The first stretch of the Solent Way serves up everything you could want in a coastal walk: dramatic sea views, fascinating history, and the kind of fresh air that blows away every last cobweb. Starting from the charming village of Milford-on-Sea, this two-mile adventure packs a scenic punch.
Kick off your journey from Milford-on-Sea, where finding parking is refreshingly straightforward, or hop off the bus if you’re letting public transport take the strain. As you set off along the seafront, the Isle of Wight’s famous Needles rise from the waves like nature’s own sculpture gallery.
The path leads you onto Hurst Beach, a remarkable shingle spit that stretches out towards your ultimate destination: Hurst Castle. Now, we should mention that walking on shingle is a bit like doing a workout – each step takes a little more effort than usual. We recommend wearing sturdy shoes and taking your time; this isn’t a walk to rush.
The beach itself is a haven for wildlife spotters. Seabirds wheel overhead, and if you’re lucky, you might spot some interesting finds among the tideline treasures. Just keep an eye on those tide times – when the sea’s up, the beach can get a bit cosy in places.
Speaking of weather, there’s no hiding from the elements out here. The wind can be quite enthusiastic, especially on the exposed spit. Pack an extra layer or two, even on sunny days – the breeze off the Solent has a habit of reminding you it means business.
Your reward for this bracing walk? Hurst Castle itself, and what a reward it is. This mighty fortress, built by Henry VIII (he did like his coastal defences, didn’t he?), stands guard over the Solent like a stone sentinel. The castle welcomes visitors year-round, and we thoroughly recommend taking time to explore. Climb to the top for views that are absolutely spectacular.
When your legs have had enough climbing, the castle’s café offers the perfect pit stop for a restorative cup of tea and a slice of cake.
Here’s a handy tip: if you’re not feeling up for the return walk (or just fancy adding a bit of variety), catch the seasonal ferry from the castle back to Keyhaven. It’s a delightful little boat trip that gives you a different perspective on the coastline you’ve just walked.
This stretch of the Solent Way might only be two miles long, but it manages to squeeze in enough interest for a day out. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply someone who enjoys a good walk with exceptional views, this route delivers in spades.
The beauty of this walk is its accessibility – it works in all seasons (though those winter winds can be rather bracing), and it’s manageable for most abilities. Just remember to check those tide times before you set off, pack according to the weather, and give yourself plenty of time to soak up the views and explore the castle.
So lace up those walking boots, pack a windproof layer, and set off for a coastal adventure that combines the best of Hampshire’s natural beauty with a hefty dose of Tudor history.
