Isle of Wight red squirrels
Isle of Wight
- Independent UK guide
- Free to use
- Affiliate links clearly labelled
- Updated October 2026
What to expect
The Isle of Wight is one of the best places in England to see red squirrels, because the island has no grey squirrels, which spread disease and have driven red squirrels out elsewhere. Woods such as Parkhurst Forest and Borthwood Copse are good places to look, and some visitor sites offer feeding stations. Patience, quiet and an early start give the best chance.
Tips before you go
- Walk quietly, and scan the trees for movement and chewed pine cones.
- Do not feed squirrels, as it can harm them.
- Take binoculars and a camera.
Book or plan it
Prices and availability change, so compare. These are affiliate links.
Where to base yourself
What to pack
Handy things people often forget. These are Amazon links, so prices and availability are set by Amazon.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
More kit guides: Walking gear Wet-weather gear Dog travel gear
Related activities
The New Forest is one of the few places in England where ponies, cattle, pigs and deer roam freely on open heath and ancient woodland, under a system of rights known as commoning.
Stonehenge visitNear Salisbury, WiltshireStonehenge is a prehistoric stone circle on Salisbury Plain, completed around 4,500 years ago, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Blakeney Point seal tripBlakeney and Morston, NorfolkBlakeney Point is a long sand and shingle spit on the north Norfolk coast, and a nature reserve with large colonies of grey and common seals.
Frequently asked questions
Why are there no grey squirrels on the Isle of Wight?
They never reached the island, which has helped red squirrels survive, and strict controls keep it that way.
Last reviewed October 2026. Prices, opening times and conditions change, so check with the provider before you go. Report an error or share a tip.