Ventnor Cottages with Hot Tubs

Get More From Your Ventnor Hot Tub Cottage Break

Sightseeing

Ventnor packs a lot into a small area. The Cascade Gardens lead down to the esplanade where kids love scrambling over rocks at low tide. Don't miss Ventnor Heritage Centre (4.5/5 TripAdvisor) to learn about the town's fascinating past.

Ventnor Botanic Garden (PO38 1UL, open daily 10am-5pm) houses plants that wouldn't survive elsewhere in the UK thanks to the town's microclimate. Their subtropical collection is amazing - I spotted plants I've only ever seen in Mediterranean countries before.

Walk west along the coast to reach Steephill Cove, a tiny fishing hamlet inaccessible by car. The Crab Shed serves fresh crab caught that morning by the owner. It's proper seaside eating - simple plastic chairs but food that would cost triple in London.

Bonchurch is worth the short walk east of town. The pretty village pond is surrounded by stone cottages and St Boniface Church dates back to the 11th century. The Bonchurch Inn does excellent Sunday roasts if your cottage hot tub has made you too relaxed to cook.

Pet Friendly

Dogs love Ventnor! The main beach has seasonal restrictions (banned May-September), but nearby Steephill Cove welcomes dogs year-round. The coastal path offers miles of walkies with sea views that'll have your Instagram followers green with envy.

The Spyglass Inn on the esplanade (PO38 1JX) welcomes dogs in the bar area and outdoor terrace. They even keep treats behind the bar - just ask! Their fish and chips are some of the best on the island.

Ventnor Down provides acres of open grassland for energetic dogs to run off steam. The views across the Channel are spectacular - on clear days you can see France. There's free parking at the top (PO38 1XD).

Many Ventnor cottages with hot tubs are specifically set up for dog owners with enclosed gardens, dog bowls provided and washdown areas for sandy paws. Just check the cottage rules about dogs in hot tubs - most owners prefer you keep them separate!

Top 3 attractions you have to see in Ventnor

Ventnor Botanic Garden (PO38 1UL) sits in the microclimate of the Undercliff. The 22-acre garden features plants from across the globe that wouldn't survive elsewhere in the UK. The Mediterranean section feels like you've been teleported to Spain! Their café uses ingredients grown on-site and kids love the lizards that scurry across the paths. A visitor last month wrote: "Better than Kew Gardens in my opinion and far less crowded."

Blackgang Chine (PO38 2HN) is the UK's oldest amusement park (opened 1843) and sits just outside Ventnor. It's brilliantly bonkers with life-sized dinosaurs, a cowboy town and pirate ships. The water slides are great in summer and the views from the cliff-edge location are stunning. The park gets 4/5 on TripAdvisor with comments like "Nostalgic fun that hasn't been sanitized like big theme parks."

Ventnor Downs offers the island's highest point at St Boniface Down (241m). The walk from town is steep but worth it. The landscape changes completely from seaside to wild chalk grassland with rare butterflies and birds. On a clear day, the panoramic views stretch across the entire island and over to the mainland. Take a picnic and make an afternoon of it before heading back to your hot tub!

Is Ventnor good for families with young children?

Yes! The beach has shallow water perfect for paddling and the esplanade has ice cream shops and cafés. The paddling pool on the seafront is ideal for toddlers. Just be aware the town is built on steep hills, so pushchairs can be hard work in places.

When is the best time to visit Ventnor?

May-June offers warm weather without summer crowds. September is lovely too. Ventnor's microclimate means it's often 2-3°C warmer than mainland UK. Winter visits can be atmospheric with stormy seas visible from your hot tub!

Can I get around Ventnor without a car?

Yes, but it's limiting. The town centre and beach are walkable from most cottages. Southern Vectis buses connect to other island towns. Taxis are available but book ahead in summer. Having a car lets you explore the wider island more easily.

Where's the best place to eat in Ventnor?

The Smoking Lobster on the esplanade gets rave reviews for seafood. For casual dining, The Spyglass Inn does excellent pub grub with sea views. Don't miss Ventnor Haven Fishery for the freshest fish and chips - caught and cooked the same day.

Is Ventnor good for swimming?

Yes! Ventnor beach has Blue Flag status for water quality. The bay is sheltered, making swimming safer than more exposed beaches. There's a lifeguard service in summer. If sea swimming isn't your thing, stick to your cottage hot tub!

What should I pack for a Ventnor holiday?

Walking shoes for the steep hills, swimwear for beach and hot tub and a windbreaker even in summer as sea breezes can be chilly. Cash is useful as some smaller shops and cafés don't take cards.

1. Visit Isle of Wight - Official Ventnor Guide
2. Ventnor Botanic Garden - Official Website
3. Blackgang Chine Theme Park
4. Southern Vectis Bus Timetables