Winchester

Beautiful facade of Winchester Cathedral during daytime, showcasing its Gothic architecture.
John Cameron, Pexels

Winchester is an ancient city, once England's capital, offering a rich tapestry of historical landmarks and a vibrant cultural scene. It attracts visitors keen on exploring its deep history and enjoying its engaging events and surrounding natural beauty.

The city center, particularly the High Street, provides numerous independent cafes, restaurants, and traditional pubs, some with significant history, creating a lively atmosphere.

Top 7 Things to do in Winchester

The activities primarily involve exploring historical landmarks, engaging with local culture, and enjoying picturesque walks along the river and surrounding hills.

1. Winchester Cathedral

Stepping inside Winchester Cathedral, one immediately senses its immense history, spanning over 15 centuries. As one of Europe's finest medieval cathedrals, it offers a glimpse into Anglo-Saxon and Norman royal power, and holds the resting place of Jane Austen. Exploring the vast nave, discovering the ancient crypts, and viewing treasures like the 12th-century Winchester Bible and Antony Gormley's 'Sound II' sculpture within the crypts is a profound experience. The Kings and Scribes exhibition provides further insights into its rich past.

Cost: Adult admission is £14 in person, or £13 for an annual pass booked online, allowing unlimited visits for 12 months. Guided tours are usually included in the admission fee. Separate fees apply for Tower Tours.

Transport: The Cathedral is centrally located and easily accessible on foot from Winchester city centre and the train station (approximately an 11-minute walk). Buses also operate within the city, with stops a short stroll away.

2. The Great Hall & King Arthur's Round Table

Visiting The Great Hall provides a direct connection to Winchester's royal past as the sole surviving part of Winchester Castle. Inside, the imposing King Arthur's Round Table, dating back over 700 years, commands attention. Although widely accepted as a medieval imitation, its scale and legendary association are captivating. The hall itself is a magnificent example of medieval architecture, making it a compelling stop for those interested in English history and folklore.

Cost: Entry can be included as part of an Explorer Ticket, which grants 12 months of unlimited visits to three historic Winchester attractions (including City Museum and Westgate Museum) with a 20% saving. Specific individual entry costs are not universally advertised but the explorer ticket is promoted as the best value.

Transport: Situated in the city centre, The Great Hall is within easy walking distance of most central attractions and the train station.

3. Wolvesey Castle (Old Bishop's Palace)

Exploring the ruins of Wolvesey Castle allows one to imagine the grandeur of the medieval Bishops of Winchester, who were powerful figures. Located near Winchester Cathedral, these extensive remains primarily date from the 12th-century palace of Bishop Henry of Blois. Walking through the grounds, you can envision where significant events, such as the wedding banquet of Queen Mary I and Philip II of Spain, took place. The site offers a peaceful and atmospheric experience amidst historical stonework.

Cost: Admission to Wolvesey Castle is free of charge.

Transport: Wolvesey Castle is in central Winchester, a short walk southeast of Winchester Cathedral (approximately 0.75 miles). Public car parks are available nearby, such as Colebrook Street, a five-minute walk away.

4. Winchester City Mill

The Winchester City Mill, a working National Trust property, offers an engaging insight into the city's industrial heritage. Standing on the River Itchen, witnessing the mill in operation, and learning about its history as a corn mill dating back to Saxon times is a unique experience. It provides a tactile connection to the past and is a pleasant spot to observe the clear waters of the River Itchen.

Cost: Admission fees apply, but specific recent prices were not prominently available. As a National Trust property, membership often provides free entry.

Transport: The City Mill is centrally located on Bridge Street, easily reachable on foot from the High Street and other central attractions.

5. Hospital of St Cross and Almshouse of Noble Poverty

A visit to the Hospital of St Cross is a step back into medieval charity and tranquillity. This ancient almshouse, nestled in the water meadows, still offers the 'Wayfarer's Dole' – a small cup of ale and a morsel of bread – a tradition upheld for centuries. Exploring the magnificent Norman chapel and the 14th-century Brethren's Hall reveals a timeless sense of community and architectural beauty. The peaceful gardens provide a serene escape.

Cost: Standard adult admission is £7.50, or £8.00 with Gift Aid. Guided tours for groups (up to 50 people) cost an additional £20.

Transport: The Hospital is approximately a 20-minute walk from Winchester city centre or Winchester Cathedral. A short bus ride (No. 1 Bluestar bus) from the city centre takes about 5 minutes, with the bus stop 'The Gravels' located at the end of the Hospital's driveway. Alternatively, the East Winchester Park & Ride car park offers a pleasant one-mile walk.

6. River Itchen and Water Meadows Walk

Walking along the River Itchen and through the Water Meadows offers a refreshing contrast to the historical sites. The Itchen is a rare chalk stream, known for its crystal-clear waters and unique ecosystem. This gentle walk provides stunning views of St Catherine's Hill and the city, allowing for a moment of peace and appreciation of Winchester's natural surroundings. It is a rewarding way to experience the landscapes that have shaped the city.

Cost: Free.

Transport: The Water Meadows and River Itchen walks are easily accessible from the city centre on foot. St Catherine's Hill is adjacent to the Water Meadows, south of the city.

7. Winchester College Treasury Museum

A visit to Winchester College offers a chance to explore one of the world's most distinguished and oldest continuously running schools. The Treasury Museum, in particular, houses fascinating collections of art and archaeology, including artifacts from ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, as well as Chinese ceramics. In 2025, a special exhibition, 'Austen and Winchester,' will explore Jane Austen's connection to the college, where several of her nephews were educated. While general tours of the College are available, the Treasury provides a focused and accessible cultural experience.

Cost: Entry to the Treasury Museum is free.

Transport: Winchester College is located on College Street, a short walk from Winchester Cathedral and other city centre attractions. It is approximately a 14-minute walk from Winchester train station.

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