Cowes

Seaport and resort on the north coast of the Isle of Wight, England, on the Medina estuary, opposite Southampton Water, 14 km/9 mi southwest of Portsmouth; population (2001) 14,500; Cowes-Northwood 19,100. A major yachting centre, Cowes is the starting point for the Around the World Yacht Race, finishing at Cape Town; and Cowes Castle is the headquarters of the Royal Yacht Squadron, which holds the annual Cowes Week regatta. Maritime-related industries include boatbuilding, marine engineering, sail-making, hovercraft construction, and the manufacture of radar equipment. Tourism is important; facilities include the island's ferry connection with Southampton.

Features East and West Cowes, divided by the Medina estuary, are connected by a floating bridge. East Cowes is the location of Osborne House, built by Albert, the Prince Consort, and Thomas Cubitt. The house was a seaside residence of Queen Victoria, who died there in 1901. To the south of Osborne House is Whippingham Church (1854–62), reputedly designed by Prince Albert. East Cowes Castle, now in ruins, was the former home of the architect John Nash. Yachting and sailing clubs include the Royal Corinthian Yacht Club, the Royal London Yacht Club, and the Island Sailing Club.

Historic events and people In 1663 the first English settlers for Maryland set sail from Cowes to North America. Thomas Arnold, headmaster of Rugby School, was born here in 1795.