Easy to see why Queen Victoria fell in love with East Cowes residence

Looking down from Osborne House towards the Solent, it is easy to see why Queen Victoria fell in love with this spot, writes Ralph Blackburn.

- Ralph Blackburn.

Past the perfectly manicured lawns and rich forest, lies a peaceful beach overlooking the bright blue sea. It was here that Queen Victoria and Prince Albert taught their children to swim, plant fruit and vegetables and learn about the Isle of Wight's flora and fauna.

The couple bought the building in 1845, and knocked it down before building the sprawling manor of Osborne House (www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/osborne) as it currently stands.

They used to spend their birthdays at palatial mansion, however after Albert's death at the age of 42 in 1861 the grieving Queen stopped celebrating her birthday on the island.

She would still spend a lot of time at Osborne House, eventually dying there in 1901.

The buildings and gardens in East Cowes, now operated by English Heritage, give a fascinating insight into the private life of one of the country's most reserved monarchs.

Even if you are not interested in royal history, the gardens are lovely to walk around on a summer's day and families can also hang out at the beach.

It is a great first stop on a visit to the Isle of Wight, a part of England that is underrated by many holiday-goers.