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Kingdom of Wessex

Wilton House
Wessex, the counties of the west Saxons and where English history virtually begins. First dinosaurs roamed, then prehistoric man made it his home. Centuries later Celtic tribes settled here before being colonised by invading Roman armies. This is the literary landscape of Jane Austen and Thomas Hardy. It is the site of major medieval cities and some fabulous stately homes and gardens. It's timeless, it's pretty and it's a magical three days!

Itinerary:

Day 1 (Wed) London - Southwest
Depart London and head southwest, where our first stop is at Jane Austen's Chawton home. The house, where she wrote 'Sense & Sensibility' and 'Pride & Prejudice' amongst others, is now open as a museum. Next port of call is the ancient Saxon capital of Winchester. There'll be time for lunch and for a guided walk around the city. Sights include the cathedral, one of England's most famous public schools, and the legendary 'King Arthur's Round Table'. If time permits we will also visit the last monastery in England where pilgrims may still claim the 'dole'. Overnight near Salisbury.

Day 2 (Thu) Isle of White
The Isle of Wight is a short ferry crossing from Portsmouth and offers fabulous sightseeing opportunities. The jewel in today's crown is Osborne House, Queen Victoria's summer residence. The house and gardens are national treasures. Inside, see how Queen Victoria lived. Take a walk amongst magnolias, Lebanon cedar, azaleas and other in-season blooms in the wonderful 50 acre gardens that sweep to the Swiss Cottage and its garden. A second visit for the day takes us to Mottistone Manor, a garden noted for its colourful herbaceous borders, grassy terraces planted with fruit trees and its sea views. The 16th and 17th-century manor house, lies at the heart of the Mottistone Estate. We'll spend the rest of our day soaking up the atmosphere of this lovely little corner of the British Isles and exploring its coastline and resort towns. Overnight near Salisbury.

Day 3 (Fri) Southwest - London
The magnificent Salisbury Cathedral, with its tall spire and the Magna Carta our early morning focus before we leave to visit Wilton House, one of England's most opulent stately homes. Paintings by the great masters, fine furnishings, fabulous antiques and a wonderful garden set the scene. A guided walk of the Roman fortress of Old Sarum, and a visit to prehistoric Stonehenge are on our agenda today. On the road back to London, we will explore the quaint villages of Hampshire and visit either the Duke of Wellington's country home or view the incredible Stanley Spencer wall murals at Burchclere.

Kingdom of Wessex - 3 days/2 nights Twin Single
Tour Code: WSX    
Departs London: Wednesday
Tour Combination (KENT & WSX): Kent & Wessex
Prices are per person in Australian Dollars.

Tour Include:
  • Accommodation in 3-star country inns, manor houses, farmhouses & family-owned B+Bs, in room with private facilities with half board*
  • Travel in comfortable 6-16 seat mini-coach
  • Services of a driver/guide throughout
  • Sightseeing and entry fees as per itinerary
  • Service charges and taxes
*unless otherwise advised
Note:
A pre-tour passenger pick-up charge of approx. $30 per party applies when London accommodation is other than a hotel nominated by Back Roads Touring and a higher charge applies if your hotel is located outside central London. All passengers are returned to their central London hotel after each tour. Pre & Post Tour accommodation offers available on application.

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