Isle of Wight UNESCO Biosphere Reserve

We look forward to sharing the Isle of Wight with you once again in the near future, whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to your favourite home from home. In the meantime we ask that you please continue to follow Government guidelines and stay home, keeping happy and healthy, and helping to bring the date we can say “Welcome to the Island” ever closer.

Right now is the time to plan for when you can, to feel inspired and excited by everything there is to look forward to in the months ahead. We stay home now, so that we can all be together under the sun later.  We’ll see you by the sea, when the time is right. 

For more information and official Government guidelines at this time, tap here.

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We’re thrilled that the whole of the Isle of Wight (including the waters around the Island) is now a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The award was made by the United Nations Man and Biosphere Co-ordinating Council in Paris on the 19th June 2019.

What is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve?

To become a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, a region needs to show that people and the natural environment are coexisting harmoniously. Put simply, the Isle of Wight can demonstrate to the highest level that there is a balanced relationship between people and nature and, that in spite of the modern-day pressures brought about by the progress of human beings, nature continues to thrive here.

How did the Isle of Wight become a Biosphere Reserve?

Over 50% of the Isle of Wight is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The AONB team put forward an application to UNESCO on behalf of the UK government.

What does it mean for me?

You won’t notice any difference. You’ve already chosen the Isle of Wight for your holiday because you know it’s a beautiful place with a dramatic landscape, stunning beaches and friendly people. That won’t change. Becoming a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve means that other people have also recognised what an amazing place the Island is.

The Isle of Wight is now in an elite group of regions, being only the 6th region in the UK to be awarded the UNESCO accolade.

Will the Island be different the next time we visit?

The Isle of Wight will remain its glorious self, the only difference being that when you’re enjoying a walk on Tennyson Down or taking the kids to Blackgang Chine, you'll have an even greater sense of satisfaction that you’re visiting one of the most remarkable Islands in the world!