Saturday 25 May – Sunday 2 June
May half term – city break with the kids; if you are looking for some family fun in the city centre, you’ve come to the right place. Winchester has a half-term packed with events and festivals: from mysteries and mayhem to colourful crafts, we have something for everyone to enjoy!
Accommodation in Winchester district is in abundance and there is something to suit all budgets! From the city centre Travelodge, Mecure Wessex Hotel to the Winchester Royal Hotel. On the outskirts of the city centre lies the Holiday Inn Winchester and Lainston House. Alternatively, if you’d rather have the option of self catering, try Wallops Wood, the Old Dairy or Blackwood Forest.
For more accommodation options visit our Where to Stay page.
From 11 May until 3 June attend Mysteries & Mayhem at Winchester Science Centre and join in the fun at the Science Spy School live show and help use light to uncover the secrets contained in the mystery safe. Put your forensic skills to the test in an indoor and outdoor Hide and Seek activity trail.
Take a trip back in time to 878 AD an immersive experience transporting you to Alfred the Great’s victory over the Vikings. 878 AD is a pioneering collaboration between the heritage sector, the gaming industry and technology innovators, creating a history-defying audio-visual projection and live interactive performance. Winchester’s Anglo-Saxon history will be brought to life before your very eyes.
During half term you’ll join the residents of Winchester as they prepare for the Battle of Edington. They need as many soldiers as possible, so come get ready to be part of the Anglo-Saxon army! Take part in a shield wall, learn how to handle a weapon and let out your most fierce battle cry!
If you purchase their ‘super explorer ticket’ it will allow you to visit all four historic attractions in the city centre (878 AD, City Museum, The Great Hall and Westgate Museum plus you can visit as many times as you like within a year!
Step further into the medieval history of the city at Winchester Cathedral, where located in the South Transept is the Kings & Scribes exhibition which traces the story of Winchester Cathedral from its Anglo-Saxon origins to the present day.
A Day Out With Thomas is back at the Watercress Line from 25 May until 2 June. Join Sodor Station Sweepers Rusty & Dusty for a trainload of excitement! Make a day of it exploring Alresford.
On 26 May The Theatre Royal has a family friendly show – High Jinx Magic, Illusion & Circus which comes direct from the iconic Blackpool Tower Circus and the prestigious International Festival de Magie, Michael effortlessly blends mesmerising magic with awe-inspiring feats of juggling and daring stunts.
For those who like to get creative, The ARC has a variety of half term activities ranging from making a clay pot like Grayson Perry (27 May), lino tote bag printing (28 May) and fizzy painting (28 May – 1 June).
The Cheese and Chilli Festival returns on 1-2 June at the North Walls Recreation Ground. Returning for its 9th year, the line-up is full of festival favourites including cooking demonstrations, taste tents, circus performers, live music, and chilli-eating competitions are just a few of the fabulous festivities to get your tastebuds tingling. Even better – kids enter free! Click here to find out what else is in store and pre-book your tickets.
For a full list of events taking place during half term click here.
