Winterwatch presenter Chris Packham has opened up about the distinctive living arrangement he shares with his partner of 17 years, Charlotte Corney. At 64, the naturalist has chosen to live separately from Charlotte, maintaining a home in the New Forest, Hampshire, while she resides and works on the Isle of Wight.
Chris explained that his move to the New Forest connects deeply with his childhood memories. “I’d be badgering my dad to drive me out at weekends to see the birds and bugs and bees and butterflies and things,” he said, emphasizing his lifelong bond with the area.
When asked if Charlotte shares his home, Chris responded, “She spends a lot more time here now than she did. She has her own house which she loves in East Cowes on the Isle of Wight; it’s very different from this.”
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On the Homing podcast, Chris revealed that while he treasures the time he spends with Charlotte, he values his solitude even more. “I like having time on my own,” he reflected. “We share our lives together, but both of us recognise that it’s valuable to have time apart.”
Chris linked his preference for living alone to his autism diagnosis. “I create a space where I feel comfortable because I’ve made it and I’m in control of it,” he explained. “It’s not always comfortable for other people, so living alone is how I manage that.”
He added candidly, “I’m best on my own because then I’m not judged by anyone and I don’t have to judge myself.”
The couple’s differing preferences also extend to their holidays. Chris recently went to Spain alone, acknowledging their distinct tastes in travel.
The pair first met in 2007 during a television visit to the Isle of Wight Zoo. Charlotte has revealed that Chris kept his autism diagnosis private for several years, only sharing it after she inquired. “I had googled the conundrum of his absolute devotion to me and his daily lack of empathy,” she said. “Asperger’s Syndrome came up as the answer, and when I put it to Chris, I thought he would be horrified. Instead, he gradually agreed.”
Their story offers a heartfelt glimpse into how respect for personal space and understanding neurodiversity can enrich a relationship. Winterwatch airs tonight at 7pm on BBC Two.