Winchesters Wonders (Ending At Heathrow Airport)

OVERVIEW

Enjoy an enlightening walk through the historical city of Winchester before exploring the Great Hall of its ancient castle (Great Hall is not included in the tour). As you stand before the Winchester cathedral, the guide will describe its architectural and historical significance. One of Europe’s largest and lengthiest cathedrals, it sits on a sacred site that once held a church from the 7th century. Inside lie the graves of Danish king Canute – who ruled England from Winchester in the early 11th century – and that of beloved novelist Jane Austen, who lived in nearby Chawton. Another highlight is a close-up look at the remains of Winchester Castle, specifically its Great Hall from the 13th century. Now a museum, the Great Hall displays of the round table where King Arthur and his knights supposedly congregated. The table hangs on the wall and dates to medieval times, although King Henry VIII later decorated its center with a Tudor rose.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Behold magnificent Winchester Cathedral, the longest Gothic cathedral in Europe.
• Meander through the outside of the Great Hall of the 13th-century Winchester Castle.
• See a medieval replica of King Arthur’s legendary Round Table.
• Arrive at Heathrow Airport in plenty of time for your flight.

HELPFUL HINTS

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