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.
Ventnor Botanic Garden Internship
This is offered to professional horticulturists working in botanic gardens or other large celebrated gardens, or students undertaking higher horticultural qualifications. It involves working alongside VBG garden staff, but on a voluntary basis. VBG will provide accommodation for the duration of the work placement*. These are short term placements, usually of one week to a month, and are available throughout the year. For details or to apply, contact us on 01983 855397 or email volunteer@botanic.co.uk
French students Mathilde and Thomas working amongst the Hedychiums
This garden is a wonderful place for interns to make a contribution to their community, form new friendships, learn new skills, have fun and be a part of everything we have here.
Staff, volunteers and students at the garden.
*VBG are now offering free accommodation between 30th November 2017 and the end of March 2018 for all internships.
Tel: 01983 855397 | Ventnor Botanic Garden Community Company C.I.C | Company Number: 07976468 | Registered Address: Undercliff Drive, Ventnor, Isle of Wight, PO38 1UL