Magnificent Tudor Athelhampton & the Cerne Abbas Giant
-
Port
Portland, England, United Kingdom
-
Activity Level
Moderate Activity
-
Excursion Type
All
-
Wheelchair Accessible
No
-
Starting At (prices in USD)
$160
-
Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
-
Duration
Approximately 4½ Hours
-
Meals Included
Meals included
Travel through the Dorset countryside and steep chalk downland toward Cerne Abbas, a village in Cerne River valley. Gorgeous and ancient, Cerne Abbas grew up around a great Benedictine abbey founded in AD 987.
The area’s unusual geology lends itself to the making of chalk figures, and just north of the village, you will pass the Cerne Abbas Giant -- or ‘the Rude Man’ as he is often called for reasons that will be quite apparent. This giant hillside carving measures more than 180 feet tall. There are many theories about the giant’s identity, but one common interpretation is that he is a prehistoric or Celtic fertility god or symbol. Questions? Your guide will have all the answers.
Continue to Athelhampton House, steeped in history. The Great Hall lies at the heart of the house, built in 1485. Athelhampton has been dramatically expanded throughout the centuries but remains a fine example of Tudor architecture. You’ll explore the various rooms of the house, including the Great Chamber, the King’s Room, the Library and the Gallery. Out in the gardens, which are a mixture of both formal and woodland landscapes, explore the Great Court, with its striking pyramid-shaped yew trees.
Enjoy a traditional English cream tea before reboarding your motorcoach and returning to Portland.
Please note: The giant of Cerne Abbas is viewed from a distance and is a photo stop only; the giant is often not visible on foggy/rainy days. Weather and atmospheric conditions vary; no guarantee is offered with regard to visibility or views on any particular day. Please note: Wear comfortable walking shoes. Terrain includes uneven surfaces, steep terraces, deep water features, steps, and low branches. Surfaces can be slippery in wet weather. Wear sturdy non-skid walking shoes. Do not pick or eat from the gardens; some plants have sharp thorns and/or are poisonous. Inside the house there are steep stone steps, uneven and slippery floors, other steps not immediately obvious, and low doorways. There is no elevator access to the upper level. Participants must be fit and agile enough to climb many steps. Stewards have visual aids for those unable to manage the stairs. The entrance, visitor center, shop, restrooms, and restaurant are all accessible. Ramps facilitate access to the house and garden; these can be deployed upon request. Suitable for guests using a collapsible wheelchair with a companion to assist. Participants must be able to climb a few steps unassisted to board the transportation. The time at Athelhampton House is unguided; House stewards in the various rooms can answer any questions.