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LAND ACTIVITIES

MOUNTAIN BIKING | CYCLE TOURING | CLAY PIGEON SHOOTING | LASER COMBAT | HORSE RIDING | FALCONRY | CONSERVATION | WALKING & HIKING | GOLF

FALCONRY

falconry on the Isle of WightFalconry 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.

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CONSERVATION DAY

SquirrelIf 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!

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WALKING & HIKING

Hiking on the Isle of WightDespite 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 arrangements.

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.

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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 Night 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.

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FIRST CONTACT ACTIVITY LEISURE
Sandpipers - Coastguard Lane - Freshwater Bay -
Isle of Wight - PO40 9QX - UK
Phone: 01983 753839 - Fax: 01983 755063
Email: first-contact

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