Best Cycle Route Ideas: The Tennyson Trail, Isle of Wight Cycling

Nov 19, 2010
Jane Hodgson

Best Cycle Routes the Tennyson Trail - David Jones CC Lic

Along the spine of the downs, the Tennyson Trail offers one of the best cycle routes on the Isle of Wight. Ideal for a slightly challenging family cycle.

Recently identified by the Lonley Planet as one of the top ten cycling destinations in the world, the Isle of Wight has cycling routes for all tastes. This must be one of the best off-road cycle routes in the country. Encompassing a wide chalk and stone track, the Tennyson Trail follows the ridge line along the back of the downs with superb views to the coast on the north and south of the Isle of Wight, across the Solent to the south coast of England and on a clear day to France

Best Cycle Routes: The Tennyson Trail Newport to Freshwater Bay

Leaving Freshwater Bay, the Tennyson Trail starts with a stiff ascent of 150 m from sea level to the top of Compton Down. Once on Compton Down the route becomes much easier starting with the surreal experience of cycling across the golf course on the wide chalk track. The route is accompanied by stunning views to the north to Yarmouth and across the Solent to the New Forest, the coastline of the south coast of the Isle of Wight, with Compton Bay standing out, and on a clear day across to the north coast of France.

After a couple of kilometers of easy riding, a steep descent takes the cyclist to the road crossing south of the small hamlet of Chessel. The route climbs again over Mottistone Down until a steady descent takes the rider to the large Brightstone forest car park 8 km from the day's starting point at Freshwater Bay.

The route crosses the road and continues on its steady ascent of Brightstone Down hugging the edge of Brightstone forest. After around 1 km a the route splits and a decision must be made:

Turn left and continue on the Tennyson Trail to Newport, a total distance of around 10 miles from Freshwater Bay
Go straight on following the Worsley Trail and after a further 2 miles reach the village of Shorwell. Total distance from Freshwater Bay around 71/2 miles.
Turn around and return the same way; there is one stiff climb on the return route (the steep descent that was enjoyed on the way out) but predominantly as the route is descending back to sea level, much downhill will be enjoyed. Total distance Freshwater Bay - Brightstone Down - Freshwater Bay, 11 miles.

Cycle Routes on the Isle of Wight: Finding Out More

There are many other family cycle routes on the Isle of Wight, highlights of which include Yarmouth to Freshwater, and the Troll Trail from Cowes to Sandown. An annual cycling festival takes place over a week each September. Even if you will not be on the island during the festival, the Sun and Sea Cycling Festival website provides lots of ideas for routes, bike-friendly accommodation and locations of bike shops and rental.