Our first full day on the Isle of Wight was spectacular. The forecast? 80% rain all three days. The reality? No rain, some clouds, mostly gorgeous sunshine and 62-degrees. Seriously, friends, this has been ideal in every possible way.
We had a relaxed breakfast, “English Farmhouse” all the way. But, as I promised previously, there will be a food special post sometime after we return to the USA, so all I can say at this point is “yummy, scrumptious, everything I wanted in a breakfast and more.”
We then set off for Osborne House and, later, Carisbrooke Castle in the afternoon.
– view from the terrace, Osborne House
Osborne House, near the community of East Cowes, is the country estate Prince Albert designed and built for Queen Victoria. Albert was not only interested in the architecture, the landscape gardening, and the big picture, he designed such details as the fabric patterns for curtains. He was obsessed with both science and artisanship and he created a masterpiece at Osborne.
– Rebekah at Osborne House
Once again, I took photographs both with my phone and my Nikon DSLR, so there will be more to come when we return to Wake Forest.
The thing that strikes home at first glance is the scale of the place. This is no vacation villa – “I want something cozy and comfortable for the family,” Victoria had said – but a full out palace. Additionally, every detail is exquisitely and extravagantly crafted, from furniture designed and created specifically for each room to sculptures and art and cut glass chandeliers and floor tiles hand crafted by Minton.
Then the landscape. Terraces, pathways, walled gardens, fountains, rolling hills, carriageways, rare specimens, 2,000 acres.
The view from the terrace is awe inspiring; the walk down to the sea beautiful and refreshing. Here is a video I know you’re going to enjoy.
Just a cozy vacation cottage:
Rebekah and I have so much to share from today that I am going to have to save the photographs and stories from Carisbrooke Castle for another post.
Meanwhile, scroll through this collection of photographs, and then imagine spending your day walking around a place like Osborne House.
But remember, it’s just a cozy, comfortable, family vacation place on the Isle of Wight. Nothing too extravagant!
Loved all of the photos! I know you and Rebekah are enjoying all the beautiful sights! Thanks for sharing! ❤️
Why is it called the Osborne house? Is the town named Osborn.? We need to explore more of our roots. Beautiful estate.
It’s named for Osborne Bay –