Cowes Heritage was formed by a group of volunteers in 2003 with the main aim of staging regular exhibitions, each concerning a particular aspect of the history of Cowes and surrounding area.

The first themed exhibition, held in an empty High Street shop, was 'Cowes at War', about experiences and incidents in the town during World War II. It attracted more than 3,000 people over its three-week run.

Since then there have been seven more themed exhibitions, with the last taking place in October/November 2009 - concerning the story of churches and chapels in the Cowes area and the people who attended them.

Cowes Heritage’s ultimate objective is to have a permanent home of its own. While admission to exhibitions is free it welcomes donations and raises further funds from the sale of specially produced DVDs and publications, which are now available from our online shop.

As well as three-week exhibitions Cowes Heritage mounts regular displays in the local library and gives talks to local organisations.