Winchester - treasure the experience

Winchester is one of the Britain's best loved cities. Popular for its architecture, floral summer season, quirky open air events, theatre, and variety of shops. England's ancient capital is most well known for its eleventh century cathedral and mysterious Round Table. Birthplace of cricket, resting place of Jane Austen and an inspiration to the many artists who live here, Winchester is a city for all seasons. Come and visit soon. We list some of the important and historic sites here:

Winchester Cathedral Still a living place of worship after 900 years, the Cathedral is noted for the longest nave in Europe, the fine Norman and Gothic architecture, and the tombs of several early English Kings. Hear the story of the diver who saved the Cathedral, and enjoy a fine lunch at the award-winning Refectory

Winchester College

Founded in 1382 by Bishop William of Wykeham (whose tomb lies in the Cathedral), this is the oldest school in England. Ask at the Porter's Lodge on College Street for guided tours,and enjoy Sung Evensong in the College Chapel every Tuesday during the school terms.

University of Winchester

One of the newest universities in the country, but by the standards of most universities also very old – established in 1840 and on the same ‘King Alfred’ campus in Winchester since 1862. Originally the Winchester Diocesan Training College, a teacher training college from the very start – it changed from King Alfred’s College to University College Winchester in 2004 and adopted the title ‘University of Winchester’ in June 2005.

The Great Hall and the Round Table

The only remaining part of the original Winchester Castle, this 13th century hall was once the seat of Government and the law in this land. The Round Table, commemorating the legendary King Arthur, has hung here for over 600 years.

The Westgate Museum

Near the Great Hall is one of the City's fortified medieval gateways, which now houses a small museum and brass rubbing centre, with fine views across the city.

The Hospital of St. Cross

Through the ancient and picturesque Water Meadows is the medieval almshouse, founded in 1132. Open to visitors all year round, the Hospital still provides a home for the Brothers - and still provides refreshment for the weary traveller in the form of the Wayfarer's Dole.

Winchester City Mill

National Trust water-powered medieval working mill in the heart of Winchester, spanning the River Itchen. Restored in 1743, exhibition and island garden, mill race and special milling days.

Hillier Gardens & Arboretum

A gardener's delight, established in 1953, with a collection of over 42,000 plants from all over the world, set in 180 acres of stunning Hampshire countryside.

Winchester City and Miltary Museums

Near the Cathedral, the City Museum tells Winchester's story from Roman times to the present day. Behind the Great Hall, as part of the old Peninsula Barracks, and on nearby Southgate St., four Regimental museums celebrate Winchester's long military heritage.

• Winchester City Museum
• The Royal Hampshire Regiment Museum
  Southgate Street, Winchester Tel.(01962) 863658
• The Light Infantry Museum
  Peninsula Barracks, Romsey Road, Winchester Tel. (01962) 828530
• The Royal Green Jackets Museum
  Peninsula Barracks, Romsey Road, Winchester. (01962) 863486
• The Royal Hussars Museum
  Peninsula Barracks, Romsey Road, Winchester Tel. (01962) 828541
• The Gurkha Museum
  Peninsula Barracks, Romsey Road, Winchester Tel. (01962) 842832
  

Jane Austen's House, Chawton

Jane Austen lived in Chawton, approx 7 miles from Winchester from 1809 to 1817. She wrote many of her famous books here and the house contains the family memorabilia and gives an interesting insight into her modest lifestyle.

The Brooks Experience

Life in Roman and medieval Winchester with action and drama to fascinate the whole family.