099 extension 6246 more calories and uses 90% of garden. Then return the following day at 8.30am to see what for further details. muscles. Free training sessions and loan equipment available. has been caught in the light traps and to discover what amazing Please phone 538003 for details. moths inhabit the night skies of Mottistone. Please bring a torch and warm clothing. All children (aged 5 to 13) must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Sorry assistance dogs only. Booking essential. Leader National Trust Tel 01983 741020 Meet Mottistone Manor car park GR 403 838 Cost £3 per child aged 5 and over. June

Friday 7 Family Nature Night 8pm Bouldnor Forest Nature Reserve is full of fascinating wildlife that appears after dark. Will you be the first to spot a small mammal, amphibian, owl, moth, bat, nightjar or glow-worm? (Top tip: come in your pyjamas and you can go straight to bed when you get home!) Booking essential. All children must be accompanied, maximum two children per adult. Please wear wellies or strong boots, bring a torch and some insect repellent. Sorry, no dogs. Booking essential. Leader Kathy Grogan, HIW Wildlife Trust Tel 01983 760018 Meet Bouldnor Forest Centre: follow track from main road to forest parking site near Bouldnor Forest Centre (entrance off Yarmouth Road, Newport) GR 378 896 Cost Donation to the Wildlife Trust. Brook and Compton Saturday 8 10am to 12.30pm Downs Circuit Wednesday 26 A Secret Garden 10.30am An off-road cycle ride through the beautiful countryside around A walk through riverside woodlands and flower-rich meadows Mottistone, Brook, Compton and Freshwater Bay. looking at the wildlife and management of this private and Some steep off-road sections which can be muddy and slippery if wet. secluded ‘garden’. Booking essential. Strenuous but moderate pace with eight stops. Leader Richard Grogan, HIW Wildlife Trust Tel 01983 760016 Leader National Trust Tel 01983 741020 Meet Freshwater Cliffs chalk car park near golf Meet Information given at time of booking Cost Donation to the Wildlife Trust. course entrance on A3055, Military Road GR 351 856 Duration 10 miles Cost Donation to National Trust. Wednesday 26 A Secret Garden 2pm Sunday 9 Freshwater Tree Trail 10.30am A walk through riverside woodlands and flower-rich meadows looking at the wildlife and management of this private and Discover some of the magnificent and veteran trees of West Wight secluded ‘garden’. Booking essential. with Natural Wight. Explore a churchyard arboretum, follow in the footsteps of Tennyson and see some very special yew trees. Find Leader Richard Grogan, HIW Wildlife Trust Tel 01983 760016 out more about the role trees play in our landscapes, their wildlife Meet Information given at time of booking Cost Donation to the Wildlife Trust. value and also pick up some basic tree identification tips along the AONB 50: Exploring the Wednesday 26 10.30am way. Stout footwear recommended. Some stiles and uneven ground. Landscape - Part 6 Leader Tina Whitmore and Natural Wight Tel 01983 824275 Meet School Green opposite Celebrate 50 years of the AONB with a walk entitled “Traditional Freshwater Library GR 338 870 Duration 4 miles Cost Free. Enclosed Pasture”. Freemantle Gate, Appuldurcombe House, Tuesday 11 Behind the scenes at Yarmouth Harbour 9.30am Sainham Farm and Lavender Farm. Picnic lunch. Leader David Howarth, IW Ramblers Tel 01983 759823 Find out more about the workings of Yarmouth Harbour and the Meet car park (free) GR 530 817 Duration 5 miles Cost Free. surrounding landscape on this guided walk. Booking essential. Sunday 30 AONB 50: Bee Walk 11am Leader Yarmouth Harbour Commissioners Tel 01983 760321 Meet Details given on booking Cost Free, but donations to charity are welcomed. Something amazing is happening in a field in Newchurch – bees, Sunday 23 Creatures from the Deep 2pm thousands of them of 96 different species recorded so far. The Bee Discover what lurks beneath the surface of the old pond