At the northern tip of the Isle of Wight, Cowes is inextricably associated with sailing craft: Henry VIII built a castle here to defend the Solent's expanding naval dockyards from the French and Spanish, and in the 1950s the world's first hovercraft made its test runs here. In 1820 the Prince Regent's patronage of the yacht club gave the port its cachet with the Royal Yacht Squadron , now one of the world's most exclusive sailing clubs, permitted to fly the St George's Ensign guaranteeing free entry to all foreign ports. Only its three hundred members and their guests are permitted within the hallowed precincts of the club house in the remains of Henry VIII's castle, and the club's landing stage is sacrosanct. The first week of August sees the international yachting festival known as Cowes Week , which visiting royalty turns into a high-society gala, although most summer weekends see some form of yachting or powerboat racing.
Transportation in Cowes
By Car: From Newport take the A3054 and then A3021 to East Cowes (allow 15 minutes) or alternatively take the A3020 to West Cowes
By Bus: Southern Vectis run regular services between East Cowes and Newport
By Ferry: Cowes is centrally located off the south coast of England. Hi-speed ferry services operates from Lymington and Southampton to Cowes. Cowes is made up of two parts, West Cowes and East Cowes, situated either side of the River Medina. They are linked by the "floating bridge" which is a car carrying chain ferry operating throughout the day and evening. Free to foot passengers and a small charge for cars and other vehicles.
The town is bisected by the River Medina, with West Cowes being the older and more interesting half, its High Street meandering up from the waterfront Parade. Along the High Street you'll find shops reflecting the town's gentrified heritage, with boatyards, chandlers and Beken's famous yachting gallery - a photo by Beken of your yacht is considered as prestigious as a family portrait by Snowdon. The Maritime Museum contains exhibitions of paintings and models depicting local maritime history. Northwood Park has a Putting Green, Six Tennis Courts and Bowling Green, set against the glorious Park with stunning Solent views.
