30/10/05 - Most of the group met at Shanklin station to catch the train to Ryde. An ominous heavy shower fortunately only made the train wet, but there was still a degree of trepidation among the hardy band of 16 at Ryde station. Along the seafront at Ryde, the light rain stopped and we were soon optimistically stripping off the waterproofs in the surprising warm late autumn temperatures. Continuing passed Seaview, we headed inland to avoid the high tide, then around Bembridge harbour. A heavy shower arrived just too early for lunch as we made our way through the back roads to the Crab & Lobster. Speedy service (or surreptitious packed lunches) and improving weather made for a pleasant break. Onwards after lunch, above Whitecliff Bay and up Culver Down to the monument (checked for spelling errors!). By now the sun was shining brightly, and descending into Sandown there was meaningful discussion on the kite surfing of White Air. We fitted in well with the dudes in the show area. Continuing along Sandown seafront, and beneath the cliffs at Lake, we finally reached Shanklin, and quickly made our way back to the station for a well earned rest.

Leader - Spencer

Total Distance - 14 Miles