The best walks and hikes around Shanklin

Yes, the area is great for families. For a very manageable and scenic walk, consider the Shanklin Old Village – Shanklin Chine loop from Shanklin. It's a short 3.4 km walk that takes you through the charming historic village and past the famous gorge, making it interesting for all ages.

Generally, yes. Shanklin's coastal paths and open downlands are great for walking with dogs. However, always be mindful of local signage, especially regarding seasonal restrictions on beaches. When walking on the downs or near farmland, it's important to keep dogs on a lead, as there may be livestock grazing.

The coastal path from Shanklin to Ventnor is a more challenging hike compared to the flatter walk towards Sandown. It involves more climbing along the cliff tops but rewards you with spectacular, expansive views of the English Channel. You'll pass through areas of natural beauty and get a real sense of the island's dramatic coastline.

Yes, the main place to see waterfalls is within Shanklin Chine, the island's oldest tourist attraction. This historic, tree-lined gorge features several waterfalls along its nature trail. You can incorporate a visit into a shorter walk that explores the Old Village area. Note that there is an entrance fee to access the Chine itself.

Many trails start or finish in Shanklin Old Village, which has a great selection of traditional pubs and tea rooms. For a walk that combines coastal views with a cafe stop, the Sandown Beach – Blueberry's Café loop from Shanklin is a great option that specifically includes a popular beachfront cafe as part of the route.

For some of the best panoramic views on the island, head up to Shanklin Down. The climb is well worth the effort, offering breathtaking vistas across East and Central Wight and out to the English Channel. The Shanklin Down Summit View – Shanklin Old Village loop from Shanklin is a moderate trail specifically designed to take you to this fantastic viewpoint.

Shanklin is well-connected by public transport. From the mainland, you can take a ferry to the Isle of Wight and then use the local bus services, which have stops in Shanklin. The town also has a train station on the Island Line, connecting it to Ryde Pier Head, making it easily accessible for hikers arriving without a car.

There are several pay-and-display car parks in Shanklin, particularly near the seafront and in the town centre, which serve as convenient starting points for many coastal and inland walks. For trails starting on the downs, like those at the highly-regarded National Trust - Ventnor Downs, you can often find free parking spots in designated areas.

Sturdy walking shoes are essential, as trails can vary from paved promenades to uneven cliff paths and muddy woodland tracks. The weather can change quickly, so packing waterproofs is always a good idea. Also, bring water, snacks, and a fully charged phone. For coastal walks, sun protection is recommended, even on cloudy days.

Yes, the Isle of Wight is one of the few places in England to see red squirrels. Your best chance is on trails that pass through woodlands like America Wood or along dedicated paths such as the Red Squirrel Trail near Wroxall. Keep an eye out in the trees on quieter, forested sections of your hike.

The trails around Shanklin are highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the incredible variety of scenery in such a compact area, from the classic seaside promenades and sandy beaches to the stunning panoramic views from the top of the chalk downs. The well-maintained paths and the mix of easy and challenging routes are also frequently mentioned.