A park for the people
Ventnor Park is a park for the people – an award-winning beauty spot, much loved by locals and tourists. It’s tucked away, in a sheltered position between the sea and the South facing slopes of the Undercliff.
The Victorians believed that useful reference the mild climate here was good for the body and soul – and strolling around here, whatever the weather, you have to agree. The grounds are maintained by a dedicated team from the Isle of Wight Council – they’ve won many awards, and TripAdvisor Certificates of Excellence.
“All in all, this beautiful park, with its coastal setting and Victorian ambience, is worthy of its ongoing Gold award status and all those associated with its care and maintenance should be congratulated.”
Judges in 2016’s South & South East in Bloom Competition
History
Ventnor Park used to belong to the Hambrough family, who also owned nearby Steephill Castle (picture above in 1910). In the 1880s, the land was leased to the town and ‘gentlemen’ donated plants and shrubs, including many rare specimens.
For the 1889 carnival, the park was lit with 3,000 Chinese lanterns. Now, the park is illuminated with dramatic green floodlights every night.
Concerts have been popular here for over 100 years. The bandstand was added in 1903, taken from Ventnor’s long lost pier. You used to be able to play lawn tennis – now table tennis has taken over, along with putting and giant board games.
Top Ten Things to do
- Walk along the stream and see the koi carp.
- Visit the ducklings in the spring.
- Look out for our tame robin that visits every morning for breakfast.
- Hear live music at the bandstand in the summer.
- Visit the free outdoor gym that overlooks the sea.
- Come to one of the events publicised on our Facebook page.
- Try the 1k scenic jogging route.
- Play a round on the putting green.
- Enjoy a cream tea or a crab sandwich at Tea in the Park.
- Relax on the grass with an ice cream.
