Rural Ways Rural Ways

Source To Sea - Yar River Trail

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Route Overview A largely flat walk across the rural East Yar Valley, following the Island's largest river from source to sea. The route is waymarked with handcarved milestones showing you how far you have walked from "source to sea".


Distance - Full 19 miles / 30.4 km
Typical Time - Full 11 hours
Start Point Niton
End Point St Helens
Start point grid reference SZ503766 End point grid reference SZ637895


Type of Route: Linear Level of walk: Leisurely
Route Features Water Wildlife Interest
Accessibility / Facilities Begins near bus route
Begins near parking
Begins near pub
Ends near bus route
Ends near parking
Ends near pub
Ends near toilets
Picnic area enroute
Pub enroute
Suitable for Dogs
Terrain Muddy Tracks
PROW (Public Right Of Way)
Public Byways
Roads


Route Description By following the River Yar from where it springs at Niton you will see the river grow from a tiny trickle as it gathers water from a host of tributaries along its route, swelling to where it meets the sea at Bembridge Harbour. The Eastern Yar is the Isle of Wight's longest river and it drains water from over one fifth of the Island. On its way it passes through rolling landscapes, past ancient manor houses and by busy villages with cosy pubs. Great opportunities for birdwatching in the later stretches of the walk at Brading Marshes RSPB reserve.
Terrain Details Largely flat - can be soggy underfoot in winter.
Additional Info / Warnings The Yar River Trail could be walked in a day if you are feeling energetic - or over a weekend. The guide divides the trail into four shorter stretches of around 5 miles length each. The guide also includes beautifully hand-drawn maps and artist's interpretations of the East Yar Valley landscape.
Access Info / Public Transport Buses run to Niton - tel 01983 532373 for info
Services / Amenities Each of the four sections of the trail has a village and refreshments at the beginning and end. Parking and bus stops are shown for each section.
Buy OS Explorer map Buy OS Landranger map
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