Perfectly framed by sweeping, landscaped gardens and looking out onto unrivalled views of the Solent, former Royal residence Osborne House is firmly established as one of the Island’s most visited attractions.
Designed and built exclusively for Queen Victoria and her German-born Consort Prince Albert in 1845, few English royal residences can claim to be as uniquely personal as Osborne. The magnificent house was the place that Victoria and Albert chose to spend many idyllic summers with their children, and the family’s stamp still remains firmly upon it.
21st century visitors can now enjoy exploring the grand interior where the Victorian Royal family heirlooms paint a picture of life at the grand regal retreat. Among the viewing highlights are the room where Victoria’s daughter, Princess Alice, was married, and the bedroom where the Queen died in 1901.
The lavish private apartments and grand reception rooms are lined with furnishings and artworks from the Royal Collection.
Outside, there’s the chance to explore the expansive grounds, gardens and terraces or relax alongside the tranquil coastal setting of Victoria’s private beach where the Royal children learned to swim, and admire views stretching across the Solent to the mainland.
There’s plenty to keep younger visitors entertained too, including a visit to the ultimate ‘cubby house’, Swiss Cottage, a charming wooden chalet that was built by doting father Albert for his own princes and princesses, and which is now a quirky museum.
From time to time, Osborne House stages special events when visitors can experience a step back into the 19th century and meet ‘Queen Victoria’ herself.
Now owned by English Heritage, Osborne House regularly ranks as one of the Isle of Wight’s top attractions. Its convenient location in East Cowes makes it a favourite tourist stop for visitors on their way to and from the Island via the Southampton ferry port.
Island residents also have an enduring love for the property and plenty of locals still enjoy visiting for family days out or one-off special events. Indeed, there are many who would regard Obsorne as the jewel in the Isle of Wight’s crown.