Taste the Exotic at Ventnor Botanic Gardens
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Port
Cowes, Isle of Wight, England, UK
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Activity Level
Moderate Activity
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$300
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 3¼ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
In Conversation with Chris Kidd, Head Garden Curator of Ventnor Botanic Gardens.
Located on the sheltered south-facing slope of the Isle of Wight’s Undercliff, the botanic gardens at Ventnor are situated in the warmest part of one of the mildest and sunniest places in the United Kingdom. Protected from northerly winds, and rarely experiencing frost, the Undercliff is known for its local microclimate, analogous to that of the Mediterranean rather than the English Channel.
It is this microclimate that the 22-acre Ventnor Botanic Gardens takes full advantage of, growing around 6,000 species of temperate and subtropical plants from around the world. Grouped according to their native geographic range, and planted to replicate the plant’s natural setting, the garden is designed to create an immersive experience for the visitor. A walk around the garden takes you on a botanical journey around the globe, from the Mediterranean to Japan, and from Australia and New Zealand to South Africa. Within the garden’s humid tropical house, with the giant water lily in the heated pool, visitors are even transported to the Amazon.
For our visit to the gardens, we will enjoy the company of a local guide who is familiar with the garden and will be able to provide additional insight into the stunning gardens and their fascinating planting schemes. Afterwards, there will be time to explore the garden independently before we regroup to indulge in a special session during which we will be able to taste some of the freshly prepared canapes.
Please note: The terrain of the area means that there are several sloping paths and sets of steps which unfortunately cannot be accessed via wheelchair or mobility scooter. However, the main pathways around the garden are tarmac or paved, and therefore offer the opportunity to explore to all. We advise guests to wear comfortable walking shoes, and layered clothing with a waterproof outer layer.