14 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Winchester, England

Author Bryan Dearsley traveled to England where he spent eight weeks exploring its towns and cities, including the beautiful city of Winchester.

Winchester, the county town of Hampshire, was the capital of England from Anglo-Saxon times until the 13th century.

The ruins of the royal castle, numerous medieval buildings, and one of Europe's longest cathedrals continue to bear witness to this former political and cultural center of England. Excavations have also revealed the Celtic settlement of Caer Gwent. Named after the surrounding chalk hills, the "White Town" has in fact occupied this site since the Bronze Age.

Now one of the county's top tourist attractions, famous Winchester Cathedral was renovated several times in the 9th and 10th centuries and was where William the Conqueror had himself crowned. Topping the list of fun things to do in this beautiful city are visiting a museum, checking out the historical architecture, enjoying one of the numerous festivals, and partaking in a shopping excursion.

To find out about more sightseeing options in this historic city, be sure to read our list of the top things to do in Winchester, England.

Tour Winchester Cathedral

Winchester Cathedral was built on the site of the original 7th-century Old Minster in the 11th century and remains one of the top places to visit for tourists. The original minster foundations can still be seen today, and the cathedral, one of the world's largest medieval churches, has been altered many times since.

Interior highlights include the building's unique combination of Romanesque sections of wall dating from 1093 and its late-Gothic fan vaulting added in 1394. Also of note is its splendid 12-bayed nave and transepts, and a unique collection of bronze statues. Dating from 1635, these include statues of James I and Charles I.

Other features of note include the magnificent 11th-century wrought iron Pilgrim's Gate and the tombs of several Saxon kings, including Alfred the Great. Murals from the 16th century decorate the Lady Chapel, and the 13th-century paintings on the vaulting of the Chapel of the Guardian Angels provide examples of the original decoration.

In the north ambulatory is the chapel with its Renaissance decoration. Look for the wooden chair on which Mary Tudor (Bloody Mary) sat during her wedding with Philip II of Spain in 1554.

Steps lead to the northern transept, where on the left is the Chapel of the Holy Sepulcher, with its 12th-century Romanesque wall paintings. The font of black Tournai marble, added in 1180, is decorated with scenes from the life of St. Nicholas and stands in the middle of the north aisle.

The famous 12th-century Winchester Bible is kept in the Cathedral Library in the south transept. Its artistically pictured initials are some of the greatest achievements of book illumination created by the Winchester writing school. Of additional interest to those with a literary bent is a brass tablet marking the tomb of writer Jane Austen (1775-1817).

Guided tours are available, and a shop and café are located on-site. For those visiting in England in winter, be sure to check out the cathedral's website for news of events and festivals, including spectacular Christmas light shows.

Address: 9 The Close, Winchester, Hampshire, England

Official site: www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk

Take a Trip to Highclere Castle: Aka Downton Abbey

Although it's located about 25 miles north of Winchester, spectacular Highclere Castle is a must-see historic home that has become one of England's major tourist attractions thanks to its starring role in the hugely successful Downton Abbey TV show. The ancestral home of the Earls of Carnarvon since 1679, Highclere Castle was designed by Sir Charles Barry, the architect of the Houses of Parliament in London.

Expect to spend at least a couple of hours exploring this remarkable mansion. Set in a vast 1,000-acre 18th-century park, it boasts superb views over the North Hampshire Downs.

Interior highlights of a visit include the chance to view the mansion's spectacular gothic saloon, with its unique leather wall coverings, as well as the state dining room with its historic portraits. You'll also want to see the library, with its 5,650 rare books, some dating back to the 17th century. Other notable areas worth a visit include the drawing and smoking rooms, both of which featured regularly in Downton Abbey.

For a truly memorable experience, look into taking a private tour. And if your budget allows, book an unforgettable dining experience or private reception in one of the rooms mentioned above. Private guided tours are also available.

Location: Highclere Park, Highclere, Newbury, Hampshire, England

Official site: www.highclerecastle.co.uk

See King Arthur's Round Table in Winchester Castle's Great Hall

Winchester Castle, of which only ruins remain, was built in 1067 during the reign of William the Conqueror. The structure was demolished by parliament in 1647 under the leadership of Oliver Cromwell, then completely restored by Wren in 1683 as a residence for Charles II.

Much history has been made in Winchester Castle: William the Conqueror had the Doomsday Book kept safe here, and Richard the Lionheart came here in 1194 before his second coronation in the cathedral. The future King Henry III was born in the castle in 1207, Edward I held his first parliament here, and Sir Walter Raleigh was tried in the law hall for conspiring against James I.

Only the Great Hall, built in 1236, remains intact. Highlights include the hall's sturdy columns of Purbeck marble, old stained-glass windows, and an open wooden roof truss bear witness to the castle's great past. Another survivor is the legendary tabletop on the back wall at which King Arthur is supposed to have held his Round Table. Fun guided tours are available.

Be sure to also explore the Castle Passageways. Also known as the "Sally Port," these once secret underground passageways were built to allow defenders to pop up behind the enemy and then return to the safety of the castle.

