EXCURSIONES EN TIERRA

OVERVIEW

Browse a collection of armored vehicles dating to World War I that clearly showcases the significance of tanks in combat over the past century. The British invented the tank in 1915 and following the Great War out-of-service tanks were stored at a military camp in Bovington. It wasn't until the end of World War II that the Tank Museum officially opened there. Today, it houses a multitude of tanks from all over the world, including Little Willie, a prototype designed to cross the trenches that marked the battlefields of World War I. You can expect to see refurnished tanks from every decade and global conflict such as the Allies' all-purpose Sherman and the workhorse German Panzer from World War II. Another highlight is the Centurion, an armored vehicle that was such a quintessential tank that it was used in the Iraq war of 2003, nearly six decades after it was introduced.

HIGHLIGHTS

• See a remarkable collection of restored armored vehicles in the Tank Museum.
• Discover how tank design has evolved since the first tank was used in World War I.
• Learn how tanks have shaped world history with their dominance on the battlefield.
• Hear accounts of soldiers that have operated tanks and faced them in combat.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Enjoy an introductory look at Portland, the wild and naturally beautiful isle that marks the southernmost end of Dorset County's fossil-rich Jurassic Coast. Thanks to the isle's unique geology, creamy limestone created in the Jurassic Period has long been quarried there for buildings such as Buckingham Palace and St. Paul's Cathedral in London and the United Nations headquarters in New York City. You will see that revered Portland stone up close at the Olympic Rings sculpture, which commemorates the 2012 Summer Olympics held in London and the sailing events held in Portland. At the very tip of the isle, you will find the Portland Bill lighthouse, which opened in 1906. During free time there, you might browse the visitor center and climb the 150 or so steps to the top of the beacon. The views from there are spectacle. Later, you will pass St. George's Church, an 18th-century landmark built with Portland stone.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Settle in for a panoramic drive around the wild and wonderful isle of Portland.
• Snap photos of the Olympics Rings statue created to honor the 2012 Summer Olympics.
• Spend free time exploring the Portland Bill lighthouse at the isle’s rocky southern tip.
• See St. George’s Church, which was built in the 18th century with Portland limestone.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Explore the intriguing site of Stonehenge, one of the most intriguing and ancient sites in England. Situated on a vast plain, the site is truly impressive - shrouded in magic and mystery.

Many believe this sacred site emanates a special atmosphere. Radiocarbon dating reveals this incredible monument was built around 5,000 years ago, during the Neolithic period. Although research tells us how Stonehenge was built, it is unable to tell us what its builders thought and believed, and remains one of the most enthralling mysteries in the world!

The question of who built Stonehenge remains largely unanswered although many attribute the monument to the Druids. Your guide will provide explanations and enable you to view the impressive stones up-close as well as provide you with some time to go to the visitor's centre.

For those who prefer to spend a relaxing time in tune with nature, this combination of swannery and gardens is perfect for you. Abbotsbury Swannery is the only place in the world where you are able to walk through the heart of a colony of nesting Mute Swans. The Swannery was established by Benedictine Monks who built a monastery at Abbotsbury and farmed swans to produce food for their lavish banquets. St. Peter's monastery was destroyed in 1539, but some of the ruins are still visible around St. Nicholas' Church in the village. From mid-May to late June, hundreds of fluffy cygnets hatch from eggs in nests on or near the pathways.

Visit Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens, established in 1765 by the first Countess of Ilchester as a kitchen garden for her nearby castle. The gardens have been developed since then into a magnificent 20 acres filled with rare and exotic plants from all over the world. Many of these plants were first introductions to this country, discovered by the plant hunting descendants of the countess. The garden is now a mixture of formal and informal, with charming walled garden walks and spectacular woodland valley views. It is world famous for its Camellia Groves and Magnolias, noted for its Rhododendron and Hydrangea collections.

One of Britain's most iconic castles and the charming little village of Corfe are the highlights of this half day tour. Enjoy a scenic drive through the delightful countryside of Dorset County to the village of Corfe. Nearly all periods of history are celebrated in and around the village, which is unequalled in the UK.

Visit the ruins of Corfe Castle - the structure has been an important stronghold since before the time of William the Conqueror and was a royal castle during the medieval period. The dramatic ruins stand on a natural hill guarding the principal route through the Purbeck hills where marble was once quarried. Discover 1,000 years of history as a royal palace and fortress. With fallen walls and secret places, there are tales of treachery and treason around every corner.

After visiting the castle you'll have time at leisure to explore the lovely little village. You'll find small shops and pubs around the square. Much of the present day village was built in the 1700's to a consistently high standard of craftsmanship and has been used as the backdrop for several historical films.