When Winchester Green Badge Tourist Guide, Lorraine Estelle contacted us to ask about the Paula Moran bench (see 14th November blog), we saw an opportunity to work with a professional to produce a new visitor guide that would cover much more of St. Giles Hill than any of the current guides available. The area is rich in history over many centuries and there is so much more than just the famous viewpoint.
The trails that Lorraine has developed begin by bringing visitors up from the City Bridge by way of St. John’s Street and its 13C church to Joyce Garden, and then continue up to the Ancient Graveyard, a beautiful natural space for contemplation with many fascinating stories.
She points out that morning is the best time to visit for views of the city. On a sunny morning the sun highlights the beautiful historic stone buildings of the Cathedral, Wolvesey Castle, the College chapel and St. Cross. These can disappear in the shadows cast by the setting sun when many come to watch the evening sunset.
The view from St Giles Viewpoint on a sunny morning in Spring. Photo credit: Mike Biden
Lorraine has produced a flexible guide that offers three trails. All begin with the fully accessible trail to the famous viewpoint where the trails divide. The accessibility trail has to return the same way but she offers two others for more able walkers; the Quarry Trail and the Railway Trail. Each has its charms and points of interest.
Her commentary picks up many interesting stories and gives a good account of the historic importance of the area. Many residents will find they learn something new and see things they never knew were here.
You can download the guide from her web site: here
Lorraine also offers private tours which are tailored to clients' individual interests.
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