Putting Your Heart into Walking
On Sunday 12th July 2026, thirteen people from the Equals IW Friends and Family Group joined Mark at Bonchurch Green. They explored the peaceful village of Bonchurch and completed the Armada Coastline and Stokey Woodall’s Solar System Walk.
Mark led the group to the village pond and showed them several houses where famous people had stayed. He talked about the history of East Dene before the group went inside Old St Boniface Church to explore this historic building.
The group visited the bathing stream once used by Charles Dickens and then walked to Monks Bay, where they learned about the Battle of Bonchurch. Mark then led the group to the start of the Armada Coastline Walk and Stokey Woodall’s Solar System Walk.
They walked along the seawall to Wheeler’s Bay and learned about the wildlife found in this special area. A quiz kept everyone involved throughout the walk. The group read the information boards and listened as Mark shared more interesting facts.
Everyone enjoyed learning about the planets in our solar system, from the Sun to Pluto. The group worked hard to find the answers to the quiz and enjoyed some friendly competition. Along the way, they learned about local history, wildlife, natural habitats and the solar system.
The walk and quiz finished at the local Sea Pot Café. Everyone relaxed together and enjoyed the wonderful sea view. Sitting in the sunshine with a cooling breeze and refreshments was a lovely way to end the walk.
Each person walked 2 miles (3.21 km), burned around 99 calories and completed about 5,000 steps. The activity also helped everyone support their emotional wellbeing, self-confidence, self-esteem and mental health.
Those attending were able to spend time together in a warm, welcoming and safe environment. The activity gave people a chance to get out of the house, meet new people and enjoy time with friends.
The activity also gave one learner the opportunity to spend time with their child. Together they completed the walk and enjoyed exploring the beach and rocks.
The Bonchurch Village, The Armada Coastline and Stokey Woodall’s Solar System Walk is one of the activities of Green Time which is a Partnership Programme between Equals IW, MCEnhancement and Isle of Wight Council Adult and Community Learning Small Grants Funding.
We took photos
Green Time a fun, informal way using the great outdoors to enhance positive emotional wellbeing, self-confidence, self-esteem and mental health.