Winchester, Hampshire, England

An unspoilt cathedral city on the edge of the rolling South Downs National Park, Winchester is England's ancient capital and former seat of King Alfred the Great. Today, Winchester combines the best of city life with the freshness of the surrounding countryside. One hour from London, this is England as it ought to be.

Home of good food and the country's largest farmers' market, birthplace of the modern game of cricket, resting place of author Jane Austen and inspiration to the many craft-makers and artists who live here, Winchester is truly a destination for all seasons.

Lively street theatre, a thriving contemporary arts scene and fine architecture also make Winchester an attractive destination for visitors. Leading examples of sculpture can also be found across the city, including a statue portraying Licoricia, a prominent member of Winchester’s medieval Jewish community. Over four million people visit the ancient city every year. Over four million people visit the ancient city every year.

Popular for its bustling shopping streets, its floral summer season and quirky open air events, Winchester is most well-known for its eleventh century Cathedral and for the Great Hall which for over 700 years has housed the mysterious King Athur's Round Table.

Winchester's many bars, traditional pubs and restaurants make eating out a pleasure, and there are pretty riverside walks past tranquil water meadows. The city sits on the edge of the South Downs National Park and is the start place for the famous South Downs Way. For fabulous views of the city and the surrounding area, take a stroll up to St Catherine's Hill.

Surrounding Winchester are a number of towns and village all offering excellent events throughout the year. The Watercress Festival in Alresford, Boomtown music festival and CarFest South are to name a few.

It's also a great base from which to try out some of our experiences including these 3 activities:

• Ice cream making experience

• Guided city tour walk

• E-bike hire (with guide if required)

Are you visiting and looking for good advice on the Winchester area from local people? Drop us an email to hello@experiencehampshire.uk with any questions that you might have and we will do our best to help

If you are looking for accommodation in Winchester then we can recommend the beautiful country house hotel Lainston House, just a few miles from the city centre