Winchester is a city steeped in history; located in Hampshire, it combines the best of city life with the freshness of the surrounding countryside.
It has that small, market-town feel, with a very walkable historic centre and plenty of green spaces, river walks, interesting artisan shops and great places to eat.
With bed & breakfasts and popular boutique hotels, Winchester has a variety of accommodation for you to enjoy, each offering their own unique holiday experience.
Winchester Cathedral has stood for nearly a millennia. There are few that won’t be wowed by this imposing gothic structure or its incredible, intricate interior. The manuscript library is an interesting place to stop by where old illustrated texts are on view. There is also a plaque to Jane Austen for you to look out for as you pass through the cathedral.
If you are a fan of Jane Austen, retrace her footsteps in a circular walking trail from Chawton to Farringdon. Visit the nearby market town of Alton where Jane visited often with her sister.
If museums are your thing you will not be disappointed with Winchester, what with it having five military museums all situated on a historic site close to the city centre of Winchester. Each Museum is a must for the history buffs amongst you; the Battle of Waterloo is explained in full at the Royal Green Jackets Museum, offering clear insight into the experience of the average soldier of that era.
Take the family to nearby Marwell Zoo a wonderful place to visit. There is a great selection of animals on view here, with everything from tigers down to penguins. With keepers happy to talk with guests about their charge it makes for an enjoyable educational experience.
The remains of Wolvesey Castle provide a pleasant adventure when exploring Winchester. Although in ruins there is enough stonework and descriptive text as you walk around to provide you with insight into what the castle was like many years ago.
Take a day trip to the South Hampshire coastline and pay a visit to the seaside towns of Southampton, Gosport and Portsmouth. Here you will find a both artistic and historical attractions along its coastline. Many country parks border the shoreline and offer scenic views, such as Manor Farm Country Park on the Hamble River and Royal Victoria Country Park at Netley Abbey.
The coastal nature reserve at Titchfield Haven provide tranquillity for birdwatchers and walkers while Hampshire's role in the D-Day invasions can be seen in the remnants of the mulberry harbours at Lepe and Hayling Island.