in Bouldnor Fields are alive and buzzing, but there’s nothing to fear, these are in Forest. All pond dipping equipment provided. Children must be the main tiny mining bees that burrow into the sandy soil, far too accompanied by an adult. Wellies recommended. Sorry, no dogs. small and preoccupied with their mining to be a threat to anyone. Leader Nicola Wheeler, HIW Wildlife Trust Tel 01983 760016 Meet Bouldnor Forest Booking recommended. Centre: follow track from main road to forest parking site near Bouldnor Forest Centre Leader Ian Boyd, Natural Enterprise Tel 01983 296244 (entrance off Yarmouth Road, Newport) GR 378 903 Cost Donation to the Wildlife Trust. Meet Newchurch Parish car park GR 562 855 Cost £2 donation to Gift To Nature. Wednesday 17 Behind the scenes at Yarmouth Harbour 2pm July Find out more about the workings of Yarmouth Harbour and the surrounding landscape on this guided walk. Booking essential. Sunday 7 River and Rail Cycle Trail 2pm Leader Yarmouth Harbour Commissioners Tel 01983 760321 Find out about the wildlife and history of the East Yar river on this Meet Details given on booking Cost Free, but donations to charity are welcomed. guided cycle ride along the old railway route from Sandown to Thursday 25 Butterfly Ball 1pm . With twenty minute stop at Merstone picnic area before Join Wildlife Trust staff on a family walk over Arreton Down Nature returning back to the car park along the same route. Reserve to search for and find out about our native butterflies. Leader Jamie Marsh or Nicola Wheeler, HIW Wildlife Trust Tel 01983 760018 Games and activities for children - everyone welcome. Meet Sandown railway station car park (pay and display) GR 526 845 Walking boots, sun hats, drinking water and sun screen recommended. Cost Donation to the Wildlife Trust. All children must be accompanied, maximum three children per adult. Mottistone Common Sorry, no dogs. Booking essential. Thursday 11 9pm to 10.30pm Nightjar Walk Leader Kathy Grogan, HIW Wildlife Trust Tel 01983 760018 Meet Arreton community car A twilight stroll listening and looking for the nightjars that live on park, next to the White Lion pub GR 533 867 Cost Donation to the Wildlife Trust. the common. Please bring binoculars if you have them and a torch. AONB 50: Exploring the Friday 26 10.30am Landscape - Part 7 Leader National Trust Tel 01983 741020 Meet Mottistone Manor car park GR 403 838 Cost Donation to National Trust. Celebrate 50 years of the AONB with a walk entitled “Sandstone Hills and Gravel Ridges”. St Georges Down, Blackwater and Merstone. Sunday 14 Bembridge Fort Community Day 11am to 4pm Leader David Howarth, IW Ramblers Tel 01983 759823 Meet Lay-by at Arreton Cross GR 531 866 Duration 6.25 miles Cost Free. A special day of free activities, trails and countryside demonstrations centred in and around Bembridge Fort. Activities Sunday 28 AONB 50: Pond Dipping 10.30am include free taster tours of Bembridge Fort and some ‘50 things to A family event to explore the ponds at Sandown Wetlands. do’. The rangers will be demonstrating countryside skills, there will Discover hidden treasures, and if you are quiet you may even see a be a cake stall from the Needles Old Battery tea-room, plants from kingfisher. Booking recommended. Mottistone Manor Garden and stands from local organisations. Leader Ian Boyd, Natural Enterprise Tel 01983 296244 Meet Wetland walk, Longwood Leader National Trust Tel 01983 741020 Meet Bembridge Fort GR 624 860 Cost Free. Lane, Sandown (by waterworks) GR 588 850 Cost £2 donation to Gift To Nature. Look out for Natural Wight August events and activities throughout Sunday 4 Butterflies of Arreton Down 1pm to 3pm 2013 in your local guides. A guided walk across Arreton Down looking at species-rich chalk grassland and butterfly and invertebrate species that can be found. Leader Jamie Marsh, HIW Wildlife Trust Tel 01983 760018 Meet Arreton community car park, next to the White Lion pub GR 534 867 Cost Donation to the