Hello Barbara. What a lovely message to receive. I’m so pleased that you (and the dog) get to enjoy that lovely walk past the tower on a regular basis. What a shame it is not illuminated so that visitors arriving on the island can appreciate it.

The tower used to be lit up very well years ago from the front with a golden glow light but unfortunately the NE did not follow suit 🤦🏻‍♀️ and lit the other side so now it is hard to spot from the car ferry… such a shame but as I sit here in front of this lovely Appley Tower with dog on walkies I appreciate it as I have done for over 65yrs walking past it and sometimes going inside and up the steps to the very top viewing place… stunning all year long 💙

Good idea Gand. But I think I will wait until here comes the sun.

Looks like you had a ticket to Ryde.
Pity it was shut when you got there. A reason to be a day tripper and go back when it is open.

Good afternoon David. It is lovely to hear that my posts are of interest. I was fascinated to find out more about Sir William Hutt. Who would have thought a tower on the Isle of Wight would lead me to Gibside and Penshaw? Thanks for the kind message.

Thank you for giving me permission to use your photo. It’s great to be able to show the relationship between the tower and the house. Yes, it is good news that the tower survived, and it is a fitting tribute to Sir William for all of his investments in the sea wall and esplanade.

David Edgar

Hello Julia. It was a rather nippy morning so the beach and esplanade were fairly quiet. Yes, the forts are a fascinating subject too – military follies. Enjoy your next cycle ride.

Thank you John. My favourite limerick as a child was the one about a young lady from Ryde, so I thought I’d have a go at a folly-themed version.