Historical Wonders of Wessex & Portsmouth

DAY 1

We will arrive at Winchester railway station and make our way to the Winchester Royal Hotel, our base for the next five nights. There is time to explore our new surroundings before we enjoy our first evening meal together.

DAY 2

After breakfast this morning, we head to the railway station to board our train to Portsmouth Harbour where we enjoy the day exploring the Historic Dockyard and its maritime history. We have the opportunity to experience the golden age of steam aboard HMS Warrior, walk in Nelson's footsteps on HMS Victory, and immerse ourselves in the history of Henry VIII's legendary warship - Mary Rose. You may also wish to explore the numerous museums on site before we return to Winchester by train for our evening meal at the hotel.

DAY 3

Today we will travel to Chichester by rail where we will meet our guide at Chichester Cathedral for our guided tour encompassing all aspects of the Cathedral including its history, architecture, and art from medieval sculptures to contemporary paintings. Our afternoon is spent at leisure to explore this fascinating city before returning in time for our evening meal.

DAY 4

After breakfast today we take our private coach to the Jane Austen House & Museum. This inspiring Hampshire cottage was once Jane Austen's home where she wrote her beloved novels including 'Pride & Prejudice' and 'Emma'. Following our visit, we travel to the nearby Watercress Line at Alton where we can spend the afternoon exploring this fascinating railway and journeying through spectacular Hampshire countryside to Alresford enjoying free time here before our coach back to Winchester.

DAY 5

This morning we take a short stroll to Winchester Castle, founded in 1067 by William the Conqueror shortly after his victory at the Battle of Hastings. We explore The Great Hall and the iconic Round Table (famously linked to the legends of King Arthur and his Knights) and surround ourselves with scented herbs and plants in the beautiful Queen Eleanor's Garden. Afterwards, we will walk to Winchester Cathedral for our guided tour to learn of the captivating history spanning 1,000 years. Our afternoon is free, and you may wish to explore the city, complete some shopping, or visit Wolvesey Castle before we reconvene at the hotel for our final evening meal together.

DAY 6

After breakfast, we say goodbye to Wessex and our newfound friends as we make our way homeward.

B=Breakfast, D=Dinner