Wiltshire Wonders
This full day tour is intended to show off the historical and picturesque delights of Wiltshire, with a trip over the county border to Dorset to see Gold Hill in Shaftesbury.
This is a journey of superlatives, from the tallest spire in the UK and the best-preserved original copy of the magna carta through to the unique and iconic Stonehenge. In between, the journey is sure to delight: from the unbelievably beautiful chocolate-box thatched cottages of Wherwell, and the chalk regimental badges on Fovant Downs to the spectacular view over the Blackmore Vale from the wonderful Gold Hill and the sheer enjoyment of a traditional Dorset cream tea (included in the tour price)
You will have 2 ½ to 3 hours free to explore the historic cathedral city of Salisbury with its famous cathedral and original magna carta. Explore The Close with its museums and Mompesson House, now a National Trust property; have lunch in a haunted pub; or gaze upon the view immortalised by John Constable.
Suitably refreshed, we meet up again to travel to Shaftesbury in Dorset. En route we pass the historic town of Wilton, famous for Wilton House, and the carpet making industry. No chalk horses on this tour, but you will discover the poignant history behind the chalk Fovant Badges, etched onto the Wiltshire downs.
We shall stop in the historic market town of Shaftesbury to view the famous Gold Hill and where, weather permitting, there are glorious views over the Blackmore Vale
It is here we shall have a traditional Dorset cream tea (or coffee!), included in the price of the tour, which should fortify us for our trip to the world-famous and iconic Stonehenge.
Nobody knows with absolute certainty why Stonehenge was built and for what purpose, but on the way I will happily discuss the latest research and theories with you, as well as the legends. Stonehenge provides audioguides with commentary available in 10 languages, and you will have up to an hour to visit the site and gift shop.
Hopefully you will have enjoyed the day’s tour, and tired but happy, you can relax back in my comfortable car for the 90 minute (traffic allowing) journey back to Windsor.
Timings:
Depart Windsor - 09.45;
arrive back between 7 - 7.30pm
What extra costs should you factor in?
- Morning coffee
- Entrance to Salisbury Cathedral: ‘voluntary donation’ asked for of £5.50 / £3 for adults/children
- Lunch: anything from a few pounds for a sandwich & drink from a shop to about £20 p.p. at a fine restaurant. Pub
sandwiches / lite bites are about £6
- Entrance to Stonehenge: £6.90 / £3.50 (free if you have English heritage or National Trust card)
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