Itinerary
Day One
Settle in, reading through your route notes. Following tea, you may like to participate in Evensong at the Cathedral at 5.00pm. See your notes for recommended dining options.
Day Two
Start today’s walk from Salisbury Cathedral, its landmark spire the tallest in Britain, visible for miles and guiding travellers into the city. Walk through the City out on to footpaths to Clarendon Park and the ruins of Clarendon Palace. This was once a favourite royal hunting lodge for Norman kings and particularly beloved by Henry II. It was then expanded by the Plantagenets into a great country house. Cross from Wiltshire into Hampshire, joining the course of the Roman Road on another long-distance path, the Monarch’s Way. Continue in the footsteps of the Romans to finally descend into the village of Broughton with its ancient well and dovecote. Taxi back to Salisbury and your hotel. (11 miles)
Day Three
Starting the day at the village of Broughton, head out on to a lovely country lane leading to the village of Houghton. Here, cross the River Test, Hampshire’s longest and finest chalk stream. King's Somborne, your next village, is mentioned in the Domesday Survey, a perfect place for a lunch break at the local hostelry. Another wooded section through ancient Parnholt Woods follows. The next highlight is Farley Mount Country Park with wonderful views across the valley from the highest point. Finally descend to your awaiting taxi for transport back to Salisbury. (8 miles)
Day Four
Your route will take you past Danebury Iron Age Hill Fort, 2,500 years old. Enjoy more spectacular views before reaching Oliver’s Battery overlooking Winchester, once used as a camp by Oliver Cromwell during the Civil War. Cross the water meadows, pass the only surviving mill in Winchester and admire the attractive almshouses. Finish at the beautiful Winchester cathedral, the final resting place of Jane Austen. There will be time to explore a little of Winchester, visit its magnificent cathedral and, of course, finish with a cream tea! (3 miles)