Landscape Character - Introduction

The Isle of Wight AONB is a complex and diverse landscape.  The underlying geology; habitats and species of plants and animals; historic and current land use and settlement; traditions, customs and cultures; peace, tranquility and 'dark skies' all add to its special qualities and 'sense of place'.

Landscape elements and features of all lowland England can be found in one small geographic area on the Isle of Wight.  Being an island, the sea and its influence are a major part of the special character of the AONB.  Changing seasons and weather patterns contribute to this variety, as do differences between and aspects of the southwest coastline, which is subject to storms and waves, and the northern low, slumped coasts and estuaries, which experience the more gentle influence of the Solent.  Quiet enjoyment of the AONB has provided, and continues to provide, a source of inspiration and relaxation to people who visit or live in the area.

However, increasing pressure for new activities within the countryside, built development and traffic noise, can all have an impact on the peace and tranquility of the AONB.  Development can also often bring associated lighting which, through light pollution, can have a detrimental impact on the 'dark skies' at night, an important part of the AONB's overall character.

The Isle of Wight AONB is unusual, in that it is comprised of five separate land parcels, rather than the more usual one or two continuous areas found in other AONBs.

There is no characteristic that is common to the whole AONB, other than perhaps its very diversity and variety.  This diversity is largely due to its underlying geology, and the way that people have used the land over time.  In 1994, a landscape assessment of the AONB undertaken by the then Countryside Commission, identified 11 landscape character types across the AONB that contribute to its overall character.  The scenic quality of key views within the AONB often result from interaction between landscape character types, and the visual contrast of differing key characteristics.