Ventnor Downs

National Trust - Ventnor Downs, Down Ln, Wroxall, Ventnor, Isle of Wight, UK
1-99 Years

Description

The Ventnor Downs rise steeply above the Victorian seaside town of Ventnor. With the sparkling sea below and the holm oak trees which have colonised the south facing chalk slopes there is almost a Mediterranean flavour to the landscape. On the top of the downs you find a complete change of landscape with large open areas of grass and heather. It is such a rewarding area to walk in as there is great variety and some wonderful wildlife spectacles at different times of year and you can enjoy fantastic views from this high position.

You can drive to the top of the downs where there are several car parks which lead onto areas of reasonably level footpaths. Or you can earn your supper by climbing the steep hills from the town of Ventnor. We share this wonderful place with ground nesting birds like skylark and meadow pipit so in spring please keep your dogs under close control and stick to established paths in the designated and signed areas. This can make so much difference to the survival of these vulnerable birds.

If you are looking for Best place for day out with kids and families then this is the perfect destination offering fun, adventure, and unforgettable memories for everyone.

Features

  • Free
  • Host birthday parties: No

Features

  • Landscape: Dramatic views from the highest point on the island. Sparkling seas below and holm oak trees on the southern slopes.
  • Wildlife: Rare flora and fauna including butterflies and birds, and feral goats that help to look after the chalk downland.
  • Military history: Historic radar station and military remains.

Facilities

  • Car park: A number of free car parks off Down Lane.
  • Dogs allowed: Dogs are welcome across the downs. Please keep your dog on a short lead around livestock and under close control at all other times. It is a legal requirement to keep dogs on a lead in areas with ground-nesting birds from 1 March to 31 July, as indicated by information signs.

What to see

Ventnor's St Boniface: The St Boniface Down is a significant part of the Ventnor Downs estate on the Isle of Wight. In the eighth century, the saint is believed to have preached in Bonchurch at Pulpit Rock. The down that towers above Bonchurch is named in his memory as is the legendary St Boniface Well.

For more upcoming events information please visit: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/isle-of-wight/ventnor-downs/ventnors-st-boniface

Price

Price: Free

Birthday Parties

Offer Birthday Parties: No

Countryside: Dawn - Dusk.

Address: National Trust - Ventnor Downs, Down Ln, Wroxall, Ventnor, Isle of Wight, UK

Post Code: PO38 1AH

Council: Isle of Wight

County: Isle of Wight

  • By road: Ventnor Downs lie to the north of Ventnor and are reached from the Wroxall to Ventnor Road, using the steep and single-track Down Lane, which leads up to the old radar station.
  • On foot: There are many footpaths, bridle ways and plenty of open access: consult Ordnance Survey Landranger Map 196 or OS Explorer OL29. The waymarked Isle of Wight Coast Path passes along the sea front at Ventnor, from where there are a number of rewarding steep paths up to the top of the downs.
  • By bus: Ventnor is served by a half-hourly Southern Vectis service which runs between Newport, Shanklin and Ryde. The nearest bus stop is in Upper Ventnor, between Wroxall and Ventnor town centre. 
  • Cycling: The 'Round the Island' cycle path passes along the B3327 Newport Road in Upper Ventnor, which is less than half a mile (1km) from Ventnor Downs.
  • Car park: A number of free car parks off Down Lane.

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