Just a few hours from London on the relaxing Isle of Wight is Osborne House, stands the former royal holiday residence of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert.
Often referred to as ‘England in Miniature’, it’s not surprising that the Isle of Wight was selected as the location of Osborne House. The island’s holiday appeal during the summer is an easy sell. Home to a beautiful coastline of sandy beaches, white chalky cliffs, and stunning sea views, my friends and I decided to pay the island a visit.
About Osborne House
Queen Victoria and Prince Albert built Osborne House as their private family residence, a home away from the regal duties required in London. It’s a peaceful setting with less disruption to get on with everyday family life. I imagined they appreciated the greater privacy too. I can’t even imagine what it must be like constantly watched and scrutinised wherever you go, so living on an island must surely have helped!
Constructed between 1845 and 1851, the landscaping and design was overseen by Prince Albert along with Thomas Cubitt, the London architect and builder whose company also constructed the main facade of Buckingham Palace.
Before visiting the Isle of Wight, I’d not heard of Osborne House before. I guess it’s not so surprising since I’m not really interested in the monarchy, but I appreciate how much I learn about about British history through visiting places like Osborne House and other royal residences. That alone makes it makes a trip worthwhile.
The architecture of buildings like Osborne House and the lavish interior is another reason to visit.
The house is set inside incredibly attractive grounds inspired by Italian architecture. You’d hardly guess it were England from a photograph.
Highlights of Osborne House
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The Durbar Room: Enter the ornately decorated Durbar Room, where intricate Indian motifs and rich colors pay homage to the British Empire’s dominion over India.
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The Swiss Cottage: Discover the Swiss Cottage, a charming miniature chalet where Queen Victoria’s children learned practical skills and enjoyed imaginative play. Delve into the cottage’s interactive exhibits, offering insight into the royal family’s daily life.
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The Beach and Bathing Pavilion: Stroll along the tranquil beachfront and behold the Bathing Pavilion, a seaside retreat where Queen Victoria indulged in her love for swimming and leisurely seaside pursuits.
It was Queen Victoria’s favourite residence and also housed her extremely large family. Once you see the sea view from the terrace you’ll quickly appreciate why she was so fond of living here.
Inside Osborne House
The exterior and interior of Osborne House is grand, but not on the same scale as Buckingham Palace or Windsor Castle, nor in countries with royal homes such as the Chateau de Versailles or the Hermitage.
I would say it compares more similarly to one of England’s big stately home.
The most impressive room in the house is probably the Dunbar room where Victoria held lavish banquets.
It is decorated in a rich Indian style by request of the Queen who was fascinated by the country and wanted to bring elements of it into her home.
Interestingly, the ceiling (which is the room’s most magnificent feature) was designed originally by Lockwood Kipling whose son, Rudyard, wrote The Jungle Book.
Sadly tragedy struck when Prince Albert died at only 42 years old. This left the Queen heartbroken and with nine children to support.
Amid her grief she was still quite the diplomat. She managed to arrange strategic marriages between her nine children and the majority of the other royal families across Europe which earned her the named ‘the grandmother of Europe’.
As a result of these matrimonial ties, Queen Victoria is related to most of the current royal families across Europe: Spain, Denmark, Russia, Norway, Sweden, Belgium and the Netherlands.
Private beach
Did you know that Queen Victoria and Prince Albert had their very own private beach? That’s right, located a short 15 min stroll from Osborne House is a secluded private beach with a little cafe overlooking the sea.
On the day my friends and I visited, we lucked out with the weather so we spent time relaxing and looking for pretty shells washed ashore on the beach.
To my surprise there were not many visitors on the beach despite it being summer. Yay!
We arrived quite late in the afternoon so that probably had something to do with the fewer visitors. Though there are a lot of beaches on the Isle of Wight, so I guess everyone can all spread out so to speak.
Whatever the reason for having the entire beach to ourselves, this made it feel like quite a royal affair on the Isle of Wight!
Pratical information
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Location: Osborne House is located on the Isle of Wight, accessible by ferry from the mainland England Via Southampton and Portsmouth. Address: York Ave, East Cowes PO32 6JX
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Opening Hours: The estate is typically open to visitors from spring to autumn, with varying hours depending on the season. Be sure to check the website for the most up-to-date information on opening times and ticket availability.
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Ticket Prices: Admission fees vary depending on the type of ticket and visitor category. Standard adult ticket is £20. Discounts are often available for children, seniors, and groups.
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Guided Tours: Enhance your experience with a guided tour led by knowledgeable experts who offer insights into Osborne House’s rich history and architectural significance.
Accommodation on the Isle of Wright
When visiting the Isle of Wight, there are various accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. Look for accommodations in popular towns and seaside towns such as Ryde, Sandown, Shanklin, and Ventnor.
If you’re looking for somewhere unique and memorable, The Garlic Farm, ticks that box and more!
Looking for more things to do on the Isle of Wight?
Why not catch the Needles Chairlift to Alum Bay Beach?
