Gates open next weekend!
Bonchurch has been opening its garden gates since 1979, when Joan Wolfenden first welcomed visitors in to raise money for district nurses. Nearly five decades on, that same generous spirit lives on, and this year 15+ private gardens are throwing open their doors for a weekend of wandering, wondering, plant sale and very good cream teas.
Each garden is different. Some are cottage-style and wildly planted, some are established coastal plots with sea views, some will make you reach for your phone to photograph every corner. What they share is the kind of tended beauty that only comes from genuine love of a plot of ground. Bring comfortable shoes, a sense of curiosity, and possibly a second stomach for the strawberry cream teas.
Your ticket also does a little good beyond the gardens: proceeds help fund the hanging baskets, communal borders, and village green that keep Bonchurch looking its best year-round, including the Christmas lights twinkling around the pond each winter.
Everything you need to know
Tickets £8 per adult. Children under 16 free. Valid for both days. On sale for cash at the allotments and at Elcombe House, or by card at The Hub, Spring Vale and the Pond.
Maps A map comes with your ticket. Follow the numbered signs and Open Garden notices as you explore.
Getting here Bonchurch is on the southern coast of the island, east of Ventnor. Southern Vectis buses serve the village, with stops at Trinity Road and Bonchurch Shute. Free parking at Shore Road car park.
Shuttle bus A free hop-on, hop-off minibus will run between Shore Road car park and the gardens throughout the weekend.
Access Many gardens have uneven paths, slopes, steps and soft ground. Not all are wheelchair accessible. Sturdy footwear recommended. Children must be supervised at all times.
Dogs Welcome only where invited by garden owners, so please check as you go.
Bonchurch Open Gardens is part of the Isle of Wight Biosphere Festival 2026.
FERRY DISCOUNTS
Red Funnel Ferries
Foot Passenger Day Return - Adult: £14 | Child: £7
Foot Passenger Period Return - Adult: £23 | Child: £11.50
15% Off Vehicle Ferry Travel
Wightlink Ferries
Save 20% on foot, car and motorcycle ferry travel to the Island for Isle of Wight Biosphere Festival, between 26 June and 6 July 2026.
