2 Best Hotels in Cowes, The South

English Heritage has created two lovely cottages out of what was the ceremonial entrance to the Osborne estate (it's still the entrance the Royal Family uses when they visit the property). The two lodges, decorated in an understated contemporary style, have two double bedrooms each, plus a living room with a wood fireplace, dining room, kitchen, and private garden. Your rental includes free admission to both Osborne House and Carisbrooke Castle, plus out-of-hours access to the Osborne grounds and beach, making it virtually your private estate.

The rooms may be unremarkable and basic, but the staff is friendly and efficient, and the views are special from the hotel's unrivaled location above the western end of the Esplanade—ideal for watching yachts in the Solent. The lounge area has an open fire on winter evenings, and the sun terrace takes full advantage of fine weather.