Wintery 50 things to do before you're 11¾ on the Isle of Wight

Even when it’s cold and frosty outside, it’s still great fun to explore the countryside and tick off some of your '50 things to do before you’re 11¾'. There are plenty to choose from on the Isle of Wight, whether you head deep into the woods or high up on the downs. So, wrap up warm and be prepared to get muddy, with some of our suggestions for the best ones to try this winter.

Boy sat in a the branches of a large tree
Borthwood Copse   Isle of Wight

No.1 climb a tree in Borthwood

Climbing a tree in winter is a lot easier – there aren’t any leaves to get in the way. Take a trip to Borthwood Copse and you’ll find lots of trees to explore. From extra large ones, to ones that are just right for beginners, see how far you can climb.

Little girl standing in the entrance to a den made of branches and twigs
Borthwood Copse   Isle of Wight

No.4 build a den

While you’re in Borthwood, have a go at building a den too. Lots of wild animals make themselves warm and cosy in winter by hibernating in one, so why not do the same? With plenty of twigs and fallen branches around, there’s a lot to make a secret hideaway out of in Borthwood.

Enjoy splashing in puddles this season
Compton Bay and Downs   Isle of Wight

No.6 run around in the rain

The winter weather might be a bit gloomy but that doesn’t mean you have to be. As the rain starts to pour, put on your wellies, head outside and find the biggest puddle to splash through.

Boys being pulled on sledge across snow
Bembridge Fort and Downs   Isle of Wight

No.15 play in the snow

It might be rare on the Isle of Wight, but that makes snow all the more magical. As soon as the first flakes start to fall, make the most of it and head outside to make snowmen, snow angels and of course, have a snowball fight. If it gets really thick, you could even try sledging up on the downs.

Creating wild art at Stoneywell, Leicestershire
St Catherine's Down and Knowles Farm   Isle of Wight

No.18 create some wild art

The wild winter weather brings down lots of leaves and twigs that are perfect for making some wild art. Explore the woods and hedgerows around Knowles Farm and St Catherine’s Point and pick up all the natural materials you need to make a masterpiece.

Autumn colours on the side of Ventnor Down
Ventnor Downs   Isle of Wight

No.28 climb a huge hill

If you want to climb a big hill, then St Boniface Downs near Ventnor is the place to go. It’s the highest point on the Isle of Wight, which means it’s a really huge hill. It’s a great way to keep warm too on a winter’s day.

Girl looking through a telescope in the hide at Newtown National Nature Reserve
Newtown National Nature Reserve and Old Town Hall   Isle of Wight

No.44 go birdwatching at Newtown

Although a lot of creatures are hibernating at this time of year, some birds actually choose to come here for the winter. Take a trip to Newtown National Nature Reserve and see if you can spot some of these winter visitors. To help you tick off your challenge, we’re even running a special walk at half-term.

Go on a bird watching walk