Plan an Isle of Wight break around a visit to Osborne this November or December. English Heritage has published its winter opening schedule, giving you time to choose accommodation and travel dates.
Choose the right day
From 7 November to 23 December 2026, the ground floor of Osborne House and the grounds are open Wednesday to Sunday, from 10am to 4pm. Last entry is at 3pm. This is limited winter access, rather than access to the whole house.
Osborne is closed from 2 to 6 November and on 24, 25 and 26 December. Check the official Osborne visitor information again before booking your chosen day.
A royal island retreat
Osborne was built between 1845 and 1851 as a summer residence and rural retreat for Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. The estate is in East Cowes, on York Avenue, postcode PO32 6JX. Build your day around the winter areas open to visitors and leave time for lunch and onward travel.
Plan your crossing and stay
Choose your accommodation dates alongside your ferry route. Red Funnel publishes separate winter timetables for its Southampton to East Cowes vehicle ferry and Southampton to West Cowes Red Jet service. Check the official timetable for your travel date and allow time for onward transport.
Book your accommodation directly with Isle of Wight Stays and you will automatically receive ferry discount links by email. Check the conditions supplied with each link before purchasing your crossing.
Browse accommodation and check your preferred dates at www.iowstays.co.uk.
Visitor information checked on 11 October 2026. Picture: an illustration inspired by Osborne, rather than a documentary photograph.