Location: The Castle, Castle Avenue, Winchester, Hampshire, England

Take a Guided Tour of Historic Winchester College

Founded in 1382, Winchester College has a close association with the university city of Oxford and is well worth visiting for its original houses. Of particular interest are Flint Court and Chamber Court, both perfectly preserved, and the historic Seventh Chamber, said to be the oldest schoolroom in the country.

Also notable is the school chapel. Highlights include its original fan-vaulted timber roof, medieval stained glass, a reredos from 1500, and the misericords. Generations of scholars have engraved their names on the pillars of the cloisters, including famous "old boy" Anthony Trollope (1815-1882).

The school is still in use, so visitors are required to take advantage of one of their excellent guided tours. These include a visit to the Winchester College Treasury, home to an impressive collection of artworks and antiquities.

Location: College Street, Winchester, Hampshire, England

Official site: www.winchestercollege.org/visit-us

Explore Historic College Street

College Street, with its excellent views of the medieval wall encircling the cathedral precincts, leads to Wolvesey Palace.

From here, tourists can see the remains of a bishop's palace rebuilt by Christopher Wren, pass the ruins of the castle, and enjoy the attractive Abbey Gardens, relics of a 9th-century abbey founded by King Alfred's wife. It also leads to the King Alfred memorial in Broadway, and to the bridge over the River Itchen.

If you're in the mood for a little more walking and sightseeing, take High Street to the Guild Hall, built in 1871, and the pedestrian precinct with its colonnade of shops. Butter Cross, which features niches containing statues of saints, King Alfred, and Bishop Wykeham, is also worth a look.

Wander the Ruins of Wolvesey Castle (Old Bishop's Palace)

Wolvesey Castle is an English Heritage property that includes the ruins of what was once a fortified palace and the chief residence of the Bishops of Winchester. It's also known as the Old Bishop's Palace, and a visit is widely considered one of the best free things to do in Winchester.

It was here in 1554 that Queen Mary and Philip II of Spain held their wedding breakfast in the East Hall. Audio tours are available for download in advance of your visit from the attraction's official website (see link below) and provide plenty of insight into the attraction's history.

From here, a charming path continues on the east side of the River Itchen to Catherine's Hill, the site of a 3rd-century fortress, the foundations of a chapel, and a turf maze.

A short walk away is Westgate, a tourist attraction once used as a prison in the 17th century. Some interesting old graffiti remains, and the building now serves as a museum. A number of exhibits can be enjoyed, along with excellent views of the city.

Address: 34 College Walk, Winchester, Hampshire, England

Official site: www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/wolvesey-castle-old-bishops-palace/

The Hospital of St. Cross

Located about a mile south of Winchester's city center, England's oldest almshouse was founded in 1136 by Henry of Blois, grandson of William the Conqueror, for 13 "poor and pious men."

The black robe with a silver crook cross and the purple-red with cardinal's emblem worn by the inhabitants continue to bear witness to the endowments. Grouped around an inner courtyard, these quaint homes are entered through a gatehouse. Other noteworthy features are the 15th-century Hall of the Brothers, the kitchen, and a chapel.

The grounds and gardens are also open to the public, and should be explored. And on the way out, be sure to request the traditional Wayfarers' Dole, and visit the gift shop and tearoom.

Address: St. Cross Back Street, Winchester, Hampshire, England

Official site: http://hospitalofstcross.co.uk

The National Trust's Winchester City Mill

The National Trust's Winchester City Mill is a rare surviving example of an urban working corn mill. Powered by the fast-flowing River Itchen, the water mill was rebuilt in 1743 on the site of the original medieval mill and remained in use until the early 20th century.

After resuming use for the grinding of flour in 2004 following a full restoration, this excellent tourist attraction now offers visitors plenty of activities and fun things to do, including a unique opportunity to see one of Britain's only urban otter populations along with a variety of other wildlife.

Additional highlights include flour milling and baking demonstrations, including opportunities for kids to bake their own treats, along with educational workshops and lectures. A number of informative videos related to the site are also shown regularly.

Address: Bridge Street, Winchester, Hampshire, England

Official site: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/winchester-city-mill

Visit Winchester's Military Museums

Peninsula Barracks is home to Winchester's Military Museums, a collection of six important county military collections. A must-see here is the Royal Green Jackets (Rifles) Museum, home to a variety of uniforms and medals, along with a highlighted diorama of Waterloo. It covers the history of the regiment and Britain's involvement in a long succession of wars.

The same building also houses the Gurkha Museum, dedicated to the elite troops from Nepal; HorsePower, the Museum of The King's Royal Hussars, with its displays about the history of the famous Cavalry Regiment; and the Guardroom Museum, the Museum of the Adjutant-General's Corps.

A shop and café are located on-site. Be sure to spend a little time wandering the spectacular Peninsula Square with its immaculate gardens. When you're done, you can take a scenic walk along Archery Lane at the south end of the barrack grounds back to the city center.

