Chairman's Newsletter - May 2023
Wednesday 24th May 2023
Dear Members,
At last, it seems Spring may have arrived and there is a promise of sunny weather ahead.
Unfortunately, this warmer weather did not arrive in time for Toby’s Spring walk at the end of April which was very chilly. However, everyone who went thoroughly enjoyed a really interesting walk and talk by Toby. He started on the Terraces where he explained the system of planting; then he led members down along the Valley Walk where there were purple orchids and then on to the Ice House where there was an array of primroses, wood anemones and wild garlic, before ending up at the beach.
The weather was also not kind on the morning of King Charles Coronation Event on May 6th. Although over 2,500 tickets were allocated, far fewer people than that came to Osborne to brave the elements, many deciding to stay and watch the ceremony at home.
Members also had another very interesting morning when they visited Brading Roman Villa on May 16th. It was a beautiful day and everyone enjoyed a guided tour of the fascinating historic remains. They were greeted with cake and refreshments which they enjoyed in the glorious sunshine sitting on the cafe deck before going on a wonderful tour which was not only informative but amusing.
Later that week many members came to the Education Suite to listen to a talk by Peter Jackson about the Isle of Wight German Twinning Association. This was full of interesting facts about Queen Victoria’s visit to Coburg, with extracts from her journals describing her thoughts about the trip. Osborne’s new curator, Christopher Warleigh-Lack, attended and it was nice for members to put a face to a name. The twinning association are planning a trip to Coburg in October and if any members are interested to find out more, please email Peter on redsand@roselake.co.uk.
We have one more event planned for this month. Janet McNeal is giving a guided talk at St. Mildred’s Church Whippingham on Wednesday 31st May.
Click link for further details: Talk at St. Mildred’s Church, Whippingham - Friends of Osborne
We have several more events lined up for the summer. Please find dates below with links to more information.
The Beach Party is going to be held on Friday June 23rd. This is an opportunity for members to come with friends and family and a tasty picnic to enjoy the beautiful atmosphere down by the beach.
Click link for further details: Beach Party - Friends of Osborne
On Tuesday July 11th Mark Earp is giving a talk on ‘The Royal Children at Osborne’. Mark has delivered many fascinating talks to members in the past.
Click link for further details: The Royal Children at Osborne - talk by Mark Earp - Friends of Osborne
The 360 Degree Tour is on Friday 21st July. We have a list of those members who were unsuccessful in obtaining a ticket last year and they will be given priority this year. Due to its popularity, this event is only open to members and not guests.
Click link for further details: 360 Degree Tour - Friends of Osborne
On Saturday August 5th Drinks and Canapes on the Terrace. We will be holding an event to mark the end of Cowes Week, taking place on the Terrace.
We have talks and events planned for September and October. As dates and details are confirmed, we will put the information on our web site.
I hope members are now taking advantage of being able to visit the house on a Friday. Last week visitors were unable to visit Queen Victoria’s bedroom as a swarm of bees had settled there! Hopefully they have now been removed and everyone is again able to enjoy all the rooms on that floor safely.
This half term there is ‘Osborne & Kids Rule’. This is free to Friends of Osborne members. There are hands on activities and storytelling. This is on Saturday May 27th to Monday May 29th and from Friday June 2nd to Sunday June 4th.
Click link for details: Osborne & Kids Rule! | English Heritage (english-heritage.org.uk)
Also, from Tuesday 30th May to Thursday 1st June, we have ‘Victoria’s Family Day Out at Osborne’. There will be traditional funfair rides. This event is not free to members but costs £1.50 for a child and £2.50 for an adult which is the same for English Heritage members.
Click link for details: Victoria's Family Day Out at Osborne | English Heritage (english-heritage.org.uk)
I hope you all enjoy this sunny weather and that it remains for more than a few days! Hopefully you will be able to take full advantage of your membership by enjoying the grounds, the House and by coming to one of the many upcoming events. Look forward to seeing you then.
Kind Regards
Allison Rogers