Things to see and do at Ventnor Downs

A walker passing through a gate at St Boniface Down and Coombe Bottom

It'll take more than one visit to admire Adonis blue butterflies on Bonchurch Down, witness the wonderful show of bluebells or the blooming heather of Luccombe Down, spot our herd of feral goats or look up for buzzards and ravens soaring over the steep slopes, but you can always try.

Look out to the sea from Ventnor Downs

 
The Ventnor Downs rise steeply above the Victorian seaside town of Ventnor. With the sparkling sea below and the holm oak trees which have colonised the south facing chalk slopes there's almost a Mediterranean flavour to the landscape.
 

From the highest point on the Island

 
From the highest point on the Isle of Wight on Luccombe Down at 787 ft (240m) above sea level, there are fine views in all directions. Look east to Sandown Bay and Culver Cliffs, with Portsmouth behind.
The lovely sweep of Sandown Bay seen from the Ventnor Downs – highest on the Island
Looking towards the blue of Sandown Bay with the white cliffs of Culver behind, as seen from Ventnor Downs
The lovely sweep of Sandown Bay seen from the Ventnor Downs – highest on the Island
 

Our goats

 
Feral goats are used at Ventnor to help control scrub on the steep chalk slopes. In particular they keep the holm oak in check. If you get lucky enough to spot one and see a goat kid on its own, it's best not to approach as the mother will not be far away. Please also keep your dog under close control or on a lead in order to avoid the goats being chased and harmed.
Goats help to restore chalk grassland on the Ventnor Downs
Old English goats with kid
Goats help to restore chalk grassland on the Ventnor Downs
 

Walking

 
Earn your supper by climbing the steep hills from the town of Ventnor. Catch a glimpse of the herd of feral goats which graze on the holm oak. Look up to see the birds and down to enjoy the wild flowers.