The ultimate guide to cycling the Isle of Wight

Journeying to the Isle of Wight is an unforgettable experience perfect for your next break away. But what's even more spectacular is not just travelling there, but cycling around the Isle of Wight. This trip combines adventure with stunning coastal views, rolling countryside, and charming villages.

As wonderful as it is, cycling around the Isle of Wight requires some preparation to give you the best time away. This comprehensive guide will help you plan your perfect cycling adventure on this beautiful Island off the south coast of England.

Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or a casual rider, the Isle of Wight offers a diverse range of routes and attractions to suit all abilities and interests – from the Round the Island route to the Quarr Abbey Loop.

We'll also offer you some great Isle of Wight cycling tips to enhance your holiday experience, so let's get the wheels in motion and delve into our ultimate guide to cycling the Island.

The best Isle of Wight cycling routes

The Isle of Wight boasts an extensive network of cycle paths and quiet roads, making it an ideal destination for cyclists of different ages and abilities. Here are some of the best routes to explore when cycling the Isle of Wight:

Round the Island

The Round the Island route is the quintessential Isle of Wight cycling experience. It is exactly what it sounds like – a 65-mile circular route around the entire Island's coastline. This is one of the best cycling methods around the Isle of Wight because you can explore the entire Island on a roughly eight-hour journey. You will pass through St Helens, Ventnor, Freshwater, Ryde.

Find out more

What's also great about this route is that you can choose where to start along it and cycle either clockwise or anti-clockwise, each direction offering a unique perspective.

Clockwise: An example could be – starting from Ryde, heading east towards Sandown and Ventnor, then west to the Needles before returning along the north coast.
Anti-clockwise: An example could be – starting in Cowes, travelling west towards Yarmouth and the Needles, then along the south coast before returning to Cowes via Ryde.

There are so many great places to stay in the Isle of Wight that are smack-bang in the middle of this route – such as St Helens Holiday Park or The Bay Colwell in Freshwater.

Sandown

You can find a great Sandown cycling route that offers a shorter and more relaxed experience, ideal for families or those looking for a leisurely ride. This five-mile route offers stunning views of Brading and Yaverland and lets you explore plenty of great attractions along the way.

Find out more

For instance, why not take the time to visit the Dinosaur Isle and meet some mighty creatures before peddling off on your day out?

Carisbrooke cycle route

Try this roughly 12-mile Isle of Wight cycling route around the historic Carisbrooke. It's a great way to combine outdoor fun with exploring the Island's rich past. You'll see the popular Carisbrooke Castle and peer at its robust structure before journeying along quiet country lanes and seeing the beautiful village of Shorwell.

Find out more

If this village was one of Queen Victoria's favourite places to visit, we're sure it'll blow you away just the same.

Newport to Merstone

Take a gentle five-mile route whilst cycling the Isle of Wight as you head from Newport to Merstone. This route is also part of the Red Squirrel Trail, a larger 32-mile cycling route through the Isle's countryside. This section of the trail lets you travel along a disused railway line, perfect for young riders or beginners cycling the Isle of Wight.

Find out more

This traffic-free path offers a relaxing ride through the countryside, which you will remember sometime soon.

Quarr Abbey Loop

The 14-mile Quarr Abbey Loop is a great circular route from Ryde to the beautiful Quarr Abbey. This Benedictine monastery has stunning architecture and peaceful gardens. The route can take around two to three hours to complete, so this may be a better option for more experienced riders.

Find out more

Pier Pedal – Sandown to Shanklin

A short six-mile coastal route connecting two popular seaside towns, the Pier Pedal – Sandown to Shanklin route is excellent for cycling in the Isle of Wight. This easy ride is perfect for a leisurely afternoon cycle with plenty of opportunities for beach stops.

Find out more

This straight shot along the coastline should only take around an hour to complete—without stopping to admire the gorgeous sea views. And if you want to stay nearby, Whitecliff Bay Holiday Park is only a 10-minute drive from the starting point in Sandown.

In Search of Jimi

Named after Jimi Hendrix's famous 1970 performance on the Island, In Search of Jimi is a seven-mile route that takes you from Freshwater Bay to the Isle of Wight Festival site in Newport. You'll pass a range of great spots, including the Jimi Hendrix statue, which is ideal for memorable family photos.

Find out more

It's also a nice opportunity to get some of the little ones into Jimi's famous music—if that's their taste, of course!

Wroxall to Freshwater Bay

Wroxall to Freshwater Bay is a challenging 18-mile route that crosses the Island from east to west. You will be able to cycle along some steep ascents and downward hills, giving you a fun and adventurous riding experience. Not only will you get spectacular views, but you can also stop off at Blackgang Chine, giving the kids time to enjoy rides as a reward for their tremendous cycling.

