This is a great walk combining so much - you get the river-level views while navigating through Brading Marshes, then after a climb up Gander Down you're treated with far-reaching views over Brading, St Helens and Culver Down. Although only 2 miles, this walk still packs a punch with a moderate incline.
This walk can start and finish at Brading Train station - easy to reach by (of course) train, a short walk from the bus stop or plenty of parking space either at the station or along station road. From here, head down to Lower Furlongs until you reach the sign that directs you down a path to cross the train tracks. Once across, there's a gate to enter the marsh, which then leads you on a path that runs parallel to the River Yar. This brings you to a gate and a bridge to cross, then a path shaded by a tunnel of trees round bends and bridges, until you reach the entrance kissing gate to Gander Down.
Gander Down is an undulating profile of grassy hills, bordered by old trees. Each season supplies a new experience on these hills - rare species of nesting birds take like to the long grass here, mushrooms blanket the floor under tree canopy in the autum, and butterlies pretty much takeover in summer. But what is so unique about this walk is the views, so far reaching you can see the sea past St Helens and Bembridge, you can see over the whole town of Brading and the wall of trees where the Downs sit behind it, you can see the towering hills that are Culver Down, and Bembridge Fort which sits on top. But what I enjoy the most is the birds-eye view of the marshland below. The meander of the river that has carved through the wetland is a brilliant sight, especially after you get to walk its banks just moments before. The climb 146ft climb is always worth it for this view!
Once down from the Down, the walk then requires a few meters alongside the road without pavement. This isn't a particularly busy road and always wide enough for any passing vehicle. Once the road crosses the river there are steps down to a path that follows the train tracks. Although this short walk along the tracks has unfavourable views to your left, those to your right just about make up for it. You now get the lower view of where you were just looking down, you can look up to Gander Down and across the marsh that now hides the impressive meander behind the tall grass. You do however get to walk beside the river, which is mostly cloaked in flowering lily pads. The marshland here is rich in wildlife too as it's free from any disturbance (apart from cows) - so you will likely spot the odd hering or egret swooping around. Once at the end of this path, it's just a cross of the train tracks again and you're back to the station.
Be aware if you take a dog on this walk; care must be taken when crossing the train tracks (trains run at 03, 21, 28, 48 minutes past from Brading) and gates must be shut behind you. Cattle may also be present on Gander Down so keep your dog on a lead when around them. Also be aware, these are nature reserves to support rare birds nest, so keep control of your dog so they do not disturb this habitat.
Dog Friendly (but beware of trains and animals)
Close to public transport
Parking
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