Autumn rides: Discover the Isle of Wight on two wheels

The Isle of Wight is famously a cyclist's paradise - hence the nickname "Bicycle Island" - but there's something truly special about cycling here in autumn. As summer's vibrant greens shift to autumn's rich, earthy tones, the Island transforms into a breathtaking tapestry of color, best enjoyed from the open road or along its many cycle paths.

Whether you're a seasoned mountain biker, a road cycling enthusiast, or a family looking for a gentle ride, the Island offers a variety of routes that cater to all levels of ability. The mix of rolling hills, scenic woodlands, and picturesque coastal paths makes the Isle of Wight the perfect destination to experience the changing seasons on two wheels. 

And, after a day of exploring, the Island’s warm hospitality awaits, with cosy pubs, charming cafés, and local farm shops offering seasonal delights to make your autumn cycling adventure truly unforgettable. 

Pack your bikes, grab your helmets, and get ready to discover the Isle of Wight in all its autumnal glory, there’s no better way to experience the Island than on two wheels...

Mountain biking in Brighstone Forest

For mountain bikers seeking an exhilarating autumnal adventure, Brighstone Forest is the place to be. As the largest forest on the Island, it offers a range of trails that weave through ancient woodland, with paths carpeted in golden leaves and surrounded by towering trees. The forest trails provide a thrilling mix of climbs and descents, with some routes offering stunning views over the Island’s west coast.

After your ride, head to the nearby village of Brighstone. Tandem Tearooms offers a selection of light bites and freshly baked goods, perfect for refuelling after working up an appetite.

Rural road cycling

If road cycling is your passion, autumn is the perfect time to explore the Isle of Wight’s rural heartland. The quieter country roads that crisscross the Island take you through picturesque villages, rolling farmland, and hedgerows bursting with autumn berries. The cooler temperatures and crisp air make for ideal cycling conditions, and the scenic routes will reward you with breathtaking views of the Island’s landscape.

Start in the historic town of Newport and head towards the village of Godshill, known for its charming thatched cottages and quaint tea rooms. Continue on to Arreton, where you can stock up on tasty local produce to take home from Harvey Brown Farm Shop, or visit the Arreton Barns craft village and enjoy a hearty meal in The Dairyman’s Daughter pub before looping back to Newport.

Family-friendly rides

For families or those seeking a more leisurely ride, the Red Squirrel Trail offers a perfect autumnal outing. This largely flat, traffic-free route follows disused railway lines and quiet country lanes, making it ideal for cyclists of all ages. The trail gets its name from the local red squirrels that can often be spotted along the way, particularly in the autumn as they prepare for winter. The full trail is a whopping 32 miles and runs from Cowes in the north to Sandown in the south east, passing through Newport and the lush woodland of Parkhurst Forest. There are plenty of shorter sections suitable for younger riders or those looking for a more relaxed experience.

One of the favourite sections is the Sandown to Wroxall route, which uses the flat of the Sandown Esplanade and the old railway line from Shanklin towards Ventnor, ending in Wroxall. After your ride, treat the family to a visit to the free-to-enter Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary, where you can meet the resident donkeys and other animals. The sanctuary also has a café serving delicious homemade cakes and hot drinks, perfect for an autumn afternoon.

Coastal adventures

For those who want to combine coastal views with a touch of autumnal charm, the Freshwater Bay Loop is a must-try. The coastal views are breathtaking, with the added beauty of the downs covered in autumn bracken. The quieter roads in autumn allow you to enjoy the scenery at a more leisurely pace. This route offers a mix of undulating terrain and stunning seaside scenery, with the added bonus of dramatic cliff-top views and quaint villages along the way.

Start in the village of Freshwater and follow the coastal road towards Compton Bay. From there, head inland through the the village of Brook before taking the path across the beautiful chalk downs where you’ll discover ancient burial mounds, before looping back to Freshwater.

After your ride, stop by the tearooms at the Dimbola Museum & Galleries in Freshwater Bay. This café offers a cosy atmosphere and a selection of homemade treats, including seasonal soups and sandwiches made with local produce.

East Wight explorations

The east side of the Island is home to some hidden gems, perfect for an autumnal cycle. Alverstone and Borthwood Copse offer a combination of woodland and countryside cycling, with routes that are suitable for all levels of cyclists. The area is particularly beautiful in autumn, with the woodlands taking on a magical quality as the leaves change colour.

Start in Sandown and cycle through Alverstone, then on to Borthwood Copse, one of the Island’s oldest woodlands. The ancient woodland is a haven of tranquillity in autumn, with its canopy of oaks and beeches creating a stunning display of autumnal colours. It’s a great spot for a leisurely ride and a picnic. The route continues on through peaceful countryside and along quiet lanes.

On your way back, stop at Adgestone Vineyard, where you can sample some of the Island’s finest homegrown wines. Pick up a bottle to enjoy with your evening meal or take home as a souvenir of your autumnal adventure.