Great British Heritage
Queen Victoria’s Island Retreat
Queen Victoria and Prince Albert purchased Osborne House in 1845, when searching for a home removed from the pressure of life at court, ‘a place of one’s own – quiet and retired’, as the Queen herself put it, where “It is impossible to imagine a prettier spot.”
The Italian Renaissance style house was one of Queen Victoria’s favourite homes throughout her long reign and she spent as much time as possible here.
Join your host and guide, Mike Stone, on this wonderful tour that includes a full day on the Isle of Wight including lunch at Albert Cottage Hotel, once part of the Osborne Estate, visit to Osborne House itself as well as visits to lovely Arundel Castle and Petworth House, frequented by JMW Turner, to find out more.
what’s included
At A Glance
Meet Your Expert Guide
Mike Stone
Mike is an archaeologist, historian, author and qualified Blue Badge guide with decades of experience in archaeology, education and museums. A University of London graduate specialising in the Roman period, he has lectured widely, published several history books and appeared on television and radio.
Mike has guided Travel Editions groups around Britain for many years, bringing together archaeology, architecture and social history. His specialist interest in historic buildings and their materials, combined with his engaging delivery, helps travellers see familiar places with fresh understanding.
itinerary & excursions
Your Itinerary
Explore this incredible tour in detail and discover what makes each day so special. Below, you’ll find a full day-by-day breakdown of your journey, from the moment you arrive to your final farewell. Learn more about the highlights you’ll experience, the unforgettable places you’ll visit, and the unique moments that bring each destination to life. Whether you’re drawn by rich history, stunning landscapes or unforgettable cultural encounters, this itinerary gives you everything you need to picture your adventure and look forward to every step of the way.
Day 1: Arrive Independently At The Marriott Portsmouth
Arrive from 15.00.
This evening there will be a welcome reception and private dinner with wine and talk from your host and guide, Mike Stone, ‘Queen Victoria on the Isle of Wight’.
Day 2: Carisbrooke Castle, St Mildred’s Church, lunch at Albert Cottage & Osborne House
Across by ferry to the Isle of Wight and to Carisbrooke Castle, dating back to William the Conqueror and home of Queen Victoria’s youngest daughter Princess Beatrice from 1912, for a welcome talk and visit. The museum was dedicated by Princess Beatrice to her husband Prince Henry of Battenberg after his death in 1896, when she became governor of the island. She lived here until her death in 1944.
We continue on to St Mildred’s Church and have a private visit including the Battenberg Chapel at Whippingham, where Princess Beatrice was married in 1885.
We then head to Albert Cottage for a 2-course lunch with wine. Purchased in 1852 by Prince Albert, the cottage was once part of Queen Victoria’s Osborne Estate and used by royal guests.
Next it’s on to Osborne House for a free flow visit of the house, including time to visit the grounds and famous Swiss Cottage. Return to the ferry and the hotel for a light dinner of soup and sandwiches.
Day 3: Arundel Castle & Petworth House
This morning we visit magnificent Arundel Castle, home of the Dukes of Norfolk for over 850 years, with an illustrious history, including a visit from Queen Victoria. It dates back to 1067 and many of the original features, such as the Norman Keep, medieval gatehouse and Barbican survive to this day. It was largely rebuilt in the 1870s-1890s in the Gothic style and is considered one of the greatest architectural works of Victorian England, with stunning interiors and an equally impressive art collection with works by Van Dyck, Gainsborough and Canaletto.
Our afternoon visit is no less impressive as we head to magnificent Petworth House, an inspiration to and frequented by JMW Turner. It is home to the finest art collection in the care of the National Trust including works by Turner, Reynolds and others as well as a totally natural-looking landscape that was, in fact, carefully crafted by Lancelot “Capability” Brown. Return to the hotel for approximately 18.00 where the tour will end unless you choose to add on any extra nights with our team.
our guests say
Recent reviews
“An enjoyable tour. The leader was knowledgeable, entertaining and ensured all went to plan. His wife gave helpful support and was good on the people side of things. It would have been good to have had more time to explore the grounds at Osborne House and Petworth but appreciate that the risk of poor weather has to be considered.”
Cole, October 2024
“The Isle of Wight day was very good, all worked well, the expert in Whipping Church was excellent. Meal at Prince Albert’s cottage was very good in a pleasant location. Arundel Castle is well worth the visit but out guide was not particularly good, she seemed keen to give us so much information in each area which seemed to lack a focus, just a jumble of facts. Petworth House was free flow viewing with experts in each area who were superb and imparted their knowledge extremely well. Lots of wonderful paintings to see. Mike did a great job keeping us informed and Oscar, the driver, was excellent as ever.”
Williams, October 2023
Availability
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HOTELS
Tour Accommodation
Marriott Portsmouth
The four-star Marriott Portsmouth is located near to Port Solent Marina and a short drive away from the historic dockyards and Spinnaker Tower. Facilities at the hotel include a restaurant, bar and lounge, fitness centre, indoor swimming pool and comfortable bedrooms with private en-suite bathroom, TV, telephone, air-conditioning, minibar, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. Complimentary car parking is available at the hotel.
Marriott Portsmouth Hotel Website
our regular tours
Mobility Information
This tour has a moderate fitness rating, reflecting a fuller itinerary with a good balance of visits, walking and time spent exploring on foot.
Some visits may involve cobbled streets, uneven paving, slopes, steps, stairs, limited seating, or walking from the coach drop-off point to the entrance of a site or attraction. The exact demands will vary from day to day, and we highlight specific practical details within the itinerary wherever possible.
You should feel comfortable walking at a steady group pace, standing during visits and enjoying a full day of sightseeing. If you are unsure whether this tour is right for you, please contact us before booking.
Your questions answered
Tour FAQ
If you have a question, we are more than happy to answer it via email or phone, but you may find your answer below more quickly.
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Industry-leading guides, some since day one, who speak local languages and have detailed knowledge.
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