English Heritage

1845A Brand New House

The royal couple buy Osborne. Albert commissions architect and master builder Thomas Cubitt to advise him on an extension. Cubitt recommends they build a new house.

Find out more about the history of Osborne

1846Pavilion Completed

The first phase of building, the Pavilion, is completed. It houses the private rooms of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert and the royal nurseries.

1848Household Wing Completed

The second phase is completed, including the wing for the royal household. The old house is demolished.

1851Main Wing Completed

The main wing, initially used by the royal children, is built on the old house site and is linked to the household wing by a long corridor.

Read a description of Osborne

1850sGardens and Beach

An extensive network of new walks and drives is created, including routes around the perimeter of the park and to a private beach.

1853-4Children's Swiss Cottage

A timber Swiss Cottage is built for the royal children in their own garden, nearly a mile to the east of the house.

1861Stables and Servant Facilities

Stables for 50 horses and carriages are completed to the south. The former stables are transformed into kitchen facilities and servants' accommodation.

1861Tragedy Strikes

Prince Albert dies unexpectedly at Windsor Castle, leaving Victoria overwhelmed with grief.

1887Indian Servants

The male dormitory, first built in 1850, is extended to accommodate the Indian servants introduced to the royal household.

1890-91Indian Wing

The Durbar Wing is built to provide a large reception or dining room, as well as a private suite for the queen's youngest daughter, Princess Beatrice, and her family.

1901Queen's Death

Queen Victoria dies at Osborne.

1902Given to the Nation

Against Victoria's explicit wishes, her successor, Edward VII, gives the estate to the nation.

1903-4Royal Naval College

Part of the grounds become the Royal Naval College Osborne. The ground floor of the Pavilion and the council and audience rooms are opened to the public. Other areas are converted into a convalescent home for officers.

1921College Closed

The Royal Naval College at Osborne is closed.

1954Private Rooms Revealed

Elizabeth II gives permission for Victoria and Albert's private rooms to be unlocked and opened to the public.

See highlights from the collections at Osborne

1986State Restoration

English Heritage takes over management of Osborne. Repairs, redecoration and re-presentation take place.

1989-PresentNew Exhibitions

Recently opened exhibitions include the recreated royal nursery suite, Queen Victoria's private beach and new presentations at the Swiss Cottage.

Learn more about Osborne