When it comes to living on the Isle of Wight or visiting, springtime is always the perfect time to get out and explore the wonderful surroundings on offer, particularly following the winter period, where the likes of anxiety and depression peak.

The great outdoors is one of the best natural remedies for that, and even in detox clinics, where anxieties and stress have led to the likes of alcohol use disorder there’s always the recommendations from professionals to get out into nature, exercise and help relieve that stress going on.

Of course, we all have stresses that need relieving, some more extreme than others, so as spring starts to make its way into the UK, here are the five best walks to take on the Isle of Wight…

Freshwater Bay to the Needles

This exhilarating walk takes in some of the most breathtaking scenery on the Isle of Wight. Starting at Freshwater Bay, follow the coastal path as it winds its way towards the iconic Needles, passing stunning sea cliffs and stunning views over the Solent. Along the way, you’ll encounter a variety of wildlife, including seabirds, butterflies, and perhaps even a seal or two. The walk takes around three hours, and there are plenty of opportunities to stop and admire the view, or take a picnic on the beach.

Bembridge Down

For a more leisurely stroll, head to Bembridge Down, where you can enjoy panoramic views over the island’s east coast. The walk takes you through a variety of habitats, including heathland, woodland, and grassland, with plenty of opportunities to spot wildflowers and wildlife. Look out for the red squirrels that make their home in the trees, and the skylarks that can be heard singing high above. The circular walk is around four miles long and takes around two hours to complete.

St Catherine’s Down

For a more challenging walk, head to St Catherine’s Down, which rises to a height of 778 feet and offers spectacular views over the island’s south coast. The walk takes you through a variety of landscapes, including ancient woodlands, chalk grasslands, and open fields, with plenty of wildlife to spot along the way. Look out for the rare chalk hill blue butterfly, which can be seen in the summer months. The circular walk is around five miles long and takes around three hours to complete.

Newtown National Nature Reserve

If you’re looking for a walk that combines history with nature, head to the Newtown National Nature Reserve, which is home to a variety of wildlife, including red squirrels, water voles, and wading birds. The reserve is also rich in history, with a 17th-century salt marsh, an old mill, and a medieval church to explore. The circular walk is around five miles long and takes around three hours to complete.

Tennyson Down

For a walk that combines breathtaking scenery with literary history, head to Tennyson Down, named after the famous poet who once lived on the island. The down rises to a height of 482 feet and offers stunning views over the island’s west coast. Along the way, you’ll pass the Tennyson Monument, which commemorates the poet’s life and work, and can explore the nearby Freshwater Bay, which inspired many of his poems. The circular walk is around six miles long and takes around four hours to complete.