Osborne House (pictured), Queen Victoria’s palace-by-the-sea on the Isle of Wight, is to play host to a summer music festival at which Paul Weller and Girls Aloud will headline the two-day event.

Isle of Wight Festival organisers Solo are launching the event briefly entitled Osbourne House, which takes place 26th and 27th July.  English Heritage is backing the gigs, intended to encourage wider public access and increase income for stately homes.

John Giddings of Promoter Solo said:  It’s great to be involved with developing the music scene on the island. 

And especially at one of the most beautiful locations in the country. 

Paul Weller and Girls Aloud will perform at the residence bought by Victoria and Prince Albert in 1845 to secure a place of one’s own quiet and retired.  Fans will stroll the Italianate gardens and visit the Durbar Room, which celebrates Victoria’s role as Empress of India.

English Heritage head of visitor operations on the Isle of Wight Dean Pascall says:

“Staging concerts in the grounds of important historic sites like Osborne House is a very immediate way of engaging people with their heritage as well as attracting a diverse audience, some of whom may never normally visit a historic property.

“We hope they go away with lasting memories of a fantastic evening’s music made even more special by the superb backdrop.”

The former Jam singer Paul Weller, will top the bill on July 26, while the popular Girls Aloud rounding things off the following night. Tickets are expected to go on sale Monday, April 21st.

Isle of Wight Community news @Island Pulse.