A compact 23 by 13 miles, it is a favorite summer destination of the British. Its most visited site is the Osborne House, the cherished home of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert that was constructed at Victoria's own expense as a seaside retreat in 1845. It was here that they managed to leave royal responsibilities behind, enjoying long walks and informal family dinners with their nine children. Grief-stricken at Albert's death in 1861 at the age of 42, Victoria requested that everything remain exactly as it had been in his final days. Family mementos fill the bedroom where the queen died in 1901.

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Location: Isle of Wight, England

Website: www.english-heritage.org.uk