The Bunker Ventnor

• Sleeps: 8
• Bedrooms: 4
• Bathrooms: 3
• Minimum stay: 1 night

Ventnor Bunker is nestled within a peaceful acre of conservation land bordered by mature trees and surrounded by a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest, on the south coast of the Isle of Wight.

It’s an idyllic location that feels deliciously secluded, yet the bustling, celebrated Victorian ‘health resort’ of Ventnor is just 2.5 miles away.

Better still, you’ll discover the former RAF radar station built into an elevated hillside against the rugged backdrop of the Undercliff escarpment, for the most incredible sea views from every room (indeed, in its former life the station ably monitored the south coast of Britain during World War Two).

Sleeping up to eight guests, the dog-friendly retreat is flooded with daylight through enormous windows, while its sleek, simple design affords a luxurious wealth of space for everyone to relax.

The kitchen/diner comes equipped with designer appliances (which include not one but two dishwashers!) and industrial-style lighting that perfectly complements these minimalist surroundings. Take your time over long, lazy suppers at the dining table all together, or grab a casual bite at the breakfast bar, all the while admiring serene sea views.

When you’re finished, take the steps down to the lounge, with its warming wood-burner and large south-facing windows. Here you’ll also find a two-level utility room, and a corridor that leads to the Bunker itself: now a sumptuous, sunset-facing sitting room furnished with a piano, an industrial-sized wood-burning stove, and a vinyl hi-fi centre for impeccably stylish evenings in.

On balmy summer nights, spend some downtime in the gorgeous wraparound garden instead, with its patio furniture and two fire pits to keep you warm while storytelling and stargazing.

At a glance

• A contemporary re-imagining of a former RAF radar station and former World War Two bunker, peacefully secluded on the south coast of the Isle of Wight.
• The retreat sleeps up to 8 guests, in the main retreat (3 bedrooms) and a separate self-contained one-bedroom annexe.
• There are beautiful Channel views from every room, and ample in/outdoor space for everyone to relax and unwind.
• The retreat is dog-friendly.
• The former Victorian health resort of Ventnor is just 2.5 miles away, with a wealth of attractions in the surrounding area.

Features

• Dog Friendly
• Family Friendly
• Large Groups
• Seaside Breaks

More information

Later, head for the first floor to choose from three striking bedrooms – two sea-facing – and two bathrooms. There’s a separate annexe for extra guests: a former Nissen hut that housed wartime defence forces, now a characterful, sea-view studio space with self-contained facilities.

If you can tear yourselves away from the magical views and tranquil atmosphere you’ve discovered, Ventnor is home to a sand-and-shingle beach peppered with vintage beach huts, stunning botanical gardens, and breezy coast-path walks. You’ll find plenty of pubs and restaurants close by, too.

What else? Blackgang Chine – otherwise known as the UK’s oldest theme park – is just five miles away. Travel just a little further to reach the imposing Carisbrooke Castle, where King Charles I was once imprisoned, or take the kids to Tapnell Farm Park for a fun and immersive all-weather day out.

Things to note

Up to two well-behaved dogs are permitted to stay.