Parks & gardens on the Isle of Wight

The Isle of Wight has been regarded as the ‘Garden Isle’ for the past century in recognition of the stunning scenic landscapes, rolling countryside and quintessential English feel here. Boasting a rich tapestry of natural beauty thanks to our regular higher temperatures and above-average hours of sunshine, our forests, coastline and countryside thrive. Although there is natural beauty all year round, spring and summer are the best months to truly appreciate nature’s wonder. 

Much of the diverse Island landscapes have been sculpted by the hands of Capability Brown, who remains the most famous figure in the history of the English landscape garden style, most notably seen at Appludurcombe House, once a majestic mansion, now a picturesque ruin, surrounded by acres of landscaped gardens that echo its former glory. You’ll also discover exotic plants with vibrant floral displays and even tropical gardens with many plants flourishing here thanks to the unique microclimate on the Island, where they wouldn't survive elsewhere within the UK. 

Explore the garden isle by bike, foot or bus

There are many ways to get around the Garden Isle. Hop on a bus from our regular service that crisscross the Island (you can even try the open top routes during the summer months, and enjoy a glimpse into private gardens as you pass by) or take the time to enjoy the views on two wheels, making the most of our network of cycle paths.

Cycling is almost a national sport on the Island and certainly a great way to get around and see the natural beauty. There are routes for all abilities, from the tough but beautiful ‘Round the Island’ route to gentle pootles through our lush countryside and picturesque villages where it is almost mandatory to stop for a cuppa and a slice of something nice. 

If you prefer to be on foot, then the Island is a haven for walkers wanting to explore the botanical paradise. Discover rare flora and fauna such as the Pyramid Orchid which favours chalky or sandstone-rich soil, and can easily be found on the downland and cliffs to the west and south of the Island.

An abundance of natural wonder to discover

One of the most renowned gardens here on the Isle of Wight is Ventnor Botanic Garden. Perched on the southern coast, it is blessed with a microclimate akin to the Mediterranean. The garden is home to an extraordinary array of exotic plants from around the world. Visitors can wander through themed gardens showcasing species from South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, and beyond. The garden's dramatic cliff-top location makes for breathtaking views of the English Channel, adding to its charm as a horticultural haven. There is a cafe and restaurant on site offering local produce, much of which is grown here in the garden, including hops for local beers. 

Neighbouring Ventnor Park is free to enter and a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Relax on a park bench with a book, enjoy a game of pitch and put, or just relax and watch the ducks swim along the stream that winds its way through the greenery. 

For those seeking some historic ambience, Osborne offers a blend of regal grandeur and natural splendour. Once the summertime retreat of Queen Victoria, Prince Albert and their family, the estate boasts immaculately manicured Italianate terraces, reflecting the Victorian passion for botany and landscape design. Keep an eye out for statues depicting the four seasons, as well as the alcove from which Victoria would enjoy her breakfast and where colourful blooms perfume the air with their fragrance. 

In the Swiss Cottage (the children's rather large Wendy House!) garden, each child had their own garden plot where they tended fruit, vegetables and flowers.

Wander through the beautiful Walled Garden, brimming with colour and scent. Used as a cut flower garden by Queen Victoria, you find trained fruit trees and many heritage plants, with the roses being a particular showstopper. 

On the opposite side of the River Medina, West Cowes is home to Northwood House which was once the setting for many a Victoria high-society ball. The grounds are maintained by a group of dedicated volunteers, and the house regularly hosts Garden Fairs throughout the year. 

The rustic charm of Mottistone Gardens offers a glimpse into the Island's rural heritage. Tucked away in the heart of the countryside in the West Wight, this Elizabethan National Trust property showcases a blend of native flora and traditional gardening techniques. Wander along the pathways lined with beautiful blooms and colourful borders, see what’s growing in the organic kitchen garden or relax in the shade of ancient trees that have stood here for centuries. Make the most of the stunning surroundings and enjoy a bite to eat in the pretty tea garden on site. 

Farringford Garden in Freshwater is a tranquil retreat that holds both literary and botanical significance. Once the beloved home of the renowned Victorian poet laureate Alfred, Lord Tennyson, this estate boasts a garden that served as a muse for his prolific writings. Visitors to Farringford are transported back in time as they wander through the beautifully restored grounds, where Tennyson himself found solace and inspiration amidst the natural beauty.

Embark on a guided tour around Gatcombe Park & Gardens, where every step unveils the beauty of nature and the echoes of history. Wander beneath the ancient trees and let the historic landscape create a connection to the past. 

If wide open space is the order of the day, then a visit to Newtown Nature Reserve should definitely be on the list. Here you can spot migrating birds, do a spot of crabbing off the sea wall and, if you are lucky, spot a seal in the distance.

Scroll down to the bottom of the page to see a list of some of the great gardens that you can visit on the Isle of Wight.

Explore, play and relax

Fort Victoria Country Park has space in abundance. A beautiful beach flanked by ancient woodland, there are trails to wander through the woods and a great open space that is ideal for picnics or you could even have a BBQ on the public outside grill.

Quarr Abbey has beautiful grounds which are cared for by the resident Benedictine monks. Walk around the abbey grounds, explore the woodland with its bug hotels and happy birds, feed the pigs and enjoy a pit-stop in the on-site tea shop, stocked full of local produce, much of which is grown right here in the walled kitchen garden.

Rylstone Tea Gardens is the place to go for a spot of old-fashioned Crazy Golf and a beautifully maintained Tea Room, all set in award-winning gardens which are a haven for wildlife. Throughout the summer months, you’ll find regular free live music on the traditional bandstand. 

For kids to run off steam, head to Sandham Gardens in Sandown Bay. With the Gardens free to enter and enjoy at any time, you only pay to park your car and for the additional activities you wish to experience. Sandham Gardens offers a great value day out for all ages including Skynets: The Big Bounce, Sandham Karts and Dino Islands: A Golf Adventure, all set against a backdrop of stunning sea views.

A destination in its own right, The Garlic Farm is not to be missed. Walk freely around the farm and see the highland cattle, pigs, horses, peacocks and red squirrels darting back and forth. See the different garlic varieties growing in the fields and during the summer months, enjoy a wander through the much-Instagrammed wildflower meadow. At weekends and in the holidays jump on board the tractor-trailer for tours around the farm.

For more inspiration on playparks, see our recent blog post here.

Wight in Bloom 2024 - garden awards

Wight in Bloom is the Isle of Wight’s largest competition of its kind and the winners of the 2024 Wight in Bloom have been revealed.

Organised by Visit Isle of Wight, Wight in Bloom is the Island-wide competition to discover the green-fingered talents of residents and businesses who go above and beyond to help the Island cement its reputation as ‘the garden isle’ and looking colourful for you when you visit our island. Click below to find out the winners!