Walk 103
Isle of Wight- Gurnard Bay to East Cowes
(Second leg of
English coastal walk – Broadstairs to Lands End)
Difficulty: Moderate
Terrain: mainly pavement
Access: Parking at both ends
Public transport: Bus 1 runs from Newport to Cowes. Further bus connections at East Cowes. The walk involves using the floating bridge to cross the River Medina to East Cowes.
Snaps show: Southampton to Cowes ferry; the lion sculpture at Egypt Point; the water fountain near here; the chain ferry.
Map: L/R 196
Distance: about 5 miles or 8 km including exploring the
townsDifficulty: Moderate
Terrain: mainly pavement
Access: Parking at both ends
Public transport: Bus 1 runs from Newport to Cowes. Further bus connections at East Cowes. The walk involves using the floating bridge to cross the River Medina to East Cowes.
This is quite a short walk that could be combined with a
visit to Carrisbroke Castle in nearby Newport. This is the castle where Charles
1st was kept before his execution in London. A museum tells the
story of the castle including that of the donkeys which still turn the water
wheel (for demonstrations only).
Gurnard Bay has a small beach with a few beach huts. The
view across the sea is quite pleasant with the not so nice industrial area of
Fawley just visible in the distance. The walk into Gurnard and Cowes follows
the road. Look out for some quite impressive houses on the way to Egypt Point.
This part of the coast gets its name from a gypsy encampment that was nearby in
the sixteenth century. Between 1897 and 1989 a lighthouse operated here and the
structure is now used as a landmark for yachtsmen. Egypt Point was one of Queen
Victoria’s favourite spots when she lived on the island. Look out for an
impressive and elaborate water fountain with a carved open bible on its roof. I
have been unable to find out the significance of this although it clearly has
some religious origin.
Ferries coming and going to Southampton can be regularly
seen on the walk into Cowes. The town is probably the most famous and
fashionable yachting centre in the world. Cowes Week takes place during the
first 9 days of August when there are several regattas. East and West Cowes are
split by the River Medina. On the west side are some smart brass cannons
pointing out to sea, these come from a fort built by Henry V111 to defend The
Solent. During World War 2 Cowes was the centre of operations for the D Day
landings.
There are several yachting clubs in West Cowes. The Royal
Yacht Squadron founded in 1815 is regarded as the most exclusive in the world. There
is also a strong boat building tradition in Cowes. Personalities who have a
connection with the town include Ellen McArthur, George V, Edward V11 and
William Arnold. The latter, who was the father of Thomas Arnold, fought against
the pirates and smugglers active here in the 19th century.
The floating or chain ferry carries foot passengers and cars
to cross the River Medina. Before the 1860s the ferry was horse drawn. During
the 19th century Cowes was a fashionable spa town with bathing
machines. Look out for the ‘unclaimed shop’ (if it is still trading) – this sells
or sold lost property.
The walk around the Isle of Wight finishes here.
Snaps show: Southampton to Cowes ferry; the lion sculpture at Egypt Point; the water fountain near here; the chain ferry.
