LAND ACTIVITIES
MOUNTAIN BIKING | CYCLE TOURING | CLAY PIGEON
SHOOTING | LASER
COMBAT | HORSE RIDING | FALCONRY | CONSERVATION
| WALKING &
HIKING | GOLF
MOUNTAIN BIKING
 Off road cycling is another great way to
explore the Island and see parts you would not normally
have access to.
Mountain Bikes are designed to ride on rough terrain,
with wide high grip tyres and low gear ratio's. What this
means, is it's not as difficult as it looks!
Part of the fun of Mountain Biking is taking lots of
pit stops to enjoy the scenery, have a drink or just a
chat!
There are hundreds of miles of routes suited to all
levels and fitness abilities so everyone can have a go.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will we be out?
Sessions vary from an hour to a full day. It is up to
your group. If everyone is feeling tired the ride can be
cut short. Or, if everyone is bursting with energy a more
demanding track can be taken.
What do I need to wear?
We provide helmets but you need to bring sensible shoes
like trainers, a rucksack to carry any drinks and nibbles,
and some comfortable trousers or shorts. Long legged is
preferable in the summer as you may be cycling through
some undergrowth.
I'm not very fit and not that keen?
Lots of pit stops are definitely part of the ride as
we don't make each ride an endurance event! If you think
you are not fit enough the ride can be taken in stages ,
an easy route taken and kept short on the day. And
remember, at the bottom of most hills is a good pub!
How can a ride be made more easy or difficult?
With the huge number of trails available a ride can be
graded to suit each group. The steepness of the hill, the
type of terrain and the length of the trail all
contribute to different levels of bike ride. We will talk
with you and assess each group's overall ability to make
sure everyone enjoys the ride.
Do we go out alone?
Only if you specifically request to. We arrange for an
instructor to go with your group so you can find your way
to some good trials, have someone there who can sort out
any bike problems, and generally show you how to make
your ride enjoyable.
MAIL
US HERE
with any questions and we will post them up here for you
to see our answer
CYCLE TOURING
If you prefer a more relaxing cycle we can take you
touring inland and along the coast. This is a great way
to see the Island and includes stops for site seeing and
lunch at some of our traditional country pubs.
FAQ
What if I get tired
Our expert says
Cycle Touring will take place on the road and our guide
will ensure that everyone is going at a pace to suit
themselves and the group. If an individual gets tired the
guide will take everyone back to base then carry on a
different route with people who wish to carry on. As with
Mountain Biking you will have lots of stops and
opportunities to take it easy.
MAIL
US HERE
with any questions and we will post them up here
for you to see our answer
CLAY PIGEON SHOOTING
 With an
Olympic Medal under our belts for Clay Pigeon Shooting
… who thinks it's boring?
Shooting is a great sport which everyone can have a go
at, and anyone can excel at, although it's not as easy as
it looks!
The aim is to shoot clays as they are fired from a
range of traps, each simulating the different flight
patterns of game birds.
On the Island we use two venues - one set in a 'Chine',
which is a small valley with a stream leading to the sea,
and the other on the Downs with amazing Island views.
Each venue has several stands to give you a shot at the
clay from lots of different angles. Smaller, lighter guns
are also available for ladies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many targets do we shoot?
Each person will have the same number of cartridges and
clays at each stand and will be scored on the hits and
misses! For experienced shots further cartridges and
clays can be purchased on the day.
What do I need to bring?
Comfortable clothing with something warm and waterproof
if the weather is unsettled. You will be out in the
countryside in the afternoon so sensible shoes - hiking
boots are a must.
Is it very loud?
Well, a shot is more like a large 'crack' than an
explosion. We do provide ear muffs for everyone which are
very effective at blocking out the sound.
Does it hurt your shoulder when the gun fires?
When you are standing properly, and holding the gun
correctly, which our instructors will show you as they
stand just behind you, the impact is minimal. The gun
does move back when it is shot, but most people are
surprised how easy it is.
Does everyone shoot at the same time?
No, we may split large groups who will go off to
different stands a short distance away from each other.
Everyone at each stand takes it in turn.
What about shooting live game?
On your day with us you will only be shooting clay
pigeons. We do not arrange live shoots on the Island. You
may occasionally see paragliders flying nearby on sunny
days, but we don't usually aim for these!
MAIL
US HERE
with any questions and we will post them up here
for you to see our answer
LASER COMBAT GAMES
You are deep undercover and can hear the enemy
approaching. With baited breath you line up your sight.
Then, without warning, you jump out and fire.
