Historical sites - Isle of Wight

budolomew from Devon

Last updated at 10:57 15 April 2005


The Isle of Wight offers a superb location for a wide variety of holidays, from traditional family seaside breaks to a chance to visit some of England's most fascinating historical sites.

English Heritage owns four key locations on the island. Perhaps the jewel in the crown is Osborne House, Queen Victoria's family home that offers an intimate glimpse of a regal existence. With the added opportunity of a horse-drawn carriage ride to the nearby Swiss Cottage, visitors receive an authentic 19th century experience.

The island's two castles, at Carisbrooke and Yarmouth, are vastly different. The former is a symbol of the Norman Conquest (a formidable reminder of domination over the Saxons) with defences added in Elizabethan times to prevent attack from the Spaniards. Yarmouth is a Tudor fortification, jutting out into the Solent, reminding visitors of the strategic importance of the Isle of Wight.

Finally, nestled inland, no historic tour is complete without a visit to Appuldurcombe House. A partially restored ruin, this vast country mansion once hosted a young Henry VIII. It has stood derelict since 1909, but much of its grandeur remains.

The real strength of the island's historical sites is their variety (they can be sampled in chronological order or by location), as well as their all-weather appeal. Kids will love climbing Carisbrooke's walls, whilst adults can stroll the ramparts...

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