Arreton Cross
This is an area of grassland which is rarely walked upon but very highly visible as the busy Newport to Sandown road goes right past it.
Working with our friends at the Green Gym we set about controlling the scrub to improve the amount of light reaching the site; re-planting some mahonia and protecting them from rabbit predation with a wire fence; and also fencing off other small areas to protect the chalk downland vegetation which it is hoped will regrow on the site.
In addition, we commissioned the fantastic Hare from an old tree stump. The artist was Paul Sivell (seen with his creation by moonlight here).
The hare had a bit of a ‘holiday’ in 2009 when it was chainsawed off by a thief, but eventually found its way home and was reattached.
Hare image courtesy of The Rangers Blog
How to find it
North of Arreton on the Newport road, Arreton Cross is the wide grassy verge just opposite the turning to Downend. You might not really want to stop to explore the site as most of it is best seen from the road, but if you do want to pay a personal visit to the Hare you can do so.
By car or bike – Stop at the layby just south of the site, and walk back. Postcode: PO30 3AA; what3words ///handbag.crypt.posts There are no cycle racks.
By bus – Route 8, stop at White Lion + 2 min flat walk. (Bus Timetables)
On foot – The site is on the Bembridge Trail, between Arreton church and St George’s Down.
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Access
The Hare is on a grassy bank. However, we do not recommend visiting as it is a busy and dangerous corner. The are no nearby public toilets however you may wish to visit the White Lion or Arreton Barns for toilets, refreshments and parking.
What to look out for
The Hare and Magpie!
Managing the site
The sculpture sits on land managed by Island Roads on behalf of Isle of Wight Council.
Get Involved
There are various ways you can help improve and maintain our sites. We rely on volunteers to help with many tasks on our sites and also need people who are happy to regular visit the site be our “eyes and ears”, this means we can respond much quicker to issues. Our shop raises money to support our work and needs a team of volunteers. Or maybe you would like to help us with events. Find out more here.
You can also help by becoming one of our regular supporters. Even giving a few pounds each month can make a real difference, with your donation being invested into site management and improvement work to benefit site visitors and look after our precious wildlife. Sign up here.