Short Breaks in Cowes
Cowes is a seaport town on the north coast of the Isle of Wight, just off the south coast of England. It sits on the edge of the River Medina estuary and is famous for being the British home to international yacht racing. Its prestigious annual week long regatta, known as Cowes Week, takes place in August and is the world's longest running regatta. The local Island Sailing Club has over 2500 members and is one of the largest sailing clubs in Britain.
There are many outlets supporting the yachting community in Cowes, including chandlers, sail makers, yacht brokers and sailing schools. There are a large number of moorings available in Cowes at Shepherd's Wharf Marina, Cowes Yacht Haven, East Cowes Marina, Whitegates River Pontoons, Folly Inn and Island Harbour Marina.
Cowes can be easily reached from the main land by taking the high speed catamaran service that runs from Southampton and walkers can pick up the Isle of Wight Coastal Path which starts at Cowes.
The town itself is picturesque and has many charming examples of unspoilt period English architecture. There is a wide variety of attractive and fashionable shops, pubs and cafes. Above the town is Northwood House and Park. This classical style mansion was built in 1837 and has 26 acres of park land, tennis courts, a bowling green, a children's play park and a putting green. The house itself is available for hire for events such as weddings and conferences.
Across the estuary at East Cowes is Osborne House, now owned by English Heritage, but once the seaside home of Queen Victoria. It has been faithfully preserved since Victoria's time and is a grand example of Italianate architecture and garden design.