Walking breaks on the Isle of Wight
The Isle of Wight is walking country, and Shanklin is one of the best places on the island to base a walking break. The coast is right here, the paths are well kept, and you can step out of the hotel and onto the clifftop without needing a car. This page is for the walkers who come to us for a few days of sea air and steady miles.
The Isle of Wight Coastal Path
The Isle of Wight Coastal Path rings the island, and it passes right through Shanklin. That is the simple reason walkers like it here. You can join the path at the edge of town and walk for an hour or a full day, then come back to a hot shower and a proper breakfast the next morning. The path stays close to the cliff edge for much of the south coast, with open views over the Channel.
Because the route runs through the town, you do not lose time driving to a start point. You are already on the path. For walkers who like to keep things simple, that matters.
Walks from the door
Head south and the clifftop path takes you towards Luccombe, Bonchurch and Ventnor. It is a stretch of coast that feels quieter than the busier resorts, with the path rolling along the cliff tops and the sea below. Ventnor is a good turn-around point for a half day, with a steep little town that tumbles down to the sea.
Head north and the esplanade carries you towards Sandown, a flatter, easier walk that is good for a gentle morning or for anyone who wants a level path. Both directions give you a proper walk without a car, and both end back at our door. Read more about the town and the coast on our things to do in Shanklin page.
Why walkers stay with us
We have thought about what makes a walking break easy, and we have built it into how we run the hotel. A few things matter to walkers, and we get them right.
Breakfast from 8am
A cooked full English or a continental breakfast, served from 8am to 10am, so you start the day properly fed.
Free parking
Free on-site parking, first come first served, with about 12 to 13 spaces at the rear and 3 at the front, plus free on-street parking nearby.
Luggage storage
We store your luggage for early arrivals and late departures, so you can fit in a walk either side of check-in and check-out.
Late arrival timed to your ferry
Share your ferry times and we can arrange a late arrival, so you are not rushing the last miles.
Dogs welcome in selected rooms
Small, well-behaved dogs are welcome in selected rooms for £30 per stay. Read our dog-friendly page for the details.
A quiet night's sleep
We are a calm, peaceful hotel, so you rest well and wake ready for the miles.
The Isle of Wight Walking Festival
The Isle of Wight Walking Festival is a long-running celebration of walking on the island, with guided walks and group rambles that draw walkers from across the country. It is a good reason to plan a trip if you like company on the path. We do not list dates here, as the programme changes each year, but we keep an eye on it and can talk it through when you book. The festival is a fine time to be on the island, and Shanklin is a handy base for it.
Plan your walking break
Book direct with us for our best rate, breakfast included, and discounted ferry crossings arranged by our team. See our offers page for the full list of perks.
Prefer to talk? Call 01983 241 010.
Walking-break questions
Can I walk straight from the hotel?
Yes. The clifftop path passes through Shanklin, so you can head out on foot without a car. Walk south towards Luccombe, Bonchurch and Ventnor, or north along the esplanade towards Sandown.
What time is breakfast for walkers?
Breakfast is served from 8am to 10am, with cooked full English options or a continental breakfast. That gives you time for a proper meal before a long walk.
Can I store my luggage if I arrive early or leave late?
Yes. We offer luggage storage for early arrivals and late departures, so you can fit in a walk either side of your check-in and check-out times.
Can I bring my dog on a walking break?
Small, well-behaved dogs are welcome in selected rooms for £30 per stay. Dogs can join you in the bedroom, reception and bar, and you can have breakfast with your dog in the bar. Please mention your dog when booking.
Is there parking at the hotel?
Yes, parking is free and first come first served, with about 12 to 13 spaces at the rear and 3 at the front. There is also free on-street parking nearby.
Can you arrange my ferry crossing?
Yes. Our team can arrange discounted ferry crossings for guests who book direct. See our getting here page for the routes from Southampton, Portsmouth and Lymington.