Escape the Crowds and Uncover the Magic of Sandown – A Gentle Explore on Foot. Get Up Close to the Island Line Trains, Bat Spot at Dusk and Find A Secret Conker Hunting Spot!
Sandown on the Isle of Wight is a popular destination for holiday makers seeking a traditional British seaside beach holiday. It has everything for everyone, the beach is simply fantastic and the sea swimming is safe. But for those willing to venture off the beaten track, the town offers a treasure trove of delights just waiting to be discovered.
From quaint friendly local cafes serving up mouthwatering dishes using locally-sourced ingredients, to hidden gems that showcase the area’s rich past there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
If you’re looking for a way to escape the hustle and bustle of the beach or simply want to explore on a sunny day, Sandown boasts an abundance of beautiful open spaces where you can immerse yourself in nature and enjoy some peace and tranquility.
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In this short walk, you will take in a local countryside park, interesting stopping points and get a chance to walk amongst Sandown rich history that many holiday makers do not see.
Its super budget friendly, and you can take a picnic and enjoy the day without having to break the bank.
- Short walk
- Perfect for families and pushchairs (may not be suitable after rain)
- Dog friendly
- Spot a frog, toad or even a bat at dusk along the way
- Get incredible views of the Island line train
- Perfect picnic spots along the way
- Stunning views of Sandown bay from Battery gardens footpath
- Great conker hunting spots
- See a free Glass blowing display!
Start your walk on Sandown Seafront – with plenty of Parking or if arriving by bus get off at the Melville Street bus stop, this is also a great place to start your walk. You can start your experience with a fascinating free glass blowing display at Glory Art Glass on Melville Street.
“Did you know? During the 19th century, Sandown played a significant role in Britain’s coastal defence strategy. The town was fortified with a series of Martello Towers, circular defensive forts built to protect against potential French invasions. One such tower, the Sandown Barrack Battery, served as a coastal artillery fortification and played a vital role in safeguarding the island during times of conflict.”
Once you leave the seafront or Melville Street, Head towards Sandown Train Station, this is well signposted throughout the town.
Once you arrive at Sandown Train Station, have a coffee or some cake at the Gaslight Cafe, a friendly welcome awaits. The Gaslight Cafe is in the Sandown Train station building, and offers a wonderful selection of vegan and gluten-free cakes. Not only that, but the cafe is also home to the Community Rail Partnership’s Gaslight Lunch Club, which provides free hot meals to people in need on Mondays and Wednesdays, there are often events running so please check out their facebook page. The train station is a quirky place, the double carriage train (Island Line) runs between Ryde and Shanklin and is very different to mainland trains in terms of size.
Head out of the station car park, on your right you will see signs for Los Altos park and The Red Squirrel Trail, follow this up to the tunnel that goes under the railway, but do not go under the tunnel, carry straight ahead into Los Altos park. Los Altos is a wonderful park, with old trees and a large expanse to picnic or just take in the amazing views that stretch as far as Brading down.
“Did you know? The renowned naturalist Charles Darwin is known to have visited the Isle of Wight multiple times during the mid-19th century and worked on the abstract which became On the Origin of Species when staying at Sandown’s King’s Head Hotel in July 1858, which later influenced his groundbreaking theories on evolution and natural selection.”
If you’re lucky and you time it right, you can catch a glimpse of the double carriage Island Line train as it chugs along the picturesque route between Ryde and Shanklin. If you are walking through Los Altos at dusk you may even spot bats flying overhead!. This is a great place for children to run free, there is a small pond with plenty of wildlife – look closely for frogs and butterflies.
Follow the path through Los Altos back to the Main road (by the train bridge) and then turn left and head back into Sandown this is all on a footpath, cross over the road and head through the Battery Gardens and Park, which will provide you with some jaw-dropping views of the coastline then head back into Sandown. You could even pop into the Poo Museum for a bit of fun!
“Did you know? War Time Connections: In addition to its strategic fortifications, Sandown had an important role during World War II. Due to its coastal location, the town was subject to several enemy bombing raids. Interestingly, a portion of the Mulberry Harbours, portable floating harbours used during the Normandy landings, was constructed in Sandown before being transported to support the Allied invasion in 1944.”
The coastal path will provide you with breath taking views and children love running along through the pathways leading back into Sandown behind the Battery Gardens, (don’t tell anyone but it is a great place to find conkers in Sept/Oct!). The fort served as protection from an impending French invasion built in mid 18th Century.
You can then re-join the Esplanade along the coastal path and get back to where you started your walk.
You will be spoilt for choice for cafes and ice cream stops along the seafront
The Bay – Vegan cafe service amazing vegan treats and coffee
Pebbles – We love for Ice Cream as the do small child size portions
If you’re planning a fun-filled day trip to Sandown with your family, get ready for an exciting array of activities to enjoy with your children:
Continue your walk and head to Sandham Gardens, strolling along the picturesque Esplanade towards Yaverland or conveniently parking at Fort Street Car Park.
Here, you’ll discover a plethora of attractions, including a large children’s playground, an awesome skatepark and basketball area for some active fun, thrilling Sandham Karting, and the unique SkyNets experience. And don’t miss the chance to challenge your family to a round of crazy golf, where fun and laughter are guaranteed.
Right next door, the fascinating Dinosaur Isle Museum awaits, offering an educational and entertaining journey through prehistoric times – an absolute must-visit for curious young minds.
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