Location: Peninsular Barracks, Romsey Road, Winchester, Hampshire, England

Official site: www.rgjmuseum.co.uk

Take the Kids to Marwell Zoo

Near the picturesque village of Owslebury, just five miles southeast of Winchester, Marwell Zoo is a must-see attraction for those interested in wildlife or traveling with children. Set amid 140 acres of rolling Hampshire countryside, this popular zoo boasts more than 1,200 animals from some 135 species and has made a name for itself thanks to its conservation activities. Notable successes include endangered white rhinos, oryx, and zebras.

In addition to a variety of educational themed areas to explore, including Into Africa, the World of Lemurs, and Penguin Cove, the zoo has added Wild Explorers. One of the most popular things to do here includes a fun safari-inspired experience that offers visitors unrestricted views of its animals from a series of boardwalks.

Be sure to also take a ride on the zoo's miniature scenic railway. This 15-minute trip passes a variety of animal enclosures, including pygmy hippos, rhinos, and flamingos. A restaurant is located on-site, along with a number of well-placed snack kiosks and picnic facilities.

Address: Thompson's Lane, Colden Common, Winchester, Hampshire, England

Official site: www.marwell.org.uk

Peer into the Past at Winchester City Museum

The Winchester City Museum documents Winchester's history from the Iron Age to the present through its three fascinating galleries spread across three floors. Features include Roman mosaics, a collection of jewelry dating from Anglo-Saxon times, as well as a fascinating model of the original medieval settlement from this period.

Other highlights include reconstructed Victorian-era shops, along with hands-on activities such as brass rubbing, pot design, and the opportunity to try on period costumes. Also not to be missed is a unique collection of artifacts that once belonged to famed writer Jane Austen, who spent her last years in Winchester.

Address: 3 The Close, Winchester, Hampshire, England

Official site: www.hampshireculture.org.uk/winchester-city-museum

Winchester Science Centre & Planetarium

One of the city's top family attractions, the Winchester Science Centre & Planetarium is certainly a great place to visit for a few hours. Full of hands-on displays and interactive exhibits, the emphasis is firmly on the "fun" part of learning.

Established in 2002 and located on the city's outskirts, it's certainly easy to find: just look out for its two main buildings, shaped as a massive globe and a pyramid respectively. It's in the dome you'll find the Planetarium. The largest of its kind in the UK, this 168-seat facility hosts daily shows that explore our knowledge of the universe and planets.

The dome also houses a variety of newer exhibits relating to space, covering everything from flight to meteorites. A variety of fun programs are hosted for kids throughout the year, along with live science shows and demonstrations. A café is located on the premises.

Address: Telegraph Way, Winchester, Hampshire, England

Official site: www.winchestersciencecentre.org

The Pilgrim's Hall & Priors Gate

Just to the south of Winchester Cathedral are the ruins of the medieval deanery and a charming half-timbered corner that includes the 13th-century Pilgrim's Hall. In addition to serving as a place for dining and refreshment, the structure also served as stables.

Now part of a school, it's worth seeing for its splendid 13th-century hammer-beam roof. You can get a lovely shot of this old building framed by the attractive Priors Gate on Dome Alley.

Also worth visiting nearby is 26/27 College Street, once a residence for James II. Christopher Wren built this structure as well as a residence in neighboring Kingsgate Street. College Street runs to the main entrance of Winchester College past number 8, the house where Jane Austen died.

Address: 3 The Close, Winchester, Hampshire, England

Take in a Show at Theatre Royal Winchester

Set in a lovely former hotel built in 1850, Theatre Royal Winchester is centrally located and makes for a fun diversion for those with an evening to spare. In addition to professional theater productions, including family shows, dance, and classic drama, a regular program of concerts is also featured.

A highlight for those visiting in the lead up to the festive season are the popular pantomimes, a traditional Christmas experience that's fun for the whole family. Backstage tours are also available, and a great café is located on-site.

Address: Jewry Street, Winchester, Hampshire

Official site: www.theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk

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Famous English Ships: An easy journey by either train or car, the port of Southampton features plenty of well-preserved historic architecture, along with references to the infamous Titanic, which set sail on its fateful journey from here. Also well-known for its maritime history, Portsmouth offers plenty of fun things to do, from the iconic HMS Victory to the Mary Rose museum. And up in Greenwich in London, you can visit the country's most famous ship, the impressive Cutty Sark.

The English Seaside: These seeking an authentic English seaside getaway should check out Brighton, popular for its long and pleasant promenade, pier, and summer festivals. A similar fun experience can be enjoyed in the Kentish seaside town of Folkestone, well-known as the embarkation point for Europe at the entrance to the Channel Tunnel. Hastings is another good choice and, in addition to its charming fishing huts, is where you can visit the scene of the battle of 1066, in nearby Battle, of course.

England Travel Ideas: Be sure to plan on spending at least a few days in London, home to many famous museums, palaces, and castles. Another good choice for a weekend break is beautiful Bath, famous for its magnificently preserved Georgian architecture and Roman baths. Although north of London, the historic city of York should also be included in your England travel itinerary-and be sure to spend time wandering its seemingly endless city walls and the meandering lanes and alleys of The Shambles.