10 Historical & Heritage Tours in Hampshire That You Shouldn't Miss

January 14, 2022 Sheron Bogner

Discover the best top things to do in Hampshire, United Kingdom including Transfer from Southampton to London via Oxford and Blenheim Palace, HMS Victory, Mary Rose & Portsmouth Historic Dockyard - Private Tour From London, Jane Austen's House Museum and Historic Winchester: Private Tour from London, Downton Abbey and the Cotswolds, Highclere Castle and Downton Abbey Film locations Day Tour from Southampton, 3 Day West Country Private Tour, Bath and Stonehenge Day Tour from Southampton, London & Heathrow to Southampton cruise terminals via Winchester, Winchester Literary Walk, Private Downton Abbey with Castle Taxi Tour.
Restaurants in Hampshire

1. Transfer from Southampton to London via Oxford and Blenheim Palace

Undiscovered Cotswolds
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

Avoid a long wait at the taxi rank or the stress of navigating public transport with this chauffeur driver private transfer from Southampton cruise terminal to London via Oxford and Blenheim Palace. Book this private transfer and your driver will collect you from Southampton cruise terminal or nearby accommodation and transfer you to central London or London Heathrow via Oxford and Blenheim Palace. The transfer includes a private guided tour around Oxford and includes pre-booked admission into Blenheim Palace giving you fast-track entrance.

Inclusions: One-way private transport in a modern comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, Southampton port pick up and hotel drop off in central London or Heathrow Airport, Professional local guide/driver, Tickets to Blenheim Palace

Exclusions: Entrance fees to other attractions, Food or refreshments, Gratuities

Reviewed By mptaylor11

Our family had a wonderful time exploring Oxford and the Cotswolds with Graham, whom we found to be very knowledgable and friendly. The tour was well structured but also left enough flexibility for us to explore our specific interests. It felt like we were traveling with an old friend rather than someone we had just met. This was time well spent that provided us with fond memories from our family vacation.

2. HMS Victory, Mary Rose & Portsmouth Historic Dockyard - Private Tour From London

Richard's Tours
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5.0 based on 3 reviews

A private and bespoke tour direct from your London accommodation with a personal Driver and Guide. Portsmouth Historic Dockyard contains a collection of some of the worlds most historic ships - HMS Victory, Flagship to Admiral Nelson at the Battle of Trafalgar. The Mary Rose - King Henry VIII War Ship recovered from the sea in 1982, a time capsule of Tudor life. And not forgetting HMS Warrior the formidable Iron Clad that saw the end of the age of sail. All this, plus museums containing personal possessions of Admiral Nelson, and the history of the Royal Navy and life at Sea. Portsmouth is still home to the British Navy and the harbour boat tour will give you an insight into her current vessels. • Bespoke & Private Tour At Your Pace • Go on board HMS Victory and learn it's amazing History • Brand New Visitor Centre for Mary Rose • Learn all about the British Navy • Harbour Boat Cruise of Portsmouth

Inclusions: Driver/guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Private tour, Transport by private vehicle

Exclusions: Food and drinks

Reviewed By 512divines

I'm really glad I booked with Richard's Tours and certainly wasn't dissapointed! I had other things on in the morning so with short notice, Richard responded to agree a meet in the afternoon and he was bang on time. He was presentable, amiable and down to earth. It was immediately obvious that he was very keen to share his well researched knowledge, which was reassuring given that having paid for a private tour, I was getting a lot more than an off the shelf group tour (from what others have described to me). Born a Londoner and more than familiar with the area, he regularly checked that the tour pace was comfortable to ensure I was happy with the 3 hour route. He was very helpful with fotos and encouraged questions and discussions on this still mysterious subject, which is pretty clear that he's personally interested in, so much so that in the short time, not only did I acquire a lot of knowledge, but he's actually perked my own interest in Jack The Ripper! Although some parts of the area are still dodgy, I felt completely at ease being with Richard, who increasingly came across as more of a friendly local rather than a tour guide, and despite the atrocious weather, the 3 hours passed well beyond my expectations given his abilities - so excellent value for money. In conclusion, I should add that I'm also from London, but Richard's Tours aren't just for tourists, so if you're short on time and want a knowledgeable host, then Richard Chambers is your man. I, for one, will be checking out his other tours!

