Ashlake Creek

Sea, Estuary, Creek in Hampshire

England

Ashlake Creek

Track in Firestone Copse Well maintained, wide forestry tracks run all through the copse, making it a popular place for walking. — Track in Firestone Copse Credit: Des Blenkinsopp

Ashlake Creek is a picturesque waterway situated in Hampshire, England. It is known for its unique combination of sea, estuary, and creek, making it a popular attraction for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The creek stretches for approximately 3 miles, beginning at Ashlake Copse and flowing into the Solent, a strait that separates the Isle of Wight from mainland England.

The creek's estuary provides a diverse ecosystem, supporting a wide range of flora and fauna. The surrounding marshland is home to various bird species, including herons, egrets, and ducks, making it an ideal spot for birdwatching. The creek's calm and tranquil waters are also inhabited by fish, such as sea bass, flounder, and mullet, attracting anglers looking for a quiet fishing spot.

The creek's proximity to the Solent makes it a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts. Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular activities, allowing visitors to explore the creek's winding channels and take in the stunning coastal scenery. The creek's gentle currents also make it suitable for beginners and families.

Ashlake Creek offers several walking trails along its banks, providing visitors with the opportunity to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. The trails meander through wooded areas, offering glimpses of wildlife and providing peaceful spots for picnics and relaxation.

Overall, Ashlake Creek in Hampshire offers a unique blend of sea, estuary, and creek environments, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a tranquil and picturesque natural setting.

Show me another place!

If you have any feedback on the listing, please let us know in the comments section below.

Ashlake Creek Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 50.73006/-1.2203521 or Grid Reference SZ5592. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Track in Firestone Copse

Well maintained, wide forestry tracks run all through the copse, making it a popular place for walking.

Des Blenkinsopp

Bend in the Track

A forestry track in Firestone Copse.

Des Blenkinsopp

Drew's Brews in the Forest

A mobile coffee shop in the Firestone Copse car park.

Des Blenkinsopp

Gate into the Forest

Access gate into the less visited eastern part of Firestone copse. The main forest tracks are open for cycling, but the yellow notice warns against using unofficial paths which have been made as they could be dangerous. That's probably half the attraction, but at least the forestry people have covered themselves.

Des Blenkinsopp

Path in the Forest

The smaller, eastern section of Firestone Copse is much less visited than the main bit on the other side of Firestone Copse Road. The tracks are muddier and less well maintained.

Des Blenkinsopp

Ferns in the Forest

Away from the paths, a lot of the forest is not easy to wander about in.

Des Blenkinsopp

Archway at Quarr Abbey

These outbuildings next to the abbey are made out of local stone and are quite different in appearance to the red brick abbey itself.

Des Blenkinsopp

Quarr Road

A leafy avenue between the present abbey and the ruins of its medieval predecessor. Part of the Isle of Wight Coast Path.

Des Blenkinsopp

Quarr Abbey Tower

The abbey buildings rise above the surrounding trees.

Des Blenkinsopp

Madonna & Child, Quarr Abbey

A statue in the abbey garden.

Des Blenkinsopp

Quarr Abbey

Another picture of the impressive brick built abbey which was constructed between 1907 and 1912 to the designs of one of the monks.

Des Blenkinsopp

Houses on Wootton High Street

An old Isle of Wight Railway notice board is on the wall.

Des Blenkinsopp

Tesco Express, Wootton

Des Blenkinsopp

"The Needles" at the Ferry Port

By the pedestrian entrance to the IOW ferry terminal at Fishbourne. A model of the island's famous rocks and lighthouse at the western end. A bit of concrete, a bit of pipe, a bit of paint and a bit of imagination.

Des Blenkinsopp