The Isle of Wight has a long standing connection with the Royal Family and at this sad time of national mourning of Queen Elizabeth II we reflect on those royal connections. Osborne, in East Cowes, was once the palatial holiday home of Queen Victoria, Prince Albert and their family.
The Queen and Prince Albert originally leased the premises from Lady Isabella Blachford around 1844 and after falling in love with both the site and of course the Isle of Wight, the couple commissioned Thomas Cubitt (an architect and builder) to build an extension to the house. He convinced them to build an entire house, the one we all know and love today. Osborne was a work in progress for many years, with the first phase being started in 1846 and the last wing, the Durbar Wing, being completed in 1891. During this time Queens Victoria’s beloved husband passed away unexpectedly in 861 at Windsor Castle.
Queen Victoria carried on visiting the Island until she passed away at Osborne in 1901. Much like Queen Elizabeth II, she spent her final days in her most favourite residence.
Victoria’s successor – her eldest son, Edward VII (who only held the throne until 1910 when he passed away), did not need/want the estate. No other member of the royal family wanted to take on the upkeep of the house and on his Coronation Day in 1902 the King gave the estate to the nation. The house and its estate are owned by English Heritage.
Monday 19th September
Many national and local businesses will be closed on this day as a mark of respect. There are a few pubs on the Island that are staying upon so patrons can come along and raise a glass to the Queen.
Some are open all day, some are showing the funeral and others are simply opening after the proceedings so friends and family can get together and celebrate the life of a lady who dedicated her life to serving this great nation.
A few of the places that we know are open include:
- The Met – Ventnor Esplanade
- The Lifeboat – East Cowes
- The Anchor Inn – Cowes
- Pier View – Cowes
- The Woodvale – Gurnard
- The Star Coffee & Ale House – Ryde
- The Coast Bar & Dining Room – Cowes (open from 1pm for lunch)
- The Castle Inn – Newport
