Explore more than 1000 years of history in Europe’s longest medieval Cathedral. Discover the beautiful illuminated Winchester Bible, 12th-century wall paintings, medieval carvings, contemporary art and the awe and wonder of this magnificent building.
A free children’s trail, written by a professional children’s writer, offers families a fun and informative look at the Cathedral and introduces them to some of the characters associated with its colourful past and present.
Cathedral Guides offer tours of the Cathedral each hour from 10am – 3pm and tours of the crypt at 10.30am, 12.30pm and 2.30pm from Monday to Friday.
A wide range of events take place throughout the year. From classical concerts, open-air theatre and themed lunches to children’s holiday activities, exhibitions and a major Christmas Market and real Ice Rink.
The Cathedral Café, with its pretty garden and open-air terrace, is the perfect place to stop for mid-morning coffee and pastry, delicious homemade lunch or Hampshire cream tea. The Cathedral Shop sells a wide range of unique gifts, souvenirs and CDs of the famous Cathedral Choir.
Evensong held at 5.30pm Monday – Saturday and 3.30pm Sunday
Occasionally the Cathedral may need to close for special services and events. All temporary closures are listed in the Cathedral website.
Walking
From the VIC turn left and walk up the High Street shopping area. Take the 2nd turning left into Market St. The Cathedral is straight ahead with the Visitor Centre, (Shop, Refectory & Paul Woodhouse Suite) located opposite the cathedral on the right.
The Cathedral is signposted from the city centre.
Winchester Cathedral welcomes groups, large and small.
Taking a guided tour with one of the cathedral’s expert guides can make the visit all the more special so they encourage group organisers to make use of their guides where possible. Read more about group visits to Winchester Cathedral here.
Don’t miss Kings and Scribes: The Birth of a Nation, a spectacular new three-level exhibition in the South Transept which takes visitors through 1,000 years of history, exploring Winchester Cathedral’s captivating story and showcasing some of the nation’s greatest treasures. Highlights include the Winchester Bible, the 17th-century Morley Library and the story of the Cathedral’s mortuary chests, believed to contain the remains of Saxon royalty.
There are four exciting galleries to explore – find out more here…
Winchester Cathedral is open all year, though is occasionally closed to the public for special services and events. All temporary closures are listed in the Cathedral website.
Opening Times
On occasion, for special services and events, temporary closures or limited access are necessary. If you are making a special visit please do check our list of temporary closures.
Cathedral
Mon – Sat: 9am – 5pm
Sun: 12pm-3pm
Café
Mon-Sun: 10am–4pm
Gift Shop
Mon-Sun: 10am-5pm
Kings & Scribes: The Birth of a Nation (Including the Morley Library).
Mon – Sat: 10.30am – 4.30pm
Sun: 12-3pm
The Crypt
Mon – Sat: 9am – 5pm
Sun: 12pm-3pm
Join family and friends for what promises to be the most splendid evening of the summer as you picnic under a beautiful summer sky and lose yourself in one of the best loved fairy tales.
Join family and friends for what promises to be the most splendid evening of the summer as you picnic under a beautiful summer sky and lose yourself in this unforgettable love story.
A Lunchtime Recital Series of emerging talent will take place at the Cathedral, in the North Transept. With performances from pupils and former pupils from Barton Peveril, Bedales, Peter Symonds, St Swithun’s & Winchester College, and other local musicians.
A social enterprise, helping everyone cycle more. Young or old, women, children and families.
The Winchester district is home to three of the most vibrant and picturesque market towns in Hampshire – Alresford, Bishop’s Waltham and Wickham, discover them here in our Market Town guide.
Whether you are a family or single, a couple or a group, young or young at heart, find Hampshire’s best kept secrets and unique activities with Experience Hampshire.
The Cycle Company offer electric bike rental from our shop, right next to Shawford Train Station (10 minutes from Winchester).
Winchester is home to an abundance of trees. Follow this self-guided trail to learn more...
Set within 65 acres of the beautiful south downs national park, Marwell Resort has grown into one of the most prestigious holiday parks on the south coast.
