Winchester

Outdoor activities

Discover the legends of King Arthur and other historic tales on a guided walking tour in Winchester. Explore William the Conqueror's Castle before strolling along the highstreet to Winchester Cathedral. Hear the echoes of John Keats' poetry as you wander along the banks of the River Itchen. Make your way to the West Gate to meet your friendly guide and group for the day. Enter Winchester Castle built by William the Conqueror and wander into the Great Hall. Listen to the legends of King Arthur and view the iconic Round Table. Walk along the high street to reach the world-famous Winchester Cathedral one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Northern Europe. Admire the grounds and pay your respects to the English novelist Jane Austen who is buried here. Learn about King Alfred the Great and pass by his statue as you experience the beauty of the River Itchen. Stroll along the charming riverbank which inspired John Keats' poetry and see the ruins of Winchester Palace.

Day 1 Depart London and travel through the old kingdom of Wessex to the historic city of Winchester. The former capital of Anglo-Saxon England boasts a magnificent cathedral and the Norman Great Hall. From this bustling city, head to a quieter but equally profound place, the standing stone circle of Stonehenge. Having explored this mystical place, your tour will continue to Exeter, the Romans most southwesterly fortified settlement and your base for 2 nights. Day 2 Your morning is spent exploring the magnificent wilderness of Dartmoor, the ancient "Clapper Bridge" at Postbridge, and the historic market town of Tavistock, home to Francis Drake. Return to Exeter in the early afternoon to explore the Roman town, with its underground passages, ancient walls, Royal Albert Memorial Museum and famous 12th-Century Norman Cathedral. Day 3 Head west to the North Cornish coast and the Elizabethan fishing village of Boscastle. Indulge in a cream tea, take a stroll out to the dramatic headland or learn a spell or two in the Museum of Witchcraft. Travel to the village of Tintagel and the ruins of its headland Castle, whose romantic cliff-top setting is purportedly the birthplace of King Arthur. After lunch, the tour heads to Port Isaac where you can get your Doc Martin fix and fall in love with this picturesque fishing village, before heading south to the bustling port town of Falmouth for the next two nights. Day 4 Explore the most westerly tip of England on this magnificent day, taking in St. Michael’s Mount, the incredible Minack Theater, built into the cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and the beautiful National Trust beach at Porthcurno. You visit Land’s End before following a landscape dotted with the relics of the Cornish tin mining heritage, and now a filming location for the Poldark series. St Ives is the final stop of the day with its plethora of artists’ galleries in the maze of narrow, harbour-side streets. You return to Falmouth for the night. Day 5 This morning, you say farewell to Cornwall and travel across Bodmin Moor, a wild moorland that’s designated as an area of outstanding natural beauty. We’ll take a break before leaving Cornwall and continuing to Glastonbury. Here you can visit the ruins of 7th century Abbey, relax over some lunch or scale Glastonbury Tor for the views across five counties. From here, you travel back to London, a busy city far removed from the experiences you’ve enjoyed in the magical counties of Devon and Cornwall.

In this walking tour of Winchester you will travel through the centuries to unlock the history of this once powerful town. You will learn about the origins of the city and its apogee at the time of Alfred the Great and William the Conqueror as capital of the country. We will discover off the beaten path hidden gems, walk by impressive buildings such as the famous Winchester Cathedral, and learn about the serious impact the English Civil War had on this town. The trails and stories will take us up to Victorian times, and you will learn why this town was spared of bombing during the Second World War. Picturesque spots for pictures are guaranteed - and your guide will be happy to take them for you!

