The Tunnel
Our regular Tunnel Tours are currently postponed. Please email foh@botanic.co.uk if you'd like to enquire about a private tour.
Ventnor Botanic Garden has many secrets, some dating back to the days of the Royal National Hospital that formerly stood on the site. Underground caverns, secret passageways and a tunnel through the cliff can be found by the visitors to the Garden.
A proposal to dig a tunnel from the gardens down to the shore was mooted in the late 1800s. The Royal National Hospital annual report for 1875 states that “There can be no doubt that if the patients were able to obtain free access to the shore it would be very conducive alike to their recovery and their enjoyment.” Money for the tunnel at that time was not forthcoming and although it was built later, its function was by no means the rather romantic conception that has given rise to a good deal of speculation and comment; it was in fact used as a conduit for rubbish that was propelled through it and dumped into the sea. Steel tramlines are still visible on the floor. Exactly when the tunnel was built is unknown; possibly it was in relation to a new system of drainage and sewage disposal that was completed sometime in the 1880s. The tunnel was closed at both ends in 1940.
The 350 foot long vaulted roofed tunnel exits through the cliff midway down and is inaccessible. DO NOT attempt to locate the exit, or try to enter unless with one of our guides, as the cliff is extremely dangerous. Bolted gates are also in place for safety.
Secret Gardens
As you wander the Garden, head off the beaten track and explore to chance upon secluded seating areas, tranquil oases hidden from view and clifftop meadows with breath-taking views of the coastline.
Discover your favourite spot to breathe in the heavenly scent of the abundant flora, enjoy a picnic with the family or simply relax with your favourite book.
The young and the young at heart love the opportunity to meander, explore, run and play as they let their imaginations go, watching the wall lizards or daydreaming under Britain’s oldest palm trees. Perfect for playing hide and seek (or just seek…) – There’s no need to keep off the grass!
The Garden has wellbeing at its heart and with so much space to roam free, there is always the opportunity for a mindful moment of relaxation and contemplation as you take in your serene surroundings and let that feeling of calm wash over you.
Tel: 01983 855397 | Ventnor Botanic Garden Community Company C.I.C | Company Number: 07976468 | Registered Address: Undercliff Drive, Ventnor, Isle of Wight, PO38 1UL