Hattingley Valley is a family owned business located in Hampshire specialising in premium English sparkling wines.
A rare surviving example of an urban working corn mill
Explore this charming country home set in 25 acres of gardens
South Downs Sourdough courses are practical, fun and informative. Discover how to make delicious, nutritious sourdough using traditional methods.
Discover the richness of Winchester on unique, entertaining, and fun walking tours.
The Cheese & Chilli Festival is set to spice up the summer, with highlights including a chilli eating competition, food challenges, cooking demonstrations, family-friendly entertainment and much, much more!
World famous 180 acre gardens.
The Gurkha Museum takes you on a journey of discovery through the history of Gurkhas in British service.
One of the best regimental museums in the Country.
Trace the history of three famous regiments over a period of 300 years
Explore the beautiful market town of Bishops Waltham located in the delightful countryside of Hampshire in the Meon Valley area with this interactive QR trail.
The escape room experience in the heart of Winchester
Come and discover the story of water over the last 100 years.
Displays made up from social, industrial and agricultural artifacts and archives.
A great family fun day out.
Discover the 'Great House’ enjoyed by Jane Austen, the quintessentially English manor house and gardens with a fascinating history. DUE TO THE DAMAGE CAUSED BY STORM EUNICE, MINGLEDOWN WOODS IS CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC.
Join a guided tour with one of Winchester's official tourist guides to take in the city's highlights.
Live entertainment and events in a historic venue - also home to a cafe and Winchester Tourist Information Centre.
Hosting a variety of exhibitions throughout the year
A modern exhibition space in the centre of Winchester
Telling the story of Winchester.
The last of the main medieval gates into the city
A trail exploring the Winchester District as favoured by main Tudor monarchs.
A trail around the city centre that is accessible for all.
A map of the beautiful market town of Wickham.
A map of the charming market town of Bishop's Waltham.
A pocket guide to the picturesque town of stockbridge in the Test Valley.
A map of the beautiful market town of Alresford
Find out more about the fascinating history of the Jewish community in Winchester...
Take a look at the district's regal history by following our Royal Trail...
As we remember those that lost their lives during conflict, take time to learn more about Winchester's military history and our Armed Forces.
One of the world's most famous authors, was born, lived and died on the 18th July 1817 in the historic city of Winchester. Our trail follows her life in Hampshire.
Walk, run or cycle along the Viaduct Way - Winchester's restored historic railway.
Enjoy the golden colours of Autumn in Winchester on our trail that follows the route Keats took on his daily walk 200 years ago.
Find your way to exclusive offers and ideas for great days out with our new Visitor Map out now.
It might be getting darker earlier but we love Winchester's sunset views - see for yourself and follow our self-guided trail.
Grade I listed buildings dating from 1132 and is home to 25 Brothers.
A stunning medieval building filled with the most beautiful of the College's treasures
Six museums within yards of each other
Library, exhibition, gallery and performance venue
Let off steam and travel by a lovingly restored steam train.
Believed to be the oldest continuously running school in the country
Jane Austen’s House in Chawton, Hampshire, is the house where Jane Austen lived and wrote.
See the impressive Royal Armouries collection of artillery and historic cannons
Step back in time on the banks of the Beaulieu River at the peaceful haven of Buckler's Hard.
A multi-award winning family day out with something for everyone
Trace the footsteps of King Alfred from his statue in the Broadway to his last known resting place beneath Hyde Abbey Garden.
Discover 100+ hands-on exhibits and interactive planetarium shows
Discover the artistry, heritage and taste of Bombay Sapphire
Beautiful and intimate Edwardian-style, 400 seat theatre situated in the heart of the city. The Theatre presents a diverse programme of drama, dance, family theatre, music and talks plus a hugely popular traditional family pantomime. It is part of the Arts and Education charity, Play to the Crowd, that also runs Winchester's annual Outdoor Arts Festival, The Hat Fair, each July.
The final remains of Winchester Castle and home to King Arthur's round table.
Get close to the wonders of the natural world
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