The Isle of Wight in Spring

The Isle of Wight, known to the ancient Romans as Vectis, is England’s largest island. Although separated from the mainland county of Hampshire by a narrow sea channel known as the Solent, ‘the island’ as it is affectionately known, has an altogether different, gentle pace of life — perfect for a holiday break. Its southerly location, isolation and geology make it a haven for wildlife, much of which is at the northern limit of its European distribution. The northern part of the island is predominantly formed of impervious clays which give rise to wetlands and marshes such as the island’s only National Nature Reserve at Newtown Marshes, home to a variety of waders and wildfowl. The centre of the island is largely formed of high rolling chalk downlands, whilst the south coast is renowned for its soft sedimentary cliffs.

Our visit in late spring is timed to give us the best chance of seeing some of the fascinating wildlife that the island has to offer. The downlands are home to a good variety of butterflies, including the scarce and beautiful Adonis Blue, plus Small and Common Blues, Green Hairstreak and both Dingy and Grizzled Skippers, whilst we may also come across the diminutive Early Gentian, a near-endemic British flower.

On the cliffs and chines of the south coast we will look for the rare and delightful Glanville Fritillary, which occurs here at the northernmost limit of its range. We should also see the Wall Brown, a butterfly that is in dramatic decline on mainland Britain. For those interested in botany, the cliffs and downs offer much to admire, from diminutive clovers to showy Yellow-horned Poppies, Wild Cabbage and mauve Hoary Stock, the latter thought to occur here in one of its few native British sites. The very rare Field Cow-wheat, with its attractive magenta bracts, occurs here on one of Britain's smallest nature reserves. We will also visit the island’s extensive woodlands to look for the native Red Squirrel and will join a guided walk to look for the elusive Hazel Dormouse. The forest rides are also home to the rare native Narrow-leaved Lungwort and, in places, the parasitic Greater Broomrape.

Based in a comfortable and characterful, family-run hotel, we will enjoy these habitats and special species and — provided we get some sunshine — its butterflies.