Wessex
ITINERARY
DAY 1: Monday, 13th September
Morning: Welcome reception at our London hotel.
Buffet lunch at our London hotel.
Afternoon: Visit Dorney Court for a group tour.
Dorney Court is one of England’s finest stately houses. Grade 1 listed and renowned for its architectural importance and historical significance, it was built in the 15th century and has been home to the Palmer family for more than 450 years. “Dorney” is the ancient Saxon word for “island of bees” and the Estate remains famous for its honey, which is still produced to this day. The very first pineapple to be raised in England was grown at Dorney Court and presented to Charles II in 1661, although the King showed more interest in the lady of the house, Barbara Palmer (née Villiers), who became his mistress and bore him five children. We plan to book a very special Connoisseurs’ Tour here.
Evening: Drinks and dinner at Rhinefield House Hotel.
DAY 2: Tuesday, 14th September
Morning: Visit Fishbourne Roman Palace.
Fishbourne Roman Palace is the largest Roman home surviving in Britain. You can visualise the luxury that would once have surrounded the proud owner of this lavish Roman residence, stroll around the recreated Roman gardens – the earliest gardens found anywhere in the country – and enjoy the largest collection of mosaics in situ in Britain.
We will then visit Chichester Cathedral.
The magnificent 950-year-old Chichester Cathedral has a spire that dominates the horizon for miles around. Medieval stone carvings sit alongside world famous contemporary works of art from the likes of Graham Sutherland, Marc Chagall and Ursula Benker-Schirmer - to name but a few. With history, heritage, art and music – and the beautiful Bishop’s Palace Gardens to explore – the Cathedral is a must-see for visitors.
The Cloisters Kitchen Garden is a dining experience within the Cathedral’s 600- year-old cloisters. You can enjoy a snack lunch or locally roasted coffee here.
There will be free time in Chichester for an independent lunch.
Chichester is a beautiful cathedral city - the only city in West Sussex, and its county town. It was a Roman and Anglo-Saxon settlement and a major market town from antiquity. through Norman and medieval times, to the present day.
Afternoon: Visit Bosham.
Bosham is a stunning, peaceful waterside village in West Sussex with deep historical roots. Famous for its sailing heritage, it is a perfect destination for a quiet afternoon out. Its historic quay has picturesque cottages lining the water's edge. The tides dictate daily life here—at high tide, the water laps right up against the homes and streets. At Bosham Walk Art Craft Centre, you can browse local, independent artisan shops and grab a coffee or an ice cream to eat by the water.
Holy Trinity Church is an ancient Saxon church that appears in the Bayeux Tapestry and is said to be the burial place of a daughter of King Canute.
Evening: Dinner is independent tonight.
DAY 3: Wednesday, 15th September
Morning: Visit Kingston Lacy.
Kingston Lacy is an elegant 17th-century Italian-inspired country mansion set in attractive formal gardens and extensive parkland. It was the residence of the powerful and flamboyant Bankes family, who owned vast swathes of Dorset for over 400 years. From fighting the forces of Oliver Cromwell to gathering one of the world’s largest collections of ancient Egyptian artefacts, the Bankes have an intriguing past.
You will see paintings by Rubens, Van Dyck, Titian and Brueghel and explore the largest private collection of ancient Egyptian artefacts in the UK, all mementoes from William John Bankes’ incredible travels through Egypt in 1818. Discover the Spanish Room with its gilded leather and gilded ceiling brought from the Contarini Palace in Venice, and don’t miss the interactive digital tour of Kingston Lacy in the Egyptian Room where you can take control of the camera to delve into all the nooks and crannies of the house.
There is much to see in the 17th-century formal gardens, created by Henrietta Bankes. Stroll around the Japanese Garden, complete with authentic tea house or take a sheltered walk through the woodland.
There will be free time for an independent lunch in Wimborne Minster, a delightful market town with quaint streets and unique shops, set against the stunning backdrop of the beautiful Wimborne Minster church.
Afternoon: Visit Wimborne Minster church.
For over 1,300 years, Wimborne Minster has been a living centre for pilgrimage, prayer and worship. It was founded in 705 as a nunnery, which was dissolved in the 11th century. A college of canons served the parish until the dissolution of the monasteries. You will see the dignified effigies of John and Margaret de Beaufort, parents of Margaret Beaufort and grandparents of Henry VII. You can ascend a spiral staircase in the Minster to find yourself in the Chained Library, founded in 1686. It was one of the first public libraries in the country and is the second largest chained library to survive.
Evening: Drinks, guided tour and dinner in The Great Hall, Winchester Castle.
