The Needles Lighthouse, Isle of Wight. © Dean Robertson
The Isle of Wight
Let's take a ferry and have a real experience of Britain as an island nation. The peaceful, rural Isle of Wight makes a perfect day out! First to Osborne House, Queen Victoria's favourite home, designed as an Italianate palace by her beloved Prince Albert. The Queen died here, and the house remains exactly as it was at her death – a remarkable experience. Have lunch in Cowes, home to the world's most famous sailing regatta, and move on to Carisbrooke Castle, where Charles I was imprisoned during the Civil War. The castle is particularly well-preserved, and you can walk the ramparts for some spectacular views before seeing the room from where the defeated King tried to escape – twice. Animal lovers won't want to miss a visit to the castle's famous donkeys to see them work and play.
Jane Austen
Visit Winchester Cathedral and see the famous writer's tomb, before heading to Chawton House, where Jane lived with her mother and her sister Cassandra for the last eight years on her life. We can see an extensive collection of family mementoes and documents in the Chawton House library, and enjoy the house's lovely gardens.
There's so much to see in this region! Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, Thomas Hardy country, the New Forest... We could go on and on. For more information on options, charges and booking please contact us