Alverstone Mead is a stunning nature reserve within the Isle of Wight National Landscape, comprising four reserves: Alverstone Mead, Bensteads Marsh, Youngwoods Copse and Bretts Meadow.
Covering almost 30 hectares, the site features tranquil woodland, wet meadows and wildflower areas, with part of the wetland designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) for its important floodplain habitats. The reserve has been managed by the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust since 2021
Just a mile from Sandown and next to the Eastern Yar River, the reserve is a haven for wildlife. Visitors can spot red squirrels, dormice, bats, dragonflies, butterflies and a variety of birds from a central hide, including kingfishers, treecreepers and woodland species. Ducks, moorhens, coots and other wildfowl are often seen along the riverbank, making Alverstone Mead ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and a relaxing day in nature.
