Much of the town is built on the side of a steep hill, leading down to its famous beach, while St Boniface Down, the highest peak on the Isle of Wight, makes for a dramatic backdrop. Comprised of both sand and shingle, Ventnor beach is perfect for a classic day at the seaside. Many vintage traditions still live on here today; former bathing machines have been converted into quirky beach huts, and there are deckchairs, sun loungers and windbreaks available for hire, which get hammered into the sand for you using a wooden mallet.
Ventnor Botanic Gardens
The seafront is also a delight to stroll along, decorated with ice cream stalls, gift shops, amusement arcades and beach bars. Also found here is the world-famous Spyglass Inn, with its striking nautical interior and terraces with views out to sea. The harbour is another prominent feature of the seafront, with its bandstand offering a great 360-degree view of the water and the seafront. A rocky waterfall tumbles down nearby, the Cascade road and gardens winding its way down around it, with the spectacular Isle of Wight paddling pool found at the bottom.
From the seafront, you can take a short walk and see the town’s spectacular parks and gardens. On the western side of the town you’ll find Ventnor Park, leading onto the Ventnor Botanic Gardens a little further away. Here you’ll discover a sub-tropical paradise, spread across 22 acres. For even more stunning scenery, continue to walk along the coast to Steephill Cove, a peaceful beach that remains one of Ventnor’s best-kept secrets.
Ventnor has also become a cultural hub in recent years. Every August it hosts the Ventnor Fringe, an award-winning arts festival featuring pop-up cinemas, mystery tours, street entertainment, intimate concerts in people’s houses and much more. It also has an eclectic variety of arts venues, from the Ventor Exchange, housed in a former post office, to the art-deco Winter Gardens Pavilion and the members-only Ventnor Arts Club.
For a truly unique day out all the family will love, head to Blackgang Chine, a theme park just outside of the town which claims to be one of the world’s oldest. There’s a range of rides and attractions here for everyone to enjoy, including a roller coaster, water slides, pirate ships and life-size dinosaurs.
Foodies will not be disappointed with Ventnor; being a coastal town, fresh and tasty fish and seafood is always on the menu. The Ventnor Haven Fishery is a chip shop with a difference, serving delicious crab and chips, while at the Boathouse, you can have the morning’s catch for lunch.
Take a look at our collection of Ventnor cottages for even more holiday inspiration!