Cowes 

Every weekend seems like a nautical event in Cowes. Known as the island's yachting centre, boating enthusiasts will be in heaven.

Everything points to the ocean in Cowes. Historically Henry VIII built a castle here to defend his expanding empire of navel dockyards from the French and Spanish. The world's most exclusive yachting club, the Royal Yacht Squadron gave Cowes the thumbs up, while every August Cowes is flooded with sails for the international Cowes Week yachting festival.

• Cowes is divided by the River Medina, with the more interesting and historic quarter to the west. Here you will find some great eating spots, shopping oportunities and a more atmospheric feel.