There are many places around the Isle of Wight that have a lot to offer, including the town of Ventnor.
Located on the southern side of the Island, it is well-known for its warm weather and glorious views.
Other features include its beach, promenade and botanic gardens.
Here's all you need to know about Ventnor, including what you can find there.
What can you find in Ventnor?
Ventnor is described as a "real gem" by the Visit Isle of Wight website thanks to its microclimate, beach, and zig-zag approach to the seafront.
Some say it has a "Mediterranean feel", with it being an ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming and watersports in the warmer months.
The seafront also has a unique feature - an Isle of Wight-shaped paddling pool, which many use for photo opportunities.
Meanwhile, a short walk away from the town centre along the coastal path, you can find Steephill Cove.
This small area has quirky beach huts and crystal clear waters among its qualities, as well as a couple of places to eat.
In terms of shopping, Ventnor has some big brands like Boots and Tesco Express alongside independent businesses such as the Downton Shabby furniture shop and Parsons Popculture.
The town has green spaces too, including Ventnor Park, which features a stream full of ducks, a bandstand, and an outdoor gym up on the top level.
It especially comes alive during Ventnor Fringe, Ventnor Day, and any occasions when there is music on.
Away from the main town, you can also explore Ventnor Botanic Garden, which is home to over 30,000 rare and exotic plants from around the world, according to its website.
Where can you eat and drink in Ventnor?
Ventnor has plenty of options for cafes and restaurants, including Toni's Tearoom on the Esplanade.
Speaking about what the business offers, owner Toni Horsfield shared: "Locals and visitors alike frequent the tea room and enjoy our selection of sandwiches, toasties, home-baked cakes and cream teas.
"We are very dog-friendly and have some lovely doggy visitors. You will also find my own two small dogs in the tearoom when I’m there.
"Ventnor is such a quirky town with a variety of independent shops and eateries, we pride ourselves on being a quirky town and in fact you will often hear the saying 'keep Ventnor weird' which I think sums the town up perfectly! Toni’s Tearoom fits in very well.
"I love meeting new people and hearing their stories and I think if you were to speak to any of our customers they would tell you that they always feel welcome here."
Toni's Tearoom has been very well-received by visitors, earning a 4.8/5 score on Tripadvisor from 113 reviews.
Carnaby Diner and Bowie's Bar is also an option for visitors and locals, with it offering a 60s/70s themed teamroom experience.
It has proved popular, with it earning a close to perfect 4.8/5 score on Tripadvisor from 62 reviews.
Owner Lisa Ellis shared: "We’ve been trading in Ventnor for almost seven years now. We find it a most friendly place to be.
"We fit in great as we are quirky, having a 60s 70s retro feel, selling a wide variety of food from bubble and squeak to calamari, from bread and butter pudding to banana split.
We cater for vegan and gluten-free, and have daily specials. We entertain our regulars to beer and bingo on Thursday evenings, games night on Friday, karaoke Saturdays, with special events once a month on Saturdays.
"Sunday is Roast day open till late with live music from 7pm till 9pm. We have a large dining area with soft seating."
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Other restaurants and cafes include Cantina, True Food Kitchen, Smoking Lobster, The Bistro, Stripped Brasserie, Two Cooks and The Basque Kitchen.
On the pub side of things, there are numerous options, including The Crab and Lobster Tap, The Volunteer, The Blenheim and The Spyglass Inn.
Have you visited Ventnor? Do you have any recommendations? Let us know in the comments.
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