Cowes

Cowes is a seaport town at the northern tip of Isle of Wight, stretching along the Solent waterfront with water on two sides. The town is split into two halves by the Medina River, and features cafés, restaurants, and shops clustered near the waterfront where boats of all sizes come and go.

The Royal Yacht Squadron was founded in 1815 and transformed Cowes into a hub for international yacht racing. This early focus on sailing competitions set the town's identity and continues to shape what happens here.

Sailing runs deep in the local identity, with traditions of yacht racing woven into daily life and passed down through generations. The townscape itself reflects this focus, with boat clubs, maritime shops, and waterfront gathering spots that revolve around the sea.

The Floating Bridge chain ferry connects the two halves of town and runs regularly across the Medina River. Weather conditions can affect ferry operations, so checking conditions beforehand helps with planning your visit across the water.

During World War II, the Polish destroyer Błyskawica defended the town from German air raids. A memorial in town today commemorates this naval defense and honors the Polish sailors who protected the port.