Blackgang Chine
The very word "Blackgang" has a legendary ring about it, summoning up visions of smugglers, shipwrecks and wild storm lashed shores.
In 1800 Blackgang Chine was a steep gaunt ravine situated some 500 feet above the sea overlooking Chale Bay, on the S.W. tip of the Isle of Wight. Stretching some three quarters of a mile down to the shore, it was a wild and desolate place - frequented by none other than local fishermen, during the mackerel season. There were also rumours of a thriving smuggling trade!
A gift bazaar was also opened with great success. Amelia, his wife helped in all aspects of the business and so "The Blackgang Experience" had begun.
The Isle of Wight became one of the top seaside resorts of Britain, and Blackgang Chine shared in that popularity, as thousands of Victorian and Edwardian families enjoyed their annual holidays on the Island.
The Chine gardens increased in size and style, but remained scenic in nature. Alexander died in 1898, by which time his son Walter was managing the park. Coastal erosion was already very much in evidence, the lower road having been carried away in the 1890's and the last path down to the beach washed away in 1913.
By the 1920's Bruce, Walter's son had joined the business and continued to run the business as the growth in coach holiday tours dramatically changed the face of the island tourism. By the 1950's Dick Dabell, one of Bruce's two sons was also helping to run the business.
By the late 1980's, further dramatic landslips were threatening the park and the company started to look for a second site to operate. In 1993, Robin Hill was acquired and has since been developed into a successful countryside adventure park. Blackgang Chine continues to be popular with young families and despite coastal erosion, will continue to delight the child in us all for many years to come.
Eccentric attractions
Developed over many years include: Giant Hedge Maze, Water Gardens, Hall of Funny Mirrors and viewpoint picnic areas.
Animated indoor
The Crooked House, The Musical Pet Shop, Triassic Dinosaur Club, Smuggler's Cave the Weather Wizard, Rumpus Mansion and the Sleeping Beautys Castle.
Themed areas
Designed to stimulate children's imagination include: Dinosaurland, Nurseryland and Fantasyland. A full sized Cowboy Town and a Pirate Fort provides adventure play as does a full sized Smuggler's boat.
Rides
Water Force, Pirate Barrel Ride and Cliff Hanger.
VISITORS INFORMATION:
Opening Times 2010
| Blackgang Chine & Disappearing Village |
| 29th March to 28th May |
daily 10am to 5pm |
| 29th May to 6th June |
daily 10am to 6pm |
| 7th June to 23rd July |
daily 10am to 5pm |
| 24th July to 6th Sept |
daily 10am to 6pm |
| 7th Sept to 24th Sept |
daily 10am to 5pm |
25th Sept to 22nd October
Open on Tues, Wed & Thurs, Sat & Sun |
10.30am to 4.30pm |
| 23rd October to 31st October |
daily 10am to 4.30pm |
Some indoor attractions & rides close 30 minutes before park shuts.
Ride operating times, cafe facilities and shop opening times vary, depending on time of season.
Last admission to Chine, Wight Experience and exhibitions - one hour before closing times, cafe facilities and shop opening times vary, depending on time of season
Last admission to Chine, Wight Experience and exhibitions - one hour before closing.
Admission Prices
BLACKGANG CHINE -ALL IN
Including new disappearing village attraction
With unlimited free returns within next 7 days
Per person (4-59yrs) £9.95 each
Seniors/disabled £7.95 each
Saver ticket for four persons £37.50
SAVING A FAMILY OF 4 £5 instead of purchasing seperately
Per person (4-59yrs) £17.50 (£18.90 bought separately)
Seniors/disabled £14.00 (£14.90 bought separately)
Saver ticket for four persons £66.00 (£71.00 bought separately)
GROUP RATES ARE AVAILABLE FOR 15 PERSONS OR MORE FOR ALL OUR ATTRACTIONS (Conditions apply - ask staff for details)
Address:
Blackgang Chine
Nr Ventnor,
Isle of Wight,
PO38 2HN