Bonchurch Open Gardens is set to return on Saturday 5th and Sunday 6th July, offering visitors the chance to explore some of the Isle of Wight’s most enchanting and rarely seen private gardens.
Open from 1pm to 5pm on both days, the event allows attendees to step behind the walls and gates of 17 gardens in one of the Island’s most historic and picturesque villages.
Discover new additions and hidden highlights
This year’s line-up includes three new gardens, adding fresh variety to the event. Among them is East Dene, the former home of poet Algernon Swinburne, which opens to the public for one day only – Sunday 6th July.
East Dene offers a woodland walk through spacious grounds with sea views and resident chickens, ducks and peacocks. Visitors will also see ongoing restoration work at this important historic site.
A place that inspired great writers
Bonchurch has a rich literary and cultural heritage. Swinburne, Dickens, Thackeray, Tennyson, Keats and Gandhi all spent time here, drawn by its natural beauty.
This event offers a rare opportunity to see the same landscapes that inspired some of Britain’s greatest minds.
Unusual planting and garden inspiration
The gardens on display each have their own unique character, from creative planting schemes to exotic species that thrive in Bonchurch’s sheltered microclimate.
Many visitors return annually to see what has changed and to gather new ideas for their own gardens.
More than just a walk through gardens
As well as admiring the plants, visitors can purchase specimens from a respected plantsman and browse gardening books.
A traditional strawberry cream tea will be served on Spring Vale lawn, right in the centre of the village.
Tickets, transport and charities
Tickets cost £7.50 and give access to all gardens on both days. The price includes a detailed garden map and use of a free shuttle bus linking the various sites.
Tickets are available at the Village Pond Gate or at the Cream Tea Garden on Village Road, marked with a large yellow banner.
A portion of the proceeds will go to support local charities, making each visit both enjoyable and worthwhile.
