Thanks to Isle of Wight Ramblers for this report from today’s event at Tapnell Farm. Ed
The Tapnell Trail was opened by Chair of West Wight Landscape Partnership, Sue Poston, at 10.30am on 15th May at Tapnell Farm. This took place during the walking festival on a walk led by David Howarth.
The trail has been developed by IW Ramblers to suit walkers of all abilities. Stiles have been replaced with gates and information boards describe the heritage and wildlife in the area.
Six and a half mile trail
The 6.5 mile trail is fairly level and starts at the Causeway, Freshwater and leads to Tapnell Farm, The Hamstead Trail and returns along the lower downs path. A leaflet is available with a map and shows local information.
Links with the Yar Estuary Trail
This is the third accessible trail that has been developed by The Ramblers. This walk links with the Yar estuary trail. The Sandown to Alverstone reserves trail was developed in 2011. Over 15 miles of accessible trails have been developed since 2009.
It has been the aspiration of West Wight Landscape Partnership to produce a West Wight walk passing through this scenic area surrounded by the downs, and heritage coast. Much of the project cost has been provided by the landscape partnership.
David Howarth, IW Ramblers Area Chairman said,
“The West Wight is fast becoming a walker’s paradise. Many stiles have been replaced with gates and we now have many miles of footpaths without stiles. Our charity is keen to see more people, of all ages and abilities, take up walking. It is a healthy pursuit and reduces the reliance on motor vehicles.”
The leaflet can also be downloaded from www.iowramblers.com
