A Sit-Down Tour: The Dickens Family Holiday in Bonchurch, 1849

About

Join local historian and Dickens enthusiast Sue Lowday for A Sit-Down Tour: The Dickens Family Holiday in Bonchurch, 1849, a unique event designed especially for those who prefer to explore history without tackling Bonchurch's famously steep terrain.

Held at the Ventnor Arts Club, this illustrated talk will transport you back to the summer of 1849, when Charles Dickens and his family stayed in the quiet coastal village. Sue will bring the visit to life with fascinating stories, rare insights, and connections to two of Dickens' most beloved novels—revealing how Bonchurch and its surroundings inspired his work.

This event offers a relaxed and comfortable way to discover the people, places, and atmosphere that shaped the writer's experience of the Isle of Wight. It's the perfect alternative to Sue's popular guided walks through the village, which remain a great option for those who want to explore Bonchurch's dramatic views and charming lanes in person.

Tickets are £8 for Ventnor Arts Club members and £10 for non-members. Advance booking is strongly recommended, as seats are limited and interest is high.

Don't miss this engaging journey into Charles Dickens' time in Bonchurch—without ever needing to climb a hill.