Founded in 1382 by William of Wykeham, as a boys boarding school, Winchester College has the longest continuous history of any English school. Wykeham rose from unexceptional social origins to become Bishop of Winchester and Chancellor of England. Wykeham’s career enabled the acquisition of huge personal wealth, which he applied to twin educational purposes: New College Oxford and Winchester College. These were to provide an education for 70 scholars and his motto of Manners Makyth Man is still in place for the 700 pupils who study at the school today.
The College educates boys boarding, aged 13 – 18, and day girls and boys in the Sixth Form, including many of bursaries.
Admission to the College is by guided tour only; these are available all year except between Christmas and New Year. As the College is a working school, some venues may be unavailable due to School use – please check the College website for details.