Victorian architecture, botanical gardens, and scenic coastline. Ventnor is a popular destination for tourists seeking a charming seaside experience.
Where is Ventnor?
Ventnor is a town located on the southeast coast of the Isle of Wight, which is a picturesque island off the south coast of England.
What to do in Ventnor
Enjoy the blend of nature, culture, and relaxation in this enchanting coastal town:
Ventnor Botanic Garden
A great family day out, stroll through this beautiful garden's diverse landscapes and discover exotic plants, which thrive in the subtropical microclimate of the scenic landslide known as The Undercliff.
For more information and to book tickets, visit Ventnor Botanic Garden.
Ventnor Fringe
Don't miss the vibrant arts scene at Ventnor Fringe, which takes place each year in July.
Featuring performances and events throughout the town, find out what's on and buy tickets at Ventnor Fringe.
Ventnor Beach
Relax on Ventnor Beach, at the southernmost end of the island, known for its red shingle and golden sand, sheltered cove and stunning views. It's suggested to swim from the middle of the beach as there's a channel free from rocks.
Vintage beach huts, deckchairs, sun loungers and wind breaks can be hired daily. Visit Isle of Wight Council to find out more.
Ventnor's wildlife
One of the best places to see wall lizards is around La Falaise, just to the west of Ventnor.
Much larger than our native common lizards, they love basking in warm sunshine on south-facing rocks, so the stone walls of La Falaise car park offer an opportunity for guaranteed sightings of these fast-moving creatures.
Local folklore suggests they escaped from a wrecked Italian ship, but a planned introduction into local gardens by Victorian naturalists seems more likely.
Ventnor Weather
Enjoying a maritime climate, expect cool summers and mild winters.
Where to stay and eat on Ventnor
- The Royal Ventor: One of the oldest hotels on the island with spectacular views. To check availability and book rooms or a table, check out TripAdvisor and Booking.com
- The Spyglass Inn: A traditional pub with rooms on the water's edge - a super location. To check availability and book rooms or a table, check out TripAdvisor
- Smoking Lobster: Popular restaurant on the esplanade. Closed Sunday and Monday.
For more ideas of places to stay, from self-catering holiday cottages to hotels, check out Holiday Cottages, Booking.com, TripAdvisor and Skyes Cottages.
Walk: Ventnor to St Lawrence, Isle of Wight
The Isle of Wight’s south coast footpath from Ventnor to St Lawrence (four miles) offers an opportunity for a Mediterranean and Caribbean experience.
Steephill Cove and Woody Point
Another highlight of this coastal walk is quirky and hidden-away Steephill Cove, a mix of old wooden beach shacks, upturned boats and crab pots, hugely reminiscent of the Caribbean.
Stop at The Beach Shack or The Crab Shed for locally caught crab salad and a cold, refreshing Isle of Wight beer – just the job on a hot summer’s day. The cove is not accessible by car and generally only discovered by those lucky enough to know about it.
The coastal path presses on to Woody Point below St Lawrence, where you can turn around and retrace your steps back to Ventnor, or alternatively, carry on to the village of Niton and catch the bus back.
Looking for more Days Out Inspiration?
We have lots of guides and features about the Isle of Wight. From Tennyson Down, Isle of Wight to St Catherine's Oratory, Isle of Wight. Our experts have also put together a useful guide to dolphins and whales.
