Cowes Port Handbook 2014-2015 April 2014 | Page 66

COWES PORT HANDBOOK 2014 - 2015

Walks from Cowes
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The Bargeman’s Rest alongside Newport Quay

Cowes to Newport

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This route takes you from the Chain Ferry in Cowes, along the Medina
Estuary, and ends up at The Bargeman’s Rest, right on the River Medina
and in the heart of the bustling market town of Newport.
Starting from the Chain Ferry, pass the Ratsey & Lapthorn sail loft and
turn left up Bridge Road. Continue left into Pelham Road, up South Road
and then left again to join Arctic Road. You will pass UKSA, the maritime
education centre, before turning on to the cycle path next to Medina
Court Industrial Estate.
The path runs alongside the Medina Estuary which has a wonderfully
interesting character made up of rich maritime heritage, a wealth of
natural habitats and a vibrant mix of recreation, transport, and industry.
The tidal River Medina is home to many different creatures but is a key
spot for wading birds and waterfowl. Keep an eye out for little egret,
oystercatchers, black tailed godwits, grey herons, and redshank. The tree
lined cycle path is also a great place to catch a glimpse of red squirrels.
On approaching Newport, you will first pass by the Medina Valley Centre,
an environmental and outdoor education charity, the large Vestas facility,
and then Newport Rowing Club. Leave the cycle path and turn into Little
London which runs alongside the River Medina and where you can stop
for a welcome drink and meal at The Bargeman’s Rest.
At this point, you can either return via the same route, go to the bus
station in the centre of Newport and take the No. 1 bus back to Cowes,
or, make the route a circular one by walking down the eastern side of the
River Medina and returning via East Cowes and the Chain Ferry.
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