Queen Victoria and Prince Albert bought the Osborne Estate on the Isle of Wight in 1845. “It is impossible to imagine a prettier spot” said Queen Victoria of the location and view. The house, which was to be used as a summer home, was designed by Prince Albert and built by Thomas Cubitt between 1845 and 1851 in the style of an Italian Renaissance palazzo. This private haven was their escape from court life in London and Windsor. Victoria died here in 1901 and the house was opened to the public in 1904.
Queen Victoria used Osborne for more than fifty years and entertained visiting ministers, foreign visitors and her own extensive family. Osborne House reflects the royal couple’s passions, tastes and style, with ornate furnishings and artefacts from the Royal Collection. We will be able to visit Victoria and Albert’s private apartments, their bathing beach and children’s play cottage for an intimate glimpse of royal family life. Weather permitting, there will be an opportunity to take a walk around the estate, perhaps visiting the restored terrace gardens. You can either take a picnic or have lunch in one of the various eating places.
As it will be a long day we consider it sensible to have one departure point. This will be at Dorking Rugby Club in Brockham which has ample parking. The Club has kindly given us permission to park there but we suggest you car-share as much as possible.
Leaders: Sue Willis (07973 507338) and Sheila Knight (07811 085917)
Please use these numbers only in an emergency on the day of the trip.
Cost: £42