Chris Packham, the beloved Winterwatch presenter and naturalist, has opened up about his unique living arrangement with his partner of 17 years, Charlotte Corney. The 64-year-old moved to the New Forest in Hampshire four years ago, a place he has cherished since childhood, while Charlotte continues to live and work on the Isle of Wight, where she serves as founder and trustee of the Wildheart Trust.
Reflecting on his childhood connection to the New Forest, Chris shared, “I’d be badgering my dad to drive me out at weekends to see the birds and bugs and bees and butterflies and things. So it’s an area I’ve known all my life.”
When asked about Charlotte’s presence in his home, Chris said, “She spends a lot more time here now than she did, but 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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Speaking recently on the Homing podcast, Chris explained his preference for solitude despite being in a committed relationship. “I like having time on my own. Obviously, I’m in a relationship with Charlotte, and I like spending time with her—we share our lives together. But we both recognize that having time apart is valuable for our relationship.”
Chris attributes part of this lifestyle choice to his autism diagnosis. “I create a space where I feel comfortable because I’ve made it. It’s a space I’m in control of, but it isn’t always comfortable for others. That’s why I prefer to be alone sometimes. I’ve told Charlotte many times: I’m best on my own.”
He added, “When I’m alone, I’m not judged by anyone, and I don’t have to judge myself.”
The pair met in 2007 at the Isle of Wight Zoo during a television project. Charlotte has previously spoken about Chris’ decision to keep his autism diagnosis private for years. “It was about five years before he told me, and that was only because I asked,” she revealed. “I had googled the reason behind his fierce devotion but apparent lack of empathy and thought Asperger’s might explain it. When I suggested it to Chris, I thought he would be horrified, but he gradually accepted it. He hadn’t told me because he thought he could mask it.”
Chris and Charlotte’s story highlights how understanding and respect for individual needs can shape a relationship in unconventional yet fulfilling ways.