While on staycation in Southampton , my family and I visited Winchester. Winchester is roughly 40 minutes’ drive from Southampton. On driving into the city, we were greeted by the colossal statue of Alfred the Great. Not to be deterred we parked in The Brooks Shopping Centre then headed up the street Hight Street to get the lay of the land. Eventually, we made our way to Winchester Cathedral. I wasn’t sure if I would go inside but once we got there, in we went. Like many medieval English cities, Winchester is s melange of old and new. It’s a picturesque city with Tudor architecture dotted amongst, statures and modern architecture. However, it’s the political intrigue and royal plots I’ve always found fascinating. Although it was a rainy day, my family and I had a wonderful time in Winchester, Hampshire.
A Brief History Of Winchester Hampshire
Winchester is located in the county of Hampshire. Originally named Venta Belgarum, by the Roman invaders circa 43AD, after the Celtic Belgae tribe who were the original settlers. After the Romans left, England descended into the Dark Ages for the 5th and 6th Centuries. Circa 430 AD the Germanic tribes began arriving in England. The West Saxons settled in the area now known as Wessex. Hence forth ‘… Saxons that referred to a Roman settlement as a ‘caester’, and so in west Saxon Wessex, Venta Belgarum became Venta Caester, before being changed to Wintancaester and eventually corrupted to Winchester.’
Fast forward to 871 and ‘Alfred the Great’ as in the OG Alfred before the statue, became king of Wessex at 21 years old. He made Winchester his capital.
Winchester Cathedral
Chances are when you think of Winchester the first thing that comes to mind is Winchester Cathedral. The cathedrals history is deeply attached into Britain’s history and heritage. ‘Once the seat of Anglo-Saxon and Norman royal power, this fascinating site has played host to Kings and Queens for centuries, including William the Conqueror, Mary Tudor and Prince Philip of Spain.’
There are many notables associated with the Cathedral. As you walk along the aisles you will see memorial stone after memorial stone telling the stories about lives, loves and sacrifice of the persons laid to rest in situ. For example, author Jane Austen is buried in the north nave aisle. Her memorial window also located in Cathedral is ornate befitting of her literary contributions.
FUN FACT: Bill Wilson: Co-founder of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is also has an association to the Cathedral. In 1918, then soldier in the American army, Bill Wilson, was encamped near Winchester with his unit while en route to the Western Front. He visited the City’s Cathedral. It’s said that he saw the memorial for Hampshire Grenadier, Thomas Thetcher, the name remined him of his best friend who when would years later co-found the AA (Alcohol Anonymous).
Along with its grand history, the Cathedral has mind-blowing architecture . Points of interest for me were the floor titles, the ornate ceiling, statue of Joan of Arc and the notables buried on site. Joan of Arc’s connected to the Cathedral because it was the Bishop of Winchester, Henry Beaufort, who had a hand in her being put on trial for heresy.
If you are not in a rush, I would recommend having a guided tour especially if it’s a one-time only visit. Under 16 free, ticket valid for a one year.
Know Before You Go: check out the full time line of the Winchester Cathedral’s history to decide on your interests before you visit
During the time we visited there an exhibition on the 3rd floor which was very interesting and engaging.
Eating And Shopping In Winchester Hampshire
There’s more to Winchester than the cathedral. The city is quite picturesque. We had a walk about and I enjoyed looking around at the mix of architectur;al styles; medieval, Tudor and modern. We parked in The Brooks Shopping Centre which was perfect location to head off.
We visited on a Saturday which is a market day. The market stalls were selling everything from cheese and pastries to collectibles, antiques and handmade items.
Visitor Tip: Market days in Winchester are Thursday, Friday & Saturday, 9am – 5pm.
On this occasion we didn’t shop in Winchester much because our rental car was too small. However, I did pop into a couple charity shops and bought books to take me through the upcoming colder months. Oxfam Books & Music and Cancer Research on Parchment Street are great for that type of shopping.
While I was book shopping my family went o NAFFI Café for milkshakes. When I was back in the fold we walked up to Winchester Cathedral. It’s a brilliant rainy day activity.
After which, our teen and pre-teen went to the Bento Factory to grab a snack. While hubby and I had coffees and cakes are Coffee Lab Academy. After our refreshments we left the city but mentally began making plans for a return.
Finally, as the days get shorter and colder, Winchester, Hampshire will make an atmospheric visit. Additionally, the annual Winchester Christmas Market should be on your list this year.
For more days out destinations CLICK HERE and stayed tuned more features to come!
