See hidden places, try out new experiences and visit Winchester's historic buildings, all free of charge
Every September Winchester throws open its doors to celebrate the city's heritage, community and history. It’s your chance to see hidden places and try out new experiences – all of which are FREE to explore.
It's part of Heritage Open Days, England's largest festival of history and culture, which sees hundreds of fascinating places and spaces, from historic houses and music halls to parks and pumphouses, open up to the public for free.
This year the festival runs from 11 - 20 September 2026, and the theme is Everyday Histories, exploring stories of working lives, from learning a craft to establishing routines and cherished rituals.
What's going on in Winchester for Heritage Open Days 2026?
The Great Hall
Step into the legendary past at The Great Hall, home to King Arthur’s Round Table, and discover the stories of medieval knights and kings and the turbulent history of the English monarchy. Wander the Great Hall and hear all about it's incredible history in a series of guided tours taking place on Saturday 12 September.
Whilst there, you can also learn more about the Captain Swing Riots - a widespread uprising across Hampshire by workers in protest of agricultural mechanisation and harsh working conditions. The trials were held The Great Hall in the 1830s. With short talks, music pieces and a mini drama – it’s a fascinating look into a significant local story.
P&G Wells
P&G Wells at 11 College Street has been a Winchester landmark for nearly 300 years. Explore the history of P&G Wells through the lives of people who owned the business & worked there. On Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 September, there will be a number of informal short walks through the building taking visitors 'backstage' -explore the building, including the old Bindery, and hear more about the history of the people who have worked here.
Winchester College
One of the oldest schools in the country, Winchester College, opens its doors to reveal stunning medieval buildings, beautiful courtyards, and a wealth of history dating back to its foundation in 1382. Book for an Archive Tour, or Fellow's Library Tour on 18 September, or take advantage of the Treasury’s extended opening hours.
On Saturday 12 September Dr Alex Beeton will be delivering a talk exploring what everyday life was really like for the pupils, teachers, servants, and governors who lived and worked at the College before the English Civil War. Through a series of remarkable stories, it reveals a world shaped by corruption, violence, ruthless ambition, disorderly behaviour, and even tragic accidental deaths, alongside moments of dark humour and human drama.
More Winchester events not to be missed
Be the first to play a brand-new board game, Vikings in Wessex, in a special pre-release event on 19 and 20 September at Mythic Tabletop games or take the kids on a beast hunt, following clues around the city to unveil mythical beasts and enter a competition to win a prize. Adults and children alike can get hands on and make their very own Medieval wax seal on Saturday 19 at St Bartholomew’s church or join the Hampshire Poet who invites you to turn ordinary stories into magical poems. On Saturday 12 September you can enjoy free entry to Winchester City Museum and on the 19 and 20 you can catch a Miller Talk at Winchester City Mill. Of course, the Friends of King Alfred Buses will be running their fleet of historic vintage buses as well, offering free bus rides all day on Sunday 13 September from St Catherine's Park & Ride site.
Find the full list of Heritage Open Days events in Winchester here.
How do I get Heritage Open Days tickets?
Lots of the Heritage Open Days events in Winchester are both free of charge and un-ticketed, so pre-booking isn't required. However, due to limits on numbers for certain events, you may need to pre-book. Find booking information for each individual event here.
The event I want to go to is sold out! What can I do instead?
Some popular Heritage Open Days events in Winchester and the surrounding areas will sell out. But there are lots of events which don't require any pre-booking and all you need to do is turn up on the day. Thankfully places like Winchester Cathedral, The Great Hall, Winchester College and more are regularly open to the public outside of Heritage Open Days, too.
