Renowned Winterwatch host, Chris Packham, recently shared insights into his unconventional living arrangement with his partner of 17 years, Charlotte Corney. Despite their long-term relationship, Chris, aged 64, resides in New Forest, Hampshire, having relocated from Southampton four years ago, while Charlotte, the founder of the Wildheart Trust, resides and works on the Isle of Wight.
Chris explained that his childhood fascination with the New Forest’s wildlife led him to choose the area as his new home. He reminisced, “I’d be badgering my dad to drive me out at weekends to see the birds and bugs and bees and butterflies and things,” emphasizing his lifelong connection to the region.
Regarding Charlotte’s living situation, Chris disclosed that although she spends more time with him now, she maintains her own residence in East Cowes on the Isle of Wight, appreciating the contrast in lifestyle.
In a candid conversation on the Homing podcast, Chris expressed his comfort in solitude, attributing it to his autism. He elaborated, “I create a space where essentially I feel comfortable because I’ve made it, I’m in control of it, but it’s a space which isn’t entirely comfortable for other people.” He emphasized the importance of alone time in nurturing his relationship with Charlotte.
Furthermore, Chris mentioned his solo trip to Spain, highlighting their differing travel preferences. The couple’s initial encounter dates back to 2007 when Chris visited the Isle of Wight Zoo for a filming project.
In a rare revelation about their relationship, Charlotte disclosed that Chris had kept his autism diagnosis private for years, leading to initial confusion about his behavior. She shared, “It was about five years before he told me he has autism, and that was only because I asked.”
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