I love delivering walking tours of these amazing cities. They’re so different to each other, but each with so many surprises. It’s fascinating to watch everyone’s reaction, especially when seeing the less well-known and sometimes hidden buildings and tucked away streets, and hearing intriguing – sometimes mind-boggling – stories.
While Southampton’s Bargate is definitely a well-known – and well-loved – feature in the city, the extent of the medieval walls and vaults, the previous existence of a royal castle and gothic mansion in the centre of the old city all come as a big surprise. There are the personal stories surrounding the sinking of the Titanic in 1912 – with over 700 of the 900-strong crew having come from Southampton – and the legacy of the city’s Second World War experiences.
Royal associations abound when talking about Winchester, and the country’s previous capital city. Along with the 11th century cathedral and 13th century Great Hall – once part of an imposing strongly defended castle, and now home to the round table of Arthurian legend – there’s the 14th century Winchester College, the ruins of a once sumptuous bishop’s palace, and the last home of 18th century novelist Jane Austen to see.
Salisbury’s history starts with the founding of the Cathedral in 1220 and the curious story of the bishop and the bow and arrow … The importance of the city’s wool trade, the 15th century Doom painting in the church older than the Cathedral, pilgrims’ badges scooped from the canals once earning Salisbury the name ‘Venice of the South’, and a 1483 execution – all stories that help make up the fascinating history of the city.
I offer city and site tours across the South Central region – Hampshire, Dorset and Wiltshire – as well as in Windsor and Eton – and can also tailor tours to specific interests, and so please do get in touch if you’d like more information.
Caroline Wigley 