3. Jane Austen's House Museum and Historic Winchester: Private Tour from London

Richard's Tours
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5.0 based on 8 reviews

Take a fully private and bespoke tour from London to the home of Jane Austen in the heart of Hampshire. Then explore the beautiful historic city of Winchester, England's ancient capital, home to King Arthur's round table and the magnificent Cathedral.  Visit the place where Jane Austen revised her drafts of Pride and Prejudice and Sense and Sensibility, and the very rooms in which she wrote Mansfield Park and Emma. Then wander the streets of Winchester, and view the humble and often missed cottage where Jane spent her final days with her sister Cassandra. We will also have time to visit your choice of either Winchester Cathedral or The Great Hall containing King Arthur's Round Table. • Private Tour & Vehicle • Jane Austen's House & Village of Chawton • Historic Winchester Tour • Visit King Arthur's Round Table or Winchester Cathedral • All Entry Fees, Transport & Hotel Pick Up

Inclusions: Driver/guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Private tour, Transport by private vehicle

Exclusions: Food and drinks

Reviewed By 512divines

I'm really glad I booked with Richard's Tours and certainly wasn't dissapointed! I had other things on in the morning so with short notice, Richard responded to agree a meet in the afternoon and he was bang on time. He was presentable, amiable and down to earth. It was immediately obvious that he was very keen to share his well researched knowledge, which was reassuring given that having paid for a private tour, I was getting a lot more than an off the shelf group tour (from what others have described to me). Born a Londoner and more than familiar with the area, he regularly checked that the tour pace was comfortable to ensure I was happy with the 3 hour route. He was very helpful with fotos and encouraged questions and discussions on this still mysterious subject, which is pretty clear that he's personally interested in, so much so that in the short time, not only did I acquire a lot of knowledge, but he's actually perked my own interest in Jack The Ripper! Although some parts of the area are still dodgy, I felt completely at ease being with Richard, who increasingly came across as more of a friendly local rather than a tour guide, and despite the atrocious weather, the 3 hours passed well beyond my expectations given his abilities - so excellent value for money. In conclusion, I should add that I'm also from London, but Richard's Tours aren't just for tourists, so if you're short on time and want a knowledgeable host, then Richard Chambers is your man. I, for one, will be checking out his other tours!

4. Downton Abbey and the Cotswolds

Oxford Visitor Information Centre, 15-16 Broad St, Oxford OX1 3AS, UK Cotswold Exploring
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5.0 based on 3 reviews

Take a trip back in time to the set of Downton Abbey on our full-day tour to Highclere Castle and the Cotswolds.  Our tour departs from Oxford and takes you first to Highclere Castle,  the splendid home of the Earl and Countess of Carnarvon.  You have a chance to visit the castle and see where the filming took place and also to visit the beautiful castle grounds.  We then take you to the delightful village of Bampton which was the backdrop for the village of Downton.  Enjoy lunch in the Swan pub at Swinbrook and then an enchanting drive stopping in some of the quaint villages of the North Cotswolds before returning to Oxford.

Inclusions: Blue Badge guide, Live commentary on board, Bottled water, Entrance ticket to Highclere Castle, Pick up from North Oxford Hotels on request , Pick up from Oxford Station on request

Exclusions: Lunch

Reviewed By jennifercF805IS

My husband and I recently went on the half day Cotswolds taster tour and had an incredible time! The tour began with the introduction of our two fab guides who were so knowledgable and friendly. They greeted us wearing face masks and shields which put us at ease right away. They greeted me by name as well, impressive! We met them on Broad street which has some cafes that open early so make sure to grab one to go. We are local to Oxford but don’t have a car and this was perfect for a day out of the city to see the country. We sat socially distant from the guides and they even had sanitiser and water on hand if we needed it. They opened the door for us and kept themselves socially distant which was important. They were very professional and got to know us so they could customise the tour a bit to show us more churches and schools which we were interested in. I really loved our first stop at Minster Lovell and my favourite spot was Bourton on the Water. We will be going back to those places for sure. They definitely have more to see including historic sights and shops in those two places. Honestly the day was perfect and we felt like VIPs. This was the best half day taster tour and we are already planning to go again once restrictions are lifted. We even gave our families and friends their contact to book tours because we were so impressed. Fantastic driving Dave and Ed was so knowledgable about the area. Great communication with us pre tour and post. Thanks so much and definitely worth booking!

