I love Cowes.com - Rope Walk
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I love Cowes.com - Rope Walk
(West) Cowes
1. Floating Bridge
A floating bridge has been carrying passengers across the Medina since 1859,
running on chains which are stretched from one bank to the other. The
present ferry, Floating Bridge 6, was built by Mainstay Marine of Wales and
launched in 2017.
As well as a tourist attraction it's a vital route for workers and school children
as well as joining our two towns into one.
Where next: Head up the hill a very short way.
2. Ratsey & Lapthorn Sail Loft
Ratsey & Lapthorn, arguably the greatest name in yacht sails, occupied these
former Victorian barracks. Established as Ratseys in 1790 and supplying sails
for work boats, the company merged with Lapthorns in 1882 and has lofts on
the Island, mainland and in New York. You can see their sign at the top right of
the building.
Where next: Continue up the hill a short way.
3. J Samuel White
J. Samuel White was a shipbuilding empire which started in East Cowes in
1803 and expanded over the next 50 years to both sides of the Medina. A
varied output included yachts, clippers and lifeboats. J. Samuel White
expanded the concern to become a leading builder of ships, including torpedo
boats and destroyers. The company finally closed in 1968.
Where next: Continue up the hill a short way.
4. Yokogawa Marex
Yokogawa Marex is a specialist software company that develop, promote and
support software and IT solutions for production facilities such as oil refineries
and chemical/petrochemical plants across the globe. There are many
successful companies such as this in Cowes.
Where next: Continue up the hill a short way.
5. Shepards Wharf
Shepards Wharf is a fascinating place for general yacht spotting. It is also
home to the famous Etchells fleet. These racing boats must have their
bottoms scrubbed each week in the racing season to ensure optimum
performance.
It's also home to the Sugar Store where all sorts of events are held throughout
the year.
Where next: Continue up the hill a short way.
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6. Lallows boatyard
Clare Lallow was founded in 1867 on the existing premises and was run by
members of the family until 1996 when it was taken over by local employee,
Lawrence Boarer. Lallows made its reputation on the construction of fine
handcrafted wooden yachts. Today, it continues to restore and maintain these
craft, using the finest of traditional skills.
Where next: Continue up the hill a short way.
7. Old Police Station
Down the hill you can see the entrance to Lallows Shipyard and up the hill is
the old Cowes Police Station which is where the Rope Walk started. The
Police Station was closed in 2013 and has been purchased by Cowes firm
Spinlock to be their headquarters.
Where next: Turn right into Birmingham Road.
8. Westbourne House
Westbourne House was the childhood home of Thomas Arnold, famous
headmaster of Rugby School. His father was the customs officer at East
Cowes.
It's now a popular B&B.
Where next: Continue along Birmingham Road.
9. Cowes Corinthian Yacht Club
The Cowes Corinthian Yacht Club was established in 1952 by the late 'Tiny'
Mitchell as a club for local yachtsmen. It has evolved largely through the
voluntary labours of its members to become a popular venue for both racing
and cruising yachtsmen.
Where next: Continue along Birmingham Road.
10. Cowes Methodist Church
Our large Methodist Church where Charles Wesley himself once preached!
Where next: Continue along Birmingham Road.
11. Beken of Cowes
Beken of Cowes was founded in 1888 by Alfred Beken, a keen chemist and
photographer, who developed a more robust camera to cope with salt water.
His son Frank further built up the famous archive of yacht images, followed by
his son and grandson, Keith and Kenneth. Kenneth travels the world capturing
the best of yachting through the lens. The original Methodist Church, now
called Alexandra House, can be seen on the other side of the road.
Where next: Continue along Birmingham Road and enter the pedestrianised
area.
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12. Jolliffes
At the top of Shooters Hill you can see the wishing well, the town clock and the
beautiful old Joliffes building. Jolliffes was originally a boot shop but has since been
a chandlers, gallery and now a restaurant.
Where next: Continue down the pedestrianised High Street and enjoy the shops and
cafes.
