Peaceful parks, gardens and walks

Winnall Moors Nature Reserve

The River Itchen flows through the length of this city centre nature reserve, providing water for wet grassland, reedbeds, wet woodland and streams. This wetland haven is a wonderful place to escape city life and with its many paths, boardwalks and bridges, you can enjoy the walk year-round.

Dean Garnier Garden

Dean Garnier Garden is found next to Winchester Cathedral’s south transept and sits on the former site of a Benedictine Monastery. This tucked away corner is the perfect slice of tranquillity in the heart of the city. Bring a picnic, wander through the herb garden or take a moment for yourself under the arbours.

St Catherine’s Hill

From the city centre, take the 30-minute walk along The Itchen Navigation Trail. Head up the steps to the summit of the hill where you’ll be greeted by stunning views of the city, a copse of beech trees (the former site of a Norman chapel), and the 17th century turf ‘mizmaze’.

Queen Eleanor’s Garden

The garden is located through the grand south doors of The Great Hall and named after two Queen Eleanors: Eleanor of Provence, wife of Henry III, and her daughter in-law Queen Eleanor of Castile, wife of Edward I. Be transported back in time as you explore the recreated medieval herbarium, tunnel arbour and stone benches of this hidden gem.

Image: The view from St Catherine's Hill, South Downs National Park

Picturesque places to eat and drink

Hampshire Pantry

Hampshire Pantry is set on a working farm outside Winchester, and is home to a cafe, coffee roastery, gelateria, seasonal pot shop and pick your own produce. It is the best way to experience Hampshire’s breathtaking countryside and produce within walking distance of the city.

Long Barn

Long Barn in Alresford is a café, lifestyle store, and plant nursery, surrounded by heritage lavender fields used to create their famous soaps, candles and oils. It offers a calming atmosphere ideal for unwinding, as well as the chance to pick up some locally-grown gifts! Finish with a visit to the café to refuel with a homemade sweet treat or delicious brunch!

Hambledon Wine Estate

Discover the birthplace of English sparkling wine at award-winning Hambledon Wine Estate. Just a half-hour drive from Winchester, the vineyard offers an idyllic escape from the bustle of the city. Walk through the historic vineyards, visit the state-of-the-art gravity fed winery and explore Hambledon’s underground cellars during a tour, and enjoy a tasting of a range of the best sparkling wines in England. And with views across the vineyard, The Restaurant offers exceptional, seasonal cuisine in a welcoming and casual atmosphere.

Image: The Restaurant at Hambledon Wine Estate

Calming places you can visit for free

P&G Wells

A treasure trove for book lovers, P&G Wells is situated just a stone’s throw from Winchester College and the house Jane Austen spent her final weeks. It is presumed to be the oldest bookshop in Britian (they haven’t found an older one yet!), and to walk through the traditional wood-panelled frontage is like stepping back in time. Spend a lovely relaxing moment browsing their classics, new releases and a full upper floor of children’s books.

Wolvesey Castle

Walk through the ruins of the old Bishop’s Palace in Winchester, dating the 12th century when it belonged to Bishop Henry of Blois, brother of King Stephen. While you visit, you can imagine the many occasions held behind these walls, from the siege of Empress Matilda during The Anarchy and the wedding banquet of Queen Mary and Philip of Spain.

Winchester Library

Step off the busy thoroughfare of Jewry Street into Winchester Library. Members and non-members can take a moment to relax and read a wide choice titles from current best-sellers to award-winning non-fiction. Visitors can also enjoy coffee and cake or a light lunch at The Arc café, before heading over to the shop to discover books, gifts and exclusive exhibition items.

St Swithun-upon-Kingsgate

Tucked above the medieval Kingsgate, this church is one of the smallest in England. Visitors and worshipers are able to take a quiet moment to bask in the peaceful and historic atmosphere. It is just a stone’s throw away from Winchester College but is quite easy to miss if you don't know it's above you!