Spring into the half term break with a visit to Winchester
Join us for a marvellous May half term in England's ancient capital! Discover heaps of family fun, wonderful walks across the district and fascinating history and heritage just waiting to be discovered.
Family fun in the Winchester district
At The Hospital of St Cross, unravel the clues of The Crusader's Collectable. Wander through the medieval site (including never-seen-before rooms!) to locate an important relic before the Bishop of Winchester arrived for dinner. Be sure to stop by the HMH Tea Rooms as a treat for your detective skills!
Embark on an adventure trail at Marwell Zoo to celebrate Love Your Zoo Week. Meet the animal keepers, join in with craft activities and see the zoo's latest arrivals, including Pasha the Amur tiger and Zaya the snow leopard. Plus, don’t miss the Wildlife Art Exhibition (until 26 May), with over 250 pieces of artwork on show.
Promising palaeontologists can join Winchester Science Centre for their Jurassic adventure! Join the dino dig, handle real fossils, and find out how our dinosaur friends lived in an exciting live science show - FREE with admission. For an out-of-this-world experience, be sure to check out what's on in the Planetarium during your visit or after dark.
Step back in time at Historic Winchester attractions. 878 AD invites budding warriors will learn the skills needed to take on the Vikings. Meanwhile, kids and grownups alike can discover the history of Winchester at City Museum, see the legendary Round Table at The Great Hall with Westgate Museum.
Beyond the city, there is still more fun to be had! Join Thomas and Friends for a day of laugher and locomotives at The Watercress Line. Charge up to Fort Nelson for medieval mayhem and family activities. Go wild at Gilbert White's House for their Story and Craft or hands-on activity days. Explore the world of Peppa Pig or enjoy rollercoaster thrills at Paulton's Park!
Image: Marwell Hall
Green spaces in the heart of Hampshire
Gardens across the district will be opening their gates for the National Garden Scheme, which gives people access to more than 3,500 private gardens across England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and the Channel Islands.
On 31 May and 1 June, visitors will be able to explore Winchester College's breath-taking gardens with members of the college gardening team, who will be on-hand to share their knowledge and expertise. Meanwhile, The Hospital of St Cross will be opening on 1 June for visitors to explore their beautiful gardens nestled between their water meadows and Norman chapel.
Glorious gardens are also in full bloom beyond the city. At Gilbert White's House, visitors can see the countryside that inspired The Natural History of Selborne. Nearby Chawton House is also famous for its lawns and gardens, and were the pride of Jane Austen's brother Edward.
May is also National Walking Month, encouraging people to put on their walking boots and explore the great outdoors. Not only does walking improve your physical health, it can also improve your mood, reduce stress, and help you sleep better. And where better to dust off the cobwebs than historic Winchester?
Whether you’re a seasoned rambler looking for your next big hike or a city stroller wanting to take in the sights more sustainably, celebrate the great outdoors by exploring some of England's most spectacular countryside.
Image: Winchester College
Perfect springtime stays
