A magnificent Victorian country estate on the Isle of Wight where Queen Victoria redesigned her view of the Solent
Set in 30 acres of parkland grounds between Seaview and Ryde, Woodlands Vale is an ‘architecturally significant’ coastal property that exudes a timeless appeal.

The Isle of Wight is not shy of spectacular coastal properties. Known for its world-renowned sailing competitions, music festivals, expansive beaches and sheltered coves; it’s no wonder residents and visitors flock here in their thousands every year. It is a summer watersports mecca, with excellent pubs and restaurants to match.
Arriving to the market via Winkworth with a guide price of £4.5 million is Woodlands Vale, a property unlike many of the other properties we’ve covered in the Isle of Wight, largely due to its fascinating history and close ties with royalty.
It is also one of the few remaining private estates on the island, according to the agents.
Woodlands Vale was built in 1870 by the celebrated Victorian architect Teulon, in the French Renaissance style, for Lord Calthorpe. Lord Calthorpe was a Crimean War veteran who was a close friend of Queen Victoria.
After Prince Albert died of Typhoid fever in 1861, Queen Victoria spent an increasing amount of time at their home, Osborne House, on the Isle of Wight and, subsequently, visited Woodlands Vale on numerous occasions.
It was during one visit, whilst the Queen was admiring the coastal views from the property, that she commented that an ornate metal pillar in the centre of the terrace was blocking her view of the Solent. Lord Calthorpe wasted no time in having it removed and the terrace today remains as Queen Victoria wished — unobscured, with impeccable views.
Grade II listed, Woodlands Vale spans 13,000 sq. ft of internal living space that retains many of its original Victorian features and charm. Beautiful stained-glass windows, a Minton tiled floor, plaster ceilings and decorative architrave are just some of the stand-out characteristics.
Sign up for the Country Life Newsletter
Exquisite houses, the beauty of Nature, and how to get the most from your life, straight to your inbox.
There are six well-sized bedrooms in total, including the master suite with a dressing room, bathroom and study. All the bedrooms enjoy either sea or garden views and a further bedroom can be found in an additional wing with a self-catered flat. There is also further potential to create more bedrooms in the rear wing.
On the ground floor are six drawing rooms, including the magnificent Billiard room (formerly the conservatory), with its dramatic double-height ceilings and framed cupola.
The kitchen is spacious and light, with an AGA, large central island and French doors that lead out to the garden.
Externally, the house sits in 30 acres of glorious, Grade II listed landscapes, made up of formal gardens, a croquet lawn, a heated swimming pool and parkland.
Large terraces near the house mean you can enjoy al fresco meals outside whilst soaking up the views, and the parklands that lie beyond the ha-ha run all the way to the seafront, providing direct access to the beach.
The Island is renowned for its world class sailing — particularly Cowes week, which takes place during August — and is home to many established yacht clubs and sailing clubs.
Just a hop, skip and a jump across the Solent, the Isle of Wight can be reached by car via regular ferry services. If you are on foot, then a catamaran runs from both Portsmouth and Southampton; or for those wishing to travel by air, a clear approach near Woodlands Vale allows for a helicopter arrival, or there is a small airfield close by for light aircraft.
Woodlands Vale is currently on the market via Winkworth with a guide price of £4.5 million — see more pictures or enquire with the agent for further details.
Credit: Strutt and Parker
Best country houses for sale this week
An irresistible West Country cottage and a magnificent Cumbrian country house make our pick of the finest country houses for
-
'The watch is Head Boy of men’s accessorising': Ginnie Chadwyck-Healey and Tom Chamberlin's Summer Season style secrets
When it comes to dressing for the Season, accessories will transform an outfit. Ginnie Chadwyck-Healey and Tom Chamberlin, both stylish summer-party veterans, offer some sage advice.
By Country Life Published
-
Lewis Hamilton, Claude Monet and the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse: Country Life Quiz of the Day, April 29, 2025
Tuesday's Quiz of the Day looks back at Lewis Hamilton's first win and ponders on the meaning of greige.
By Toby Keel Published
-
About time: The fastest and slowest moving housing markets revealed
New research by Zoopla has shown where it's easy to sell and where it will take quite a while to find a buyer.
By Annabel Dixon Last updated
-
A wisteria clad hall built by one of the founders of the Bank of England
Come for the history of Old Hall. Stay for the interesting interiors.
By Annabel Dixon Published
-
A gorgeous Scottish cottage with contemporary interiors on the bonny banks of the River Tay
Carnliath on the edge of Strathtay is a delightful family home set in sensational scenery.
By James Fisher Published
-
Six rural properties with space, charm and endless views, as seen in Country Life
We take a look at some of the best houses to come to the market via Country Life in the past week.
By Toby Keel Published
-
380 acres and 90 bedrooms on the £25m private island being sold by one of Britain's top music producers
Stormzy, Rihanna and the Rolling Stones are just a part of the story at Osea Island, a dot on the map in the seas off Essex.
By Lotte Brundle Published
-
A home cinema, tasteful interiors and 65 acres of private parkland hidden in an unassuming lodge in Kent
North Lodge near Tonbridge may seem relatively simple, but there is a lot more than what meets the eye.
By James Fisher Published
-
A rare opportunity to own a family home on Vanbrugh Terrace, one of London's finest streets
This six-bedroom Victorian home sits right on the start line of the London Marathon, with easy access to Blackheath and Greenwich Park.
By James Fisher Published
-
A tale of everyday life as lived on Britain's most expensive street
Winnington Road in Hampstead has an average house price of £11.9 million. But what's it really like? Lotte Brundle went to find out.
By Lotte Brundle Last updated