Solent Way
A scenic coastal path winding through diverse landscapes, from marshlands teeming with birds to historic castles and sweeping sea views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
Solent Way
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic coastal path winding through diverse landscapes, from marshlands teeming with birds to historic castles and sweeping sea views.
"Absolutely stunning walkway! Easy to keep on walking and walking and before you know it you have covered 10 miles plus!"
👟 Wear Waterproof Boots
Sections can get very muddy, especially after rain. Waterproof footwear is essential for comfort.
🧥 Layer Up for Wind
Coastal winds can be strong and cold, even on sunny days. Pack layers to stay warm.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Keyhaven Marshes
Near Lymington
Vast marshlands teeming with birdlife, offering stunning views towards the Isle of Wight.
Hurst Castle Spit
Keyhaven
A historic shingle spit leading to a 16th-century castle with panoramic coastal vistas.
Coastal Views to Isle of Wight
Various points along the path
Enjoy sweeping views of the Solent and the iconic Needles on the Isle of Wight.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Elements
Plan Your Route
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Waterproof Boots
Sections can get very muddy, especially after rain. Waterproof footwear is essential for comfort.
🧥 Layer Up for Wind
Coastal winds can be strong and cold, even on sunny days. Pack layers to stay warm.
🐦 Birdwatching Paradise
The marshlands are rich in birdlife. Bring binoculars for the best viewing experience.
🗺️ Check Tide Times
Some low-lying areas can be affected by tides. Plan your walk accordingly.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Waterproof Boots
Sections can get very muddy, especially after rain. Waterproof footwear is essential for comfort.
🧥 Layer Up for Wind
Coastal winds can be strong and cold, even on sunny days. Pack layers to stay warm.
🐦 Birdwatching Paradise
The marshlands are rich in birdlife. Bring binoculars for the best viewing experience.
🗺️ Check Tide Times
Some low-lying areas can be affected by tides. Plan your walk accordingly.
🚲 Cycle Path Options
Parts of the Solent Way are suitable for cycling, with dedicated cycle paths available.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Solent Way for its stunning coastal scenery, abundant wildlife, and peaceful atmosphere, particularly around the marshlands. The walk to Hurst Castle is a notable highlight. However, be prepared for potentially strong winds and very muddy conditions, especially in winter, requiring appropriate footwear and clothing.
"Great place to visit. Especially if want to be close to nature, have great contrasting colours, see birds etc"
Steven Mancey
"Absolutely stunning walkway! Easy to keep on walking and walking and before you know it you have covered 10 miles plus! The marshlands are littered with wild horses, birds and stunning scenery which stretches to the Isle of Wight needles! We walked along here in January and the wind was bitterly cold so wrap up warm and wear sensible foot wear as it gets incredibly muddy! One of the most enjoyable sea walks I have done!"
Lee Reavill
"Friday 16th February 2024 and a really good day. I could hear my own footsteps as well as the sound of the geese and the Oyster Catcher's. I walked from Lymington and walked as far as Keyhaven and this was when it got interesting. There is a sign in Keyhaven that says " Cycle Path to Lymington". I ignored it , walked around the harbour, followed the map or so I thought, walked past the Gun Inn pub and discovered a footpath sign and assumed it would be the pathway I wanted to walk back to Lymington. Please don't laugh, I ended up in Great New bridge copse and I think I am the first person to leave a review of it on Google. I definitely walked my 10,000 step's today. The copse is very muddy. I would like to say I completed the walk around the nature reserve but I didn't and got my boots muddy( and my hands when I did an uncontrolled skid and dive ) The walk around the nature reserve was great and peaceful. Even the dog's were friendly. All in all a great way to spend a Friday on a winter's day. 🌟🌟Thursday 9th May 2024. I decided to complete the 10 km walk on what has proved to be the hottest day of the year so far. I started out in Lymington and reached the " cycle path to Lymington" sign. I think the road is originally a single lane road that has been handed over to cyclist's and walker's. A lot of the track reverts to shingle and clearly flooded during the winter. Along the way
back to Lymington i saw a pheasant, numerous horse's and great countryside, field's and a great view of the coast path in the distance. It is a long walk but should be easier if you cycle. A lot of the tarmac route can be avoided if you become adventurous and explore the pathways as well. Obviously I didn't use Pennington car park but it seemed popular and would be really convenient for people walking around this side of the marshes. The walking route around is well signposted and quite easy to follow. The route is advertised as 10km The the route back to Lymington from Keyhaven does feel shorter. . The pathway's link up so you don't have to walk the whole way. The next stage is a Lymington to Hurst Castle walk. I have happy memories of walking the shingle spit 🤣 . Great for the leg muscles."
Ian Chamberlain
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Solent Way is accessible from various points. Popular starting locations include Lymington, Keyhaven, and Emsworth. You can reach these by car, with parking available at Pennington Marshes or Keyhaven. Public transport options include train to Lymington or bus services that connect to different sections of the path. 
Yes, parking is available at several points, such as Pennington car park near Lymington and in Keyhaven. These are convenient for accessing the marshland sections.
Indeed, certain sections are suitable for cycling, with some parts designated as cycle paths. For instance, the route from Emsworth to Southsea is a great trail for gravel biking.
Yes, a ferry service operates from Keyhaven to Hurst Castle, offering a unique way to access this historic site and enjoy coastal views.
