Osborne House
With a National Art Pass you get
Queen Victoria built Osborne House on the Isle of Wight as a retreat from court duties, today it offers an intimate glimpse into her family life and personal taste.
Thomas Cubitt, who built the façade of Buckingham Palace, was charged with creating the holiday home in 1845. Working closely with Prince Albert, he produced something approximating to an Italian Renaissance palazzo, set in splendid formal gardens overlooking the Solent. Today, Osborne House is cared for by English Heritage and is one of the Isle of Wight's best-loved attractions.
Step inside the State Rooms
Osborne House boasts a rich collection of art and furniture, much of which reflects Queen Victoria and Prince Albert’s personal tastes. The grandeur is evident in the State Rooms, adorned with paintings by famous European artists and ornate furniture. Private apartments, like Queen Victoria’s dressing room, provide a more intimate look at their daily routines.
Play in the Swiss Cottage
The charming Alpine-style chalet was where the royal children played. Today’s visitors can enjoy the Swiss Cottage play area and adventure trail, and find out more about the royal children in an interactive exhibition.
Gardens and beach views
Experience breathtaking views across the grounds from the ornate Italianate terraces, or stroll through the walled garden, once used by Prince Albert as a nursery to grow trees and shrubs. Further afield you can enjoy the magnificent views out to sea from Queen Victoria's alcove, and even pop inside her iconic bathing machine to see where she got undressed.
Events and activities
The estate also hosts events throughout the year from historical reenactments to special themed tours, there’s always something to keep everyone entertained.
Why you should go
Ornate former Royal retreat
See Queen Victoria's iconic bathing machine
Swiss Cottage play area and adventure trail
Visitor information
Address
English Heritage, Osborne House, Osborne House Estate, East Cowes, Isle of Wight, PO32 6JX
01983 200022
Opening times
The grounds are currently open. Please see the Osborne House website for more details.
Visitor information
The more you see, the more we do.
The National Art Pass lets you enjoy free entry to hundreds of museums, galleries and historic places across the UK, while raising money to support them.