What to See and Do in Cowes
Sights Cowes is a Mecca for yachtsmen and hosts many national and international events. During the sailing season the waterfront is a kaleidoscope of colourful sails, whose focal point is the Royal Yacht Squadron. East Cowes is the terminus of the car and passenger ferry from Southampton. The town has its own small shopping centre, lively marina and seafront promenade. It is also home to Queen Victoria’s magnificent Osborne House. The town is bisected by the River Medina, with West Cowes being the older and more interesting half, its High Street meandering up from the waterfront Parade. Along the High Street you’ll find shops reflecting the town’s gentrified heritage. Cowes Yacht Race – Cowes comes alive with yachts of every description and denomination as the yachting fraternity descend upon Cowes for the annual yacht race and regatta in the Solent. The excitement and thrill of big boat yachting during August 4th to the 9th when Cowes is the centre of the yachting world with the finest sailors and yachtsmen and women in the world take part in this festival of speed, agility and team work. A week when all those interested in yachting can not afford to miss. Osborne House – This former retreat for Queen Victoria and Prince Albert (circa 1845) still retains many of the royal couple’s possessions, art work and photographs. In the grounds are many attractions, such as a Victorian carriage ride. Osborne allows a rare glimpse into royal family life in the 19th century. There are extensive walks in the grounds that take in the ice house and many trees planted by Queen Victoria. The visitor centre is set within the former Petty Officers’ quarter, once part of the Royal Naval College. The Visitor Centre houses exhibitions and a shop. Cowes Maritime Museum – Models, paintings and an extensive photographic archive illustrate the former shipbuilding industry, which provided the navy with vessels for several centuries. There is also a collection of boats representing the modern yacht building industry. The museum has an extensive photographic and paper archive depicting the yachting and the shipbuilding industry in Cowes. Food and Drink Ranging from takeaways and cafes through pubs with bar food and restaurants, to specialist restaurants and hotels, there is something for everyone within easy walking distance. Back to Cowes
