Location: Cowes in United Kingdom
Nearest Airport:
Southampton at 10
Miles
Nearest Ferry:
West Cowes at 1
Miles
Nearest Train:
Southampton at 2
Miles
Nearest Beach:
Gurnard at 0.5
Miles
Nearest Barpub:
Gurnard at 0.5
Miles
Car: not necessary
Cowes and East Cowes grew from a huddle of fisherman's shacks around two coastal forts built by Henry VIII on opposite banks of the River Medina and named after the two off-shore sandbanks or cows. The towns are linked by an old-fashioned chain ferry and have a tradition of fine ship building, dating from the reign of Elizabeth I. Then came the yacht building industry, as sailing became a popular sport, endorsed by the royal family. In 1854, the Royal Yacht Squadron was moved into Cowes Castle, the former Tudor fort, and the name of Cowes has been synonymous with yachting ever since.
Shopping in the narrow pedestrianised High Street is a delight, with some excellent shops, many catering for the yachting fraternity. The town also has an array of fashionable clothing shops, gift shops, delicatessens, cafes, restaurants and lively pubs.