THE DOWNS, VENTNOR.—­The elevation of the Downs above Ventnor affords an opportunity of enjoying most romantic and charming scenery, and of being refreshed with health-giving breezes.  There are paths leading to Wroxall, also to Shanklin, unfolding a succession of views it would be difficult to rival.  When the golden gorse and purple heather are in bloom it presents a glorious prospect to the vision.  The footpath leading to the Downs is by the railway station, or access may be had from near the Cemetery.  The prospect from the slopes of the Down toward the town and sea is very extensive and impressive.

[Illustration:  The Cascade, Ventnor.]

THE CASCADE, VENTNOR.—­It was a happy thought when the town acquired the triangle which includes the Cascade, the water of which once went to supply Ventnor Mill.  By the planting of creeping plants, of monkey musk and a number of other beautiful flowers, this neglected corner has been turned into a garden of loveliness.  It is like a little corner of Switzerland, and all within sight of a busy thoroughfare.  The band plays on the green below to the sound of falling water.  In the heat of summer the very sound of it is refreshing.

[Illustration:  Shanklin Esplanade from Rylstone.]

SHANKLIN ESPLANADE, FROM RYLSTONE.—­This favourite view, which shews nearly the whole of Shanklin Pier, also includes in the distance the Culver Cliff.  Taken from the Garden of Rylstone, overlooking the foot of the Chine, it forms a most attractive scene.  The cliff pathway on the green to the right, the winding road and broad esplanade, with the wide expanse of sands, furnish a characteristic view of the principal features of Shanklin front.  The level sands form a safe and pleasant bathing-ground when covered by the sea.  Boating too is popular, it being within easy reach of beautiful bays in the direction of Luccombe.

[Illustration:  The Old Church, Bonchurch.]

THE OLD CHURCH, BONCHURCH.—­In addition to the beautiful situation and the essential loveliness of the subject, Old Bonchurch has many associations of attraction.  It is no longer used for services, except an occasional funeral.  In the churchyard John Sterling’s grave and the grave of the Rev. J. Adams, author of the “Shadow of the Cross,” interest a great many visitors, the latter having a raised horizontal cross, which casts a shadow on the stone when the sun shines.  The old porch is an object of beauty, crowned with roses and honeysuckle, the red tiled roof relieved with thick masses of ivy, while over it the tall elm-trees stand, as though to shelter it from every stormy blast.