Red Squirrel Trail
32 miles · Moderate
The Red Squirrel Trail is the Isle of Wight's flagship long-distance cycle route, running 32 miles from Cowes on the north coast to Sandown on the east. Named after the island's thriving population of red squirrels, which have survived here free from competition with grey squirrels, the trail passes through the heart of the island's woodland and farmland. It is waymarked throughout with distinctive red squirrel signs and forms part of National Cycle Network Route 23.
From Cowes the trail heads south along the western bank of the River Medina, following the dedicated cycleway that runs through the estuary marshes towards Newport. This opening section is flat and well-surfaced, suitable for all abilities, and passes the site of the old gasworks and the Medina riverside industrial heritage. At Newport the route crosses the river and heads south-east through Shide, where the old railway line to Sandown begins.
The disused Newport to Sandown railway forms the spine of the middle section. Closed in 1956, the trackbed was converted to a shared-use path and now provides a smooth, gently graded surface through some of the island's finest countryside. The route passes through Blackwater, Merstone, and Newchurch before reaching Alverstone, where the old station platform is still visible beneath the undergrowth. Mature trees line much of the trackbed, creating a green corridor that is home to red squirrels, dormice, and a rich variety of woodland birds.
Between Merstone and Newchurch the trail crosses open farmland with views south to the central downs. The surface here is compacted gravel rather than tarmac, and after heavy rain some sections can be muddy. Mountain bike tyres or hybrid tyres of 35mm or wider are advisable for comfort. A short section of quiet lane connects the old railway to the final approach into Sandown, where the trail emerges near the railway station and the seafront.
The Red Squirrel Trail can be ridden in either direction, though Cowes to Sandown is the more popular choice because the prevailing wind tends to come from the south-west, giving a tailwind for much of the journey. The route is largely flat or gently downhill from Newport to Sandown, with the only notable climb being the short rise out of Shide. Most reasonably fit cyclists will complete the full trail in three to four hours, including stops.
The trail is shared with walkers and horse riders in places, so courteous behaviour and moderate speeds are essential. Dogs are common, particularly on the Cowes to Newport section, and cyclists should give audible warning when approaching from behind. The route is open year-round, though winter conditions can make the off-road sections heavy going after prolonged rain.
Highlights
- Disused Newport to Sandown railway trackbed through woodland
- Red squirrel habitat and mature tree-lined corridors
- Medina estuary marshes between Cowes and Newport