There’s plenty to do during your stay at Endeavour House too, both in Cowes and on the rest of the Isle of Wight. Cowes is a pretty, seaside town with plenty of friendly cafes, vibrant restaurants and buzzing bars lining the streets. Love shopping? Cowes is home to a variety of independent shops – both designer and boutique – where you can pick up anything, from the latest labels to artisan cheese, as well as chandleries for any boating needs.
Once a year, Cowes plays host to the world-famous Cowes Week Regatta – the oldest and largest regatta in the world. There’s also the exciting Round the Island Race – one of the largest yachting races in the world. Don’t worry if you miss them, however, as there’s a host more cultural and sporting events which take place throughout the year. This includes performances at Cowes’ Trinity Theatre as well as the Classic Isle music festival, The Isle of Wight Festival and a great gin festival. There’s even a Victorian Fayre which takes place in Queen Victoria’s old holiday home, Osborne House, in East Cowes – a place of which the Queen remarked: “It is impossible to imagine a prettier spot.”
If you wish to venture further out of Cowes then there’s the romantic Carisbrooke Castle, just outside of Newport, which throughout history has posed as a royal summer residence, a king’s prison and an Elizabethan artillery fortress – perfect for a fascinating day trip. For another special day out, take a trip through the island’s idyllic countryside on the Isle of Wight Steam Railway – a service which sports beautifully restored Victorian and Edwardian carriages, manned by chipper, traditionally uniformed staff. Or else, bask the afternoon away in the exotic botanical gardens in Ventnor.
Looking for a relaxing escape back to nature? The local area is full of interesting walks and, whether you’re an avid hiker or more of the slower, rambling kind, there’s plenty of routes to suit all levels of ability. The island is also woven with a collection of cycle paths which take you gently through the beautiful countryside, as well as a great collection of golf courses for keen golfers. During your visit, you might as well make the most of being surrounded by the ocean and try out some water sports or else indulge in a spot of fishing.
Bit of a foodie? Visit the Garlic Farm – we promise you won’t be disappointed. Travelling as a family? Why not try out some of the thrilling adventure activities available on the island, or else head to Robin Hill Country Park: with plenty of rides and activities for children of all ages, you can guarantee no one will be bored here.