Borthwood Copse is one of the best woodland dog walks near me on the Isle Of Wight.
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Woodland dog walks near me | Borthwood Copse | Isle of Wight
Nestled amidst the captivating landscapes of the Isle of Wight, Borthwood Copse stands as a testament to the timeless allure of nature. This enchanting woodland, steeped in history and brimming with biodiversity, offers a sanctuary for both the soul and the senses.
To truly appreciate Borthwood Copse, one must first understand its storied history. This ancient woodland has borne witness to centuries of human activity, its roots intertwining with those of the island itself.
History of the Woodland
Originally part of a vast royal hunting ground, the copse has been shaped by the hands of time and the ebb and flow of human civilisation. From its days as a medieval deer park to its transformation into a Victorian pleasure ground, Borthwood Copse has evolved alongside the island, each chapter leaving its mark on the landscape.
Walking through the dappled sunlight of woodland even on an early spring day, it’s easy to feel a sense of reverence for the generations that have come before. The towering oaks and beeches that dominate the canopy stand as silent sentinels, their gnarled branches bearing witness to the passage of time.
A Woodland Adventure
As I traced the winding pathways, I couldn’t help but imagine the countless footsteps that had trodden these same trails, from medieval huntsmen to Victorian picnickers. Despite the woods not being over a vast area, it is very easy to feel remote and at one with nature. It is a woods to loose your worries for an hour away from the busy world outside. Whether taking time out to walk the dog or to spend some quality family time.
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Wildlife and Flowers
But while this woodland may be steeped in history, it is also a thriving ecosystem teeming with life. For nature lovers, the copse offers a veritable treasure trove of biodiversity, with each step revealing new wonders to behold. From the delicate ferns and mosses that carpet the forest floor to the vibrant wildflowers that bloom in the sunlit clearings, every corner of the copse is alive with the hum of life.
April sees the woodland play host to a blanket of bluebells, a beautiful sight to see.
A Dog friendly wood for all to enjoy
The woods are dog-friendly and a great place for your 4 legged friends to explore and exercise. A small part of the woods has an area for cycling and even has a small section with jumps for the athletically minded.
Can you find the Red Squirrels
One of the highlights of my visit to Borthwood Copse was the opportunity to observe its resident wildlife in its natural habitat. The copse is home to a diverse array of species, from the elusive red squirrel to the majestic buzzard which I could hear flying among the treetops.
The woods is run and maintained by the National Trust.
How to find the Woodland
Borthwood Copse is located near Winford just outside Sandown, near Winford.
Enjoy some more of the island’s hidden gems such as Carrisbroke Castle and Quarr Abbey.