🎥 A Bonchurch Welcome: A New Village Intro Video by Angie Davies
If you’ve ever tried to describe Bonchurch to someone who hasn’t visited before, you’ll know how hard it is to do it justice. You can talk about the winding lanes, the ancient church tucked beneath the downs, the pond where ducks glide in slow circles, or the soft hush that settles over Horseshoe Bay in the early morning — but Bonchurch is more than a collection of landmarks. It’s a feeling. A quietness. A kind of gentle magic that’s becoming increasingly rare.
That’s why we’re especially delighted to share a beautiful new video created by local filmmaker Angie Davies, who has captured the essence of Bonchurch, Isle of Wight, in a way that feels heartfelt, calm and deeply true to the village. Her short film, set to music and full of visual warmth, offers a serene introduction to Bonchurch — perfect for both long-time residents and visitors discovering us for the first time.
👉 Watch the video here.
As you’ll see below, this film does more than show scenery. It invites you into the spirit of Bonchurch. And if you’re new to the area, it’s also a wonderful starting point before you learn more about the history of Bonchurch or explore what’s happening locally.
Why This New Video Matters to Bonchurch
Bonchurch has long inspired artists, writers, poets and travellers — from Charles Dickens to contemporary painters and musicians. Angie’s video continues this creative lineage by offering a modern visual portrait of the village. Rather than focusing on tourist hotspots, she captures the atmosphere: the soft light, the slow rhythm, the little details that locals recognise as home.
This film serves several purposes:
A warm introduction for anyone researching the village or planning a visit.
A nostalgic moment for residents who feel connected to Bonchurch’s charm.
A visual archive, preserving how the village looks and feels right now.
A celebration of local creativity, showcasing community talent.
An invitation to explore more, especially for those discovering Bonchurch through the BCA website.
For anyone wanting more context after watching, you can read more stories from Bonchurch or take a look at our upcoming community events — both wonderful ways to deepen your connection to the village.
A Village With Deep Roots and Rich Stories
To understand why this video feels so meaningful, it helps to appreciate Bonchurch’s long history and unique identity.
A landscape shaped over centuries
Bonchurch is one of the oldest settlements on the Isle of Wight, with roots tracing back to the Domesday Book. Its sheltered position creates a rare microclimate where unusual plants and wildlife flourish. This lush environment has attracted botanists, walkers, and nature lovers for generations.
If you’re curious about the village’s past, you can always discover the story behind Bonchurch on our dedicated history page.
A literary refuge
During the Victorian era, Bonchurch became a quiet retreat for writers and intellectuals. Charles Dickens stayed here while working on David Copperfield, and Algernon Swinburne spent his childhood at East Dene. Their influence helped shape the village’s reputation as a place of reflection and artistic thought.
A community shaped by generations
Bonchurch hasn’t lost its identity over time. You can walk from the ancient St. Boniface Old Church to the modern-day events around the pond and sense the many layers of history beneath your feet. Community events, traditions, and shared care for the village all contribute to its warmth.
If you'd like to explore some of these traditions and creative projects, you can discover more community events on our website.
Behind the Lens: Angie Davies’ Vision
One of the reasons this video resonates so strongly is that Angie is a true member of the community. She understands Bonchurch from the inside — not as a tourist, but as someone who walks these paths, knows these corners, and recognises the quiet moments worth capturing.
A filmmaker with a calm, thoughtful style
Angie’s approach is observational and patient. Her shots linger just long enough to make you feel present, letting the natural rhythm of the village lead the pace. Nothing feels rushed or staged — it reflects the easy, unhurried flow of Bonchurch life.
The power of music
The soundtrack enhances the visuals without overwhelming them. The music brings warmth and depth, echoing the village’s reflective atmosphere and helping the viewer settle into the moment.
A gift to the village
This video is more than a creative project — it’s an offering. It gives Bonchurch a lasting digital keepsake and allows the community to share its identity with the wider world.
You can find more community stories and similar creative features under Village Highlights in our blog section.
What You’ll See in the Video
While we hope you’ll take a moment to watch the full video, here is a hint of what Angie captures:
Sunrise light sweeping across Horseshoe Bay
The peaceful shimmer of Bonchurch Pond
Stone walls and pathways shaped by centuries
Shady woodland footpaths beneath towering trees
Historic architecture blending into the natural landscape
Small details of village life that often go unnoticed
Each frame reinforces the same message: Bonchurch is a place where time slows down and the senses soften. It’s a quiet retreat from the busy world, without ever feeling removed from life.
If you enjoy visual explorations like this, don’t forget to view more photos of Bonchurch in our gallery.
Why This Video Is a Perfect Addition to Our Website
The Bonchurch Community Association aims to inform, connect, and celebrate all aspects of village life. Angie’s video does all three in one beautiful sweep.
It informs
Visitors can instantly gain a sense of the village before they arrive — something far more powerful than text alone.
It connects
Residents, past and present, can share the video with friends, loved ones and former neighbours.
It celebrates
It honours the beauty, creativity, and community spirit that define Bonchurch.
The Beauty of Bonchurch Through the Seasons
One of the strengths of Angie’s video is that it has a timeless quality. You could watch it in any season and still feel the essence of the village.
Spring brings bluebells in the woods and new life near the pond.
Summer sparkles along the bay and encourages long evening walks.
Autumn paints the village in rich golds and russet tones.
Winter gives Bonchurch a contemplative stillness that feels almost poetic.
A Heartfelt Thank You to Angie
Creative projects like this don’t just happen — they require time, skill, and a deep understanding of place. We’re incredibly grateful to Angie Davies for sharing her talent with us and offering the village such a thoughtful gift.
Her film will reach visitors, comfort former residents, and help locals see their own village anew.
Thank you, Angie — from the whole community.
Share the Video & Spread the Word
If you enjoy Angie’s film, feel free to share it with loved ones or anyone who wants to understand the magic of Bonchurch.
👉 Full video link here.
And if it inspires you to learn more, you can:
Final Thoughts
Bonchurch is a rare kind of place — one where nature, history, and community blend into something quietly extraordinary. Angie’s video captures that essence beautifully and gives us all a moment to appreciate the village we call home.
Whether you’re planning a visit, reminiscing about your time here, or simply curious about life on the Isle of Wight, we’re delighted to welcome you to Bonchurch.
Stay a while. Explore. Enjoy.
Bonchurch has a way of staying with you.