We are the Isle of Wight Ramblers. We arrange walks, monitor paths and help our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.
Well the time has finally come for Roger's long-awaited walk around Thorney Island !
This is a "Save the Date" entry, so please check back nearer the time for fuller details once the route / logistics have beem checked out.
But basically it will be a circular walk from Emsworth around Thorney Island, a military base and bird-watching haven (and maybe seals ?) . Walk distance approx 9 miles, the route is flat but some uneven terrain in parts.
Coming from the island will get the 08.45 fastcat from Ryde Pier Head , and then catch (probably) the 09.30 Coastliner 700 bus from Portsmouth Hard bus interchange which should get us to Emsworth in time to start our walk at 10.30am.
Please bring drink, and a packed lunch.
Please note there are toilet / cafe facilities at Emsworth at the start/end of the walk, but none on the island itself.
After our walk, we hope to have time for a cup of tea in Emsworth before getting the bus back to Portsmouth for our return fastcat (which bus / crossing will depend on group / pace on the day, the 700 bus runs regularly, and the fastcats run hourly at 15 mins past the hour).
This should be a splendid day out, and something a bit different !
Should any mainland ramblers wish to join this walk, you can meet us at either the walk start point at Emsworth (check back nearer the time for precise location), or at Portsmouth Hard bus station to catch the Coastliner bus with us.
Further details will be posted here once this walk has been recce'd so please check back generally nearer the time. But also in particular be aware that, where the island is MOD-owned, the path may occasionally be closed at short notice. Roger will check with the Baker Army Barracks the day before that it will be open for our walk. If not, an alternative walk will be offered in the area, and any changes will be notified on this Walks Programme (and also by whatsapp to those on the group ) - hence IMPORTANT you please check back on the evening before the walk.
Drinks/sustenance as applic .
Depending on the weather, consider suitable clothing, footwear, walking pole(s), sun cream, drinks, and food. Watch out for ticks and remove ASAP. If you are unsure about your ability to undertake this walk, please contact the walks leader. If you need to leave the walking group, please ensure you inform the leader or back marker.
There may be sections of road walking so please walk in single file and take good care.
Please check the website on the evening before this walk in case of any changes or additional info - see above. And in the event of bad weather please check back for cancellation and postponement notices. This is especially important on this occasion as it may impact cross-Solent travel. You can also check with Serena on 07564 811690.
New walkers welcome
If you are new to the Ramblers you can just turn up for any of our walks, unless we specify otherwise. We invite you to come along for three walks as a non-member.
Emergencies
It's very rare that an emergency occurs, but we may need info about
• Any health concerns that you have
• Any emergency contact information
We'd ask you to make sure that we have ready access to this, if needed.
Some people may wish to carry an ICE (in case of emergency) card. We have Ramblers cards for this purpose. Do discuss this subject with your walk leader if it is of interest.
WhatsApp
If you would like to join the informal WhatsApp group (even just temporarily for this specific walk), please message Serena on 07564-811690.
Meet at Ryde Pier Head in time to catch the 08.45 fastcat. You are responsible for buying your own ticket, allow sufficient time to do so on the day unless you have bought it in advance.
Emsworth (This entry will be updated with more precise details on the Emsworth meeting/starting point for any mainland participants once the walk has been recce'd, so please check back before the day)
