B&B Holidays on the Isle of Wight

Your comprehensive guide to enjoying England's charming island through authentic bed and breakfast experiences

Isle of Wight Walking Maps

Discover the Isle of Wight on foot with our detailed walking maps and guides.

Yar Estuary Walk

4.5 miles (7km) - 1.5 hours - Easy difficulty

Map of the Yar Estuary Walk route

Walk Steps

  1. Let’s begin your walk at the Tourist Information Centre in Yarmouth, conveniently located near the ferry terminal (from Lymington) and bus stops (routes 7, 7A, and 7 from Ryde, and 42 from Alum Bay). If you’re driving, there’s a car park signposted off the A3054.

    To get started, simply cross the road and explore Yarmouth Castle. When you're ready to move on, turn right as you leave the castle. You'll pass the Tourist Information Centre again (this time on your left), and then enjoy a pleasant stroll with the harbour on your right. Continue walking past the bus stops and car park, following River Road (A3054).
  2. Turn right onto Mill Road and follow it as it curves to the left. Then, keep going straight onto the clearly marked footpath towards Freshwater. You’ll be walking alongside the lovely River Yar, with a tidal mill to spot on your left. When you see a sign for a path to Thorley on the left, just ignore it and keep heading straight along the old sea wall, enjoying views of the estuary on your right.
  3. Soon you’ll bear right onto the line of a former railway. Skip the path to Wilmington on your left, and continue along the old track-bed until you reach The Causeway at Freshwater.
  4. Turn right onto The Causeway and you’ll arrive at the beautiful All Saints Church, Freshwater.
  5. Take the signposted path F1 back towards Yarmouth, heading up past the church, which will now be on your right. Cross a stile, and follow the path beside the churchyard wall, then along a fence. After another stile, keep going along a rough track that passes a few bungalows on your left.
  6. Just before reaching Kings Manor Farm, turn left where you’ll see two stiles and a helpful signpost. After crossing them, turn right to walk along the edge of the field to a kissing gate. Keep straight at the crossroads of paths, continuing on the Freshwater Way via a stile next to a gate.
  7. Stick with the track as it runs beside a hedge on your right. It will soon bend right, taking you through a gap in the hedge and across a field to a signpost. Keep following the Freshwater Way towards Yarmouth, crossing a stile and a small footbridge. Wander through a small wooded area, cross another footbridge and stile, then bear left along the field edge to another stile. After that, continue along with a fence to your right, heading towards the woods ahead.
  8. Cross the stile in the corner of the wood and enjoy the peaceful path along its edge, with the trees now on your left. The path leads you through the trees ahead until you reach a signpost by the roadside. Turn left here to reach the A3054, then right to return to Yarmouth.
Coastal Path

About the Yar Estuary Isle of Wight

The Yar Estuary, located on the western side of the Isle of Wight, is a peaceful and picturesque tidal river that flows into the sea at Freshwater Bay. Often called the Western Yar to distinguish it from its eastern namesake, the estuary is a haven for wildlife and a favorite destination for walkers, birdwatchers, and nature lovers. This scenic waterway winds its way through low-lying meadows, reedbeds, and salt marshes, creating a rich habitat for a variety of bird species including egrets, herons, and redshanks. It's also an important stopover for migratory birds, making it a great spot for quiet birdwatching, especially in the spring and autumn. The estuary is part of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is managed in part by the National Trust, ensuring the preservation of its delicate ecosystems. A well-maintained footpath follows the old railway line along one side of the estuary, offering an easy and rewarding walk between the towns of Freshwater and Yarmouth. With its mix of open water, tranquil countryside, and abundant wildlife, the Yar Estuary is a serene and inspiring corner of the Isle of Wight that invites exploration at a gentle pace.

Isle of Wight Landscape

Island Overview

Located just off England's south coast and separated by the Solent, the Isle of Wight measures 23 miles by 13 miles, making it the perfect size to explore during your holiday. With over 60 miles of stunning coastline and beaches, the island has earned the nickname "England's Garden Isle" for its natural beauty.


The island enjoys a milder climate than much of the UK mainland, with more sunshine hours and less rainfall, making it an ideal year-round destination.