13. Yacht Haven Entrance
The Yacht Haven is the hub of Cowes Week. It is home to yachts and boats of the
highest calibre, although all are welcome at the longest bar in Britain to toast the
day's racing and enjoy a wealth of entertainment during the August regatta. Also a
fascinating venue for watching winter yacht maintenance work. Here you can see
the old main entrance with the wrought iron gate but you probably won't be able to
go in through here any more. You'll get a better view from Town Quay.
Where next: Continue along the High Street and turn right next to the Vectis Tavern.
Mind the vehicles leaving Fountain yard!
14. Yacht Haven Breakwater
The breakwater was built relatively recently as part of the Cowes Yacht Haven
and it offers protection and calm water for the many, often valuable, yachts
that are moored there.
Where next: Head back towards the Red Jet Terminal.
15. Town Quay
Town Quay is one of the principal landing places in Cowes and is connected to
Fountain Quay. Steam packet companies used to discharge and board
passengers here, as Red Funnel does today with the Red Jet. It was
developed by George Ward whose family were great patrons of Cowes and
lived in Northwood House.
Where next: Cross the busy Fountain Yard and wander up the Arcade.
16. The Fountain Hotel
The Fountain Hotel is possibly one of the oldest hotels in Cowes, although at
one time it had a lot of competition as virtually every other building along the
street was a pub or hostelry. The Fountain retains its popularity today as a
rendezvous for travellers on the Red Jet.
Where next: Go through the arch to the High Street and turn right.
17. The Mew Langton Brewery
The Mew Langton Brewery was situated right on the quay so that the delivery
boat "The Four X" from Newport, could easily drop off its important cargo of
beer for the people in Cowes. It closed about 50 years ago.
Where next: Continue along the High Street.
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18. Sir Max Aitken Museum
The Sir Max Aitken Museum is named after the former chairman of Express
newspapers and legendary Cowes Yachtsman Sir Max Aitken, who bought the
Prospect in 1947. Formerly a Ratsey and Lapthorn premises, the museum houses
many fine items of yachting memorabilia and can be visited from May to September
on guided tours.
Where next: Continue along the High Street to the junction with Market Hill.
19. Market Hill
This area was "redesigned" during World War 2 with the loss of the George
Hotel and many shops. The Old Post Office at the bottom of the hill remains
and is now two shops.
Where next: Carry on along the High Street.
20. Benzies of Cowes
Benzies of Cowes was founded in 1862 and is renowned the world over for its fine
and unique pieces of yachting jewellery. It has enjoyed patronage from many
Royals, including Queen Victoria, George V and the Duke of Edinburgh.
Unable to get membership at the Royal Yacht Squadron, Earl Mountbatten would
watch the racing from Benzie's observation tower.
Where next: Keep going along the High Street and turn right into Watchhouse Lane.
21. The Union Inn
The Union Inn is thought to have once been known as the Watch House, but
nobody knows when it was built. Smuggling was probably carried out in and
around the premises, borne out by a number of tunnels and secret chambers
found during excavations.
Where next: Keep going down Watchouse Lane towards the river.
22. Customs House
Although the first customs house was built in East Cowes in 1575 trade grew
rapidly during the 16th and 17th centuries, mainly due to the colonisation of
America. Cowes expanded due to deeper water moorings and the growth of a
large navy which ensured customs officers were kept busy. Today, this
waterside site is home to the Cowes RNLI lifeboat.
Where next: Wander across to the riverfront and head up towards the sea.
23. Trinity Landing
This is a public landing point where you get to see all sorts of visitors coming ashore
from small ribs with a couple of intrepid sailors to cruise ship tenders full of
hundreds of travellers. Opposite are some impressive buildings such as Osborne
Court with it's gleaming white frontage.
Where next: Keep walking along the Parade.
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24. The Royal Yacht Squadron
The Royal Yacht Squadron is one of the most exclusive clubs in the world. It
was founded in 1815 by a group of sailing gentlemen who met at the Thatched
House Tavern in St James' Square, London. It then moved to Cowes Castle in
1856 and the Prince of Wales became its patron. It was the first club to
organise races in this country.
Where next: Head round the path to the right of the Royal Yacht Squadron and
enjoy the sea views.
