Isle of Wight 'Royals & Rails'

From a morning pickup in your local area, we travel by coach to catch the ferry to the Isle of Wight and travel onwards to our hotel.

We have the chance to explore Queen Victoria’s one-time residence on the island, Osborne House. Built as a holiday home and rural retreat in the late 1840s, the Italianate palace reflects Queen Victoria and Prince Albert’s tastes and boasts spectacular views across the Solent. It is no wonder that Victoria herself once said, ‘it’s impossible to imagine a prettier spot.’ Here we take an intimate glimpse of royal family life as we wander through the magnificent Royal Apartments as well as the walled gardens and grounds where we find the charming Swiss Cottage, used by the royal children to learn household management.

We then head to Cowes, a vibrant and sophisticated resort home to the world-famous regatta that swells the local population each August. Enjoy a stroll along the seafront, browse the boutique shops, or admire many of the town’s ornate buildings which date from Queen Victoria’s time, in the style popularised by Prince Albert.

Full Day

Our fantastic optional Island Highlights tour showcases some of the Isle of Wight's most famous sights. We begin with a scenic drive through the pretty village of Godshill, renowned for its charming thatched cottages and historic church, before continuing through the picturesque village of Chale. Next, we pause for a photo opportunity at the iconic Needles, the Isle of Wight's most recognisable landmark. We then visit the historic harbour town of Yarmouth, home to some of the island's oldest architecture, including its impressive 16^th-century castle, before continuing to Newport, the island's bustling county town, where there's time to explore its historic streets, quayside and independent shops.

Full Day

We journey back to a bygone era as we board the award-winning Isle of Wight Steam Railway at Havenstreet. Sit back and relax in beautifully restored Victorian and Edwardian carriages as we enjoy the rolling views of the glorious Isle of Wight countryside. We pass through quaint rural stations, quiet hamlets and ancient woodland on our journey to the seaside resort of Ryde.

Afterwards we spend some time at leisure in Ryde with its long stretch of golden sand, pretty esplanade, marina and beautiful gardens. Take a stroll along the famous 19^th-century pier, the oldest in England, or admire the many boats moored in the town’s busy harbour.

Full Day

After breakfast, we check out of the hotel and board the coach for the journey home.