Circular Walk From Crab & Lobster Around Bembridge

Moderate walking
7kms/4 ¹/³ mls.2-21/2 hours. Generally easy walking but narrow in some rural sections and along the final cliff top stretch.
 
High Spots: The interest-filled shoreline from the Crab &Lobster to Bembridge Harbour is of particular appeal to kids and dogs whilst adults will want to check out the historic Bembridge Windmill and take in its panoramic views.

Make this a low tide walk, starting at the Crab &Lobster –a public car park is located behind the pub –and walk down onto the beach. At this point a long rock plateau, bisecting the sands and large pebbles, resembles a miniature Giant ’s Causeway and is full of interesting rock pools. Turn left towards Bembridge Harbour and walk past the imposing turreted facade of Bembridge Coast Hotel. Allow plenty of time on this section of the walk if accompanied by children or dogs as they are bound to want a quick dip or paddle in the clear waters.

Continue past the Lifeboat Station and around the headland to the harbour mouth, with a view of the Duver beach in front of you. Turn left up the gravel track leading to the main road and cross this to the Pilot Boat Inn opposite –a good refreshment stop.

From the inn take Footpath BB19,the Bembridge Trail, which leads along a narrow wooded track, with an area of wooden decking and metal railings. After approximately 300 yards the path leads uphill and reaches a junction with the High Street. Turn right here and continue walking until a bend in the busy road, then turn right where you see signs for Bembridge Windmill, marked Bridleway BB36.

Stop off at this perfectly preserved windmill for a look around or to take in views of glorious rolling hills beyond. From this point, it ’s a lovely pastoral walk downhill with views of Culver Cliff and nothing but greenery all around.

When you come to a junction in the woodland at the bottom of the hill, bear left and take the track leading to a main road.  Cross this and continue through a wooded lane with Whitecliff Bay campsite on the right. Cross at the next road junction, then walk left for 150 yards before turning right into Jenny Street ’s Lane.

At the Kingswood Centre, skirt the perimeter onto the Coastal Path boardwalk. Although there is some cliff erosion here, there are lovely views from the fenced path that leads back to the Crab &Lobster.

Renowned for its locally caught seafood, the Crab &Lobster is welcoming to walkers with muddy boots, their children and dogs. Always busy, there ’s plenty of space in the large bar and an attractive seating area outside with sea views.
 
Crab & Lobster (01983 872244) Open Monday-Saturday all day from 11am, Sundays from 12 noon. Lunch 12 noon-2.30pm.

Specialities: Locally caught crab and lobster dishes. Good home-cooked veggie specials, e.g. vegetable tagliatelli. Real ales include Goddards, Greene King and Flowers. Decent choice of wines by the glass. Children and dogs both welcomed. Outdoor seating overlooks sea.