Winchester Christmas Market & Watercress Line Steam Illuminations

Itinerary

Day 1

After joining your coach this morning, head to the pretty city of Salisbury before joining the magical Watercress Line Steam Illumination train ride through Hampshire. Then continue on to Southampton for your comfortable overnight hotel, conveniently located in the heart of the city.

Day 2

After a hearty breakfast, board your coach and head to the medieval city of Winchester to enjoy the wonderful Christmas Market in a stunning location. Set in the grounds of the historic cathedral, discover over 100 pretty wooden chalets offering excellent quality specialist goods and festive treats. Have time at leisure to wander the city, explore the market and enjoy a festive bite to eat at one of the many stalls, cafes or restaurants on offer. Rejoin your coach in the afteernoon for your journey home, full of festive cheer and memories.

Winchester Christmas Market

INCLUDED Visitor Destination

From its relatively modest beginnings, the Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market now attracts visitors from around the globe each year and has achieved a reputation as being amongst the very best in Europe. Within the stunning surroundings of the Cathedral’s historic Inner and Outer Close you’ll find over 100 attractive wooden chalets brimming with goodies. The stallholders are individually selected by the Cathedral’s in-house team to ensure superior quality, uniqueness and that a wide range of products are available. There’s a strong emphasis on British and artisan amongst the stallholders. Look out for Hampshire’s finest cheese and sourdough toasties – these alone are reason to return regularly! With the dramatic medieval architecture as a backdrop, it’s an idyllic setting at any time of day, but it really comes into its own after twilight when the Cathedral is lit up and a warm glow radiates from the market stalls.

For further information on Winchester Christmas Market, click here (opens in new window)

Winchester itself is an unspoilt cathedral city on the edge of the rolling South Downs, and is England's ancient capital and former seat of King Alfred the Great. Aside from the fabulous eleventh century Cathedral, it is most well-known for its Great Hall, which for over 700 years has housed the mysterious King Arthur's Round Table. Popular for its bustling shopping streets, the many bars, traditional pubs and restaurants make eating out a pleasure, and there are pretty riverside walks past tranquil water meadows.

For further information on Winchester, click here (opens in new window)

Tour includes

• 1 night hotel with English breakfast
• Visit to Salisbury
• Ride on the Watercress Line Steam Illuminations
• Visit to Winchester Christmas Market
• Direct Coach Travel
• Net Zero Carbon

Salisbury at Christmas

INCLUDED Visitor Destination

The lovely medieval cathedral city of Salisbury in Wiltshire is transformed into a magical wonderland at Christmas. Across the whole of the city centre, visitors will discover Salisbury's medieval streets festooned with beautiful decorations. The magical lighting offers the perfect backdrop to follow the family-festive trail and peruse the 180+ independent shops.

Salisbury is the City of Stars this Christmas. Salisbury’s magic medieval streets come alive with cheer and merriment with around 30 covered Christmas stalls in the Guildhall Square.

With time to also see some of the city's highlights, you may enjoy an atmospheric visit to the remarkable Cathedral Church which is home to Britain's tallest church spire, oldest working clock and an original copy of the Magna Carta!

For further information on Salisbury, click here (opens in new window)

Watercress Line Steam Illuminations

The Watercress Line Steam Illuminations offer a truly magical festive experience and are a highlight of the Christmas season in Hampshire. Step aboard a beautifully restored heritage steam train that has been transformed with thousands of colourful lights, festive music and special effects, creating an unforgettable atmosphere from the moment you take your seat.

As the steam train sets off through the Hampshire countryside, the carriages glow with sparkling illuminations, bringing Christmas cheer to life in a wonderfully nostalgic setting. The gentle motion of the train, combined with twinkling lights and seasonal sounds, makes this a relaxing yet uplifting experience for visitors of all ages.

The Steam Illuminations are a perfect blend of tradition and festive fun, celebrating the charm of classic rail travel while adding a modern Christmas twist. It’s an experience designed to delight, whether you’re visiting as a couple, with friends or as part of a festive group.

With friendly volunteers, beautifully decorated carriages and the unique romance of steam travel, the Watercress Line Steam Illuminations capture the spirit of Christmas in a way few attractions can. It’s a joyful, heart-warming journey that leaves guests smiling and full of festive cheer long after the train returns to the platform.

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Accommodation

Novotel Southampton

The 4-Star Novotel Southampton offers modern comfort and a convenient city-centre location, making it an excellent base for a relaxed and enjoyable short break. Designed with comfort in mind, the hotel provides a welcoming atmosphere and well-equipped facilities, ideal for unwinding after a day of exploring.

Guest rooms are bright, spacious and thoughtfully designed, offering comfortable beds, modern bathrooms and all the essentials needed for a restful stay. Public areas are stylish and inviting, giving you plenty of space to relax, socialise or enjoy a quiet drink. Each morning, a generous breakfast is served, with a wide selection of hot and cold options to suit all tastes – the perfect way to start the day.

The hotel’s central location means you’re close to Southampton’s shops, restaurants and waterfront, while also being well placed for visiting nearby historic cities and festive destinations. On-site facilities include a restaurant and bar, as well as leisure amenities that add extra comfort to your stay.

Whether you’re visiting as part of a festive break or a short city escape, the Novotel Southampton combines convenience, comfort and modern style. With friendly service and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s a dependable and comfortable choice for guests looking to enjoy their break with ease and peace of mind.

For more information on this hotel, please follow this LINK

Hotel location

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