5. Highclere Castle and Downton Abbey Film locations Day Tour from Southampton

Undiscovered Cotswolds
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

Immerse yourself in the world of Downton Abbey by visiting real-life filming locations.  Departing from Southampton, this tour takes you to Bampton, the village featured as Downton, Cogges Manor Farm which became Yew Tree Farm, and the real Downton Abbey at the magnificent Highclere Castle.

Inclusions: Professional local guide/driver, Transportation in a modern comfortable air-conditioned vehicle., Southampton hotel/port pickup and drop-off, Private tour, Entrance tickets to Highclere Castle & Cogges Manor Farm

Exclusions: Entrance fees to other attractions, Food or refreshments, Gratuities

Reviewed By mptaylor11

Our family had a wonderful time exploring Oxford and the Cotswolds with Graham, whom we found to be very knowledgable and friendly. The tour was well structured but also left enough flexibility for us to explore our specific interests. It felt like we were traveling with an old friend rather than someone we had just met. This was time well spent that provided us with fond memories from our family vacation.

6. 3 Day West Country Private Tour

Bath Insider Tours
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5.0 based on 2 reviews

This 3 day private tour gives a fantastic experience of the attractions in the West of England whilst spending 2 nights in the beautiful city of Bath. The tour starts with your pick-up from the port/hotel at Southampton and includes a drop-off at the end of the tour for your next destination. Places visited include: Stonehenge, the beautiful UNESCO World Heritage City of Bath, the Roman Baths, Wells - England's smallest city, the birth-place of the Cheddar Cheese and stunning countryside & villages. Accommodation is not included. Please contact Bath Insider Tours if you would like recommendations or assistance with your accommodation.

Inclusions: Private 3 day tour with local guide, All admission prices (Stonehenge, Roman Baths, Wells Cathedral), Private transportation in air-conditioned vehicle, Cruise ship/hotel pick up from Southampton, Private transfer to your next destination (within 3 hours drive of Bath)

Exclusions: 2 nights accommodation in Bath, Food and drinks, Gratuities

Reviewed By Shirley S

Without doubt one of the most informative tours I’ve had by a tour guide. To give context to the reason we went to Bath was my Mum was one of 5 children who lived in Bath in WW2. She was 6 years of age at the time and all her sisters and brother shared their experience of the Bath Blitz to our family and her grandchildren. As i was visiting my sister who lives down near Bath, and our cousin. This was a huge surprise for my Mam, as My sister had contacted Daniel to tell him of where she used to live. Daniel went to the trouble of taking us to where she lived, and had even contacted a neighbour who lived near my Mum and the gentleman kindly shared some pictures of the property before it was demolished due to the bombings. From beginning to end, the vast knowledge and information he shared with us was not a tour, it was an experience. His friendly approach and engaging manner made this a day for my Mum and myself and Cousin a day to remember. Nothing was too much trouble and his wit and vocal tone were perfect, you will never tire of listening to him and the history of this beautiful city. I was not sure what to expect from the day and as an avid shopper, even I was NOT interested in shopping with exception of The Fudge Kitchen as I had mentioned my colleagues had “hinted” that they love it. Daniel took us, to the shop and we were not disappointed! I am sure my colleagues will be disappointed as the fudge certainly won’t be travelling back to Durham as I will have eaten it before I go back. I’ve learned so much today and to see my Mums face and engagement with Daniel will be a day none of us will ever forget. Thank you so much for such a very special afternoon.

7. Bath and Stonehenge Day Tour from Southampton

Undiscovered Cotswolds
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

Explore some of England’s most beautiful and historical sights on this full-day trip from Southampton.  Take time out from your cruise vacation to discover the delights of Bath and Stonehenge. Spend the morning in Bath, a UNESCO-listed city famed for its Georgian architecture, Roman Baths and connection with Jane Austen. Then, travel to the prehistoric stone circle of Stonehenge.

