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ROLL UP FOR ROYAL FAMILY FUN AT OSBORNE HOUSE & GARDENS

Sunday 16 - Tuesday 18 August 2009

Queen Victoria will definitely be amused when she presides over three days of traditional Victorian family fun on the sweeping lawns of Osborne House from Sunday 16 to Tuesday 18 August.

Accompanied by her husband Prince Albert and attended by her lady in waiting, a youthful queen will re-visit her favourite holiday home from 10am-5pm each day to re-create royal life during the 1850s. There will be a host of activities for visitors to watch - and take part in - covering everything from traditional toys to fashion of the day.

Youngsters can peek inside a Victorian toy box with Peggy the maid, as she helps them try out fun games including quoits, skittles, bilbo-catches, croquet and fox-bobbin skipping ropes. Mr Bramble the gardener, aided by Mr Butterwick the explorer, will lead youngsters on a search around the gardens to catch naughty fairies before they wreak havoc on his rose beds.

Grown-ups may be more amused by a risque look at the Queen as she is dressed from her corset to her coronet in the grand fashion of the day or enjoy a short talk about the Victorian garden, given by Her Majesty's lady-in-waiting, Lady Lyttelton - who will have a small sweet-smelling gift for the audience.

In a grand finale at 3.30 each afternoon, Prince Albert will preside over races and games, from egg and spoon to a Victorian hat relay - victors will receive prizes from Her Majesty in person!

Be sure to take a look at the sumptuous costumes worn by Emily Blunt in the hit movie 'The Young Victoria,' which are on display inside Osborne House.

Normal admission prices apply - Adults £10.20, Concessions £8.70, Children £5.10, Family Ticket £25.50 and English Heritage Members free. Admission includes entrance to the fabulous house and the extensive grounds which surround it.

For further information on Osborne House or other English Heritage properties on the Isle of Wight call 0870 333 1183 or visit www.english-heritage.org.uk