Find out more

Cowes to Newport

A pleasant four-and-a-half-mile ride along the Cowes to Newport cycle track is another great choice for cycling on the Isle of Wight. You can follow the western bank of the River Medina, offering a peaceful experience riding next to the calm waters.

Find out more

This route is ideal for those looking for a short, scenic ride. If you stay at The Lakes Rookley Holiday Park, you'll only be a 10-minute drive or an extra 20-minute cycle away from the route.

Some top tips for when you cycle around the Isle of Wight

You could go about cycling the Isle of Wight in many different ways. To make the most of your Isle of Wight cycling experience, consider these helpful tips:

Find the best cycling cafes

The Isle of Wight has numerous charming cafes, perfect for refuelling you and your family during your ride. Some popular cyclist-friendly stops include:

The Beach Cafe, Sandown – You can try this café out whether you cycle around Sandown or from there to Shanklin.
The Piano Cafe, Freshwater Bay – A great place to stop and eat after cycling from Wroxall.
Quarr Abbey Tea Shop – An ideal choice if you're doing the Quarr Abbey Loop.
Besty and Spinky, Ventnor – This can be an excellent halfway-point recharge for the Round the Island route from Ryde.

Choose cyclist-friendly accommodation

Many accommodations on the island cater specifically to cyclists, offering secure bike storage and other cycling-related amenities.

Look for the best Isle of Wight holiday parks that not only let you store your bikes but also stay close to some of the best routes on the island. After cycling the Isle of Wight, a relaxing place to rest can make all the difference on your break.

Hire a bike or bring your own

If you need to bring your bike, numerous rental shops across the island offer a range of bicycles for all ages and abilities. Some popular rental locations include:

Wight Cycle Hire, Yarmouth
TAV Cycles, Ryde
Route Fifty7, Shanklin
Wight Cycle Hire, The Bay Colwell

If you bring your bike, you can store it at your accommodation and hop on whenever you like!

Decide what type of day out you want

When cycling the Isle of Wight, consider what kind of experience you're after. Do you want a challenging ride or a leisurely tour? Are you interested in coastal views, countryside sights, or historical locations? Plan your route to match your interests and fitness levels, and you'll have the best experience.

Choose your level of challenge

The Isle of Wight offers routes for all skill levels:

Beginner: Stick to flat, traffic-free routes like the Red Squirrel Trail or Newport to Merstone path.
Intermediate: Try the Carisbrooke cycle route, breaking it into sections by stopping at different locations.
Advanced: You can tackle the full Round the Island route in one day or explore some of the more challenging hill climbs in the south of the island.

Pack the right gear

Cycling around the Isle of Wight requires some essential items to give you the best chance of enjoying your adventure the right way. Some top times to bring for cycling the Isle of Wight include:

Helmet
Water bottle
Snacks – or money top stop at cafes
Sun protection
Waterproof jacket (the British weather can be unpredictable)
Basic repair kit (spare inner tube, puncture repair kit, multi-tool)
Map or GPS device (such as a phone)

These are just a few of the ideal things you can bring to make your Isle of Wight cycling trip much easier and more fun!

Cycling isle of wight – FAQs

Here are our top answers to some frequently asked questions about cycling the Isle of Wight:

How long does it take to bike around the Isle of Wight?

The time it takes to cycle around the Isle of Wight depends on your fitness level and how many stops you make. For the full Round the Island route:

Experienced cyclists: four to six hours
Intermediate cyclists: six to eight hours
Leisure cyclists: eight to 10 hours

Is the Isle of Wight hilly to cycle?

The Isle of Wight has a mix of terrain. The northern part is generally flatter, while the south has more challenging hills, so choose your cycling routes accordingly. The highest point, St Boniface Down near Ventnor, is 241 meters above sea level.

What is the best cycling route around the Isle of Wight?

The best route depends on your preferences and abilities. However, the Round the Island route is considered the classic Isle of Wight cycling experience, giving you a comprehensive tour of the island's diverse landscapes and attractions.

Is the Isle of Wight cycle clockwise or anti-clockwise?

You can cycle the Isle of Wight in either direction. Some prefer clockwise as it puts the coast on your left, offering better sea views. Others opt for anti-clockwise to tackle the hillier southern section first. Ultimately, it's a matter of personal preference.

Are you ready for your next adventure cycling the Isle of Wight?

Cycling the Isle of Wight uniquely blends natural beauty, history, and adventure. What more could you ask for on your next UK break away?

With its varied terrain, picturesque coastal views, and network of cycle paths, the Isle of Wight caters to cyclists of all levels. Whether you're planning a challenging round-island ride or a series of leisurely day trips, the island has something for every cyclist.

Remember to plan your route according to your ability, pack the right gear, and take time to enjoy the island's many attractions along the way. All of this can help make your cycling experience unforgettable.

So, are you ready to embark on your Isle of Wight cycling adventure? With this guide in hand, you'll be well-prepared to explore this cycling paradise's offerings. Happy trails!