25. The Green
Here is Cowes Green. Famous vantage point for the Cowes Week fireworks
and the place where locals come to watch the racing. The Green takes you
along Queens Road to the Cabin on the Green where you can get yourself a
well earned ice cream.
Where next: Walk up the path to Queens Road and turn left.
26. Holy Trinity Church
Holy Trinity Church is commonly known as the Yachtsman's Church. It was
built at the expense of Cowes resident Mrs Goodwin at a cost of £6,687
and was consecrated in 1832.
Where next: Keep going along Queens Road and turn right up Castle Hill.
27. Royal Ocean Racing Club
As you pass the rear entrance to the Royal Ocean Racing Club (RORC) you'll see
some amazing views as you look down to the Parade and the Royal Yacht
Squadron.
Where next: Keep going up Castle Hill and turn left into Castle Road.
28. Castle Road
Castle Road has some of the loveliest Cowes houses with beautiful views over the
Solent. Make sure to look through the gaps between the buildings and see what is
sailing past. It could be a cruise ship or a mighty tall ship.
If you're feeling energetic then why not take a detour here up the steps and have a
wander around the lovely Northwood House and gardens. There's so much to see
so make sure you have some time spare.
Where next: Walk along Castle Road back towards the town and turn right at the
end into Market Hill.
29. Union Road
As you head up Market Hill you turn left around the end of Union Road and into Sun
Hill.If you have time, wander up Union Road to St Mary's Church on the edge of
Northwood Park.
Where next: Follow the path round to the left into Sun Hill.
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30. North House
North House is a Grade II listed town house which is now an upmarket hotel. It's a
beautiful building right in the conservation area of Cowes old town.
Where next: Head back down the hill to the High Street and turn right, heading back
up through the town.
31. Pascall Atkey
Pascall Atkey was founded in 1799 and is thought to be the oldest yacht
chandler in the world. It stocks everything for yachtsman from clothing to
shackles.The building itself is worth a look at but the shop sells so many
interesting things that you must take a look round.
Where next: Turn right into Terminus Road and walk up the hill to the church.
32. St Thomas' Church
St Thomas of Canterbury Church was built in 1776, making it one of the earliest
Catholic church to be built after the reformation.If you have time then take a look
round while you're here.
Where next: Cross over the road and head down to Marks & Spencers.
33. Marks & Spencer
The Marks & Spencer shop is where the Cowes Railway Station used to be. It
was demolished in the 1970s and the footbridge was reused on the
Watercress Line near Alton.Most of the old Cowes to Newport railway is now a
cycle path which is a lovely way to get to Newport.
Where next: Head down the footpath to the left of the shop.
34. Cross Street
Cross Street is a small lane that takes us back to the High Street via the Painters
pub and the back entrance to the Anchor.If you're not tempted by them then why not
stop at Corries Cabin for some fish and chips?
Where next: Walk down Cross Street but mind the traffic!
35. Aqua Marine
This lovely little shop hosts the Cowes Tourist Information point so make sure
you pop in and say hello. They'll be happy to point you to anything you haven't
found in the town although the public loos are just opposite if you need them!
Where next: Keep going along Cross Street into the pedestrianised area and
turn right into the High Street. heading up the hill.
36. Rope Walk
The Rope Walk started at where the old police station is and ran through the
heart of Cowes. It was so long that a hill was built over it so as to allow a road
to be built across its course. The rope works, known as "Cowes Steam Hemp
and Wire Rope Works", were founded by Henry Bannister. There were also
saw mills and grinding and gristing mills, making it one of the largest industrial
sites of its kind on the Island.Now you can head back down the road to the
floating bridge.
Where next: Walk down Medina Road to the Floating Bridge.
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East Cowes
1. Floating Bridge
A floating bridge has been carrying passengers across the Medina since 1859,
running on chains which are stretched from one bank to the other. The
present ferry, Floating Bridge 6, was built by Mainstay Marine of Wales and
launched in 2017.
As well as a tourist attraction it's a vital route for workers and school children
as well as joining our two towns into one.
Where next: Turn left along Castle Street
2. The Gridiron Shed
The Gridiron Shed site was used to build boats for hundreds of years and the
first seaplane was launched from here in May 1913. The SWS on the wall
stands for "static water supply", used by firemen during bombing raids in World
War II.
