Our journey begins with three impressive monuments that witnessed key events in England's history.

King John's Castle in North Warnborough is a fascinating castle ruin dating back to the 13th century that attracts tourists with its mysterious atmosphere. Although only the walls remain, their nearly 1,000-year history is very impressive. The castle is located in a picturesque area, and a walk along the canal to the ruins is a real pleasure for the whole family. Pay attention to the information boards, which introduce the history of the place. Admission is free, which is a bonus, but parking is limited, so consider walking from a nearby village.

The next point on our trip is The Great Hall in Winchester, which is the heart of medieval Winchester Castle. This place is most famous for the legendary 'King Arthur's Round Table' that hangs on the wall of the hall. Although it is actually a medieval replica, the hall itself is an authentic example of 13th-century architecture. For just £4 (price verified in 2023), you can not only see the famous table, but also dress up in medieval costumes and take souvenir photos. The Great Hall is a great place for families, offering an interactive experience of history.

Portchester Castle is a true gem among medieval castles. Built within the walls of a Roman fort, this massive fortress offers a fascinating journey through centuries of English history. The castle witnessed many important events, including preparations for the invasion of France during the Hundred Years' War. Today, you can stroll around the expansive walls, enjoying magnificent views of the Solent Bay. The castle also offers interesting exhibitions and events for children, making it an ideal place for a family outing. It's worth noting that Portchester Castle is slightly more expensive compared to other places (£12.50 per adult, as of 2023), but its rich history and perfectly preserved structure fully justify the price.

As we continue our journey through medieval Hampshire, we will discover places that were centers of ecclesiastical and spiritual power.

Wolvesey Castle, also known as Old Bishop's Palace, is a fascinating ruin located in the heart of Winchester. This medieval bishop's palace was one of the most important centers of ecclesiastical power in medieval England. Although today it remains mostly ruins, you can still admire the impressive walls and imagine the former splendor of the place. Wolvesey Castle offers free admission, making it an attractive option for families with children. Look out for informative plaques that help you understand the history and significance of the place.

Bishop's Waltham Palace is another example of a bishop's residence that played a significant role in English history. The ruins of this impressive 12th century palace are perfectly preserved and offer a fascinating glimpse into the life of the medieval church elite. The site is managed by English Heritage, which guarantees a high standard of service and information for visitors. Bishop's Waltham Palace is distinguished by its beautiful location and well-maintained grounds, making it an ideal place for a family picnic combined with a history lesson.

Titchfield Abbey is a remarkable site that combines the history of a medieval abbey and a later Tudor mansion. Founded in the 13th century, the abbey was transformed into a palace after Henry VIII dissolved the monasteries. Today we can admire the impressive ruins, which testify to the rich history of the site. Titchfield Abbey stands out from other monuments for its dual function - monastic and secular. Admission is free, which, combined with the picturesque surroundings, makes it an excellent destination for families with children.

When comparing the three sites, it's worth noting their diversity. Wolvesey Castle offers the most 'urban' experience, being located in the center of Winchester. Bishop's Waltham Palace impresses with its extensive grounds and well-preserved ruins, ideal for exploration. Titchfield Abbey, meanwhile, stands out for its unique history of transformation from abbey to mansion. All three sites are free, which is a big plus for families planning a budget trip. In terms of accessibility, Wolvesey Castle may be the easiest to visit for those with limited mobility, while exploring the sprawling grounds of Bishop's Waltham Palace and Titchfield Abbey may require more physical effort.

To conclude our tour of medieval Hampshire, we will visit a site that represents a unique blend of England's medieval and modern defensive history.

Calshot Castle, built by Henry VIII in the 16th century, is a fascinating example of an artillery fort that protected England's coast for centuries. Although not a typical medieval castle, its history dates back to the end of the medieval era and the beginning of the modern era, making it an interesting point on our trip. The castle offers magnificent views of the Solent Strait and Isle of Wight, making it an ideal place to watch ships and learn about England's maritime history.

Calshot Castle stands out from the other sites we visited for its location by the sea and its unique circular structure. Unlike the sprawling ruins of Wolvesey Castle or Bishop's Waltham Palace, Calshot is relatively compact, making it easier to visit with younger children. At the same time, its strategic location offers unforgettable views not experienced inland.

Comparing all seven sites visited, we can see how diverse the heritage of medieval Hampshire is. From classic castles like King John's Castle, to impressive bishop's palaces, to defensive forts like Calshot Castle, each site offers a unique perspective on the region's history.

In terms of accessibility and pricing, most sites offer free admission, which is a big plus for families. The exceptions are The Great Hall, with a small fee of £4, and Portchester Castle, with a higher price of £12.50, but offering the most extensive attractions. It's worth noting opening hours can vary from season to season - it's always best to check up-to-date information on official sites before visiting.

For families with children, sites such as The Great Hall, with its opportunity to dress up in medieval costumes, or Portchester Castle, with its interactive exhibitions, may prove most appealing. On the other hand, for lovers of leisurely strolls and contemplation of history, the ruins of Titchfield Abbey or Bishop's Waltham Palace will be ideal choices.

All in all, medieval Hampshire offers a remarkable journey through time that will satisfy both history enthusiasts and families looking for an interesting way to spend their time. Each of these seven places has its own unique atmosphere and history worth discovering. Whether you decide to visit all of them or choose a few, one thing is certain - Hampshire will delight you with its wealth of medieval treasures and leave you with an unforgettable experience.