Step Back In Time For History-Filled Fun With English Heritage For Isle Of Wight May Half Term

For holidaymakers, day-trippers, and locals on the Isle of Wight this May half term, English Heritage is offering a fantastic week of historical fun at Osborne and Carisbrooke Castle for all ages to enjoy.

Returning for a third year, the ever-popular Victoria’s Family Day Out event at Osborne is back for 2024.

Join Queen Victoria and Prince Albert themselves at their palatial seaside home for old-fashioned thrills, including traditional fairground rides like the helter-skelter and swing boats, and mesmerising magicians.

Live Victorian music from Sounds of Time will provide the soundtrack to the event, which takes place between May 28-30, out on the lawn at Osborne.

Over at Carisbrooke Castle children will feel like kings and queens of the land with dedicated history themed activities throughout half-term.

Between May 25 and June 2 at Carisbrooke Castle, and also on selected days throughout the week at Osborne, Kids Rule! offers a wonderful day out to keep all the family entertained.

Included in the standard admission price at each site will be hands-on activities and storytelling, from tales of battles at Carisbrooke Castle to royal etiquette at Osborne.

Karl Goodwin, Assistant Events Manager at English Heritage, said:

“With sunnier days on the horizon, what better way to spend a day in May half term than visiting a beautiful English Heritage site?

Our Victoria’s Family Day Out event continues to be a hit with young and old alike, who love trying all the nostalgic fairground rides, and our special Kids Rule! activities really help bring Osborne and Carisbrooke Castle to life for children.” 

There’s plenty more to explore at both historic properties for families too.

Osborne has acres of formal and walled gardens, woodland walks and even its own private beach to explore, plus a play area to let off some steam.

A free Family Tree Trail can also be picked up on arrival which takes you on an adventure through the grounds.

Carisbrooke Castle boasts a near complete walk around its ramparts and a soaring climb up to the top of the Norman keep for views out over the island.

Don’t miss the castle’s enchanting herd of donkeys who regularly demonstrate the ancient well wheel that used to source the castle’s water.

To find out more about what to see and do at English Heritage sites on the Isle of Wight during half-term and to book tickets, visit www.english-heritage.org.uk.

VICTORIA'S FAMILY DAY OUT AT OSBORNE

When: Tuesday 28 – Thursday 30 May, 10am- 5pm

Where: Osborne House

Prices: There is an extra cost for admission to this event for English Heritage members. Book online and get 15% off your ticket.

Non-members – £28.50 for an adult, £74.50 for a family with two adults & up to three children, £46.00 for a family with one adult & up to three children.

English Heritage members – £2.50 for an adult, £6.50 for a family with two adults & up to three children, £4.00 for a family with one adult & up to three children. Remember to bring your membership card with you.

KIDS RULE!

When
Carisbrooke Castle: Saturday 25 May – Sunday 2 June, 10am- 5pm
Osborne House : Saturday 25 May – Monday 27 May & Friday 31 May – Sunday June 2, 10am-5pm

Prices: Kids Rule! is included in the price of admission. Book online get 15% off your ticket. English Heritage members get free entry.

Carisbrooke Castle admission prices from: Adult £14.00, Child £8.50, Family (1 or 2 adults with up to three children) £22.50 or £36.50. English Heritage Members: FREE. Book online.

Osborne admission prices from: Adult £23.00, Child £14.00, Family (1 or 2 adults with up to three children) £37.00 or £60.00. English Heritage Members: FREE. Book online.