Stunning South Downs, Historical Portsmouth And The Isle Of Wight

Itinerary

Itinerary

Day 1: We depart Kent and make our way to Hampshire; along the way, we will stop in Guildford, a riverside town in the heart of Surrey. Guildford boasts a stunning High Street with beautiful architecture and fabulous shops. There will be free time to explore this historical town centre and take a welcome break at one of the many coffee shops or restaurants. We will continue on to Winchester and our hotel, arriving in plenty of time to relax and freshen up before dinner.

Day 2: After breakfast this morning we travel to Portsmouth for a fascinating day of discovery and exploration. Home to world class attractions, a great creative and cultural offer, plus fabulous places to eat and drink, Portsmouth offers a perfect day out. Our day includes the Ultimate Explorer ticket for Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, which includes nine attractions, offering full-day access to three ships, three submarines, and as many museums. Get below deck in the Cold War submarine HMS Alliance, dive deeper into the extraordinary story of the Mary Rose and explore the only surviving ship from WWI Gallipoli Campaign. Alternatively, you may wish to visit Gunwharf Quays to shop at over 90 premium designer outlets or why not head to Southsea which has something for everyone; from unique independent shops, boutiques and restaurants, to wide open spaces and seafront attractions including the D-Day Story museum and The Blue Reef Aquarium.

Day 3: Today we enjoy a full day guided coach tour of the stunning South Downs. Rising from the valley of the River Itchen near Winchester to Beachy Head near Eastbourne, this beautiful area is characterised by rolling chalk downs and deep valleys with views over the wooded heaths, farmland of the Sussex Weald and glimpses of shimmering water. A landscape rich in folklore and legend, inspiring generations of writers artists and storytellers. Our tour includes stops in the historic Roman city of Chichester, Arundel with its magnificent cathedral, and the pretty Georgian market town of Petersfield.

Day 4: We take the short ferry crossing from Portsmouth to the Isle of Wight, with plenty of time to enjoy our full day visiting this popular tourist destination.  Known for its diverse landscapes, stunning coastline, charming villages and historic sites you will be spoiled for choice. You can choose to spend your day making the most of this beautiful destination at your leisure or alternatively join us on a full day island tour. Our tour will include Shanklin Old Village where you will see some of the oldest dwellings on the island and Shanklin Chine; the stunning tree lined gorge cutting its way from the Old Village to the sandy beach and esplanade far below. Our tour would not be complete without a visit to Alum Bay famous for its coloured sand and the iconic landmark of The Needles as well as Godsill, with its delightful medieval church, charming thatched-roofed cottages and a winding main-street lined with traditional tearooms. 

Day 5: After breakfast this morning we begin our journey home.

Norton Park Hotel, Spa & Manor House, Winchester

Isle of Wight

Accommodation

Norton Park Hotel, Spa & Manor House, Winchester

Norton Park is set within its own 54 acres of parkland in rural Hampshire, a short distance from Winchester. The warm and welcoming restaurant is located on the first floor and there is a stylish bar and lounge. All rooms are en-suite with TV, tea & coffee making facilities, hairdryer, air conditioning, iron & ironing board and free Wi-Fi. 

Leisure facilities include an indoor swimming pool, gym, Jacuzzi, sauna, steam room and spa. There is a lift at the hotel.