Our Story

It all began with one dog, a Couch to 5K plan, and a coastal trail on the Isle of Wight just minutes from my front door.

I didn’t start running young or fast, lacing up my trainers for the first time in my late 30s. Spike, my wonderful Vizsla, had come into my life and our local trail walk was a short coastal route from home.

At first, we began running as a way to clear my head and work out his zoomies. Over time our local trot turned into longer off-road adventures as we both got fitter (and mildly obsessed). Then Milo, a rescue Vizsla-cross, joined our pack and our runs.

Over time, trail running became more than just exercise, it also gave me a sense of freedom and challenge without pressure. More recently, having a go at trail running events has shown me there is an amazing welcoming community that doesn’t care how fast you go – only that you keep going.

Spike ran with me for 15 years – you can watch us on our favourite Headon Warren trail below. I still love running down trails but prefer walking back up them, chasing the dog, chasing views, and occasionally chasing a finish line.

Today it’s just me and Milo, the same local hills (now well-trodden), but with many adventures done and even more ahead.

Why I built RouteSharer

I’ve always loved following other people's routes and the stories behind them. The missed turns, the stunning views, the unexpected events or lessons learned in the rain. Plus knowing about terrain and elevation for training, or how long before I could stop for a cheeky coffee and cake, from real runners is invaluable.

That’s why I started RouteSharer - to create a space where walkers, runners, and dog owners could not only track and share their favourite routes with others, but also share the knowledge and stories that make each one memorable.

SHARE YOUR STORY WITH US

My favourite routes

I love both 'there and back again' runs and loops, but the Island routes I love to run or walk are:

- Headon Warren to the Needles and Freshwater Bay and back again, approx 21km (watch our video below to get a taste of the views).
- Brading to Ryde through the Marshes, past the Windmill, Bembridge Harbour and along the beach at low tide from Seaview, approx 15km.
- Cowes to Chale through Newport, along The Red Squirrel Trail to Godshill then Ventnor through Niton, approx 30km.

COMING SOON .. MY ROUTE MAPS

Why we love the Isle of Wight!

At just 23 miles across and 13 miles top to bottom, the Isle of Wight might be small – but this diamond shaped island is packed with over 520 miles of public rights of way, including 326 miles of footpaths and 165 miles of bridleways.

From cliff-top trails and hidden forest paths to a stunning 70-mile Coastal Path that loops around The Island (as it’s known), it’s a paradise for runners, walkers, and four-legged adventurers alike.