From Southampton, you can access the Solent Way by heading towards Gosport. This stretch is part of a running challenge and offers extensive coastal views.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Solent Way is a public footpath and is free to access. There are no entry fees for walking the path itself.
While the path is free, attractions like Hurst Castle may have admission fees. It's advisable to check the specific attraction's website for current pricing.
The Solent Way is an open public path and can be accessed at any time. However, specific facilities like car parks or visitor centers may have operating hours.
Yes, the Solent Way is accessible year-round. However, winter conditions can make sections muddy and windy, so appropriate gear is recommended.
While not as common as for some major attractions, local walking groups or private guides may offer tours. It's worth checking local tourism websites or community pages.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
You'll encounter diverse scenery, including expansive marshlands, coastal paths, estuaries, and views of the Solent and the Isle of Wight. Expect to see abundant birdlife and potentially wild horses.
Some sections are suitable for families, particularly flatter, well-maintained paths. However, be mindful of mud and wind, and consider shorter, accessible routes.
The marshlands are a haven for birds, including avocets and great egrets. You might also spot wild horses grazing in certain areas.
The Solent Way is approximately 60 miles long. It can be walked in sections, with individual walks ranging from a few hours to a full day depending on your chosen route and pace.
Facilities vary by section. Keyhaven and Lymington have amenities. Some pubs, like the Gun Inn near Keyhaven, offer refreshments. It's wise to carry your own water and snacks.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Pubs like the Gun Inn near Keyhaven offer refreshments. Lymington and Emsworth have a wider selection of cafes and restaurants. Picnics are also a great option for enjoying the scenery.
Absolutely! Many sections offer scenic spots with views of the Solent or marshlands, perfect for a picnic. Consider areas near Keyhaven or along the coastal stretches.
Yes, pubs with outdoor seating near the coast, particularly in villages like Keyhaven or along the waterfront in Lymington, can offer alfresco dining options.
Lymington offers a variety of dining options, from traditional pubs to seafood restaurants, catering to walkers looking for a meal after their hike.
Coastal towns like Lymington and Emsworth are known for their seafood. Look for local restaurants that highlight fresh catches from the Solent.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning sunsets over the Solent, diverse birdlife in the marshes, the historic Hurst Castle, and panoramic views of the Isle of Wight Needles.
Golden hours, both sunrise and sunset, offer dramatic light for coastal landscapes. Midday can be good for capturing the vibrant colors of the marshlands and wildlife.
Keyhaven Marshes provides excellent vantage points for bird photography. The shingle spit leading to Hurst Castle offers wide-angle coastal shots.
A versatile lens for landscapes and wildlife, a wide-angle lens for expansive views, and a telephoto lens for distant birds are useful. A polarizing filter can enhance sky and water colors.
Yes, wild horses are often seen in the marshland areas. Be respectful of their space and use a zoom lens for close-up shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be prepared for muddy conditions and wind, so ensure kids are dressed appropriately in waterproofs and sturdy footwear. Bringing snacks and drinks is always a good idea, as facilities can be spread out. The novelty of walking on a shingle spit or spotting different bird species can make for an engaging family adventure.
🚶 Solo Travelers & Hikers
Popular routes for solo hikers include the stretches around Keyhaven Marshes for birdwatching and the walk to Hurst Castle. The path is generally safe, but it's always wise to inform someone of your route and expected return time. The opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the coastal vistas makes it a rewarding solo adventure.
🐦 Birdwatchers & Nature Enthusiasts
Beyond birds, the unique coastal flora and the chance to see wild horses add to the natural appeal. The ever-changing tides and seasons bring different species and landscapes to life, offering a continuously rewarding experience for nature lovers.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Keyhaven Marshes
Walking through the marshes, you'll experience a sense of tranquility, often accompanied only by the sounds of nature. The path here is generally flat, but can become very muddy after rain, so waterproof footwear is a must. The views across the Solent to the Isle of Wight are spectacular, providing a stunning backdrop to your walk. Keep an eye out for the wild horses that sometimes graze in these areas, adding to the unique charm of the landscape.
Access to Keyhaven is convenient, with parking available. From here, you can embark on walks that take you along the coast or towards the historic Hurst Castle. The combination of natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and historical significance makes the Keyhaven Marshes a truly memorable part of the Solent Way experience.
The Historic Hurst Castle Spit
Walking the spit can be a leg workout, as it's composed entirely of shingle. While it's a unique experience, it can be challenging for those with mobility issues. The views from the castle ramparts are breathtaking, encompassing the Solent, the Isle of Wight, and the mainland coastline. You can explore the castle's various levels and learn about its history, from its Tudor origins to its role in World War II.
There's a ferry service that runs from Keyhaven to Hurst Castle, which can be a good option if you want to save your energy for exploring the castle or if you prefer a different perspective on the journey. However, walking the spit offers a more immersive experience of the coastal environment.
Navigating Weather and Conditions
Mud is another common condition, particularly in the marshland areas after rainfall. The reviews frequently mention the need for waterproof boots and the potential for getting quite muddy. This is especially true for sections around Keyhaven Marshes and the nature reserves.
Despite the potential for challenging weather, many visitors find the dramatic conditions add to the experience. The changing light and skies can create stunning photographic opportunities, and the bracing air is often described as invigorating.
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