Where next: Head up the path to the right of the Gridiron beside the Red
Funnel marshalling yard.
3. Trinity Wharf
This used to be where the Trinity House building stood and from where they
serviced and operated the lighthouses of England and Wales.
As all lighthouses are now automatic, the depot closed in 2005 and it was
demolished recently to make way for the extended Red Funnel marshalling
yard.
From here you can now get some amazing views of the ferries and other river
traffic as well as (West) Cowes over the Medina.
Where next: Retrace your steps back to the road and continue up Castle
Street to the roundabout in the middle of town.
4. Red Funnel Terminal
This are of East Cowes is under a state of flux! This is where the Red Funnel ferries,
to and from Southampton, berth. They are building a new yard and have knocked
down a lot of buildings but it's all going to look good in the end.
The Jade Garden take away is hanging on in the midst of all this! Opposite is our
nice new Waitrose and health centre.
Where next: Continue along Castle Street to the end of the big white building.
5. Columbine Yard
The Columbine Yard is an amazing example of British industrial architecture built by
Saunders-Roe in 1935 specifically for constructing flying boats. Before WWII the
firm specialised in manufacturing power boats and record breaking craft such as Sir
Malcolm Campbell's Bluebird.
They also developed the Princess Flying Boats and, after 1945, helped to develop
the British Ballistic Rocket "Black Knight". It was also here that Sir Christopher
Cockerell pioneered designs for the worlds first hovercraft, Inspiration is said to
have come from a coffee tin, a Kit-e-Kat tin, a hairdryer and a pair of scales!
Today the building is a shipyard and is home to several boat building companies.
Where next: Turn left along Columbine Road
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6. Classic Boat Museum
The Classic Boat Museum has been telling visitors and Islanders its wonderful
maritime story since 1996.
The Gallery in East Cowes has an extensive collection of artefacts, models,
photographs, and uniforms. The main museum is based in (west) Cowes.
Where next: Head along Albany Road
7. Victoria Barracks
The Victoria Barracks were built in 1872 to house troops to guard Queen
Victoria. Luckily the impressive railings around the parade ground were not
taken for re-cycling during WWII as the barracks were in use.
Where next: Cross over to the Esplanade where you can see the river and, if
you're brave, paddle!
8. Coastguard Cottages
The Coastguard Cottages were built in 1881 and sold in 1924. East Cowes
was the customs post for the Island and all duties were paid here.
The original post was in the town centre and William Arnold, father of Rugby
School head Matthew Arnold, was customs officer until 1801.
Where next: Keep going along the Esplanade and enjoy the views over the
river.
9. The Cavalier Propellor
The Cavalier Propellor is from HMS Cavalier, built at the J. S. Whites East
Cowes Yard in 1944. She was the fastest ship in the Royal Navy for 27 years.
The nearby fountain was given to East Cowes by Miss Shedden of Springhill in
1896 and stood originally in York Avenue.
Where next: Keep going along the Esplanade to the breakwater.
10. Shrape Breakwater
This breakwater is part of our sea defences and has been here quite some time. Off
the end of it you can see the new central breakwater which is designed to make the
harbour more protected from rough seas.
Where next: Keep going along the Esplanade. We're almost there!
11. Site of the Rope Walk
The site of the old Rope Walk is just in front of the present caravan park and is
now a leisure area with amazing views over the solent. This is where hemp
rope was twisted and prepared for use on ships that were probably beached
here for repair.
The rope walk and beach are featured on the 1783 Admiralty Chart.
If you're energetic, keep going along the Esplanade but the road is cut off by a
landslip.
Where next: Head back now and turn left into Cambridge Road
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12. Cambridge Row Terrace
Cambridge Row Terrace is a beautiful row of houses that were nearly not
completed due to lack of money. However a second builder finished them in
1870.
Where next: Across the road is Albany Road. Crossover and head back along
it.
13. The Old Wash House
The Old Wash House was an important part of life at Coastguard Cottages, as
it was here that the women would meet to do their laundry and catch up on
local news.
Unfortunately it was being renovated when we visited but it is a lovely building.
