Millfield Avenue, East Cowes

Welcome to Fort Norris
A rare, characterful and secluded retreat steeped in history, Fort Norris is the last remaining cow tower designed by James Wyatt, and was a gate lodge to Norris Castle, built in 1790 and said to have once welcomed the footsteps of a young Princess Victoria. Her affection for the area famously inspired Prince Albert’s commission of nearby Osborne House, just minutes away. From the grand round entrance vestibule to the richly panelled sitting room adorned with 17th-century woodwork, every corner of Fort Norris whispers a story of the past. Climb the turret's spiral staircase to an observation platform, formerly used for semaphore communications, and offering sweeping rural and sea views over the Solent. Set within approximately three-quarters of an acre of well-established, enchanting grounds, surrounded by a characterful stone wall, this one-of-a-kind home blends a historical ambience with a fabulous coastal charm. Accommodation comprises an entrance vestibule, hall, large living room, a dining room, which also makes a fantastic study, a large primary bedroom with sunroom and ensuite cloakroom, a kitchen and a bathroom on the ground floor, with a winding staircase to two bedrooms on the first and second floors respectively. Outside, the property benefits from a large garage/workshop, summerhouse, an assortment of sheds and a mix of stone terraces, lawns and mature planting, plus, an independently accessed ensuite bedroom in The Keep, which offers further versatility.
Tucked away on a private lane in a highly desirable area of historic East Cowes, many amenities are located just minutes from the property which include a Waitrose supermarket and a varied range of shops and restaurants. The quiet shingle and sand beach in East Cowes enjoys fantastic views across the Solent and out towards Cowes Marina. The esplanade boasts an adventure playground, paddling pool, cafe and has a wooded area behind, perfect for leisurely walks, and the Red Funnel car ferry service to Southampton is just a short walk away. The convenient location of this property is ideal for exploring all of the delights the Island has to offer and is served by Southern Vectis buses linking the town with Ryde and Newport.