Cowes (Isle of Wight), England

Best known as the world's premier yachting centre, Cowes is the Isle of Wight’s main port with a natural harbour at the mouth of the Medina river. It is located about 12 km's off the southern coast of England, and is accessible from the mainland cities of Southampton and Portsmouth. Yachtsmen from all over the world participate in the season's prestigious sailing events, of which the best known is Cowes Week, held annually at the beginning of August.

Cowes has narrow streets and an array of fashionable clothing shops, gift shops, delicatessens, cafes, restaurants and lively pubs. The sea is never far away, and a walk through a narrow alley will take you to the marina, where you can stand and admire the cruisers and yachts.

Things to See & Do

* Cowes Marina
* Northwood House & Park
* St Mary’s Church
* Osborne house

General Information

Cruise Season – March - Nov
Currency – Pound Sterling (£)
Language – English
Land Area – 380 km²
Population – 145,000
Electricity – 2 vertical square pins and one perpendicular below British style
Time – GMT plus zero hours
International Country Telephone Code – + 44

Port Location – The port is located in the heart of Cowes, within walking distance of the town.

Transport Links – Access to the island is across the Solent, a stretch of sea between the UK mainland and the island, by regular ferry, hovercraft or fast-cat from the mainland.

There is an excellent bus service on the island and a single track public rail service.