Where to See Red Squirrels on the Isle of Wight — The Best Spots, Tips and a Little Local Magic
There’s something charming about spotting a red squirrel — the flash of auburn fur and those unmistakable tufted ears. The Isle of Wight remains one of the UK’s most important refuges for red squirrels, thanks to the absence of invasive grey squirrels and the island’s rich woodland habitat. For anyone searching where to see red squirrels on the Isle of Wight, you’re in exactly the right place.
Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a family looking for nature-filled adventures, or simply someone who enjoys peaceful woodland walks, the island is the perfect place to enjoy authentic wildlife experiences. Below, you’ll find the best places to spot these beloved native mammals, along with practical tips, the ideal seasons for sightings, and why Seaview Holidays makes a convenient and well-placed base for your Isle of Wight holiday.
A Great Base: Seaview Holidays — A Peaceful Setting Close to Key Squirrel Spots
If you’re planning a wildlife holiday on the Isle of Wight, Seaview Holidays accommodation is a lovely place to stay. Set within the Isle of Wight countryside and hugging the Hersey Nature Reserve, our holiday village has a calm, natural feel — and while sightings aren’t guaranteed, guests do occasionally spot red squirrels around the grounds, especially early in the morning or later in the day when the site is quiet.
Even better, Seaview is ideally located for those hoping to explore the best red squirrel hotspots on the Isle of Wight. Many of the island’s top woodland reserves and natural habitats are just a short drive away, making it an easy and comfortable base for exploring multiple locations during your stay.
The Best Places to See Red Squirrels on the Isle of Wight
1. Parkhurst Forest (near Newport)
Parkhurst Forest is one of the island’s largest and most diverse woodlands, and a well-known favourite for anyone searching for wild red squirrels on the Isle of Wight. With a mix of conifer and broadleaf trees, this forest offers abundant food and shelter, making it one of the best places to see red squirrels. Dawn and dusk are especially good times to visit, when the forest is quieter and squirrels are actively foraging.
2. Brading Marshes (RSPB Reserve)
This vast reserve stretches from Brading down towards Bembridge Harbour. Combining wetlands, marshland and pockets of woodland, it creates perfect habitat for a healthy red squirrel population. For the best chance of seeing red squirrels, keep an eye on the edges of woodland and along the quieter paths. This is also a great spot for birdwatching and broader Isle of Wight wildlife.
3. Alverstone Mead Nature Reserve (near Sandown)
A peaceful wetland and woodland reserve beside the Eastern Yar river, Alverstone Mead is a calm and rewarding place to spot red squirrels. With wildlife hides perfectly positioned for patient, quiet watching, this scenic reserve is a favourite among nature-lovers and wildlife photographers seeking authentic Isle of Wight nature encounters.
4. Borthwood Copse (National Trust) & The Garlic Farm Woodlands
This ancient woodland, with its mix of oak and beech, creates a rich canopy where red squirrels thrive. The quiet trails offer excellent opportunities to spot squirrels crossing paths or leaping through the trees. Nearby, the footpaths around The Garlic Farm run alongside more ideal habitat, making sightings highly likely.
5. Firestone Copse (near Wootton Bridge)
Firestone Copse is another strong contender: accessible, peaceful, and full of tall conifers, broadleaf trees and quiet trails. It’s a great choice for shorter walks or family visits and is conveniently close to Seaview, making it an easy stop for anyone staying on the northeast side of the Island.
6. Ventnor Botanic Garden & Surrounding Parks
With a sheltered microclimate and varied planting, Ventnor Botanic Garden attracts all sorts of wildlife — including red squirrels. Look for them near wooded edges and quieter garden areas. The parks and green spaces around Ventnor are also reliable places to enjoy squirrel spotting, especially in the early morning.
Tips for the Best Squirrel-Spotting Experience
Go at the right times
Red squirrels tend to be most active around dawn and late afternoon, when they’re busy foraging and travelling between trees.
Take it slow
Stillness is key. Find a likely spot for a sighting and stay quiet. Red squirrels often appear once the area feels peaceful — essential advice for anyone hoping to capture photos or enjoy calm wildlife watching on the Isle of Wight.
Look up as well as ahead
Many sightings happen high in the canopy. Watch for movement in the branches or listen for the sound of claws scrambling on bark.
Use binoculars or a zoom lens
Even in areas with plenty of squirrels, using binoculars will help you enjoy close-up views without disturbing wildlife — ideal for photographers and families alike.
Avoid feeding them
Don’t feed red squirrels — human food can be harmful, and feeding sites can attract predators. Instead, let them rely on the natural abundance of food around them. To help keep red squirrels healthy and wild, it’s best to simply observe them.
Check local group updates
Local groups such as the Isle of Wight Red Squirrel Trust publish walks, sightings and events — and produce a helpful walks booklet with suggested routes to see squirrels and learn about their habitats. These are excellent resources for planning an Isle of Wight wildlife holiday.
When to Visit for the Best Sightings
Red squirrels can be seen year-round, but two seasons stand out:
Autumn: With nuts and seeds falling, squirrels spend more time on the forest floor and lower branches, storing food for winter. This makes it one of the best times to see red squirrels on the Isle of Wight.
Spring: Young squirrels emerge and play energetically in the canopy — a delight to watch and a highlight for springtime visitors.
Conservation on the Island
The Isle of Wight’s conservation groups work tirelessly to protect red squirrels and their habitats. Because the island is free of invasive greys, it plays a nationally significant role in red squirrel conservation. Visitors can help by sticking to paths, keeping dogs under control and respecting sensitive areas during breeding seasons — small actions that ensure these beautiful animals continue to thrive!
Final Thoughts
The Isle of Wight offers some of the UK’s richest and most rewarding opportunities to see red squirrels in the wild. From calm wetlands to ancient woodlands, the island’s slow and quiet pace makes it easy to spend an hour — or an entire day — immersed in nature.
Staying at Seaview Holidays gives you a relaxing, well-located base for your adventures, with the occasional chance to see squirrels passing through the grounds. Combine that with visits to the island’s top reserves, and you’ll have every opportunity to enjoy these beautiful native animals in their natural environment.
So, pack your walking shoes, your binoculars and a sense of wonder — the little rust-coloured actors of the treetops are worth the visit!
