East Dene is a beautiful stone built mansion set in around 10 acres of woodland, gardens and play areas, with superb sea views and direct access to Monks Bay.
Initially built in 1800, the Mansion was extended in 1848, at which time it played a leading role in the growth and development of the delightful village of Bonchurch. For some years the home of Algernon Swinburne, the Victorian Poet, it was acquired by John Snowdon-Henry, MP and Governor of the Isle of Wight, and it was he who was responsible for the magnificent refurbishment of the interior and the wonderful layout of the grounds and gardens.
Visited by Queen Victoria, the Czar of Russia and many well known figures ranging from Charles Dickens to Greg Dyke, East Dene has an incredibly fascinating history which is today enjoyed and valued by our friends and clients. We have a Leadership Team dedicated to moving forward to encompassing our rich heritage.
From the first view of the sea, the space and ambience of East Dene create an atmosphere which is special, memorable and inspirational.
Primarily a Victorian Family home, in the Sale notice in 1848, it was described thus: "this singular rare and valuable property may be unhesitatingly designated the most perfect bijou in all the three Kingdoms. In the Island it has long been considered the pet place, as it lacks nothing that consummate taste and a liberal and profuse expenditure could accomplish." Perhaps the same could be said today!
The house and grounds are being sensitively and lovingly converted, and restored, to provide a safe and secure environment for active groups of people, yet it still retains its unique charm. East Dene is truly inspirational for a wide range of groups from high quality outdoor education programmes through to Linguistic Activity Programmes for Groups from Overseas, Celebration weekends, Family Freedom Weeks and a calendar of Exciting Special Events it is also the perfect wedding venue.
The Mansion House accommodates the Reception, beds for up to 100, a magnificent Dining Room, Seminar Room and Library, beautiful lounge for adults, a magnificent room overlooking the sea which can be used by schools, celebration groups, or whatever your need is. This room is also licensed for civil weddings.
There is a covered walkway to the Coach House, which accommodates a further 80 beds, and has a spacious area providing classrooms and indoor activities, but is equally suitable for Music Groups, Performing Arts and many other inspirational and group needs.
Summary
- An inspirational and stimulating setting and atmosphere
- A fascinating history as a Victorian Family Home
- A beautiful Mansion House with further accommodation in the adjacent Coach House
- A variety of sizes of bunk bedded rooms and twin bedded rooms
- Three splendid Dining Rooms
- An excellent choice of menus
- Lawns and Play Area overlooking the sea
- Heated Swimming Pool
- 10 acres of woodland used for habitat studies and challenging team building activities
- Wildlife including endangered Red Squirrels, Badgers, Foxes and Pheasants including George the third and his family!
- Direct access to Monks Bay, an excellent example of coastal management and perfect for rock pooling in safety
- Indoor and Outdoor Archery Ranges
- Indoor Trampoline
- Inclusion Zone with Zip Wire
- Campfire and Barbecue Sites
- Inspiring Study Rooms
- Library
- Piano and Keyboard
- Internet access
- Personal Customer Service which is professional, relaxed and genuine
Isle of Wight : What We Provide
During School Terms
Partnerships with Schools to ensure that the residential outdoor experience is an integral and vital contribution to the wider educational needs of each child.
- A risk controlled environment where adventure is encouraged.
- A variety of Centre led activities in a full week programme(Mon-Fri) or short week programme (Mon-Wed or Wed-Fri).
- Innovative and unique personal skills to build self confidence and self esteem.
- Physical and mental team building tasks to challenge children to work together.
- Sensory awareness experiences to complement literacy and numeracy.
- Traditional social skills and values.
- An evening recreational activity where children can let off steam and have lots of fun.
During the Easter and Summer School Holidays
- International Dragon Camps where children from many parts of Europe can meet together to share cultural experience and fun activities in a safe environment.
- Freedom Family Weeks where families living with autism and related behaviours can relax and enjoy time together.
At Weekends
Celebrations-youth groups, sports groups, special birthdays, anniversaries, extended family celebrations, work colleagues, church groups…..
For a Day Visit
Adventure Activity, Team Challenge, Environmental Art Workshop, Spiritual Awareness Workshop
Special Occasions
The perfect venue for Weddings
Special Events
- Easter Dene Fun Day
- Isle of Wight Festival
- Caribbean Evening
- Summer Fayre
- Carnival
- Bonfire Night
- Traditional Christmas Lunches
Please ask for an updated calendar.