The Great Hall is one of the finest surviving aisled halls of the 13th century, which contains the greatest symbol of medieval mythology, King Arthur's Round Table, dating from the reign of Henry VII. The Great Hall is all that remains of Winchester Castle, originally built by William the Conqueror.
DAY 4: Thursday, 16th September
Morning: Visit Southampton.
Southampton’s history spans over 2,000 years, evolving from a Roman settlement and an Anglo-Saxon trading hub into a powerhouse of a medieval port. Famous as the "Gateway to the World," it is deeply tied to monumental global events, including the voyages of the 1620 Mayflower and the R.M.S. Titanic in 1912.
You will be guided around the historic sites and visit Tudor House, most
important historic building, revealing over 800 years of history in one fascinating location at the heart of the Old Town. There is a roofless Norman house in the grounds.
There will be time for an independent lunch in Southampton.
Afternoon: Visit Christchurch Priory.
The story of Christchurch Priory begins long before the Norman Conquest, with its roots tracing back to the 7th century. The Domesday Book of 1086 recorded the presence of 24 secular canons at Christchurch Priory, marking the beginning of its documented history. However, it was in 1094 that the foundation for the present church was laid by Ranulf Flambard, Chief Minister to William II and Dean of Twynham.
You will see a stunning blend of architectural styles spanning several centuries. The basic Norman church, completed by the mid-12th century, featured a nave, central aisle, and quire. There is also the historic, never-used chantry chapel of Margaret Pole, Countess of Salisbury, who was executed by Henry VIII in 1541.
You can also visit adjacent Christchurch Castle. The mound-top keep or great tower here was part of a large Norman castle that once dominated the town of Christchurch in Dorset. Nearby is the 12th-century riverside chamber block known as the Norman House, one of the few remaining examples of domestic Norman architecture in England. Built around 1160, it provided grand and comfortable living quarters for the lord of Christchurch. The tall circular Norman chimney is a particularly rare survival.
Evening: Barbeque at Rhinefield House.
DAY 5: Friday, 17th September
Morning: Visit Winchester Cathedral.
We will spend the day in the ancient, historic city of Winchester, the old Anglo-Saxon capital of England. We will visit Winchester Cathedral, where Mary I married Philip of Spain in 1554, and explore more than 1,000 years of history. You will discover the beautifully illuminated Winchester Bible, 12th-century wall paintings, medieval carvings, contemporary art and the grave of Jane Austen, and experience the awe and wonder of this magnificent building.
We will then visit the Hospital of St Cross for a guided tour.
Nestled in the water meadows alongside the River Itchen in the shadow of St Catherine’s Hill lies the ancient Hospital of St Cross. Renowned for the tranquillity of its setting and the beauty of its architecture, the Hospital is one of England’s oldest functioning almshouses. Come and soak up the uniquely peaceful and magical ambience, and remember that anyone visiting The Hospital of St Cross and Almshouse of Noble Poverty may request, according to their unique and ancient tradition, to be given the “Wayfarer’s Dole” - a small cup of ale and a morsel of bread.
There will be free time for an independent lunch in Winchester.
Afternoon: Visit Winchester College for a guided tour.
Founded in 1382 by William of Wykeham, Bishop of Winchester and Chancellor to Edward III, Winchester College has the longest continuous history of any English school and still occupies its original medieval buildings. The organisation of the school, established as a self-governing and sovereign body, was the pattern for Henry VI’s foundation at Eton College and, more generally, the pattern for other English public schools.
Evening: Dinner is independent this evening.
DAY 6: Saturday, 18th September
Morning: Visit Fiddleford Manor.
Fiddleford Manor is a beautiful little 14th-century manor house. It is quite rare that you get the chance to visit a normal domestic building of this age anywhere in the world, and one that looks as if you could still inhabit it too. Fiddleford was completed around 1370 and although some alterations have taken place over the years, it is said to have the finest roof timbers in Dorset. There are also traces of wall paintings.
We will then visit Sherborne Abbey.
Founded by St Aldhelm in A.D. 705, Sherborne Abbey has developed from a Saxon cathedral to the worshipping heart of a monastic community and, finally, to one England’s most beautiful parish churches. For many, it is still the ‘cathedral of Dorset’ and its Benedictine heritage lives on in the daily offering of prayer and praise. Two early Saxon kings of Wessex, King Æthelbald (died 860) and his brother King Æthelberht (died 866), are buried in Sherborne Abbey. Both were elder brothers to the famous Alfred the Great.
