Ventnor - Town & Esplanade

Navigating The Route

This is a circular Detective Mystery around Ventnor’s town, Esplanade and Ventnor Haven, with Detectives hunting for clues to uncover what happened to treasure hunter Dee Teckter and her missing Bronze Age hoard.

The case covers approximately 2 miles and should take around 2 hours to complete. Detectives will be pounding the beat along seaside paths, steep slopes, steps, gardens, churchyard routes and town streets, with some brilliant views along the way. This Trail is great for families, but it is not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs.

Strong, waterproof shoes are highly recommended, as the route includes steep climbs, downhill sections, steps and coastal paths. Take particular care around Ventnor Haven, where the sea wall has no railings. Do not attempt this section in high winds or rough sea conditions.

Getting There

Time to gather your squad and start the investigation:

By car: The investigation begins at La Falaise Pay and Display car park (PO38 1JY). To reach the car park while avoiding landslip-affected access routes, ignore Bath Road and head down Hambrough Road, Shore Hill and Esplanade instead.

Once parked, gather your supplies and head to the car park entrance to begin the case.

By public transport: Ventnor is served by local bus routes linking the town with other Isle of Wight destinations. The investigation begins at La Falaise car park, down by the Esplanade, so allow time to make your way there from your arrival point before starting the case.

Need the Loo?

Even the sharpest Detectives need a comfort break during a coastal case. Public toilets are available after Clue 08, shortly after the Ventnor Haven and Esplanade section.

Bring Your Furry Sidekicks

Four-legged Detectives can join the investigation 🐾

This outdoor route includes seaside paths, town streets, gardens and steep hill sections, so keep canine colleagues on leads near roads, the sea, Ventnor Haven, churchyard areas and busy visitor spots. The route has some steep climbs and steps, so make sure smaller paws are ready for the challenge.

Food & Drink Stops

Solving a missing hoard mystery can stir up a detective-sized appetite.

There are a few snack shops and refreshment stops between Clues 01-06, handy for fuelling up early in the case. If you have packed a picnic, there are some great places to pause, including a green space with a playpark after Clue 09, ideal for Mini-Detectives who need a quick evidence review and run-around.

Want to Make a Day of It?

Ventnor Esplanade

The Esplanade gives this investigation a classic seaside start, with coastal views, fresh air and plenty of curious details to inspect. It is also a good place to linger after the case, especially if your squad fancies a beachside breather.

Ventnor Haven

Ventnor Haven adds a dramatic waterfront stretch to the route. It is a memorable place to take in the sea views, but the wall has no railings, so keep younger Detectives close and avoid this section in high winds or rough conditions.

Cascade Gardens

The route climbs through Cascade Gardens, where Detectives can enjoy a greener pause before tackling more of Ventnor’s slopes. It is a handy spot to slow the pace, catch your breath and keep the investigation moving uphill.

St Boniface Down Views

As the case rises above town, you will get views towards St Boniface Down, the highest point on the Isle of Wight at 787 feet. Ventnor’s hillside setting gives the route plenty of drama, plus a few calf-testing moments.

St Catherine’s Church

The investigation includes a visit to St Catherine’s churchyard, adding a quieter historic stop to the route. Keep an eye out for moving vehicles near the parking area before continuing onwards into Ventnor’s steeper streets.