Brighstone Forest stretches across hilly ridges and provides a stunning backdrop for walks, wildlife spotting and exploring the Island’s natural beauty. Discover the Isle of Wight’s largest forest, offering rolling landscapes and endless opportunities for outdoor adventure.
Spanning several ridges, including Chessell Down, Westover Down, Brighstone Down, Newbarn Down, Rowborough Down and Idlecombe Down, creating a varied and scenic environment. Its main entrance is easily accessible near the charming town of Brighstone, and the woodland forms part of the Isle of Wight Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Shalcombe Down, an outlying block to the west, adds to the forest’s diversity. Managed by the Forestry Commission under leasehold agreements, the forest covers a total of 482 hectares, offering a well-maintained and inviting space for visitors to enjoy the outdoors.


