During 2013 the Isle of Wight hosted nearly 1000 international and
local festivals, carnivals, concerts and events. The figure
for 2014 will be even higher!
Sunnycott caravan park is the
ideal base to explore the town from.
In and Around Cowes, Isle of Wight
Best
known as the world's premier yachting centre, Cowes is
the Island's main port with a natural harbour at the mouth of
the Medina
river. Yachtsmen from all over the world participate in the season's
prestigious sailing events, of which the best known is Cowes
Week, held annually at the beginning of August.
Cowes and East Cowes grew from a huddle of fishermen's
shacks around two coastal forts built by Henry VIII on opposite
banks of the River Medina and named after the two off-shore
sandbanks or cows. The towns are linked by an old-fashioned chain
ferry and have a tradition of fine ship building, dating from the
reign of Elizabeth I. Then came the yacht building industry, as
sailing became a popular sport, endorsed by the royal family. In
1854, the Royal Yacht Squadron was moved into Cowes Castle,
the former Tudor fort, and the name of Cowes has been synonymous
with yachting ever since.
Shopping
in the narrow pedestrianised High Street is a delight, with some
excellent shops, many catering for the yachting fraternity. The
town also has an array of fashionable clothing shops, gift shops,
delicatessens, cafes, restaurants and lively pubs. The high speed
passenger catamaran service to Southampton is centrally located
at Fountain Quay, where you will also find the Tourist
Information Centre.
Above the High Street and overlooking the Solent is Northwood
House and Park. This classical style mansion was built in 1837
and given to the town in 1929, together with its 26 acres of grounds,
which now provide public tennis courts, bowling greens, putting
green and a children's play area. At the edge of the park stands
St. Mary's Church, its landmark clock tower, designed by
John Nash, was retained when the church was rebuilt in 1867.
East
Cowes is where you will find the magnificent Osborne House,
former seaside holiday home of Queen Victoria and Prince
Albert and preserved much as it was when the Queen died here
in 1901. To commemorate the centenary of this occasion, Osborne
House has special attractions in 2001. Nearby is St. Mildred's
Church at Whippingham, where the royal family worshipped. Both
buildings were designed by the Prince Consort.
Accommodation for a holiday or vacation during Cowes week is
available in 2, 4 or 6th berth caravans contact
us.
accomadation accommadation acomodation
acommodation
Pets welcome dogs
welcome
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