Isle of Wight Facts

If you are heading to the Island for an Isle of Wight Holiday, we have compiled some fun facts for you to read about the Island. Share these with the rest of your family or impress the locals when you arrive.

• The Isle of Wight is often referred to as the Garden Isle due to its natural beauty. The island is home to many rare plants and animals, one of the most important is the red squirrel who has had competition from the grey squirrel on the mainland.
• One species that is unique to the island is the Glanville Fritillary Butterfly. This orangey insect lives on the Southern edge of the island and feeds on Ribwort Planting.
• According to the 2001 census, the population of the Isle of Wight is 126,000, but more recent estimations put it at around 140,000.
• Thanks to the Isle of Wight Festival, the island has hosted some musical greats such as Bob Dylan, The Who, The Doors, Jimi Hendrix, Leonard Cohen, Paul Weller, David Bowie, R.E.M and Coldplay.
• The Isle of Wight became an Island around 8000 years ago, when the last Ice Age came to an end.
• Now internationally famous, the Cowes Regatta was first held in 1812 and is now one of the largest yachting events in the world.
• Around 900 years ago Quarry Stone from the Island was used to build the top section of the White Tower at the Tower of
• More than half the island is classed as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and there are over 60 miles of coastline to walk along and 500 miles of footpaths to navigate.