Osborne House, Queen Victoria’s seaside residence, is both a historic treasure and one of English Heritage’s most visited properties. Growing visitor numbers highlighted deep-seated conservation needs, strained infrastructure and a requirement for improved accessibility and engagement.
Our Role
We were commissioned to prepare a long-term Masterplan for the 354-acre estate. Working with landscape architects, we analysed the site and consulted widely with stakeholders. Our plan balanced urgent conservation with strategies for enhancing arrival, circulation and interpretation, alongside operational improvements and new commercial opportunities.
Outcomes
The Masterplan provides a phased blueprint for restoration, visitor enhancements and new facilities such as a sustainable welcome building, improved play and learning spaces, and revitalised landscapes aligned with biodiversity targets. Financial modelling demonstrates Osborne’s potential to increase visitation and achieve operational sustainability, securing its status as a cultural and community landmark for the Isle of Wight.
