The West Country is is blessed with some of the most stunning cathedrals in Europe. Let us take you to three of them over the course of a day trip.
Our journey starts at Salisbury Cathedral (construction started in 1220), which just recently celebrated its 750th year anniversary. Made famous by the painting of Constable, it boasts the world's oldest working clock (1386) and the tallest tower in Britain, at 123 metres. Tours of the tower can be arranged for the energetic, if you're keen to handle the 332 steps! The pointed arches supporting the vast windows makes Salisbury Cathedral one of the finest examples of English Gothic architecture in the country. The 6000 ton spire was a later addition, with Sir Christopher Wren helping to support it with structural metalwork. The stunning 13th century Chapter House is home to an original copy of the Magna Carta from 1215 - some say the best copy still in existence. The American constitution and the rights of the individual are based on this charter. The Cathedral is set in the open spaces of the beautiful Close. Former Prime minister Edward Heath had his home here. William Golding taught here. Should the weather cooperate, a gentle stroll around the Close to admire the architecture is always rewarding. Leaving Salisbury we travel west into the Mendips, stopping to visit a delightful rural church before reaching Wells. |
Wells is England’s smallest Cathedral city. Wells Cathedral itself was started in 1175, predating Salisbury by 50 years. The amazing scissor arches, while aesthetically pleasing, were an ingenious engineering solution to prevent the tower from collapsing in the 14th century. Wells was the first cathedral to be constructed in the New Gothic style. The beautiful west front is a testament to the genius of medieval architects. The Jesse windows are a fine example of medieval stained glass.
Adjoining the Cathedral is the Vicars Close (complete with fairy tale-like chimneys), which was built 650 years ago to house the choir. Just next door, the Bishop’s Palace was constructed in 1210 and is surrounded by a moat and ornamental garden. Note the bell-ringing swans that have been resident for 200 years. They are taught how to literally "ring the bell" whenever they want food (although ducks have now learned the trick as well). Finally we drive north past Bristol to the ancient Roman city of Gloucester on the mouth of the Severn river. Gloucester Cathedral is on the site of a 7th century abbey and is a mix of Romanesque and Gothic styles. The fan vaulting of the cloisters are a must see. The Cathedral also houses the ornate tomb of King Edward II, who was murdered mysteriously at nearby Berkeley Castle in 1327. For golfing enthusiasts the stained glass depicts a golfer from 1350. This is the earliest known record of a game thought to have been invented in Bonny Scotland! |
Number of Passengers/ Pick-up Location |
1-4 |
5-6 |
7-8 |
Salisbury |
£340 |
£420 |
£470 |
Bath |
£380 |
£460 |
£510 |
Southampton |
£560 |
£640 |
£690 |
Heathrow |
£590 |
£670 |
£720 |
Central London |
£640 |
£720 |
£770 |
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