Track through trees in Parkhurst Forest, Isle of Wight

Where to go · Isle of Wight

Forest bathing at Parkhurst Forest

One of the oldest forests in the country, with ancient woodland, open heath and red squirrels just outside Newport.

Parkhurst Forest covers about 395 hectares north-west of Newport and is the second largest forest on the Isle of Wight. Forestry England describes it as one of the oldest forests in the country: James I hunted deer here, and today it is a mix of ancient woodland, relict heath and plantation. Part of it is a Site of Special Scientific Interest, and it is one of the best places on the Island for red squirrels.

The car park is off Forest Road, about half a mile from Newport. From there, an easy access trail and a network of gravel tracks and paths lead into the trees; there is also a mountain bike route, and horse riders may use the gravel tracks. The further you go from the car park and picnic area, the quieter it gets. Look up for squirrels in the canopy, and listen for woodpeckers.

Practical

Managed by
Forestry England
Parking
Car park off Forest Road
Terrain
Gravel forest tracks and natural paths; easy access trail
Nearest station
Ryde St John's Road, about 25 minutes by car (no rail on this side of the Island)
Facilities
Picnic area; easy access trail
Opening and entry
Open 24 hours, free
Official page
forestryengland.uk

Last updated 4 November 2026. Paths, parking and access can change, so check before you visit. Spotted something out of date? Please let us know.

Guides nearby

A guide within 15 miles of Parkhurst Forest

  • Sue Gravells

    Corporate Energising

    Southampton, Hampshire

    UnclaimedTrained by Nature and Therapy UK

    Corporate and team daysPrivate and one-to-one

    Price on enquiry14 miles away

    View profile: Sue Gravells

More woodlands in Isle of Wight

All venues in Isle of Wight
Bluebells under trees in Borthwood Copse, Isle of Wight, in springBorthwood CopseSmall ancient oak wood near Sandown with coppice, bluebells and red squirrelsSteep path climbing between trees in Brighstone Forest, Isle of WightBrighstone ForestThe Island's largest forest, along the chalk ridge above BrighstoneForest path through trees in Combley Great Wood, Isle of WightCombley Great WoodLarge old wood near Arreton with tall conifers, oaks and Deadman's Brook

Photos: Borthwood Copse, ITookSomePhotos (CC BY-SA 4.0); Brighstone Forest, J W Parker (CC BY-SA 2.0); Combley Great Wood, Mr Ignavy (CC BY-SA 2.0).