Magnificent Victorian country mansion on the Isle of Wight, redesigned by Queen Victoria with views of the Solent

Set in a 30-acre parkland between Seaview and Ryde, Woodlands Vale is an ‘architecturally significant’ coastal facility that exudes timeless charm.

The Isle of Wight is not shy about its spectacular coastal properties. Known for world-renowned sailing competitions, music festivals, extensive beaches and sheltered coves. No wonder thousands of residents and tourists flock here every year. It’s a summer mecca for water sports and has a great selection of pubs and restaurants.

Arriving on the market via Winkworth with a guide price of £4.5m, the Woodlands is unlike many of the other properties we have covered on the Isle of Wight, largely due to its fascinating history and close ties to royalty. It’s a veil.

It’s also one of the few remaining private properties on the island, according to the agent.

Woodlands Vale was built in French Renaissance style for Lord Calthorpe in 1870 by the famous Victorian architect Teulon. Lord Calthorpe was a Crimean War veteran and a close friend of Queen Victoria.

After Prince Albert died of typhoid fever in 1861, Queen Victoria spent more time at her home, Osborne House on the Isle of Wight, before making frequent visits to Woodlands Vale.

During one visit, the Queen, admiring the coastal views from the grounds, commented that an ornate metal pillar in the center of the terrace blocked her view of the Sorrento. Lord Calthorpe wasted no time in removing it, and today the terrace remains exactly as Queen Victoria wished it to be.

Listed as Grade II, Woodlands Vale spans 13,000 square feet of interior living space that retains much of its original Victorian character and charm. Beautiful stained glass windows, Minton tile floors, stucco ceilings and decorative arches are just some of the distinguishing features.

There are a total of 6 well-sized bedrooms, including a master suite with dressing room, bathroom and study. All bedrooms have sea or garden views. A further bedroom is located in an additional wing with a self-contained flat. There is also the possibility of adding a bedroom in the rear wing.

The first floor houses six drawing rooms, including a magnificent billiard room (formerly a conservatory) with dramatic double-height ceilings and framed cupolas.

The kitchen is spacious and bright with AGA, a large central island and French doors leading to the garden.

Externally, the home sits on 30 Grade II listed acres of spectacular landscaped landscapes consisting of formal gardens, croquet lawn, heated pool and parkland.

A large terrace near the house means you can enjoy al fresco dining while enjoying the view, and the park across the haha stretches all the way to the seafront, giving you direct access to the beach.

The island is famous for world-class sailing, especially Cows Week in August, and is home to many established yacht and sailing clubs.

The Isle of Wight can be reached by car using regular ferry services, just a short jump over the Solent. For walking, catamarans operate from both Portsmouth and Southampton. If you prefer to travel by air, Woodlands has a clear approach near his Vale and helicopter arrival is possible. There is also a small airfield nearby for light aircraft.