***UPDATED*** Newport to Brighstone via Rowridge Mast - linear walk (9.40am start)

***UPDATE ***

I have now updated this walk slightly having rechecked it earlier this week :

~ the distance was coming out at nearer 10 miles (9.95 !) so I have amended  that on the programme;

~ I have also added the ascent (1,125ft)

~ I have also added a screenshot of the route to the programme should you wish to check it out in advance !

~ 1 x stile

Be aware that this is a definitely uphill - and downhill - walk, though we won't (this is me !) be doing it at any huge speed, but quite a tiring one for those factors. Also be aware that I am not now going to have any further opportunity before Sunday to recheck the mud situation following the recent rains - it was fine at the start of the week, but we take our risks on any mud that may have developed in the interim ! Please wear suitable footwear, take care,  and walking pole(s) may be helpful

It occurs to me that if anyone would like to have a slightly later start, and/or shave the initial approx1.5 miles off the walk (then = 8.5miles total) , then you could alternatively meet us at the Carisbrooke Priory carpark (on the bend) as we will be walking through there at approx 10.15. However this only really walks if you are car-shuffling Priory/Brighstone, it's not too handy by bus. (NB : If you are looking to do this please can you let me know, so that we know to look out for you !)

 This had originally been intended as a mast-erfull mast-to-mast walk between multiple masts but that got far too complicated (and long), so instead we will be living life one mast at a time, starting with Rowridge. It is a linear walk from Newport to Brighstone, back by bus (unless you decide to car shuffle). Meeting at Newport bus station at 9.40am [to tie in with No 9 bus arriving from Ryde], walking via the back of Carisbrooke Castle, up onto Bowcombe Down, crossing the Tennyson Trail and up to (or rather near to) Rowridge Mast (when you may or may not get some historical info on said mast), then back down and picking up the Tennyson Trail again through Brighstone Forest to the village. A mainly rural walk apart from leaving Newport, as you’ll expect,  it has some uphills and some downhills. Toilets are in Newport and Brighstone only, as this is a country walk.

Allowing time en route for drinks / lunch stop, we aim to catch the No 12 bus back from Brighstone at 14.59 (they are rather infrequent ), getting back to Newport at 15.25. Depending on our pace we may hopefully have time for a cuppa or drink at one of the cafes or the pub in Brighstone at the end of the walk.

By car
If you wish to car-shuffle, leaving one at the start, the other at the end, then there is a large free car park in the centre of Brighstone  to leave the second car if you wish.

By public transport
Buses from all directions to Newport bus station, and the meeting point is outside Newport library which is right by the bus station. Return bus No 12 from Brighstone to Newport bus station, as above, is at 14.59.

Car share:
In the interests of the air, parking, and non-drivers, if anyone is able to offer, or needs, a car share to or from the start point, then please post on WhatsApp group. (To join the group please message Serena 07564-811690).