Isle of Wight–Saturday

Oh, oh, oh… I wanted to see a Robin.

And this one posed so prettily for me. (This is the raw picture, no cheating by cropping or enhancing Dear Readers).

That's 2018’s Christmas card picture sorted..

Today the weather is rather miserable, so we looked for some dry spots and hopefully the weather will be better tomorrow to explore our castle.

So its a visit to Osbourne House.

Osborne House is a former royal residence in East Cowes, Isle of Wight, United Kingdom. The house was built between 1845 and 1851 for Queen Victoria and Prince Albert as a summer home and rural retreat. Prince Albert designed the house himself in the style of an Italian Renaissance palazzo.

Queen Victoria died at Osborne House in January 1901. Following her death, the house became surplus to royal requirements and was given to the state, with a few rooms being retained as a private museum to Queen Victoria.

The grounds include a 'Swiss Cottage.' The cottage was dismantled and brought piece by piece from Switzerland to Osborne where it was reassembled. There, the royal children were encouraged to garden. Each child was given a rectangular plot in which to grow fruit, vegetables and flowers. They sold their produce to their father. Prince Albert used this as a way to teach the basics of economics. (Wikipedia)

One of the bonuses of visiting in winter is there is no crowds. The downside is that not everything is open to the full extent. The Swiss Cottage was closed which was a shame.

As Empress of India, Victoria had the Durbar room built, which is Indian themed.

and I found a doggie.

We also paid a quick visit to the rock formation called ‘The Needles’. Not the best day for photos.

Back at our flat at the Castle. For a change, I’ve been cooking meals rather than eating out.

We are on the top floor.

We look straight out on the castle motte and keep from the kitchen window.

And, the neighbours are very well behaved. Hardly hear them at all, except for when they push their toys about. (various, shoes, gumboots, buckets and balls).

This is Jigsaw and Jack. There is also Jill and a new donkey still to be named. They are going to have a naming competition by the local school kids.