Best known as the world's premier yachting centre, Cowes is the Island's main port with a natural harbour at the mouth of the Medina River. Yachtsmen from all over the world participate in the season's prestigious sailing events, of which the best known is Cowes Week, held annually at the beginning of August. For ten days the whole town is completely transformed.
Champagne is quaffed and all manner of social events are held. Shopping, street theatre and a real sense of occasion make this well worth visiting. Head for the West Parade to see cannon shots being fired from the 22 brass cannons that signify the beginning of Cowes Week.
Outside of Cowes Week, Cowes is still an interesting place to visit. Shopping in the narrow pedestrian High Street is a delight, with some excellent shops, many catering for the yachting fraternity. The town also has an array of fashionable clothing shops, gift shops, delicatessens, cafes, restaurants and lively pubs. The high speed passenger catamaran service to Southampton is centrally located at Fountain Quay, where you will also find the Tourist Information Centre. Above the High Street and overlooking the Solent is Northwood House and Park. This classical style mansion was built in 1837 and given to the town in 1929, together with its 26 acres of grounds, which now provide public tennis courts, bowling greens, putting green and a children's play area. At the edge of the park stands St. Mary's Church, its landmark clock tower, designed by John Nash, was retained when the church was rebuilt in 1867.
The views across the Solent are delightful, but the beaches are rather limited. A visit to Cowes is to pay your respect to the yachting world and the town revolves around the sport.
From Cowes you can take the floating bridge across to East Cowes, the original industrial heart of the island, and then up and out towards Osborne House, Queen Victoria's former stately and lavishly furnished seaside holiday home. It has been preserved much as it was when the Queen died here in 1901. There are gorgeous views, peaceful surroundings and delightful gardens to enjoy.
Nearby is St. Mildred's Church at Whippingham, where the royal family worshipped. Both buildings were designed by the Prince Consort.
In short Cowes is a great place for a day trip or even a weekend break. If you are keen yachtsman, it's a no-brainer: you're going there.