Osborne House

Osborne House is undoubtedly one of the best known Isle of Wight attractions and is, in our opinion, well worth visiting. We have accompanied visitors there several times, yet still enjoy every moment.

It is not really the place to take young children (they would soon get very bored), but anyone old enough to appreciate the beauty of the building, its luxurious furnishings and its history will really love it.

As you may already know, Osborne House, together with 342 acres of surrounding land, was purchased by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert in 1845. It became the royal family's favourite retreat: the ideal place in which to escape from the pressures of London and bring up young children. Indeed, the family so loved the house they apparently spent as much time here as possible.

Osborne House, Completed in 1851, Isle of Wight, England, United Kingdom

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Griffiths, Ian
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Interestingly, the house as you see it today is not the building they purchased. Apparently the original was too small, so the famous London building contractor, Thomas Cubitt, was employed to rebuild the premises. The old house was demolished in 1848 and the new household and main wings were finished and occupied by 1851.

Looking toward the main wing from the upper terrace.

We were not allowed to take photos inside, so we have only a few images to show you. However, if you purchase the official English Heritage guide book, you will come away with many pages of beautiful pictures to remind you of your visit.

When we first visited we had only recently watched the marvelous film, 'Mrs Brown', starring Judi Dench and Billy Connolly (much of which was filmed at Osborne House) and as we walked from room to room and looked out over the terraces I could imagine John Brown (Billy Connolly) standing there, patiently, holding the queen's white horse. Indeed, I could almost feel the bereaved queen's sorrow chilling the air in some areas.

The view from the upper terrace overlooking Andromeda fountain

Inside the great house you will find very helpful guides to answer any questions you may have. Outside, you can enjoy strolling around the grounds where you will come across one of the main attractions: the Walled Fruit and Flower Garden which incorporates a marvelous greenhouse filled with exotic plants. On the opposite side of the house you will find the upper and lower terraces and Terrace Restaurant - a wonderful place to rest or to enjoy a light luncheon.

Close by you will find transport to another popular attraction: 'Swiss Cottage', an attractive timber building with its own garden which was given to the royal children by Prince Albert. He apparently intended them to learn the rudiments of gardening, housekeeping and cookery. What a fabulous play house!

Swiss Cottage and gardens

Next door to Swiss Cottage you will find a museum which mainly houses the family's geological and natural history collections - mostly gathered within the grounds of the house or washed up on the private beach. Look out also for the children's play fort and miniature gardening tools. What a wonderful place this must have been for the family in happier times!

Opening Times
Out of season (1st October to 31st March), Osborne House is open for pre-booked guided tours only (Tel: 01983 200022). Throughout the summer months (April to end of September), the house is open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, and from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm throughout October. If in doubt, please call to confirm!

We hope you've enjoyed reading about Osborne House and will be tempted to visit soon. Meanwhile, for more ideas on where to go and what to do, simply CLICK HERE to visit our main Isle of Wight Attractions page

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