Ventnor Botanic Garden lies in the remarkable microclimate at the heart of the famous ‘Undercliff.’ This unique garden is protected from the cold northerly winds by chalk downs. Indeed, it holds the warmth from its southerly aspect so well that, combined with the moderating influence of the sea, frost is rarely known. When frost does occur it is usually of short duration and not great severity. With an average rainfall of 28 inches, its climate is more akin to the Mediterranean. This enables a wide variety of plants considered too tender for much of mainland Britain to be grown.
The Garden is unrivalled for its collections of subtropical plants grown unprotected out of doors.
Many of their plants are shown in representations of geographical regions, growing in association with each other as in the wild. They aim to present an immersive experience where the visitor is transported to landscapes from around the world. There’s an impressive collection of succulents and cacti including huge spiky agaves and flowering aloes. Sun-loving herbs, giant echiums, vibrant tender bedding plants and mature palm trees thrive here, as do many colourful South African treasures, Australian eucalyptus, bottlebrushes, tree ferns, and much more.
Yes, they pride ourselves on being a dog-friendly site. With dog water bowls, large open spaces to run around and plenty of sticks for throwing, they welcome dogs to Ventnor Botanic Garden.
A Garden perfect for discovery and adventure! With a giant colouring wall, children’s playground, Lizard Safari Trails and Nature Hunts, kids can relax, have fun and won’t even realise they’re learning whilst mums and dads can take a stroll and enjoy the peace and serenity of each location. Take comfort in the food served in both their Plantation Room Café and edulis Restaurant, using simply fresh, local, healthy ingredients with no fryers or microwaves around! The views from the Plantation Room Café are out of this world and there are plenty of perfect picnic spots throughout the Garden too.
Head outside and let the kids pretend they’re one of history’s greatest explorers as you explore areas of the Garden laid out to represent different countries and continents of the world; from Australia to Japan and many more exotic places in between.
Discover their champion trees and secret spots with garden trails available to follow and get off the beaten track – there is no need to keep off the grass at Ventnor Botanic Garden! Learn about the Garden history with Tunnel Tours and their Heritage Centre. Why not bring your own games too? With 22 acres available, we have the ideal space for hide and seek, throwing, jumping, skipping and running!
Ventnor Botanic Garden, Undercliff Dr, Ventnor PO38 1UL, UK