Day 1: You leave Manchester and head straight for the border of Wales. Your first stop of the day is Conwy. This little town deserves to win awards for most picture-perfect harbour town. There’s a castle perched by the sea, the ‘world’s smallest house’, and lots of little restaurants boasting the best fish and chips. After you’ve soaked up the sea air, you cross the world’s first modern day suspension bridge across the Menai Straits and onto Anglesey Island. Prior to its construction, cattle farmers would have to persuade their herd to swim across the Menai Straits on their way to market. We head for the most westerly point of North Wales to marvel at the South Stack Lighthouse, sea cliffs, and nature reserve. But that’s not all. You stop in the lovely seaside town of Beaumaris, and also visit the town of Llanfairpwllgwyngyll for a quick photo stop. Then you travel back over the bridge and along the coastline to Llandudno, your overnight stop. Day 2: This morning when you head off, your first stop is to Betws-y-Coed. This beautiful little village is known as the gateway to Snowdonia National Park. Next, sit back and watch Snowdonia’s mountains fly by as you continue onto Harlech Castle. This is one of our favourite castles in the whole of the UK. It boasts epic sea views and an amazingly war-torn history that involves a lot of dynamite. You then venture to one of the most charming and unique villages in Wales, Portmeirion. This town is the brainchild of Welsh architect Clough Williams-Ellis. He wanted to demonstrate how a naturally beautiful location could be developed without spoiling it. The result is a stunning piece of the Mediterranean transported into North Wales. You have free time here to explore and grab a bite to eat. You head back to Llandudno for the evening. Day 3: After breakfast, your first stop is to the Llanberis Slate Museum*. The history of the second largest slate mine on the planet will stay in your memory for a long time. For your lunch stop today, we head to Llangollen. Situated along the River Dee, this little town will steal your heart. Next you’re off to one of England’s most historic towns, Chester. There’s a lot to do here, but we’d advise you just head to the Cathedral, you could spend a whole week in this fine building and not get bored. You arrive back in Manchester in the early evening.

What better way to experience Winchester, than a walk in the ghostly footsteps of King Alfred the Great? We will meet at the Buttercross, as darkness falls. Then see the site of the nation's last female public execution. Then we will see the haunted sites, and hear such grisly tales of Winchester's High Street and Cathedral. Including the dark tales of religious and poltical persecution. After we will visit the eerie ruins of Hyde Abbey, cemetery, and the actual resting place of England's first king.

It is 1813… and as the ancient capital of England the historic streets of Winchester are heavy with myth and legend. But beyond the tourist trail lies a dark trail of secrets, ghosts and of an underclass of murderers and thieves. Mixing with the wealth of the Merchants and Clergy the streets were the hiding place of highwaymen, smugglers and politics. Join us we bring these stories to life in a truly immersive experience as ghosts of the past come to tell their tales. It will involve a steep climb uphill and some steps. The tour runs no matter what the weather throws at us - so take precautions. Suitable for 12 years and up when accompanied by an adult.

Day 1: Get your sunglasses and sun cream ready, you’re departing London and heading to the sunny, southern Isle of Wight. First, head to the ancient port-city of Portsmouth. This bustling spot blends modern marvels with centuries of sea-faring stories. You can grab a bite to eat here before your guide picks you up and takes you to the ferry at Gunwharf Terminal. It takes less than an hour and there’s plenty of onboard refreshments. Your first stop on the Isle of Wight is the important religious site of Quarr Abbey. The building here is beautiful and combines French, Byzantine, and Moorish designs. Then, you will get to meet some real local heroes. In the evening, you'll arrive at the unforgettably quaint village of Shanklin in time for an early dinner.  Day 2: Today, you’re going to discover the unmissable highlights of the Isle of Wight. After an enjoyable breakfast you will venture to the Yarborough Monument. This is the tallest monument on the island and celebrates the life of a wealthy earl from the 19th century. Continue to a photo-stop at the beautiful views of endless green fields at Brading Downs and then head to Osborne House - Queen Victoria's holiday destination! Explore the Italian-style building and discover pristine green gardens, ornate golden rooms, and historically fascinating artefacts. After witnessing that magnificent man-made marvel, it’s time to see the Isle of Wight’s most beautiful natural wonder, the Needles. These sharp white stacks that stick out of the ocean are beautiful to behold. You can hop on a boat to get close to them and venture to an old defensive battery that’s nearby. Your last stop today is at the cliffs of St. Catherine’s Down. As the sun starts to set, these epic cliffs and green valleys look stunning. You travel back to Shanklin in time for dinner. Day 3: In the morning, say goodbye to Shanklin and head on the ferry back to Portsmouth. Now that you’ve reacquainted yourself with the mainland, travel to one of England’s most history-soaked cities, Winchester. Visit the glorious cathedral, an ancient mill, cute cafes, and more than enough museums. After you’ve studied up on the history of England, it’s time to go have some fun. Visit the home of one of the world’s most popular gins, Bombay Sapphire. Once you’ve had enough of the tipple, it’s time to head back to London. Make a short stop at Runnymede before arriving in London in the evening.

