Vestry Cottage – A 15th-Century Haven on the Isle of Wight’s Undercliff
Nestled in the tranquil hamlet of St Lawrence, just two miles west of Ventnor along the Isle of Wight’s renowned Undercliff, Vestry Cottage is a quintessential Grade II listed hideaway dating back to the fifteenth century. Constructed from local stone and set within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this single-storey retreat captures the essence of country charm with modern ease. Original features such as mellow timber beams and a characterful inglenook fireplace with log-burner blend seamlessly with a sleek kitchen, Wi-Fi, and a contemporary shower room. A private driveway and a sun-drenched enclosed garden complete the offering, with hidden coves, the coastal path, and Ventnor Botanic Garden all within walking distance.
Comfortable and Characterful Interiors
Guests are welcomed through a traditional stable door into a cosy sitting room, where exposed beams, wooden floors, a window seat, and a brick fireplace with a wood-burning stove create a warm and inviting atmosphere – perfect for evenings by the fire after a day of exploring.
An open-plan kitchen and dining area adjoins the space, filled with natural light and thoughtfully appointed with hardwood worktops, integrated appliances, an electric hob and oven, fridge-freezer, dishwasher, washer-dryer, and microwave. A farmhouse-style dining table provides the ideal setting for relaxed breakfasts or unhurried suppers.
The inner hall leads to two carefully styled bedrooms. The main double room is decorated in soft neutral tones with painted furniture and garden views, while the single room offers a pretty, restful space suited to an additional adult or older child. Between them lies a chic, modern shower room complete with a walk-in enclosure, heated towel rail, basin, and WC.
Enchanting Garden and Outdoor Space
From the kitchen, another stable door opens to reveal a beautifully enclosed rear garden, planted with climbing plants and traditional cottage-style shrubs. A spacious patio catches the sunlight throughout the day and is equipped with high-quality garden furniture – perfect for lazy lunches, evening drinks, or simply enjoying a quiet moment beneath the stars. Off-road parking is provided for one car on the private driveway.
Woody Bay’s rocky shoreline lies just an eight-minute stroll away, offering a quiet coastal escape. Yet, many guests may be just as content to spend time in the garden, enjoying the birdsong and peaceful setting.
Exploring the Surrounding Area
Vestry Cottage enjoys a privileged location within the Undercliff’s unique micro-climate, which supports an array of Mediterranean plants at nearby Ventnor Botanic Garden, just a mile away. From the garden, a footpath leads to the secluded Steephill Cove, known for its crab pasties and refreshing lemonade. To the east, the coastal path continues into Ventnor, with its vintage shops, sandy beach, and acclaimed restaurants, while the path westward reveals Castlehaven and St Catherine’s Point lighthouse.
For a more varied adventure, visitors can meander through thatched lanes to the local village shop, hire bicycles in Ventnor, explore the Ventnor Downs’ ancient woodland, or go fossil hunting at Blackgang. Popular island attractions such as Osborne House, Carisbrooke Castle, and the Isle of Wight Steam Railway are all reachable within 40 minutes by car.
With cliff-top and downland trails beginning right from the gate, Vestry Cottage offers an idyllic and restful base for exploring the best of the island’s southern coast – in every season.
https://www.theholidaycottages.co.uk/IsleOfWight/18133
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