A world-class centre for creativity, learning and culture.
Every year more than half a million visitors pass through Winchester Discovery Centre’s doors, making it one of the city’s most visited destinations.
It’s home to Winchester’s main library so an ideal place to discover more about the area’s rich and ancient history. It also houses an 180 seat theatre which features tours from acclaimed singers, musicians and performers. With more than 150 events, gigs, concerts, talks, shows and exhibitions taking place every month, you’re sure to find something to suit.
A short hop from the railway station and the city’s high street, Winchester Discovery Centre is also home to a tourist information centre as well as free Wi-Fi.
Two public art galleries host free touring exhibitions organised by the Hampshire Cultural Trust: last year featured Jane Austen, Iron Age jewellery and artist JMW Turner. There’s also a large separate children’s section in the library with activities and puzzles to keep youngsters entertained.
The café, with its vast floor to ceiling windows and a 19 metre tapestry by artist Alice Kettle, makes an outstanding venue for a coffee or a well-earned lunch. The centre’s gift shop sells a unique range of souvenirs, literary gifts and distinctive cards.
Winchester Discovery Centre is based in the historic Corn Exchange building at the heart of the city’s cultural quarter.
10% off the Discovery Centre cafe. Why not stop for a bite to eat, while exploring what the Discovery Centre has to offer?
Download a copy of the voucher here.
You can also download the Winchester Visitor Map to get this special offer and many more.
Access to the library and gallery spaces is free.
Ticket prices for shows vary, please see the website for more details.
By foot
Winchester Discovery Centre is located on Jewry Street near the city centre, next to the Theatre Royal.
Public transport
Winchester railway station is a five minute walk away and the Discovery Centre has its own bus stop, directly outside the main door. The bus station is a 10 minute walk.
By car
A car park, with wheelchair accessible parking, is located on the left hand side and rear of the Discovery Centre, postcode SO23 8SB.
Fully wheelchair accessible – ramped access throughout
Hearing loop
Accessible parking
Accessible toilet
Full accessibility information can be found on the website below:
https://www.disabledgo.com/access-guide/hampshire-county-council/winchester-discovery-centre-2
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Join Threepenny Bit for a wild night of Christmas ceilidh dancing!
ABC Concerts will get you into the festive spirit with all your favourite Christmas melodies played by the Jingle Bell Jazz Band.
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World famous 180 acre gardens.
Guided cycle tours of Winchester and beyond.
Day trips and minibus hire in Southern England
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.
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Live entertainment and events in a historic venue - also home to a cafe and Winchester Tourist Information Centre.
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A modern exhibition space in the centre of Winchester
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The last of the main medieval gates into the city
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A rare surviving example of an urban working corn mill
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A pocket guide to the beautiful market town of Wickham.
A pocket guide to the charming market town of Bishop's Waltham.
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A pocket guide to the beautiful market town of Alresford
A National Trust elegant country house with highly distinctive gardens
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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
Described by William Cobbett as “one of the prettiest places in the County”.
Six museums within yards of each other
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Believed to be the oldest continuously running school in the country
The house at Chawton where Jane Austen spent the last eight years of her life.
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Beautiful and intimate Edwardian-style Theatre venue
The final remains of Winchester Castle and home to King Arthur's round table.
Get close to the wonders of the natural world
