Stars & Shore - Slow Island Adventures

03/08/2026

I came home with a qualification… but that’s not what I’ll remember most about this weekend. 💚🚲

I’ll remember the moments that challenged me, the people who encouraged me, and the confidence I found along the way.

I travelled to North Wales to complete my British Cycling Off-Road Ride Leader training with the incredible team at Pedal MTB.

I expected to learn route planning, navigation, risk assessment and group management. We did all of that… but we also spent two days putting those skills into practice on technical trails, rocky descents, switchbacks and emergency scenarios.

I’ll admit, there were moments where I questioned myself.

Thankfully, Ed and Al never did.

Thank you both for creating such a welcoming, supportive environment. You didn’t just teach us how to lead rides you helped us believe in ourselves too.

A huge thank you to my fellow course mates Sarah Murray, Jason and Marianne. We arrived as strangers and left as friends, encouraging each other every step of the way.

If you’re in North Wales, check out Sarah Murray’s fantastic cycling community helping peopel discover the joy of riding. And a shout-out to Jason and Marianne and Tiri0 Pack Rafting Adventures you’ve definitely inspired my next Welsh adventure!

For me, this isn’t the finish line.

It’s another step towards creating welcoming rides here on the Isle of Wight, where nobody has to be the fastest or most experienced to belong.

Because I know exactly what it feels like to think cycling isn’t for someone like you.

A few years ago I never imagined I’d be here.

Now I can’t wait to help others discover the freedom, confidence and joy that cycling has given me.

Cycling really is for everyone.

Every age. Every ability. Every body.

Here’s to breaking down barriers, one ride at a time. 💚🚲

IsleOfWight GravelCycling EveryBodyOnABike ConfidenceOnBikes WomenInCycling BreakDownBarriers

03/08/2026

Isle of Wight…🚲 Can you help? Items needed 😊

I'm on the lookout for any old or spare bike bits that I can use for some upcoming Ride, Repair & Relax sessions I'm putting together.

I'm particularly looking for:
🔧 Track pumps
🔧 Wheels
🔧 Tyres (worn is fine)
🔧 Inner tubes
🔧 Old chains
🔧 Multi-tools/repair kits
🔧 Bike work stands
🔧 Anything else people can safely practise on.

If you've got anything gathering dust in the garage that you'd be happy to donate, lend or sell at a sensible price, I'd love to hear from you.

Why?

During my own cycling journey, one thing has become really clear... it's often not the riding that holds people back, it's the lack of confidence.

"What if I get a puncture?"
"What if my chain comes off?"
"What if I can't work my gears?"
"What if everyone else knows more than me?"
“What if others are faster or fitter than me”

I'd love to help change that.

The idea is to create relaxed, welcoming sessions for women who are thinking about getting back into cycling, just starting their cycling journey, or simply wanting to feel more confident on their bike.

Think less classroom... more coffee, confidence and community. ☕💚

Together we'll cover things like:
🚲 Bike safety checks
⚙️ Gears and braking
🛞 Puncture repairs
⛓️ Simple trailside fixes
🪑 Bike set-up and comfort
🎒 What to carry on a ride

For those who'd like to, there'll also be the opportunity to put those new skills into practice on relaxed, friendly group rides afterwards.

And don't worry if you don't even have a bike yet... I'd love these sessions to be for anyone who's curious about cycling and wants to build their confidence before taking the plunge.

If you can help with any equipment or if this sounds like something you'd love to come along to when it's launched I'd love to hear from you. 💚

18/05/2025

Camper life doesn’t get much better than this. We can also meet you at the campsite if you are looking for hire too 🙌🙌🙌🙌

16/05/2025

Another incredible pop up site on the island.

Rusty Meadows Pop Up Campsite and Activity Field just stunning! Opens July to September.

Perfect place to set up a van and enjoy the peace. Gorgeous village nearby in Godshill

Is a summer full of no-fuss camping with your family and friends in a field your idea of heaven? Then we have something up our sleeves that may be for you! Watch this space!

19/04/2025

Great article from the the.independent

“The Isle of Wight, once lauded by Charles Dickens as “the prettiest place I ever saw in my life, at home or abroad”, remains a captivating destination throughout the year.”

https://www.independent.co.uk/travel/inspiration/budget-holiday-ferry-trips-uk-ireland-b2713671.html?mc_cid=ea9da8d3ea&mc_eid=23ac2c4a35&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR6U7W1oGAfwh_IJj_lS3O4VgcDZJM6GYkEIXCMb-C9zwEZzUgxUEYn-JYWiyA_aem_NUEsjNgRJgqltYHW0RdvDg

19/04/2025

Stunning Seaview
Isle of Wight

Isle of Wight campervan hire. Adventure awaits!

www.starsandshore.co.uk

19/04/2025

Thought this is a great post and worthy of another share this year for the upcoming season 🙌

Best places to pitch up on the Isle of Wight 🏕

Whether pitching a tent or sleeping under the stars in a motorhome or caravan, the Isle of Wight is the perfect place to get away from it all.🤩

The Island is home to several camping sites surrounded by rolling countryside, stunning sea views and close access to the many amenities on offer. Plus, with over half the Island designated as an Isle of Wight National Landscape (formerly known as Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty), you’ll get to experience the peace and restorative power of being closer to nature.🌿

To make life easier for you, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best places to pitch a tent or motorhome on the Isle of Wight.

ℹ️ Check out the blog: https://shorturl.at/x2zr6
📌 Tom's Eco Lodge - Isle of Wight

⛴ Don't forget, many accommodation providers can offer discounted ferry travel. Just enquire at the time of booking!

Appuldurcombe Gardens Holiday Park Orchards Holiday Park Stoats Farm Parkdean Resorts Island Bell Tents Glamping The Wight Way Windmill Campersite