This early Victorian villa dates back to 1830 and stands in a secluded position, within a ten-minute walk of the sea on the south east coast of the Isle of Wight. From here it is a pleasant stroll along the promenade beside the sea to the beach of the traditional resort of Ventnor. Local fishermen sell fresh crab, lobster and a variety of other fish. The public house, wine bar and two or three restaurants here all have lovely views across the bay. A zig-zag route leads up into the town centre where there are shops and more places to eat.
Little Orchard provides an excellent base to explore the island either on foot or by bicycle, making use of the well signposted paths. The scenic coastal path can be followed westwards to Steephill Cove and Ventnor Botanical Gardens, or eastwards to Shanklin. It is also possible to walk up to St Boniface Down from the villa with panoramic views across the island. The larger resorts of Shanklin and Sandown are within a ten-minute drive.
The villa is nestled in a peaceful spot in a quiet lane. Bonchurch is renowned for its mild climate. The villa is south facing and the garden is protected by beautiful trees. It has been furnished and equipped to a high standard and with great care to provide accommodation with an English Country House feel. On the ground floor there is a charming sitting room with deep sofas, an open fire which provides a lovely central focus for the room and French doors which open on to the front terrace, with views across the garden; a spacious dining room, which again has French doors opening on to the terrace and views across the garden; a kitchen with fitted units, granite work tops, a stainless steel sink, electric oven and hob, integral microwave and fridge/freezer; a large adjoining utility area with a second sink, an extra freezer and an area for hanging coats and keeping boots; a cloakroom with a WC. and basin; a second sitting room with a sofa and chairs, plus a large flat screen television with Freeview and DVD player. There is a single bedroom on the ground floor with a wardrobe and dressing table.
Stairs lead up from the spacious hallway to four bedrooms; two spacious south facing double bedrooms, one with a super-king bed and the other with a king-size bed; both rooms have wardrobes and views across the garden with glimpses of the sea through the trees; a twin bedroom; a children's bunk bedroom into which an extra bed can also be added; a family bathroom with bath, hand shower, basin and WC; a family shower room with walk in shower, basin and WC; a bright laundry room with a washing machine, ironing area, clothes horse and access to a washing line. A travel cot, high chair and extra bed can be provided if required. Central heating and electricity are without extra charge. Little Orchard has Wi-Fi which is provided without charge.
The villa has a south facing secluded garden with large lawn and terrace. Garden furniture is provided so that visitors can relax and there is a separate area to the side of the villa with a barbecue, plus table and chairs so that meals can be enjoyed outside. There is in line parking in the drive for two to three small/medium width cars. There is a public house and small shop within ten minutes walk, and excellent food shops in Ventnor (within 15 minute walk). Fish, including crab and lobster can be bought directly from the fishermen every day, and there is a quality butcher, greengrocer and two supermarkets offering delivery. From Ventnor there are also regular bus services.