Winchester

Once the Ancient Capital, Winchester is also well known for its connections to King Arthur as well as the medieval castle, home to King Arthur’s Round Table. Be sure to see the recreation of the legendary king’s round table in the Great Hall. One of the smallest cities in the country, Winchester is a delight to explore on foot. Presided over by its cathedral, where Jane Austen is buried, Winchester wears its history on its sleeve. A maze of cobbled lanes and half-timbered buildings harbour old English pubs, traditional cafés, lively markets, and artisan shops.

Look out for the fascinating Gurkha Museum, which tells the moving stories of the Gurkha soldiers who have served on behalf of the British crown for 200 years.
Downton Abbey fans will want to head to nearby Highclere Castle, which played the elegant abbey in the hit costume drama.
As it is situated at the western end of the South Downs National Park – familiar for its iconic chalk cliffs – it also acts as a gateway for adventure holidays.
Winchester was created from the Roman town of Venta Belgarum, which was created from an Iron Age oppidum. Winchester Cathedral is supposedly one of the biggest basilicas in Europe, with the qualification of having the longest nave and general length of all Gothic church buildings in Europe.

Wander through the winding streets of Winchester and you will find a retail offering that boasts independent and big name stores, chic boutiques and designer treasure troves alongside exclusive cafes, established restaurants and vibrant galleries. Winchester boasts a wide array of vintage, upcycled and second hand shops and markets. If you are looking for something truly unique at a bargain price the charity, vintage, second hand and upcycled shops in the area offer a huge range of exceptional products. For stylish shopping in a village ambience escape to the picturesque market towns of Bishop’s Waltham, Alresford and Wickham surrounding the city and you will discover an array of elegant independent shops, award-winning delicatessens and traditional shops of all kinds.

For culture and entertainment you can walk in the footsteps of your favourite author on one of Winchester’s literature trails, catch an open air theatre performance in the grounds of a stately home and stop by one of numerous museums or art galleries. The city of Winchester hosts a multitude of festivals throughout the year that inspire, intrigue and enchant thousands of visitors every year. Such as Winchester Comedy Festival, Winchester Beer and Cider Festival, Winchester Chamber Music Festival and Wicnhester Mayfest, the cheese and chilli festival and the Writers Weekend. The Christmas festival season starts in Winchester mid November with the switch on of the Christmas lights. As well as the Christmas Market and Ice Rink Families looking for a traditional panto should head to Theatre Royal Winchester.