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.
Visitor Centre
The Visitor Centre was built with aid from the Millennium Commission and has helped to make Ventnor Botanic Garden a hive of activity all year round.
You can enter via the The Gift Shop and The Plantation Room Cafe, which are situated on the top floors of the building and are both easily accessed from the Car Park. The edulis restaurant is on the lower level opening up into the Mediterranean Garden.
Ventnor Botanic Garden is a place to explore and learn. We actively encourage all our visitors to get off the paths (and on the grass) to discover something new.
The Visitor Centre has also enabled the garden to expand its educational role by providing a facility where lectures and courses can be held. Two large function rooms, Canna and Echium are available for hire and provide stunning views over the gardens. To find out more click here.
Tel: 01983 855397 | Ventnor Botanic Garden Community Company C.I.C | Company Number: 07976468 | Registered Address: Undercliff Drive, Ventnor, Isle of Wight, PO38 1UL