Winchester Travel Tips

Things to do in Winchester in UK

Winchester is a charming city in Hampshire, England, that boasts a rich history and culture. Whether you are looking for ancient monuments, medieval buildings, scenic parks, or modern attractions, Winchester has something for everyone. Here are some of the best things to do in Winchester in UK that will make your trip memorable and enjoyable.

1. Visit Winchester Cathedral

One of the most iconic landmarks in Winchester is the magnificent Winchester Cathedral, which dates back to the 11th century. It is one of the largest cathedrals in Europe, with a stunning Gothic architecture and a treasure trove of art and relics. You can admire the beautiful stained-glass windows, the ornate choir stalls, the medieval paintings, and the tombs of famous figures such as Jane Austen, William II, and St Swithun. You can also explore the crypt, the library, and the tower, or join a guided tour to learn more about the history and secrets of this impressive building. The cathedral is open every day from 10am until 4pm for visitors, but you should check the website for detailed information on opening times and new measures in place before your visit.

2. Explore the Great Hall & See the Round Table

Another must-see attraction in Winchester is The Great Hall, which is the only surviving part of the medieval castle that once stood on the site. The Great Hall is famous for housing the legendary Round Table, which is said to be the one used by King Arthur and his knights. The table is a 13th-century replica, but it is still impressive to see its size and decorations. You can also admire the other exhibits in The Great Hall, such as the statues of Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth II, the replica of King Alfred's throne, and the colourful stained-glass windows.

3. Wander through Winchester Science Centre & Planetarium

If you are looking for a fun and educational experience, you should visit the Winchester Science Centre & Planetarium, which is a great place for kids and adults alike. The centre features over 100 interactive exhibits that cover various topics such as astronomy, biology, physics, engineering, and more. You can also watch amazing shows at the planetarium, which has a 360-degree dome screen that immerses you in the wonders of the universe. You can learn about the stars, planets, galaxies, and other celestial phenomena in an engaging and entertaining way.

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Winchester Cathedral

Jane Austen Grave inside Winchester Cathedral

The Interiors in Cathedral

4. Walk along the River Itchen

One of the best ways to enjoy the natural beauty of Winchester is to walk along the River Itchen, which runs through the city and offers scenic views and peaceful spots. You can follow the riverside path that starts from Winchester City Mill and passes by various attractions such as Wolvesey Castle, The Hospital of St Cross, St Catherine's Hill, and Shawford Down. You can also spot various wildlife along the way, such as ducks, swans, herons, kingfishers, and otters. The River Itchen is also a popular place for fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and boating.

5. Guided Christmas Walk with Mulled Wine, and experience the Christmassy town of Winchester, England, where you can enjoy mulled wine and explore the medieval city's festive atmosphere.

6. Winchester Treasure Hunt Mystery: The Bishops Golden Tankard. Turn Winchester's historic streets into a GIANT outdoor escape room, unlocking the Tudor mystery of The Bishop's Golden Tankard.

Check out my video about Winchester and its Cathedral

6. Discover other attractions in Winchester

Winchester has many other attractions that are worth visiting besides the ones mentioned above. For example, you can visit Marwell Zoo, which is home to over 1,200 animals from Africa, Asia, Europe, and South America. You can see giraffes, zebras, rhinos, tigers, penguins, meerkats, and more. You can also enjoy Fort Nelson, which is a unique Victorian fort that houses the Royal Armouries national collection of artillery. You can see cannons, guns, rockets, missiles, and other weapons from different periods and countries. Another option is to take a ride on the Mid Hants Railway, which is also known as The Watercress Line. You can travel on restored steam trains through the picturesque countryside and stop at charming stations such as Alresford and Alton.