Choose Your Adventure
Whether you’re a Dickens enthusiast or simply curious about Bonchurch, we offer four delightful walking tours. The Dickens Walk takes you through the very spots that inspired the great author, while the Bonchurch Discovery Walk reveals hidden gems and local lore. The Souls of Bonchurch uncovers the stories of two historic churchyards. Women, Talent & Power examines the many talented women and considers whether their talents were recognised at the time.
Each tour is designed to be engaging, informative, and fun!
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Join the best selling guided walk re-discovering the forgotten history of Charles Dickens’ visit to Bonchurch in 1849.
Local historian and resident Sue Lowday, will share her latest research uncovering some of the extraordinary hidden histories.
2024 celebrated 175 Years Since Dickens Visit to Bonchurch.
Length of walk: Approx 3 miles (2.5 - 3 hours)
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Join one of Sue's sell out walks and discover the hidden histories of Bonchurch.
Bonchurch was 'the place' before Ventnor was developed.
This all changed in only a few years when the tiny village population boomed and 'cottage orné' villas attracted artists, musicians, actors, poets and writers.
Length of walk: Approx 3 miles (2.5 - 3 hours)
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Uncovering the tales of Bonchurch’s two historic churchyards—one a centuries-old resting place dating back to the 11th century, the other a Victorian-era burial ground. Stroll among the headstones and uncover the lives, legends, and mysteries of those who left their mark on this extraordinary village.
Length of walk: 0.5 miles (approx. 2 - 2.5 hours)
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A Victorian Walking Tour of Bonchurch
Every woman discussed on this tour had an abundance of talent. The question asked is a simple one: what happened when the men around them permitted that talent to flourish, and what happened when they didn't?
The answers, as we shall see, range from the triumphant to the tyrannical. Women of extraordinary ability were celebrated, suppressed, dismissed, forbidden from earning their own living, and in one case written off by her own father as someone who would never make a success of anything. The men who wielded that power — some famous, some forgotten — did not always emerge with credit. The women, more often than not, did.
We will walk through the village of Bonchurch across two periods of Victorian life, meeting women who performed before Queen Victoria, painted canvases that stopped exhibition crowds, wrote poetry that nearly won the laureateship, played piano to concert standard, created a celestial garden, and in one case crossed the Solent with a sheaf of red roses for a dead poet she loved. Some were celebrated in their lifetimes. Some were suppressed. Some were simply taken too soon.
The village holds all of their stories.
Length of walk: Approx 1.5 miles (2.5 - 3 hours)
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For Visiting Lectures and Talks to Societies, Clubs and Groups.
Please see the Events page or get in touch by using the contact form below.
Your Journey with Sue: A Unique Walking Experience!
At Bonchurch Village Walking Tours, we believe in creating unforgettable memories. With Sue as your guide, you’ll not only walk through picturesque landscapes but also delve into the rich history and quirky tales of Bonchurch. Our promise? A friendly atmosphere, engaging stories, and a genuine connection to the past.
Delighted To Meet You!
Featured Walks and Events.
FAQs
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Gather a special party of up to 11 people to book a walk tailored to your needs- £165
Email - Sue Lowday to book your tour - questions@suelowday.co.uk
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Join a tour during the Isle of Wight Walking Festival, May and October.
£20 per person - In Dickens Footsteps
£20 per person - Bonchurch Discovery
£20 per person - Women, Talent & Power
£15 per person - Souls of Bonchurch
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Gather a special party of up to 11 people to book a walk tailored to your needs- £165
Bookings can also be made at the Bonchurch Inn or the SeaPot for groups to join Sue to carry on the discussion. (Individuals pay on the day directly to the establishment of choice).
Please contact Sue to discuss larger group fees at questions@suelowday.co.uk
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In Dickens Footsteps, Bonchurch Discovery Walk and Women, Talent & Power take approximately over two and a half to three hours.
The Souls Of Bonchurch Walk takes around 2 hours.
Tour times can be adjusted to your requirements.
There is plenty of time to explore Bonchurch’s rich history and literary connections at a comfortable pace.
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Scheduled tours begin at 10:00 AM, unless otherwise arranged. If you’re interested in a private or custom tour, we can discuss alternative timings.
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For my organised tours, there is a maximum of 11 people. Keeping groups small ensures that everyone can hear the stories and ask questions, making for a more immersive experience.
I do accommodate larger groups, but this would need to be arranged in advance to ensure the best possible experience for all participants.
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Your support helps fund my ongoing research into Bonchurch’s fascinating past! The fee allows me to acquire rare books, access specialist archives, and visit historic locations, all of which enrich the stories I share with you. I’m also working towards writing a book based on my findings, so every tour helps bring this project to life!
If you have any further questions, just let me know—I’d love to help!
A Unique Gift for History Lovers! 🎁
A Unique Gift for History Lovers! 🎁
Searching for a unique Birthday or Christmas present?
Treat someone special to a Bonchurch Walking Tour gift voucher!
These vouchers can be redeemed for any scheduled guided tour and costs just £20 per voucher, offering a fascinating journey through Bonchurch’s rich history and literary connections.
Check the website for the tour of your choice, email Sue with your voucher details to book your tour.
Book your walk today or send an enquiry
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Don’t miss out on the chance to explore Bonchurch with Sue!
Tours fill up quickly, so secure your spot today. For booking and inquiries, simply reach out via email or the online form.
Let’s make your walking adventure unforgettable!
Explore the Isle of Wight: Tips & Tales
Dive into our blog for insights on the Isle of Wight’s hidden treasures, walking tips, and fascinating stories from the Victorian era. Stay updated on local events and discover why Bonchurch is a must-visit destination for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
Follow Our Adventures.
With many thanks to everyone who contributed their generous feedback and lovely photos of walks.