Winchester is a historic town, best known for its magnificent Cathedral. The town is located amidst fabulous rolling countryside and is also renowned for its award-winning pubs and restaurants, and a large array of interesting independent shops.
Winchester can be accessed via <a href="/flights/cheap-flights-to/london">London</a> airports, most notably <a href="/TravelGuides/AirportGuides/Heathrow-Airport-LHR-London-UK">Heathrow</a> and <a href="/TravelGuides/AirportGuides/Gatwick-Airport-LGW-London-UK">Gatwick</a>.
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Winchester is located on the M3 freeway connecting London to Southampton.
Winchester is a paradise for shopping connoisseurs. The town boasts a tempting array of independent shops, boutiques, colorful markets and art galleries located in scenic buildings, all within the town’s compact, pedestrian-friendly center. The lively streets filled with unique shops are a welcome alternative to the large-scale shopping malls to be found anywhere in the world.
Start your shopping trip at the Brooks area then head to the High Street, browse boutiques at the charming Square and explore Kingsgate Street tucked behind the Winchester Cathedral, one of the town’s best shopping streets. Do not miss the numerous boutiques on Parchment Street and the 16th Century streets in the Constabulary known for their fine handcrafted jewelry.
Three Castles Path
This 60 mile (almost 100 km) walk takes you from Winchester to Windsor, past diverse and beautiful natural scenery, including downland, heath, forest, parkland, picturesque villages and quiet streams. It was inspired by King John’s journeys between the two cities via the castle he built at Odiham at the time of signing of the Magna Carta.
Winchester Cathedral is one of the largest cathedrals in England and has the longest Gothic nave in the world. The cathedral has its origins in the 7th century, when a Christian Church was first built on this site. It is dedicated to the Holy Trinity, Saint Peter, Saint Paul, and Saint Swithun, and is the seat of the Bishop of Winchester and the centre of the Diocese of Winchester.
Winchester is famous for its legendary Arthurian Round table, a striking sight well worth visiting in The Great Hall - the only remaining part of Winchester Castle.
The Great Hall and Round Table
Winchester Castle was built in 1067 and was at the time one of the greatest strongholds in England, even serving as the seat of government for over a century before it was moved to London. Today little remains, except for the Great Hall, which features the famous and legendary Arthurian Round Table.
The Old Winchester City Center
The old city center is composed of charming streets, medieval overhanging houses cluttered with quaint little shops.
The Winchester College, established in 1382 is one of the oldest private schools in England, and the oldest continuously running in the country. There are guided tours available that take in the Chamber Court, the Gothic Chapel noted for its 14th century vaulted roof, the College Hall, the 17th century red brick schoolroom and the original Cloister. The tour lasts 1 hour and is available most days.
The City Mill, owned by the National Trust, is a rare surviving example of an urban working corn mill. It runs on the River Itchen, which passes under the building. The mill was restored to working order in 2004 and since then flour is being ground here once again. There are various activities available for the entire family and, in addition, the building also houses a National Trust shop and the Winchester Youth Hostel.
The 10-day festival festival brings a vast selection of the biggest names in 21st century theatre, literature, visual arts and music, offering over 30 events featuring local and international talents.
Winchester Hat Fair is Britain’s longest running Festival of Street Theatre and Outdoor Arts, attracting over 50,000 people to the streets of Winchester every summer. The name of the fair alludes to the throwing of money by spectators into the hats of the performers.
Mayfest is a vibrant mix of music, song and dance in the streets, pubs and concert venues of Winchester. The program covers a wide range of styles, from folk, jazz, blues and roots music, to colourful dance displays and children's events.
Making Merry
Date: November
During a weekend in November, the the artists and craftsmen open the doors of their homes, studios and galleries and intice visitors with imaginative gift ideas. There are mince pies and mulled wine widely available to give the event a seasonal festive feeling.
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