There will be free time for an independent lunch in charming, honey-coloured Sherborne, one of the most beautiful towns in England. It’s brimming with history and heritage and has an array of beautiful buildings.
Afternoon: Visit Sherborne Castle for a guided tour.
Built by the famous courtier and explorer Sir Walter Raleigh in 1594, this historic house reflects a glorious variety of decorative styles from over 400 years of English history. You will see nationally important collections of furniture, paintings and porcelain and walk in Capability Brown’s famous English landscape garden.
We will then visit Sherborne Old Castle.
For more than half its history, Sherborne Old Castle was a grand and strongly fortified palace of the bishops of Salisbury. You can still explore the ruins of its great tower, chapels and strong southwest gatehouse. In Elizabethan times, it was leased to Sir Walter Raleigh.
The castle remained a formidable fortress and became a powerful Royalist base during the Civil War. Described by Oliver Cromwell as 'malicious and mischievous, like its owner', it finally fell to Parliamentarian forces in 1645 after a fierce 11-day siege.
Today, the castle grounds are a haven for wildlife and birds, with picturesque views across the surrounding countryside
Evening: Italian buffet at Rhinefield House.
DAY 7: Sunday, 19th September
Morning: Visit Romsey Abbey.
Romsey Abbey is the largest parish church in Hampshire and one of the most imposing churches in Southern England. The abbey can date its origins back to A.D. 907, when King Edward the Elder (son of Alfred the Great) first settled nuns here. The first stone church and nunnery were built c.1000. and was a place of education for the daughters of kings and noblemen.
The abbey has survived the ravages of the Black Death, Henry the VIII's dissolution of the monasteries, and the English Civil War.
You will see its nave, the Norman arches, the Romsey reredos, the Rood in St Anne's Chapel and the tomb of the Earl of Mountbatten of Burma.
Afterwards, there will be free time in Romsey for an independent lunch. Romsey is a picturesque market town known for its historic charm, winding streets and beautiful riverside walks along the River Test.
Afternoon: Visit Mottisfont Abbey.
Mottisfont is an 18th-century house with a medieval priory at its heart. Eight centuries of history are buried deep within the walls of the former Augustinian Priory built in 1201.
Maud Russell made Mottisfont her home in the 1930s, bringing artists, writers and designers for weekend retreats, to relax and create works inspired by the house and its history.
The stunning walled gardens attract visitors year round, in particular for the world-famous collection of old-fashioned roses that flower once a year annually. You can also enjoy the cafes and shop.
Evening: Drinks and dinner at Athelhampton House.
Athelhampton House is widely regarded as one of the finest Tudor manor houses in England, set within award winning formal gardens in the Dorset countryside. The Great Hall, built in 1485 by Sir William Martyn, forms the historic heart of the house. At the time of its construction, it would have served as the principal living and ceremonial space, reflecting the status and lifestyle of a late medieval household.
During the 16th century, the West Wing was added as the house evolved into a more private and domesticated residence, with further architectural additions made over the centuries. Today, Athelhampton offers a rare and beautifully preserved journey through the development of the English country house.
DAY 8: Monday, 20th September
Morning: Visit Corfe Castle.
One of Britain’s most iconic and evocative survivors of the English Civil War, medieval Corfe Castle was partially demolished in 1646 by the Parliamentarians. The romantic castle ruins afford breathtaking views across the Isle of Purbeck. You will discover 1,000 years of its history as a royal palace and fortress. With fallen walls and secret places, there are tales of treachery and treason around every corner. Spot the ‘murder holes’ and count the arrow loops.
There will be free time for an independent lunch in Corfe.
The picturesque village of Corfe Castle is overlooked by the outstanding ruins of its castle, perched on a hill between the grassy slopes of the Purbeck Ridge. Many of the houses in the village are built of the same stone, making it one of Dorset's most scenic and photographed villages. When the castle was partly destroyed in 1646, lots of the stone and masonry was used to build the surrounding village.
For many years, the famous children's author Enid Blyton holidayed in the area, and Corfe Castle was the inspiration for Kirrin Castle in her Famous Five books.
While in Corfe, you might like to visit the charming Corfe Castle Model Village.
Afternoon:
We will visit Burley Manor Hotel for a sparkling afternoon tea and a presentation on New Forest history, folklore and ghosts by a local speaker.
Evening: Dinner is independent this evening.
DAY 9: Tuesday, 21st September
Morning: Visit Beaulieu Abbey.
This 800-year-old Abbey was founded by King John in the 13th century before being destroyed in 1538 on the orders of Henry VIII. Thanks to the efforts of generations of the Montagu family, the now tranquil abbey is a conserved ruin in a peaceful setting.
