Moorlands CottageThings to do · Isle of Wight
The Tennyson Trail
A 14-mile ridge walk across the downs from Carisbrooke to the Needles, passing just above Brighstone.
Named after the poet Alfred, Lord Tennyson, who lived at Farringford near Freshwater, the Tennyson Trail runs for about 14 miles (23 km) from Carisbrooke, near Newport, to Alum Bay at the island’s western tip.
It follows the chalk ridge across Bowcombe Down, Brighstone Forest, Brighstone Down, Mottistone Down, Brook Down, Compton Down and Afton Down, drops to Freshwater Bay, then climbs over Tennyson Down and West High Down to the Needles. Motor vehicles have been banned along its full length since 2006.
Joining from Moorlands
You don’t need to walk it all. From the cottage, climb up through Brighstone Forest to join the trail on Brighstone Down, then head west for big views over the Back of the Wight, or east towards Carisbrooke Castle.
Places & routes
- 01
Brighstone & Mottistone Downs
Open downland with fine views west along the coast. Combine with a return along the Coastal Path for a circular walk.
Read more - 02
Tennyson Down & Monument
The monument stands at the highest point of the chalk cliffs, about 40 minutes’ walk from the Needles Old Battery.
Visit nationaltrust.org.uk - 03
The Needles Old Battery
A Victorian fort perched above the Needles, with a tea room. Admission applies.
Visit nationaltrust.org.uk