National Trust properties nearby: Windmill, Bembridge Down & Red Squirrel Walk – 1 mile Downs

Borthwood Copse, Coastal

Short description: Located on the eastern side of the Isle of Wight, this 1ml Property contact details: Tel 01983 741020 (1.6km) walk takes you through beautiful ancient oak woodland which is a good site for red squirrels throughout the year. In spring, the woodland floor is carpeted National Trust properties nearby: Bembridge Windmill, Bembridge Down & with bluebells. Ventnor Downs

Getting there: Road: Road, , off the A3056 Newport- road Car parks: Parish Council car park, Alverstone Road, Apse Heath (P) Foot: Various options as the area is well served by public rights of way Bus: B=bus stop Rail: Nearest railway stations Lake and For public transport information visit www.traveline.org.uk

Maps and start grid ref: OS Landranger 196 gr SZ 570 844, Explorer OL29 Facilities available: Nearby Sandown Terrain: Some slopes. Paths can be muddy following rain Distance: 1ml (1.6km) Accessibility: Footpath access via squeeze stile or kissing gate

Points of interest: Start the walk at the bus stop, marked B. During the walk look out for the following features: 1. Carpets of bluebells are seen here during late spring 2. Good site for red squirrels throughout the year, but easiest seen following leaf fall • Look out for woodland butterflies along rides and glades, such Brimstone, Speckled Wood and White Admiral • Interesting woodland flora including Wood Anenome, Common Cowwheat, foxgloves, primroses and Wood Sorrel • Various woodland birds can be seen such as Green and Great Spotted Woodpeckers, Blackcaps and Chiffchaffs • Dormice are common here although they are rarely seen • Scattered stands of old beech can be found in the north half of the wood

Tony Tutton, Property Manager on the Isle of Wight, says: ‘This traditionally managed oak woodland with hazel coppice always has something different to see whatever the season.’