OLD SARUM, SALISBURY CATHEDRAL AND GLASTONBURY
Old Sarum stands as one of the finest surviving Iron Age hillforts in England. Take a walk through the remains of Celt, Roman, Saxon and Norman occupations. There are fine views across Salisbury, the city which replaced it.
Enjoy plenty of time to explore picturesque Salisbury and it's unique Gothic cathedral. One of the most uplifting experiences in English architecture.
Our afternoon is spent in Glastonbury, a landscape entwined with history, imagination and legend.
MORNING
Old Sarum hillfort and Salisbury Cathedral
Old Sarum
Old Sarum is an Iron Age hillfort (400 BC), its huge ramparts built to protect residents and livestock from danger. During the Roman period the hill was continuously occupied and known to the Roman’s as Sorviodunum. From 1070 to c. 1220 it flourished as a Norman stronghold with castle, palace and cathedral. There are fine views across Salisbury, the city which replaced it.
Enjoy plenty of time to explore picturesque Salisbury and it's unique Gothic cathedral. One of the most uplifting experiences in English architecture, Salisbury is unique among the Gothic cathedrals in England in that it was built on a green field site and largely in a single campaign, 1220–58. Completed a century later, the spire at 123m is the tallest medieval structure in Britain. Discover the history and legacy of one of the world's most celebrated documents - the Magna Carta. What did the document say, and how was it interpreted over the next 800 years? Why is it still important today, and how does it affect our culture, laws and rights?
AFTERNOON
Glastonbury
We can enjoy a leisurely walk (optional) up the iconic and evocative landmark of Glastonbury Tor, offering magnificent views of Somerset, Dorset, Wiltshire and Wales. Steeped in history and legend (as the Isle of Avalon), excavations at the top of the Tor have revealed the plans of two churches of St Michael, of which only a 15th-century tower remains. Glastonbury Tor is known as being one of the most spiritual sites in the country, but also hides a gristly past; on the 15 November 1539 Abbot Richard Whiting was hanged, drawn and quartered for treason.
Glastonbury Abbey is connected with legend to a degree that is unparalleled by any other abbey in England. Since Medieval times, the abbey has held legendary status as the earliest Christian foundation in Britain linked to Joseph of Arimathea, the Holy Grail and the burial place of King Arthur. Today, the romantic ruins of the abbey are set in 36 acres of tranquil gardens.
FURTHER DETAILS
Book with confidence
Not included is the admission to sites. This will be added to your personal quotation.
This experience is classed as moderate. However the day can be adapted to suit needs.
Private Transfers
Our in–house team can work closely with you to arrange an expert–led sightseeing private transfer between London and other cities or travel terminals.
From £1195.00 per group
ABSOLUTELY PERFECT
"This tour was absolutely perfect and well worth the money. It was so nice to be able to have an archaeologist to give more information and answer more questions than you’d get from any other tour guide. The inclusion of some of the lesser-known sites was awesome! I learned so much, and I would do this again in a heartbeat!"
WONDERFUL INSIGHTS
"A remarkable day travelling to some of England’s most ancient sites. Edward was our guide and gave us wonderful insights into the history of these monumental structures. Edward was a true teacher: he informed, and inspired further learning and the day flew by. Highly recommend this day tour from London."
HIGHLIGHT OF MY LIFE
“Our first trip to England would not have been complete without a trip to Stonehenge. My husband and I took the tour with our teenage son and my parents. The trip is a highlight of my life. It is positively one of the most amazing experiences we’ve ever had. Tom was terrific. He has so much knowledge."