A short break to East Cowes on the Isle of Wight is the perfect tonic for families and couples alike and we have a stunning selection of holiday cottages for you to pick from.

Home to the famous Cowes Regatta, which takes place in early August every year, there is plenty to enjoy here all year round. This is a yachties playground and if you’d like to give sailing a try, there are plenty of opportunities for boat hire and lessons, whatever your experience.

No short trip to East Cowes would be complete without a visit to Osborne House, Queen Victoria’s beloved seaside residence. She said it is ‘impossible to find a prettier spot’. Explore the rest of the island however, and we’re sure you’ll find some stiff competition!

If you’re visiting with children, a trip to Blackgang Chine, near Ventnor, is a must – get lost in the Giant Maze, prepare for a cap-gun fight in Cowboy Town and take your life in your hands in Restricted Area 5 (warning…the T-Rex actually roars!).

Take a trip to Appley in Ryde for a long sandy beach with shallow waters for paddling at low tide. If the water’s chilly stop at Chocolate Apothecary on the Esplanade for a rich home-made hot chocolate that’s sure to warm you up. Then head back through to Cowes to your welcoming self catering cottage at the end of the day.