On the Trail - The Nunwell Trail from Sandown to Ryde (10.15am start)

*This is the rescheduled date for this walk, which was previously the 25th February* 

Pursuing the idea of walking some of the Isle of Wight's "named trails" in full, weather and water levels permitting….

Starting with this (hopefully) fairly straightforward one.

A linear walk from Sandown to Ryde, passing over a high chalk ridge.

The route starts from Sandown railway station, via Alverstone (possibility of red squirrels), up to Brading Down (panoramic views if the weather is clear), down past Nunwell Farm, and a back route through fields and crossing the railway line to Smallbrook and on into Ryde, finishing at Ryde St John's railway station.

The majority of the Trail is straightforward and a nice walk, however be aware it does become semi-urban as it approaches Ryde. Most of the route is off-road on footpaths (no stiles), but be aware there are significant sections of road-walking, and the following specific points are flagged:

• The start / end sections of the walk are fairly flat (and no stiles), but mid-walk there is a significant climb up to Brading Down. The actual Nunwell Trail route has one particular steep narrow section at this point, which is very rutted and at the time of the recce was also very muddy  and not pleasant walking. It will be checked again  nearer before the walk date, and if it is still in this hazardous and unenjoyable state we may divert from the official Nunwell Trail just for that section and take a slightly easier route up on to the downs.
• The busy Brading Downs road has to be crossed, so take good care.
• The railway also has to be crossed. This is all part of the Nunwell Trail route, but please take extra care and listen carefully for trains before you proceed.
• Unfortunately there are several sections of walking along the edge of busy roads, in particular on Ashey Road and Smallbrook Lane (including a busy bridge). These are unavoidable as part of the trail, but whilst fortunately fairly short they do please need care (and hi-viz or bright clothing if you have it) and full attention to your own safety and that of others.

There are no public toilets or other facilities along the way (according to railway staff, the loos at the startpoint Sandown station are owned by the café and that is currently closed), However we are hoping to have access to Alverstone Old School Hall en route for a drink stop and there is a loo there, and there are also toilets at the end point in Ryde, St John's Road station.

Travel:

Car
If you have a car share, park one at the walk end at Ryde. St John’s Road railway station area is strictly speaking the end of the walk, though I plan to walk on down to Ryde Esplanade – optional, but downhill and handiest for transport links – and drinks) and then then bring the second car back to the start point at Sandown railway station.

Public transport
The start and end points of this walk are well served by public transport, so depending where you live this section may be more easily reached for many by bus or train.

From Newport, the No 8 bus is the most direct to Sandown ; from Ryde, the No 2 or 3 bus, or the train. Then at the end of the walk, No 9 bus back from Ryde to Newport; or No 2 or 3 bus, or train, back to Sandown.

Plenty of options! For ease, the walk has been listed to start at 10.15am to tally with the train which arrives at Sandown from Ryde direction at 10.03, though the bus may be cheaper at £2 capped fare – or free.