This quaint Tudor-style museum contains a minstrel's gallery, creaky floorboards, old kitchens and one of Henry VIII's cannons, among thousands of other artifacts. It also allegedly contains the ghost of Anne Boleyn, who stayed here with Henry when the house was owned by Sir Richard Lyster, Lord Chief Justice of England. There is a replica Tudor-style garden at the back featuring a mulberry tree planted by Huguenots in 1570 that drips with fruit in the summer. On sunny days the garden is full of scented herbs and flowers, making it perfect for some quiet contemplation.
Jane Austen's House Museum is a must-see for literary buffs. Jane Austen moved here from Southampton in 1809 and began writing again, revising Sense and Sensibility, Pride and Prejudice and Mansfield Park. You can see where Jane wrote, sewed, made wine and enjoyed gardening. Her music book, a dress she wore, a quilt she stitched and the work table where she wrote her books are all on display. You can also see her donkey carriage - the door still creaks out a warning, as it did when Jane hastily hid her writing from visitors.
Solent Sky - Hall of Aviation is a must-see for aviation buffs and a great tribute to one of Southampton's heroes, R J Mitchell, the designer of the legendary Spitfire, which was built in Southampton. Exhibits at the museum include a real Sandringham flying boat, a Spitfire and 13 other aircraft, plus masses of photos, models and engines. After taking in the exhibitions, why not stroll across to Ocean Village for a look at the yachts.
This stunning Anglican cathedral, boasting the longest nave in entire Europe, is the centerpiece of the historic Medieval town of Winchester. Built in a Romanesque style, the Winchester Cathedral is steeped in a storied past that began with the original Saxon church, a Benedictine monastery dating back to 648. The erstwhile church was home to the remains of Saint Swithun, the then bishop of Winchester. When the cathedral was expanded in 971, and later re-built in 1079, the Saint's remains were moved inside, inviting a wave of pilgrims and devotees. During the Middle Ages, the cathedral underwent extensive renovation as successive bishops added their own architectural nuances and elements, which included the fabled Gothic nave. As the years passed, the imposing cathedral became further renowned for several historic elements like the transept and the Norman crypt, both venerated remnants of the 11th Century. At the heart of this crypt, which floods intermittently in the winter, is a sculpture that stoically stands in rising water. Its other outstanding treasures include the Winchester Bible, which was written in the cathedral's scriptorium between 1160 and 1180, and a 17th-century library that contains ancient manuscripts and early printed books from Medieval times. Jane Austen, acclaimed English novelist, is buried here, besides the entombed remains of several Saxon kings, Viking conqueror Canute, and William II.
Regarded as one of the tallest edifices of the United Kingdom, the Spinnaker Tower soars at a height of 170 meters (560 feet)! Offering views from its three decks, the tower offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the Portsmouth harbor, the Isle of Wight and the South Coast. During the day, you can stand amazed at the glittering views of the sea. As dawn sets in, the Spinnaker Tower offers spectacular views of sparkling lights. Besides offering breathtaking views of the sea, the Spinnaker Tower also serves as an event space for private functions, corporate events, and concerts.
This museum in Southsea is dedicated to D-Day, the world's largest-ever seaborne invasion. Visitors are treated to the famous Overlord Embroidery, together with several fascinating audio-visual presentations and are provided with an insight into the everyday sights and sounds of wartime Britain. Examples of British military equipment and vehicles are on display, along with the personal memories of those who lived through the experience of the invasion.
The Hythe Pier Railway is one of the world's oldest operational public pier railway running along a thin wooden strip along the English coast. It has been shuttling seagoing commuters from ship to shore since 1909. Initially it was hand driven and later replaced by two miniature electric locomotives in 1922. In present times it is used to transport locals and tourists across the estuary. The trains leaves for the shore-side station every half-an-hour and coincides with the ferry timings. Tourists who want to enjoy the train ride can buy the train-only tickets and experience the 20th-century travel in modern times.
Owned by the Romsey Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society, Plaza Theatre Green Room situated in Hampshire is a performing arts theater that is popular amongst the fans of performing arts in the city. This theater featuring a modest stage, comfortable raked seating, and excellent acoustics is ideal for hosting intimate theatrical productions, operas, concerts, and musicals among many others. The excellent amenities and reasonable rental rates make this popular among those looking for a venue to host their special, private and corporate events in the city.
Set in the heart of the New Forest National Park, Furzey Gardens is a tranquil getaway. Home to an azure lake, sensory and heather gardens and an extensive collection of azaleas and rhododendrons, the garden is a haven for families, nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. For the younger visitors, the park offers plentiful secret paths and play log cabins. A restored forest cottage here, which is thought to date back to 1560, houses an original fireback, luring droves of history buffs here. An intriguing art and crafts gallery, a heartwarming plant shop and an inviting café also awaits visitors here. Established in 1922, the garden is home to the historic Furzey House, which is reckoned as the largest thatched cottage in the forest.
A library under the Bournemouth Libraries organization, the Kinson Library serves the local community by providing a facility where knowledge and information are easily accessible. You will find a vast collection of books on a range of subjects available to you and waiting to be leased. The library also has various community-centric activities that are a balanced blend of entertainment as well as education. For further information please see the website or contact the library.