The rich tapestry of farms, grazing land, copses and fields of crops contained by thick hedgerows are features of an ancient landscape which can be found on the earliest maps and traced back to Domesday. On a modern map, you can rediscover these features by picking out the settlements that grew up around the springs or "bournes". Places like the picturesque villages of Calbourne and Shorwell - the latter derived from the Anglo-Saxon name meaning "the spring which rises from the base of a steep hill". The copses on every farm were worked to produce hazel to make hurdles, sweet chestnut for fencing and elm trees for shelter and timber. Today, these woodlands are home to dormice and red squirrels and, in the spring, are carpeted with bluebells.

Farming is still a major influence on the appearance of the Island's countryside. The Isle of Wight with its mild climate, high light intensity and varied soil types is favourable to most types of farming and horticulture, which account for about 75% of the Island's area. Cereal and vegetable crops are farmed extensively and the Island is self-sufficient in milk and fresh vegetables. The farm at Newchurch produces some of the finest garlic and sweetcorn in Britain. The Arreton Valley is the centre of horticulture with greenhouses cultivating tomatoes and flowers.

Island farmers support initiatives which conserve the landscape and its wildlife habitats such as the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Project. Farmers, landowners and conservationists meet to discuss countryside issues and carry out work to enhance the Island's special rural character.

Walk or cycle off the beaten track to see the best of the Island's countryside and the historic farms and villages. As you use the many rights-of-way through farmland, tread carefully with respect for crops and animals and close farm gates after you.