Inclusions: Professional local guide/driver, Transportation in a modern comfortable air-conditioned vehicle., Southampton hotel/port pickup and drop-off, Entrance tickets to the Roman Baths & Stonehenge, This is a private tour

Exclusions: Entrance fees to other attractions, Food or refreshments, Gratuities

Reviewed By mptaylor11

Our family had a wonderful time exploring Oxford and the Cotswolds with Graham, whom we found to be very knowledgable and friendly. The tour was well structured but also left enough flexibility for us to explore our specific interests. It felt like we were traveling with an old friend rather than someone we had just met. This was time well spent that provided us with fond memories from our family vacation.

8. London & Heathrow to Southampton cruise terminals via Winchester

International Friends
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5.0 based on 3 reviews

Make the most out of your time in England, and combine your door to door transfer from London to Southampton cruise terminals with a visit to Winchester. This service is available on all dates (April to November) when Royal Caribbean, Oceania, NCL, Celebrity, Azamara, Cunard & Princess cruise ships are visiting Southampton. This service is also available to passengers on other ships when dates and arrival times coincide with those listed.

Inclusions: Door to door service directly to the cruise ship , Collection from any London city centre hotel/Airbnb property/selected Heathrow Airport hotels, Travel by luxury coach , Entry to Winchester Cathedral included, Services of a tour manager for the duration of the tour

Exclusions: Food and drink, Gratuities

Reviewed By 322patw

We had booked with International Friends for our excursion after our big trans Atlantic cruise in June of 2020. Of course due to the pandemic, that cruise was cancelled. Of all the vendors we worked with International Friends is the only one that was responsive and worked with us to rebook for June of 2021. We lost a lot of money on other bookings because I didn’t realize they had a no refund policy. So now due to the continuing pandemic, our June 2021 cruise has been cancelled and of all our bookings International Friends is the only one that is working with us for a refund. We didn’t rebook another cruise because we don’t know what is going to happen. When we do we will be using International Friends for all of our London excursions, I have learned my lesson! I highly recommend them!

9. Winchester Literary Walk

Winchester SO23 8TJ, UK Walsh Tours
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4.9 based on 17 reviews

What do King Arthur, Sherlock Holmes, Thomas Hardy, John Keats, and Jane Austen, all have in common? They all have literary connections to Winchester.  Literary walk of the literary richness of Winchester. Groups limited to 6 in keeping with UK guidelines Tour Starting Point: Outside Winchester Train Station, beside Taxi Stand

Inclusions: Photography

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Reviewed By scottcM8638IP

Bryan was an enthusiastic and pleasant tour guide, who didnt just cover Secrets of the Titanic but other aspects of maritime history in Southampton. if you walk round Southampton before the tour, you may notice one or two sights linked with Titanic but Bryans tour will certainly reveal far more than you could have imagined. - Thank You once again Bryan.

10. Private Downton Abbey with Castle Taxi Tour

Marble Arch, London W1H 7EJ, UK Capital Taxi Tours
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4.9 based on 37 reviews

Discover ‘Downton Abbey’ filming sites on a tour by an iconic form of London transport: a black cab. As a private guide drives, learn about the lives of the fictional Crawley family from the hit TV series, and hear about Britain’s present-day aristocracy, too. The must-do tour is available with a choice of three itineraries, each inspired by the program. Visit the Downton village of Bampton; check out Downton Place, aka Greys Court; or tour Highclere Castle, the home of 'Downton Abbey.' The Iconic black cabs seat a maximum of five people. New to the tour we now have the Electric Taxis that can take 6 people

Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off, Transport by black taxi, Private guide, Air-conditioned vehicle, Bottled water

Exclusions: Afternoon tea, Food and drinks, Gratuities, All Entry Fees, CASTLE ENTRY FEES

Reviewed By Niko_703

Vietimme unohtumattoman päivän oppaamme Richard Liddlen kanssa, Downtown abbeyn kuvauspaikoilla ja highclere linnassa. Vaikka yksityinen kierros on kalliimpi kuin ryhmämatkat, niin tämä todellakin kokemisen ja rahan arvoinen. Tästä matkasta tuli meille unohtumaton kokemus. Vahva suositus ja iso kiitos oppaallemme. We spent an unforgettable day with our guide Richard Liddle, the filming locations of Downtown Abbey and Highclere Castle. Private tour is more expensive than group trips, but this experience worth it. The trip became an unforgettable experience for us. Strong recommendation and many thanks to Richard.

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