Wildlife Trust. Wildzone: Mottistone Thursday 8 7pm to 9pm Manor Gardens Bat Zap Listen to a talk then try bat detectors in the dark with the National Trust and Isle of Wight Bat Hospital. Bring a torch. Some slight slopes on gravel and grass. All children must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Booking essential. Leader National Trust Tel 01983 741020 Meet Mottistone Manor car park GR 403 838 Cost Free, but donations welcome - to be split between National Trust and IW Bat Hospital. Tuesday 13 Sandcastle Competition 10.30am to 1pm Thursday 22 Behind the scenes at Yarmouth Harbour 9.30am Will yours be the last castle standing or the best sand sculpture? The last Find out more about the workings of Yarmouth Harbour and the castles standing will be the ones that withstand the rising tide the longest. surrounding landscape on this guided walk. Booking essential. Leader National Trust Tel 01983 741020 Meet Park in IWC car park, Yaverland near Leader Yarmouth Harbour Commissioners Tel 01983 760321 Sandown and register on the beach between 10am and 10.30am Meet Details given on booking Cost Free, but donations to charity are welcomed. Cost Free, but donations to the National Trust are welcomed. Tuesday 27 Wildplay Day for Under Eights 10.30am to 12.20pm Thursday 15 Rockpool Rummage 10am Adventurous fun exploring and enjoying Bouldnor Forest, with Wildlife trust’s annual marine week rockpooling event, raising opportunities for den building, minibeast hunting, clay modelling awareness of the importance of living seas. Discover the fascinating and much more. Wear old clothes (keeping arms and legs covered) array of wildlife inhabiting the island’s rocky shore. Bring a net and and wellies. Insect repellent advised. Healthy snack provided. All bucket if you have them, drinking water, a hat and sun screen. All children must be accompanied, maximum three children per adult. children must be accompanied and supervised by a responsible adult. Booking essential. Maximum three children per adult. Sorry, no dogs. Leader Kathy Grogan, HIW Wildlife Trust Tel 01983 760018 Meet Bouldnor Forest Centre: Leader Kathy Grogan, HIW Wildlife Trust Tel 01983 760018 Meet Bembridge Ledges. follow track from main road to forest parking site near Bouldnor Forest Centre (entrance From the Lane End car park (parking charges apply), walk 200m along the beach south of off Yarmouth Road, Newport) GR 378 903 Cost Donation to the Wildlife Trust. the Lifeboat Station GR 658 880 Cost Donation to the Wildlife Trust. Thursday 29 Fort Victoria Foray 10.30am to 4pm Thursday 15 Wildzone: Newtown Bat Zap 7pm to 9pm A welcome return for this popular family event to celebrate the Listen to a talk then try bat detectors in the dark with the National Island’s coast, countryside and wildlife at the newly refurbished Trust and Isle of Wight Bat Hospital. Bring a torch. Booking essential. Fort Victoria Country Park, Yarmouth. A partnership event co- ordinated by Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust. Leader National Trust Tel 01983 741020 Meet Newtown Old Town Hall car park GR 423 906 Cost Free, but donations welcome - to be split between National Trust and IW Bat Hospital. Leader HIW Wildlife Trust Tel 01983 760018 Meet Fort Victoria GR 338 898; additional parking with shuttle bus service from Golden Hill Fort GR 337 879 Cost Free. AONB 50: Exploring the Wednesday 21 10.30am Landscape - Part 8 Thursday 29 Pond Action Day 2pm Celebrate 50 years of the AONB with a walk entitled “Northern Woodlands”. Annual tidy up and pond dipping at Treefields, Binstead. Meet the Combley Farm, Little Duxmore and Kemphill Moor. Picnic lunch. pond wardens. Family fun! Wear suitable clothing. Leader David Howarth, IW Ramblers Tel 01983 759823 Meet Havenstreet Railway Station Leader Footprint Trust, sponsored by South Wight Housing and Medina Housing rear car park GR 554 897 Duration 6 miles Cost Free. Tel 01983 822282 Meet Treefields, Binstead Road, Ryde GR 583 924 