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Cowes Harbour and the Isle of Wight offer a wealth of leisure activities and sightseeing opportunities for superyacht crew. From historic estates and lush gardens to charming villages and delightful dining experiences, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during their stay. What do you fancy?
Rich History Highlights
For superyacht crew seeking to delve into maritime history, Cowes offers several fascinating attractions.
Classic Boat Museum
The Classic Boat Museum, split between Cowes and East Cowes, showcases nearly 90 classic boats, including yachts, motorboats, and lifeboats in the Boat Shed. Meanwhile, the Gallery in East Cowes houses an extensive collection of maritime artefacts, boat models, and photographs, which provides you an in-depth look at the island’s nautical heritage.
Sir Max Aitken Museum
Located in the iconic pink building, The Prospect, on Cowes High Street. Explore three centuries of yachting, powerboating, and maritime history. Some interesting features:
- Spanning the entire length of the museum is the gaff from the royal racing yacht Britannia, which was campaigned by the Prince of Wales, later King Edward VII, and George V between 1893 and 1936. This impressive gaff is about 51 feet long and weighs around 900 pounds. The museum also houses several other items from the royal cutter, including its tiller, the King’s chair, mast hoops, blocks and rigging, anchor chain, and clock.
- The museum tables, crafted in the 1960s by Cowes boatbuilder Lallows from Honduras mahogany, remain in use today. Over the years, Sir Max entertained numerous friends and dignitaries in this room, including Uffa Fox, Ted Heath, and Prince Philip.
Sightseeing
Luxurious Leisure at Northwood House
Start your visit with a trip to Northwood House, nestled in the picturesque Northwood Park in Cowes. This historic estate offers the “Cowes Grand Tea” experience, a luxurious afternoon tea served in the Grand Ballroom. Enjoy a round of Pimm’s on the lawn and learn about the fascinating history of this iconic building through a guided tour. This quintessentially English experience is perfect for groups seeking a unique and memorable excursion.
Historical Splendor at Farringford
Discover Farringford, the restored home of Victorian Poet Laureate Alfred, Lord Tennyson. Located in Freshwater, West Wight, this historic estate has been brought back to its 19th-century grandeur. Stroll through the beautifully landscaped grounds and soak in the literary history that pervades this significant site.
Scenic Beauty in Ventnor
Ventnor, with its stunning coastal views and exotic gardens, is another must-visit. The Ventnor Botanic Gardens feature a diverse array of subtropical and exotic plants thriving in the area’s unique micro-climate. A guided tour of the 22-acre garden provides insights into the various plant species and their native environments. For a touch of elegance, the Royal Hotel in Ventnor offers an exceptional afternoon tea package, nestled within south-facing gardens that overlook the breathtaking coastline.
Exploring Carisbrooke Castle
Step back in time with a visit to Carisbrooke Castle. This historic fortress, with origins dating back to the Saxons, offers panoramic views from its high walls and a glimpse into its storied past as an Elizabethan artillery fortress, a king’s prison, and a royal summer residence. Explore the castle grounds and its Edwardian-style garden for a truly immersive historical experience.
Regal Splendor at Osborne House
Osborne House, the palatial holiday home of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, provides an intimate look into royal life. Wander through the opulent state rooms, stroll the extensive terraces and lawns, and visit Queen Victoria’s private beach. The estate’s 350 acres offer a serene escape with magnificent sea views and historical insights.
Natural Beauty & Staying Active
Charming Towns & Villages
The Isle of Wight is dotted with charming towns and villages. Visit Shanklin for its superb sandy shores, lively esplanade, historic Shanklin Chine, and vibrant community theatre. Yarmouth, with its bustling harbour, pier, excellent pubs, and nearby Fort Victoria, is perfect for a leisurely exploration. Ryde, the island’s largest town, boasts a lively Union Street, golden beaches, seafront walks, and a cultural hub.
Outdoor Adventures
For those who love the great outdoors, the Isle of Wight offers numerous walking and cycling trails. The island’s well-marked trails range from short strolls to extensive treks around the coastal path, showcasing everything from springtime bluebells and red squirrels to stunning autumn foliage.
Cycling enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of routes, both on-road and off-road, with the Isle of Wight frequently ranked among the top places to cycle in the UK.
Want to get stuck in water sports? The Shrape Watersports Area offers safe kite surfing and windsurfing, among other activites!
Delightful Dining Experiences
The Isle of Wight boasts an array of dining options to tantalise your taste buds. From freshly caught seafood with stunning sea views to hearty roasts made with locally reared meats, there’s something for every palate.
Seafood Delights:
- The Smoking Lobster: Known for its pan-Asian seafood cuisine, with popular locations in Ventnor and Cowes.
- The Hut at Colwell Bay: Offers stunning views over the Western Solent and a delectable local catch.
- Murrays in Cowes: One of the longest-established seafood restaurants on the island, serving mouth-watering fish dishes for 40 years.
- Best Dressed Crab, The Beach Hut at Bembridge, Salty’s in Yarmouth, and Samphire Coastal Kitchen in Ventnor are also great options for fresh seafood.
Hearty Sunday Roasts:
- The Crown & Bear at Brading: Renowned for its quality roasts.
- The Chequers Inn at Rookley, The Boathouse, The Taverners, The Sun Inn Calbourne, The Buddle Smuggler’s Inn, The Pointer Inn, The Blacksmiths, Off The Rails in Yarmouth, The Bistro, The Griffin, and The Eight Bells all offer superb roasts using meat from the Isle of Wight Meat Co.
Fine Dining:
- The Brasserie at Foresters Hall in Cowes: Brought to you by the team behind The Smoking Lobster, offering beautifully cooked and presented cuisine.
Landmarks
The Isle of Wight is home to many iconic landmarks.
Visit the Needles lighthouse and pinnacles in West Wight, St Catherine’s Lighthouse, the Earl of Yarborough Monument, the Tennyson Monument, Bembridge Windmill, the Longstone at Mottistone, and St Catherine’s Oratory.
You won’t run out of scenic views and historical trips!
To get in touch about your upcoming visit to the Isle of Wight, you know where to go. Cowes Harbour is here for your every need.
Check out their website for more information: https://www.cowes.co.uk/
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