Cowes : Department of Wight : A Paradise For Yacht Owners and Nature Lovers Alike.

 Cowes - Isle of Wight is the main port on the island. It has an all natural harbor at the estuary of the Medina River. The town is perhaps best known as the premier yachting center of the world. Yachtsmen from all across the world partake in various esteemed sailing events during the yearly season. The most famous of those is without doubt Cowes Week, which happens yearly during the first element of August.

Cowes and East Cowes developed from a bunch of fishermen's cottages that developed around 2 coastal fortresses built by Henry the eighth on opposite banks of the Medina River. They were named after the 2 sandbanks (or cows) found offshore. There is an antiquated old chain ferry linking the 2 towns and both have a lengthy standing tradition of building fine ships dating as far back since the reign of Elizabeth I.

After that came the yacht building industry, which grew in importance as sailing became more and more popular. The sport was soon endorsed by the Royals and during 1854 the Royal Yacht Squadron moved to the old Tudor fort, now known as Cowes Castle. It has placed Cowes firmly on the yachting map ever since.

If you should be an avid shopper, you will delight in shopping in High Street, which will be now a lively pedestrianized shopper's paradise. You will find of course many shops linked to the yachting industry, but in addition a sizable amount of gift shops, clothing shops, and of course numerous lively cafes, pubs and restaurants.

Above High Street you will discover Northwood House and Park. This lovely estate was built during 1837 and became public property in 1929. Its grounds cover an area of 26 acres and you will find nowadays facilities like tennis courts, putting greens, bowling greens and a play area for children. Alongside the park you will discover St Mary's Church, using its beautiful clock tower designed by J. Nash.

For many who have to return to Southampton on the go: the high-speed catamaran service is situated nearby the Tourist Information Office at Fountain Quay.