in spring when birds are singing from every bush and tree is very
delightful. It is a fine avenue extending several hundred yards
and opening out into the main road to Newport. By entering the
gate on the right at the junction, the walk may be continued past
Binstead Church through Quarr Wood to Quarr Abbey.


[Illustration: _Ryde, from the Pier._]

RYDE, FROM THE PIER.--The situation of the town is favourable as
a principal entrance to the Island, the passage from Portsmouth
by steamboat occupying about twenty minutes. The Pier (toll 2d.)
is 4,000 feet in length, and is in three portions--for pedestrians
and boating, electric railway, and the Isle of Wight Railway. There
is a fine pavilion and bandstand at the end. Crowds of people find
a never failing source of interest on the pier, yachting, boating,
and fishing. On summer afternoons it is a gay and charming scene.
The town is built on a gentle slope, and the houses command fine
and extensive views. It has the largest population of any town
in the Island, about 11,000 inhabitants.


[Illustration: _Apley Tower, Ryde._]

APLEY TOWER, RYDE.--Within one and a half miles of Ryde the wall
is a continuation of the Esplanade in the direction of Spring Vale
and Sea View. The wall furnishes a means of defence against the
encroachment of the sea, as well as a thoroughfare for pedestrian
traffic. Bicycles are also used on it to some extent. When the tide
is out a wide stretch of sands is exposed, and crowds of children