Local Attractions
Osborne House
Osborne House is less than a 20 minute walk from the marina, Osborne House was bought by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert in 1845, Osborne House became a seaside palace and family home for England’s longest reigning monarch. Unchanged since then, the house’s extravagant interiors, opulent decor and acres of grounds make it one of the Isle of Wight’s most popular attractions. The house is open every day from 21 Mar - 31 Oct (in winter open Weds-Sun for pre booked tours only). For more information visit the English Heritage website.
East Cowes/West Cowes Chain Ferry
The chain ferry between East and West Cowes is currently free to foot passengers and cyclists. Runs Monday to Saturday 05:00 until 00:30; Sunday 06:35 until 00:30. (The last ferry from the west side is at 00:25 and it’s a long walk or an expensive taxi ride back to the marina via Newport). Services are extended during Cowes Week. For further information call the Ferry Manager on (01983) 293041 or visit the Isle of Wight Council website.
West Cowes and Gurnard
West Cowes’ pedestrianised high street has a great choice of pubs, restaurants and shops and a lively cosmopolitan atmosphere. Continue west along the promenade towards Gurnard to find good swimming beaches and stunning sunsets over the Solent.
Medina Estuary Circular Walk
The Medina Estuary has a rich maritime heritage, wealth of natural habitats and vibrant mix of recreation, transportation and industry. The 9 mile circular walk can begin from the marina, and takes the walker through public footpath, riverside path and cycleway to Newport, West Cowes and back to the marina. More information is available by visiting the Isle of Wight Council website.
Carisbrooke Castle
Carisbrooke Castle is best known as the place where King Charles I was imprisoned. You can still play bowls on the very green Charles used. For a castle that has lived through more than 800 years of service, including resisting a siege by the French and seeing off the Spanish Armada, it's also wonderfully well preserved. For more information visit the English Heritage website.
Bike Hire - Top Gear in Cowes
Top Gear Vehicle Rentals Ltd
1 Terminus Road
Cowes
Isle of Wight
PO31 7TX
Tel: 01983 299056
Fax: 01983 299056
For more information visit the Top Gear website.
Island Buses 
Southern Vectis run a fantastic network of buses whose routes connect most parts of the island to all major towns, and sights. ‘Rover’ tickets allow unlimited travel for days at a time and there are even ‘family rover’ tickets available for anything up to a week. Terrific double-deck open top tours are a grandstand way to see the beauty of this glorious island. Buses run from a stones throw from East Cowes Marina, the No.5 runs to Newport, for connection with all routes and the No.4 runs to Ryde. The marina office holds up to date timetables, or you can find further information on the Southern Vectis website.
Sir Max Aitken Museum
Based in the 18th century sail loft where Britannia’s mainsail was made, the Sir Max Aitken Museum displays a fascinating collection of nautical artefacts, from paintings to figureheads to model yachts. The museum is in a pink building in Cowes High Street, beyond the Red Jet terminal. Open May-Sept Tues-Sat, 10am-4pm. For more information visit the Sir Max Aitken Museum website.
Classic Boat Museum Gallery
Delve into the history of sailing in Cowes and the Solent at the Classic Boat Museum Gallery at Venture Quays. Permanent displays of maritime interest plus seasonal exhibitions and talks. Cafe and shop. Call 01983 244101 or visit the Classic Boat Museum website for more information.