Memorable Mother’s Day Activities in Winchester

March 2011 

Families will find plenty of great activities in Winchester to celebrate Mother’s Day. Whether it’s a tasty meal in stunning surroundings, learning all about British wines, a spot of shopping in luxury boutiques or following in the footsteps of literary heros, there’s something in Winchester to put a smile on any Mum’s face this April.  For more information please see www.visitwinchester.co.uk or call Winchester Tourist Information Centre on 01962 840 500.

A Literary Stroll
Winchester has inspired a number of England’s best loved poets and authors. Keats’ walk follows the poet’s footsteps along the water meadows – a stunning route that inspired his famous ode ‘To Autumn”. Austen fans will want to sample some of the highlights of the “Jane Austin Trail” including her final resting place in Winchester Cathedral and her family home at Chawton House, now a museum to her life’s work.

Lunch at Marwell Hall
Marwell Hall is a beautifully presented grade I listed building situated in the centre of Marwell Wildlife Park. It is offering a three course Sunday lunch menu, sure to keep even the fussiest of mother’s happy. After lunch the whole family can enjoy a trip around Marwell Wildlife Park to spot more than 250 exotic and endangered species animals from lions and tigers to red-eyed tree frogs. 

Wine tasting at Wickham Vineyard
Wickham vineyard is known for producing some of the best wines in the country. Mums can 
discover the pleasures of English wine and experience a taste of the Hampshire countryside during their visit to Wickham. There is also a tasting room and gift shop where visitors can experience the true quality of British wines by enjoying a free tasting session. Expert staff will be on hand to guide guests through the selection and can make recommendations based on personal preferences. Prices for audio tours of the vineyard start at £3.50 for adults and must be booked in advance.

Watercress Line
The popular steam hauled Mid Hants Railway Watercress Line will be running exclusive dining trains for mum to celebrate her special day. Watching the world go by on the classic steam powered train running through the beautiful Hampshire countryside is a relaxing way to spend an afternoon and a memorable experience suitable for the whole family. Lunch on the Watercress Line costs £50 for adults and £45 for children.

Spa Break at Norton Park Hotel
Norton Park Hotel is situated in 54 acres of Hampshire Parkland and is the perfect location for a relaxing Mother’s Day break. Reflections, the onsite Fitness Centre and Spa offers luxurious poolside experiences to fully relax and unwind the body and mind. There’s also a 15m pool, fully equipped gym and beauty suite. The spa offers a full range of treatments with experienced therapists on hand offering a wide range of treatments using Decleor products.

A spot of shopping
Winchester is home to a wide array of unique and interesting boutiques featuring a variety of gifts suitable for Mother’s Day. Cornflowers gift shop, formally Winchester College’s Tuck Shop provides plenty of unique gift ideas. World of Beads offers the chance to get creative and select a truly personalized gift for Mum - choose your beads, design your own piece and have it made up for you within a few days.

For further information or for images, contact:
Sophy Norris or Lewis Shields
Flagship Consulting
01392 860 620.  Sophy.norris@flagshipconsulting.co.uk
0207 886 8440. Lewis.shields@flagshipconsuting.co.uk