There is much to see at Beaulieu. An exhibition in the surviving Domus building tells the abbey’s story. On the upper floor, you’ll find a series of embroideries designed by Belinda, Lady Montagu, which depict the history of the Abbey.
From the earliest motor carriages to classic family saloons, the world-famous National Motor Museum has one of the finest collections of cars, motorcycles and motoring memorabilia in the world, from legendary F1 cars and land speed record breakers for the speed freaks, to incredible examples of pioneering motoring for the history buffs.
Explore We Had One Of Those, a brand-new permanent, interactive attraction, showcasing some of the most popular cars from the 1960s through to the noughties and beyond.
You can uncover Beaulieu’s history as a top-secret training establishment for special agents of the Special Operations Executive (SOE) during World War Two. Over 3,000 SOE agents were trained in the dark arts of warfare at Beaulieu before undertaking daring and dangerous missions behind enemy lines.
Lose yourself in Beaulieu’s serene grounds and gardens via the network of footpaths that criss-cross the site.
There will be free time for an independent lunch at Beaulieu Abbey. There is a restaurant and a coffee shop.
Afternoon: We will return to the hotel mid-afternoon to allow free time for packing and relaxation.
Evening: Drinks, private tour and gala farewell dinner at Palace House, Beaulieu Abbey.
Palace House, once the gatehouse of the medieval Beaulieu Abbey, has been the Montagu family home since 1538. In an idyllic New Forest setting overlooking the picturesque Beaulieu River millpond, Palace House was remodelled and extended during the 1800s and is now a fine example of a Victorian country house. Inside, its ecclesiastical heritage sets the grand gothic tone for a home bristling with character and adorned with family treasures, portraits, and memorabilia.
DAY 10: Wednesday, 22nd September
Morning: Visit the Rufus Stone.
In a quiet glade at the heart of the New Forest stands a simple stone memorial. The location is idyllic, with green fields stretching out in one direction, and woodland trails in the other. Yet in 1100, this placid forest setting was the setting for a violent death and a mystery that has remained unsolved for over 900 years. For the memorial stands in the traditional location where King William II ‘Rufus’, son of William the Conqueror, died in a hunting accident. But was it an accident - or was it cold-blooded murder?
We will then visit Titchfield Abbey.
Built in the 13th century, Titchfield Abbey was a community of Premonstratensian canons. The canons lived communally, like monks, but also preached and served as priests in the local community. Henry VI married Margaret of Anjou here in 1445. After the suppression of the monasteries, Henry VIII gave the abbey to Sir Thomas Wriothesley, later Earl of Southampton, who transformed the buildings into a grand Tudor mansion called Place House. The most impressive feature of the abbey today is a grand turreted gatehouse, which was built across the nave of the church. The rest lies in ruins.
We will visit Alton for an independent lunch.
Alton is a historic market town in the heart of Jane Austen country. The surrounding landscape is picturesque and tranquil – which makes it all the more shocking that Alton was once most famous for the brutal murder of eight-year-old Sweet Fanny Adams in 1867. Once a Saxon settlement, Alton was the site of the 1642 Battle of Alton during the English Civil War. You can still see bullet holes in St Lawrence’s Church today.
Afternoon: Visit Jane Austen’s House.
Jane Austen's House is the most treasured Austen site in the world. This inspiring Hampshire cottage was Jane Austen's home, where she wrote her six novels. Today, the house is a cherished museum with an unparalleled collection of Austen treasures, including items of furniture, paintings and household objects. Visitors can discover Jane’s personal letters and first editions of her novels, items of jewellery that she cherished, portraits of her friends and family, and the tiny writing table at which she wrote. You can explore the rooms where she lived and wrote, from the sunny Drawing Room where she practiced the piano every morning, and where she read Pride and Prejudice aloud to a neighbour on the very day she received her first copy, to the vibrant green Dining Room where she wrote, and the cosy bedroom upstairs that she probably shared with her beloved sister Cassandra.
Later in the afternoon, we will visit Highclere Castle, famous as the location for the fictional Downton Abbey. Champagne will be served in the Saloon, after which we will enjoy a private tour of the castle and the Egyptian exhibition. Lord Carnarvon, who owned Highclere, was the sponsor of Howard Carter, who discovered the tomb of the Pharaoh Tutankhamun in 1922. .
Evening: Farewell drinks reception at London hotel.
THE TOUR ENDS
All site visits are subject to confirmation. AWT reserves the right to rearrange the itinerary or substitute other options where necessary or desirable.