Isle of Wight National Landscape

Many visitors love to explore the Isle of Wight’s natural landscape – its stunning coastline, rolling downland and pretty woods and forests.

But how many of you realise that all this Isle of Wight natural beauty takes some looking after and over fifty percent of the natural landscape is under the protection of the Isle of Wight National Landscape (IWNL) - (formerly known as Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

Linked with the Island’s UNESCO Biosphere designation, it means the Island looks at its beautiful best when you come to visit.  

So, let’s look at what it means and where you can go to discover this national landscape and its breathtaking natural beauty while enjoying some wonderful outdoor experiences.

What is a National Landscape?

Being a National Landscape means several organisations are looking after it, ensuring it remains a peaceful and idyllic place while understanding it is a living, breathing rural economy.

Which parts of the Isle of Wight are in the National Landscape?

More than half of the Isle of Wight is in the IWNL with the majority being in the south and west. However, there are five areas of IWNL spread across the Island. 

As we have already said, there is downland, coastline and woodland to explore, where you will find rare species such as the bee orchid and the Glanville fritillary butterfly.

South and West Wight

The majority of the Isle of Wight National Landscape is in the west of the Island, stretching from the picture-perfect town of Yarmouth and The Needles in the north, right down to Ventnor and St Catherine’s Point in the south.

It also takes in the Freshwater area and the gorgeous villages of Brighstone and Godshill, the south west coast and Military Road, Brighstone Forest and the Island’s highest point, St Boniface Down.

East Wight

At the other side of the Island is the East Wight parcel, which pushes inland from picturesque Bembridge Harbour to the ancient Brading Roman Villa, and along the spine of the Island’s natural chalk downs to the outskirts of Newport. 

Bembridge has lovely coastal walks, wildlife-rich beaches and a lively village centre with pubs, shops and restaurants, while Brading Roman Villa is steeped in history.

But to experience awe-inspiring views of all sides of the Island, and on a good day all the way to Sussex, Portsmouth and Southampton, you need to get out and take a good old stomp along the downs.

Quarr and North Wight

Two of the smaller areas of Isle of Wight National Landscape can be found on the north coast.

The area around Quarr Abbey stretching towards Binstead on the outskirts of Ryde is a peaceful haven.

Visit the lovely monastery and walk in the area to enjoy views across The Solent towards Portsmouth.

The other portion of the North Wight National Landscape stretches from the other side of Wootton Creek to the outskirts of East Cowes.

Rising out of the lush countryside is one of the Isle of Wight’s most iconic buildings, Osborne House – the Italianate 19th century villa built by Albert for his beloved Queen Victoria. 

Why not visit the house and stunning grounds, or simply walk the coastal path that skirts the estate.

North West Wight

Last but not least in our tour of the Isle of Wight National Landscape is the North West Wight parcel. Stretching from the outskirts of Cowes and Gurnard to the shoreline of Thorness Bay and through the watery splendour of historic Newtown.

Then it takes in the pretty village of Shalfleet and Hamstead Ledge as well as the nature reserve at Bouldnor Forest.

What can we do in a National Landscape?

The natural places on the Isle of Wight are perfect for a huge number of activities.

From off-road cycling through our forests to surfing at the West Wight bays, the adrenaline junkie will discover tons of fun.

Coasteering, sailing, walking and paragliding are more super ways to see the scenic spots of the Isle of Wight.

Click here to check out a great guide to Isle of Wight adventure activities.

Can we stay in the National Landscape?

Of course you can! And if you really want to get into the spirit of sustainable stays in the IWNL, look here for the best in glamping and other eco-friendly locations.

The Isle of Wight National Landscape produces lots of great food and drink too and our guide to Island food outlets and farm shops will help you find some scrummy straight-from-the-soil and the sea meals. 

Say Yes to the Isle of Wight National Landscape

“All this beauty is of God” is one of the Isle of Wight’s mottos, so come and check out the areas that show the Isle off at its natural best.