Where next: Keep going along Albany road.
14. Old Boat Museum
This building used to house the Classic Boat Museum but has now reverted to
shipyard use.
East Cowes has seen a resurgence in the marine industry so every available
building is being brought back into use.
Where next: Turn left back into Columbine Road. Cross into the start of Old
Road
15. Henry VIII Fortifications
The last remnant of the Henry VIII Fortifications may be seen in this old wall just
behind the car park. The East Cowe (or castle) was commissioned by him at the
same time as the West Cowe (now the Royal Yacht Squadron) as part of his Solent
Defences.
There isn't a lot to see so you'll have to look hard!
Where next:
Continue over to Castle Street and turn left at the roundabout, around Waitrose.
Head for the back of the red Funnel car park along York Road and you'll find Church
Walk. Head up towards the church
16. St James' Church
St James' Church was designed by John Nash and dedicated by Princess
Victoria in 1831, although the dedication stone has since disappeared.
Nash is famous for designing Regency streets and Buckingham Palace in
London. His tomb is beside the church tower. He lived in the now demolished
East Cowes Castle, just up the hill.
Where next: Continue up Church Path into York Avenue.
17. East Cowes Fire Station
This is our local retained Fire Station.If you look back into the town you can
see some lovely views.
Where next: Continue up York Avenue and cross over into Adelaide Grove.
Page 9 Printed on 08-12-2021 10:3818. Frank James Hospital
The Frank James Hospital was built in memory of Frank James, a yachting
enthusiast who was killed by an elephant while hunting in West Africa. His
brothers gave the building to the town in 1893 as a home for aged seamen.
Ten years later, it became a cottage hospital. Frank's yacht, "Lancashire
Witch" was featured as a weather vane.
The hospital closed some time ago and the building has fallen into disrepair
awaiting renovation as housing.
Where next: Continue along Adelaide Grove and turn right into Falcon Road.
19. Falcon Road Alleyway
If you're able, head on down the alleyway but there are four steps at the end of it.
If you can't then take a small detour left along Kings Road, right into Yarborough
Road and right again into Osborne Road which will take you to the other end of the
steps.
Where next: Keep going down Falcon Road
20. The Methodist Church
The Methodist Church was opened in 1878, in response to the growing
congregation, as Wesleyan preachers came to the Island. The chapel was
damaged by bombs in WWII and two windows given by Queen Victoria were
lost.
It's now an Evangelical Church
If you fancy a longer detour, turn left along Clarence Road and you'll get to
East Cowes Marina.
Where next: Turn right along Clarence Road and head back into the town.
21. Falcon Yard
The large metal building all along Clarence Road is Falcon Yard which was
one of the most prolific of J. S. Whites shipbuilding yards on the river,
producing destroyers and other vessels for the Royal Navy and other fleets.
Badly bombed on the night of 4 - 5 May 1942, it is now owned by GKN. Here,
along with their other site in East Cowes, is where they produce aircraft parts
which are shipped all over the world.
Where next: Keep heading into town along Clarence Road and take time to
look at the interesting shops.
22. The Heritage Centre
The Heritage Centre was set up by local historians who give their time to keep
it open from 10am - 1pm Monday to Saturday. If there is more you want to
learn about the heritage of the town, the centre is the place for you, packed full
of archives, with regularly changing displays and local history books for sale.
Where next: Cross Clarence Road and head up York Avenue
23. The Umbrella Tree
The Umbrella Tree is a weeping ash, with a shady seat beneath and has stood in
this spot since 1914.
It used to have a sister tree on the Green in Cowes but that one is no longer there.
Recently TV presenter, Chris Packham, supported a campaign to save the Umbrella
Tree.
Where next: Head a little up York Avenue
Page 10 Printed on 08-12-2021 10:3824. The Town Hall
The Town Hall was completed in 1897, funded by Amy White, the wife of J. S.
White the shipbuilder who so influenced the shape of the two towns.It has
recently been renovated and is now home to a host of community activities,
clubs and exhibitions as well as East Cowes Town Council.
Where next: Head down York Avenue and bear left into Ferry Road which
takes you back to the Floating bridge.
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