Cost Free. September Wildlife Walks Tuesday 3 Wildplay Day for Over Eights 10.30am to 2.30pm End the summer holidays on a high at Bouldnor Forest for some and Workshops adventurous fun, with opportunities for pond dipping, shelter Have you ever fancied learning more about the amazing wildlife building and exploring the shore. Bring a packed lunch and drink, around you? Join one of the National Trusts’ local experts who will wear wellies and old clothes (keeping arms and legs covered), a sun hat, be guaranteed to fire your enthusiasm and start you off on a new passion. Each of the workshops, which cost £3, will have a different sun cream and insect repellent. Expect to get muddy - bring a change of theme and take place at Newtown. As places are limited booking is clothes and a bin bag just in case! Sorry, no dogs. Booking essential. essential. Please phone 01983 741020 to reserve your place. Leader Kathy Grogan, HIW Wildlife Trust Tel 01983 760018 Meet Bouldnor Forest Centre: follow track from main road to forest parking site near Bouldnor Forest Centre (entrance Lichens Monday 8 April 10.30am to 12.30pm off Yarmouth Road, Newport) GR 378 903 Cost Donation to the Wildlife Trust. and Trees Flowers in Bembridge Monday 6 May 10.30am to 12.30pm Wednesday 11 10.30am to 12.30pm Woodland Autumn Harvest Walk Insects in Monday 3 June 2pm to 4pm A circular walk to discover the wild food which grows in the Meadows area, some of which you’ve probably never noticed before, with Birds and Monday 1 July 10.30am to 12.30pm hopefully something to tempt your taste buds. A walk with lots of Saltmarsh stops. Wear stout shoes. Dogs on leads welcome. Booking essential. Tuesday 6 August 8.30pm to 10.30pm Leader National Trust Tel 01983 741020 Meet Outside Bembridge Windmill GR 640 873 Moths Returning 8am to 9am Duration 2 miles Cost Donation to National Trust. Wednesday 7 August Borthwood: Estuarine Saturday 28 10am to 4pm Monday 2 September 2pm to 4pm Woodland Adventure Day Organisms If you go down to the woods today you will find lots of woodland activities waiting for you to try including, tree climbing, orienteering, geocaching, den building and wood working skills. Leader National Trust Tel 01983 741020 Meet Car parking available in the field next to Borthwood, off Alverstone Road GR 566 84 Cost Parking charge payable to Queen Bower Farm. Tree climbing £5. AONB 50: Exploring the Wednesday 25 10.30am Landscape - Part 9 Celebrate 50 years of the AONB with a walk entitled “Landscape Improvement Zone”. Alverstone area. Leader David Howarth, IW Ramblers Tel 01983 759823 Meet Sandown Railway Station (parking charge) GR 593 844 Duration 4.5 miles Cost Free. AONB 50: Waving Goodbye Sunday 29 10.30am UK conservation to the Summer Migrants charity, protecting Bird watch and walk to bid farewell to our summer visitors. historic places Booking recommended. and green spaces, and opening Leader Ian Boyd, Natural Enterprise Tel 01983 296244 Meet The Landslip car park, them up for ever, Luccombe GR 580 789 Cost £2 donation to Gift To Nature. for everyone. Get out and about! Check out the latest countryside walks and events at www.hwt.org.uk or to find out more about countryside sites and your Local Nature Reserves visit www.iwight.com/countryside. This edition of Wight Walks has been produced with kind support from: • National Trust • Island 2000 • West Wight Landscape Partnership • Isle of Wight AONB Partnership • Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust • Natural Wight

Cover picture Hoverfly at Medina Riverside Park © Pinkeye Graphics You don’t have to go far to see some fabulous wildlife. Hoverflies and other invertebrates help to pollenate meadow plants, as in this picture, taken at an urban nature reserve on the edge of Newport’s industrial estate. Other photographs are reproduced with kind permission of Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, IW AONB, Natural Enterprise and Pinkeye Graphics. Design: pinkeyegraphics.co.uk