CHRISTCHURCH & THE NEW FOREST – Christchurch’s 11th century Priory is Britain’s longest parish church, and it also has the country’s two oldest bells dating from 1370. We continue along the back roads and byways of the New Forest, via Burley to Lyndhurst. Ponies, donkeys, deer, cattle and occasionally pigs still roam freely in the unspoilt woodland, heath and marshland.
POOLE, PURBECK HILLS & SWANAGE - To Poole to explore the historic quay area, then via the Sandbanks ferry to Studland and on to Swanage. Situated in a sandy bay surrounded by low hills Swanage is a rather ‘select’ resort with a good yacht harbour and attractive old houses. Returning via Corfe Castle, we glimpse the enormous 12th century castle ruins which stand proudly overlooking the village.

ADDITIONAL EXCURSION
Included on 7 day tours
WEYMOUTH & PORTLAND PENINSULA – We drive to the seaside resort of Weymouth, where after exploring its curved promenade, sandy beach and harbour we journey to the Isle of Portland. Linked to the mainland by Chesil Bank this peninsula is famous for its local stone, which was mined for the building of St Paul’s Cathedral. Portland Castle, built by Henry VIII, is now a museum documenting this powerful monarch’s defensive forts. At the very tip of the island is Portland Bill, with three lighthouses and a bird watching station (admissions not included).