Fortunately, with laser guns all you do is de-activate
your enemy's gun. But it is still pretty satisfying.
Set in dense woodland Laser Combat Games involves two
teams with everyone kitted out with camouflage overalls,
helmet and laser gun.
The basic object of the games is to defeat the enemy
and claim their base camp.
It's back to basics, ruthless, muddy and exilarating!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it the same as paintball?
The concept is the same with two teams pitched against
each other. The only difference are the ammunition and
weapons. Unlike paintball which uses paint pellets,
everyone wears a helmet with targets on it and linked to
their gun. When a target is hit by an infra-red beam from
someone else's weapon, the gun is deactivated and you are
out of the game.
What if my gun is deactivated in the first 5
minutes?
Well, for starters we would suggest you change your
ambush technique. However, each gun can be reactivated
back at a central base camp in the middle of the arena.
What type of games are played?
Because the guns can be reactivated a number of different
scenarios can be played during your session. A 'Defence'
game involves one team protecting their base camp from
the enemy. Or 'Sudden Death' where you will be eliminated
from the game when you are first hit. Other games include
retrieving your enemies flag or storming camps.
Will I get dirty?
In a nutshell, yes! We will provide overalls but you will
get very muddy as all the action takes place outside. You
do need a change of clothes and shoes you don't mind
getting wet and dirty. And, it won't be cancelled if it
is raining. It's part of the fun!
MAIL
US HERE
with any questions and we will post them up here
for you to see our answer
HORSE RIDING
 Criss-crossing all over the Island, hundreds
of bridle ways give riders an enviable access to the
Countryside.
By using some of the best Stables on the Island both
the novice rider and the more experienced have the
opportunity for a relaxing hack.
Frequently asked Questions
Do I have to be able to ride?
No, we will ask you about each person's riding experience
to ensure that the horse and lesson or ride is suited to
everyone's ability.
What if I have never ridden before?
There are two options for complete beginners or very
nervous riders. A half hour 'intro lesson' can be taken
in the school, and if the rider is confident this can be
followed by a short hack. Alternatively, the horse may be
led by one of the instructors on a full hack.
Our group has mixed abilities, what will happen?
With a mixed group who wish to stay together the
level of hack will be tailored to suit those with the
least experience. Often mixed groups are split so that
novices have a nice gentle ride and the more experienced
are challenged a little.
What is the difference between hacks?
A novice group will tend to only walk and trot on their
hack. More experienced riders will have the chance for a
canter or two, depending on the route of the ride.
Is there any road work?
Some stables include both road work and bridle ways in
their hack. Some stables have direct access to the
countryside depending on their location. We will let you
know what type of route you will take when you book.
How many people are there on each hack?
The maximum per group varies from 6 to 8 people,
depending on the stable. We may add people onto smaller
groups on the day.
What shall I wear?
Long comfortable trousers and flat shoes with a small
heel so your foot stays in the stirrup. Very chunky shoes
are not really suitable, and no stilettos please!
MAIL
US HERE
with any questions and we will post them up here
for you to see our answer
FALCONRY
 Falconry is one of the oldest, and noblest,
country sports and is the art of flying birds of prey.
At the Isle of Wight Falconry Centre, based at
Historic Appuldurcombe House and its 300 acre listed Park,
you can experience the thrill of flying a trained bird of
prey around some of the most scenic areas of the Island.
A One Day course is a combination of theory and
practice. A Half Day course is a Falconry taster where
you will learn about he birds and have some short
handling and flying sessions.
In the morning you will begin with an outline of
Falconry principle and practice to learn about its
history, how to handle birds of prey, the equipment used
- 'furniture', and about the sport itself. In the
afternoon you will have the option of taking your bird
hunting out in the Appuldurcombe estate and the nearby
countryside.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the day?
You will start at 10am and finish between 5pm and quarter
to 6 in the evening - this depends on your afternoon
flying. For those visiting for half a day you will be
with the birds for around 4 hours. A light lunch is
included at the Centre's café.
What do I need to bring?
Comfortable clothing with something warm and waterproof
if the weather is unsettled. You will be out in the
countryside in the afternoon so sensible shoes - hiking
boots are great - are a must. There is a café on site
where you can purchase additional drinks and snacks
during the day.
What happens if it is raining?
No matter what the weather, on a full day of Falconry you
will always go out so remember to check the forecast the
night before! If you have only booked a half day you will
be able to use the indoor arena.
I'm not sure about going hunting, do I have to do
this?
No, the choice to hunt live prey is purely optional on
the day.
