Winchester has a very long history, and you can feel it just by walking in the town. Until the Norman Conquest, Winchester was the capital of England. When I decided to go to Winchester for a day trip back in April 2007, it was mainly to see the cathedral. I discovered much more than that in this charming English town!
Winchester is primarily known for its magnificent Cathedral and the famous people buried there. Did you know that Jane Austen, the English writer, lived and died in Winchester? As a result, the Cathedral and its surroundings are busy with tourists. Surprisingly, it felt more peaceful than I had anticipated. I even spent time relaxing at a café, gazing at the monument, observing the people, and enjoying the sunshine!
The city has another major attraction, located at the castle: King Arthur’s Table.
And if you are travelling with kids or fun-loving grown-ups, they may enjoy playing with the reenactments and historical clothing at the City Museum. It’s a great way to learn more about the town’s history, and the best part is that it’s free!
The city centre was bustling with activity. I started at the giant statue of King Alfred, and I discovered numerous pubs along the main street and beyond. I took a break at the ‘Bishop on the Bridge’ pub, where I enjoyed the lovely terrace overlooking the river.
To escape the crowds and relax, you can stroll along the Itchen River that runs through the town centre. It’s perfect for short walks and offers many gardens where you can find a peaceful spot. If you climb up to St. Gil’s Hill (around 15 minutes from the town centre), you’ll be treated to lovely views of the city, including the castle, cathedral, and main street.
Where is Winchester?
Winchester is located in the south of England, close to Southampton. It is easy to get to Winchester for a day trip by train, bus, car, or even plane from either Southampton or London.
