Winchester

Winchester

Type:Towns & Villages

Winchester Tourist Information Centre, Guildhall, High Street, Winchester, Hampshire, SO23 9GH

Tel: 01962 840 500

Winchester

About

Winchester, Hampshire's historic cathedral city, is one of the oldest settlements in Britain and the ancient capital of the Kingdom of England. Today, Winchester is a fascinating mix of legend, myth, history, and heritage.

As for ancient constructions, the city is dominated by the imposing spire of Winchester Cathedral. Dating back to 1070, it's one of the largest cathedrals in Europe, with a stunning nave that seems to stretch on forever. In the north aisle of the nave you'll find the grave of Jane Austen, one of the most enduringly popular literary figures in British history.

King Alfred (whose statue stands in central Winchester) is another of the city's most iconic figures. A 13th Century version of the King's legendary Round Table can be found in Winchester Castle. The castle, built by William the Conqueror in 1067, was all but destroyed through the centuries. However, Henry VIII's impressive Great Hall addition still stands today.

While there's plenty to do in Winchester aside from heritage attractions, the city's careful preservation policy means that even shopping in Winchester means popping in to historic buildings. It makes it a wonderful place to go bargain hunting – whether you're thinking antique or boutique!

Things to do in Winchester

  • Marwell Wildlife is one of the best places in the UK to see exotic birds and animals (from tigers and giraffes to meerkats and penguins) in spacious enclosures.
  • Visit the Great Hall – the last remaining structure of Winchester Castle. Here you'll find some exhibitions about the city and castle life, as well as the mock Round Table.
  • Go to the Winchester Discovery Centre for a year round programme of exhibitions and events to suit all tastes.
  • Bombay Sapphire is just a stone's throw away so why not take in the crystal clear water and beautiful natural surroundings as you walk along the River Test.
  • Explore the city of Winchester with this family fun outdoor escape room style book from Mystery Guides Treasure Hunt Adventures.

Places near Winchester

For more information on towns and villages near Winchester, what to see and attractions near Winchester, explore the local area through the 'what's nearby' listings below.

Nearby attractions include the wonderful Marwell Wildlife or the futuristic and hands-on science exploration centre at the Winchester Science Centre.

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Map & Directions

Video

  • Winchester Tourism

What's Nearby

  1. Winchester Cathedral

    Nestled in the heart of Hampshire, one of Southern England's most historic buildings,…

    0.13 miles away
  2. 878 AD

    Step into Anglo-Saxon Winchester!

    Experience the sights and sounds of Anglo-Saxon…

    0.15 miles away
  3. Winchester City Museum

    Located in the heart of the historic city of Winchester, City Museum tells the story of…

    0.2 miles away
  1. Winchester College

    Founded in 1382, Winchester College is believed to be the oldest continuously running…

    0.26 miles away
  2. City Space at The Arc

    A vibrant and versatile gallery space hosting a changing programme of exhibits to…

    0.31 miles away
  3. The Arc

    The brand-new place to experience live performance, library and community services, art,…

    0.37 miles away
  4. The Great Hall

    Great Hall and Sally Port are the only surviving parts of Winchester Castle, also home to…

    0.39 miles away
  5. Winchester Castle

    Winchester Castle includes The Great Hall, The Round Table and Queen Eleanor's Garden -…

    0.39 miles away
  6. Westgate Museum

    Winchester's Tudor and Stuart past is revealed in this beautifully refurbished listed…

    0.41 miles away
  7. Winchester's Military Museums

    Five splendid military museums on an historic site with Visitor Centre, café displays and…

    0.44 miles away
  8. The Gurkha Museum

    The Gurkha Museum takes you on a journey of discovery through the history of Gurkhas in…

    0.44 miles away
  9. Theatre Royal Winchester

    Beautiful and intimate Edwardian-style Theatre venue

    0.62 miles away
  10. Treasure Trails Hampshire

    Children love them and they are a fun way to get the whole family, young and old, out and…

    0.71 miles away
  11. Hampshire Cultural Trust

    Hampshire Cultural Trust was established as an independent charity in 2014 to promote…

    0.74 miles away
  12. Cycle Tours UK

    Cycle Tours UK invites you to try bicycle touring as a fresh approach to a healthy…

    0.86 miles away
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