BBC Antiques Roadshow visits Osborne

The popular BBC One show will be visiting Osborne House in East Cowes on 14 September for the first time in its 40-year history, with antiques and fine arts specialists on hand to offer free advice and valuations. Throughout the day, show presenter Fiona Bruce and over 30 antiques experts will examine the items at the newly restored terrace garden at Osborne, Queen Victoria's much loved former home by the sea.

To mark the occasion, Red Funnel is offering mainland visitors a special £39.99 ferry day return from Southampton to East Cowes for a private vehicle and up to 7 people. For visitors travelling on foot (Osborne is a 5 minute bus ride from East Cowes), fares start from £9.70 for a super off-peak day return.

Jonathan Green, marketing and communications director at Red Funnel, said: "We are excited that the BBC's Antiques Roadshow is visiting Osborne on the eve of the national release of the new movie 'Victoria & Abdul' which was partly filmed at Osborne House. The visit also coincides with the new Victoria's Island trail which follows the footsteps of the former Queen and allows visitors to walk along the same paths and enjoy the same views."

"We hope people living in Hampshire will take advantage of our special 'Antique Roadshow' ferry offers and bring their heirlooms across to Osborne. We have our fingers tightly crossed that someone will discover hidden treasure in their loft and leave at the end of the day with a very exciting valuation."

Antiques Roadshow presenter Fiona Bruce said: "The best part of working on Antiques Roadshow is that we never know who or what is going to turn up on the day. If you are a fan of Antiques Roadshow, curious to see behind the scenes, or just fancy a day out, I would urge you to dig out your treasures and come along – we'd love to see you!"

Visitors to Antiques Roadshow are welcome to just turn up on the day, but if they have an item with a particularly unusual story attached, or interesting collection, or large items of furniture, they should let the Antiques Roadshow team know in advance by emailing antiques.roadshow@bbc.co.uk

Red Funnel discount ferry tickets must be booked in advance at www.redfunnel.co.uk/AntiquesRoadShow or by calling 02380 019192.

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