Discover Winchester like a local with a tour that highlights its rich history, medieval charm, and vibrant atmosphere. Stroll through the historic streets to see the impressive Winchester Cathedral, one of the largest in Europe, and explore the ruins of Wolvesey Castle. Walk along the River Itchen for peaceful views and a glimpse of the city’s natural beauty. Wander through the bustling High Street, lined with independent shops and cozy cafés. Your guide will share insider tips on the best spots for traditional British fare, hidden gems, and the welcoming and timeless spirit of Winchester.

Embarking on a journey through the historical, cultural, and heritage sites of the UK offers a captivating glimpse into the rich tapestry of English history. Royal Windsor Castle A major highlight of any exploration in this region is Windsor Castle, the largest and oldest occupied castle in the world and a quintessential symbol of British royalty. The castle, which has been a residence for monarchs for nearly 1,000 years. Visitors can explore the lavish State Apartments, adorned with exquisite art and antiques, and the stunning St. George's Chapel, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture that serves as the resting place for many British monarchs, including Queen Elizabeth II. The beautifully landscaped gardens surrounding the castle offer a serene escape, providing breathtaking views of the estate. Stonehenge Next on the itinerary is the enigmatic Stonehenge, one of the most iconic prehistoric monuments in the world. Located on Salisbury Plain, this World Heritage Site has long captured the imagination of visitors and historians alike. The arrangement of massive stones, some weighing as much as 25 tons, continues to evoke questions about its purpose; theories range from it being a temple for sun worship to a burial ground or an astronomical calendar. Walking among these ancient stones, you can feel the profound sense of mystery and history that surrounds Stonehenge. Winchester Cathedral A short distance away, you'll find Winchester Cathedral, an architectural marvel that reflects over 1,400 years of English history. This magnificent structure is not only one of the longest Gothic cathedrals in Europe but also a site of royal significance, as it was once the seat of the Anglo-Saxon kings. The cathedral houses numerous chapels, stunning stained glass windows, and intricate tombs, including that of Jane Austen, making it a must-visit for literature enthusiasts. The surrounding city of Winchester is equally rich in history, with its winding streets and charming medieval buildings that invite exploration. Here, you can absorb the atmosphere of England’s past, from the Great Hall—home to the legendary Round Table of King Arthur—to the lush gardens and paths that trace the footsteps of time. Conclusion A personalized group tour of these iconic sites provides not just a chance to witness history, but also an opportunity for meaningful engagement with England’s cultural heritage. Whether gazing at the royal splendor of Windsor Castle, standing in awe of Stonehenge, or soaking in the tranquility of Winchester Cathedral, each destination invites you to experience the stories and legends that have shaped the nation. This immersive journey through the past promises to be both enlightening and unforgettable, making for an experience that resonates long after your visit concludes.

On the morning of your transfer your chauffeur will meet and greet you at your designated cruise terminal. From Southampton we will make our way to Salisbury Cathedral the home of the 1065 Magna Carta and home to the worlds first working mechanical clock.Enjoy this stunning cathdral with its hand carved spire which is the tallest in the UK and the second tallest in Europe. Moving on to Winchester Cathedral which was built in 1079 and finished in 1532 which has a tower height of 150ft (46m).Discover this cathedral with over 900 years of history .