How many people are there in a group?
The average group size is 6 people, but this may vary
slightly.
What bird will I fly?
You could be a Harris Hawk, Common Buzzard, Hybrid Falcon
or a Lanner Falcon on the day if you have booked a full
day. The Centre also has Owls and Vultures which you may
have the opportunity to handle on a half day.
MAIL
US HERE
with any questions and we will post them up here
for you to see our answer
CONSERVATION DAY
 If a day of running around or
jumping off hills sounds a bit too extreme, a day of
Conservation is a wonderful way of spending some time
outdoors and learning about the countryside.
There are loads of ongoing projects around the Island
which you could get involved with. We organise a morning
or afternoon with a Park Ranger from Parkhurst Forest,
who is responsible for monitoring and maintaining the
woodland.
This means you will have access to an expert who will
teach you about the forest and answer any questions!
Frequently Asked Questions
What sort of thing could we I doing?
You could be doing anything from cutting 'rides' out of
hedges for butterflies to forest clearing or general
countryside maintenance.
Is it hard work?
Actually it is very physical and could involved lugging
trees around, digging trenches or sawing up logs!
Why do we need to pay to 'work'?
The cost of the day covers the time of a Park Ranger who
will show you what to do and also teach you about the
forest and its inhabitants. Also included in your day is
a membership of the Friends of Parkhurst Forest.
What should I bring?
You will be outside in woodland so rugged, warm clothes
are best. Sensible, waterproof shoes which you don't mind
getting wet are also recommended.
And last but not least, the Isle of Wight is one of
only a few places in the UK where you can still find Red
Squirrels, so keep your eyes peeled!
MAIL
US HERE
with any questions and we will post them up here
for you to see our answer
WALKING & HIKING
 Despite
being only 16 miles by 23, the Isle of Wight boasts a
myriad of footpaths, trails and bridle ways giving
walkers of all types access to most of the Island.
With two major Walking Festivals also held on the
Island each year it really is a top UK destination for
walking.
All around the Island breathtaking coastal views
combined with gentle downland trails through acres of
National Trust woodland and Heritage Coast has appeal for
all.
If this is not enough, the stunning Tennyson Trail
takes walkers along the Island's white chalk cliffs to
the tip of its most Westerly point and the Island's
remarkable natural landmark, The Needles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where will we go?
There are literally hundreds of miles of trails around
the Island. Depending on where you are staying our guide
will meet you there and take you out. If you have any
particular areas you would like to visit in the vicinity
just let your guide know. Or you can arrange to visit a
particular part of the Island when you make your booking
with us.
Do we need to plan our own route?
The choice is yours. We can arrange our guide to plan a
route for you, or should you wish to go under your own
steam we will make sure you have plenty of information
before hand so you make your own arrangments.
How energetic is it?
You can go out for a morning or afternoon or the
whole day with a stop for lunch. Your guide will monitor
the pace to suit the group and can choose easier or more
difficult trails on the day.
What should I wear?
If you don't have hiking boots don't worry! Strong,
sensible shoes are the most important item to wear, and a
small rucksack is also extremely useful to put water
& snacks in. Whether you are wrapped up warm or in a
t-shirt and shorts depends on the time of year you are
visiting. Keep an eye on the weather forecast and be
sensible in what you bring. You can always ring us the
day before as we keep an eye on the long range forecast.
MAIL
US HERE
with any questions and we will post them up here for
you to see our answer
GOLF
WEST WIGHT
18 HOLE COURSE
If a leisurely activity set in the midst of beautiful
coastal scenery sounds appealing, then you will really
enjoy a game of golf.
Located in the South West of the Island with
sensational views of the Solent and English Channel, this
18 hole course on natural open downland will provide a
challenge to golfers of all abilities.
In addition to a 5,725 yards long, par 68 course you
will be able to take advantage of the private club with
full bar and catering facilities.
Society Days can also be arranged for groups of 10 or
more, plus inclusion in special match and competition
days during the Summer months.
EAST WIGHT
9 HOLE COURSE
For tailor made packages catering for all levels of
expertise then a day at this course may fit the bill.
All types of sessions can be arranged, from Breakfast
Golf to a basket of balls at the Driving Range followed
by Lunch, or Nite Golf with luminous balls!
Tuition is available from PGA qualified staff giving
you the chance to try out the Floodlit Driving Range, the
Putting Green and the 9 Hole course.
With a fully licenced private Club House and full
catering facilities also available this is a real treat
of an activity.
MAIL
US HERE
with any questions and we will post them up here for
you to see our answer
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