East Cowes

East Cowes Castle

The property of the Earl of Shannon, stands on the brow of the hill that looks towards West Cowes and together with its grounds forms a point of attraction with most visitors. Te site is well selected for a residence of the Gothic character; and the general effect of this castle, with its surrounding woods, must be admitted to be imposing. On nearer inspection it is seen to unite the features of the castellated mansion of a late date, with those of the baronial strong-hold of a much earlier period; the former, doubtless for convenience, the latter for the sake of antiquated and striking appearance.

When time has divested a style of building of its objects and meaning, it should be either wholly laid aside, or if adopted in the way of imitation, the imitation should be complete, and should admit of nothing incongruous: an axiom this, which was little studied by the late architect and proprietor of East Cowes Castle.