Visit Winchester > Blog > 5 things to do this week (25 – 31 Dec)

5 things to do this week (25 – 31 Dec)

Winchester Cathedral
Winchester Cathedral

Do you want to make the most of Twixmas this year? Here are 5 things you can do in the Winchester district from 25 – 31 Dec…

1. Discover all about Jane Austen in our FREE trail

Jane Austen died in a house on College Street in Winchester after a short illness. Her final resting place is Winchester Cathedral, which is a central landmark of her life. This trail traces her journey from birth to her death giving you an insight into the life and times of this ‘Hampshire girl’. With places such as Jane Austen’s House and Chawton House featured in the route you will learn so much about the area that Jane loved.

2. Watch Cinderella at home in your PJs

If you haven’t been able to get out to the panto this year fear not as Theatre Royal Winchester have you covered with a live stream of their amazing Cinderella.

Watch from the comfort of your own device.

Will Cinders make it to the ball?

 

3. Feed the ducks at Bishop’s Waltham pond

Bishop's Waltham

Bishop’s Waltham

Bishop Henry de Blois created the pond 700 years ago to provide fresh fish and impress his visitors. In the late 1960s, a road was built across the Great Pond dividing it in two: the South pond holds water all the year-round and is leased to the Bishop’s Waltham fishing Club.  The north pond has been designated as a SINC (Site of Importance for Nature Conservation) for its wetland flora and fauna.  The North Pond is currently maintained by the North Pond Conservation Group.

Walk around the pond until you reach the Railway Gates by the roundabout.

While you are discovering this beautiful market town, why not warm up with a hot drink and a bite to eat in one of their fabulous cafes? Or marvel in their spectacular independent shops and treat yourself to something that Santa forgot!

4. Explore West Walk and warm up with a hot drink in Wickham

Wickham has an abundance of great walks to explore, from the marvellous West Walk to the stunning Wickham Water Meadows, forming a tranquil oasis in the middle of the village. You are sure to have a great time walking off all those Christmas treats. While you are there, why not warm up and grab a hot drink and some lunch in Wickham. There are also some lovely quaint shops to pick up that perfect post-Christmas gift.

The charming village of Wickham combines ancient history, intriguing shopping, quality produce, delicious dining, beautiful countryside and miles of walks and cycle rides. At the heart of this historic village lies the handsome Square – one of the largest in the country covering almost two acres and always alive with residents and visitors.

 

5. Shop local in Alresford

Alresford

Alresford is a magnificent Georgian town of colour-washed houses, riverside walks and specialist shops.

Make a full day out with a ride on the Watercress Line and a walk around the picturesque Georgian town, with its delightful tea rooms and independent shops.

Alresford is awash with art galleries, specialist food stores, antiques and interiors shops as well as top-notch boutiques recommended by the likes of Vogue magazine and designer-to-the-stars Alice Temperley. Jostling for attention are all the traditional shops you would expect to find in a small market town, including butchers, fishmongers and a baker.

Take your time and browse to your heart’s content, and when you’re ready for a pit-stop, put down your bags and rest your feet at one of the town’s tempting array of cafés and tea rooms.

 

Don’t forget to check out our other blogs and what’s on pages for inspiration for a great day out this Twixmas.