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Welcome to Winchester

Paper Lantern Parade

Celebrate the opening of Winchester's Christmas Market and Ice Rink by joining a spectacular lantern parade through Winchester's High Street on Thursday 27 November more...

Making Merry Open Studios

Take the strain out of Christmas shopping this year by visiting the many galleries, studios and artists' homes in and around Winchester. Surprise your loved ones with something different more...

Winchester Out Loud 2008

A series of events underlining the legacy of the written word is taking place in the city and district to celebrate The National Year of Reading. Our celebration of all things literary kicks off with a choice of two spookily well timed events over Halloween that celebrate the genre of ghost stories more...

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Winchester at Christmas

Experience a traditional Christmas with a twist

Who's your hero?

During 2008, Winchester's Year of Heroes will be exploring some of the characters who have shaped the district over the centuries: find out how Winchester Cathedral was saved from catastrophic disaster - by a diver - and learn about some of Winchester's military heroes.

Help to keep Winchester special

Want to reduce the environmental impact of your visit? Book your accommodation with a member of our new Green Leaf Tourism Scheme, or check out our top ten tips for a greener stay.

An unspoilt cathedral city on the edge of the South Downs, Winchester is England's ancient capital and former seat of King Alfred the Great. Today, Winchester combines the best of city life with the freshness of the surrounding countryside. One hour from London, this is England as it ought to be.

Popular for its shopping streets and architecture, its floral summer season and quirky open air events, Winchester is most well known for its eleventh century cathedral and for the Great Hall which for over 600 years has housed the mysterious Round Table.Winchester College is the oldest continuously running school in the country, whilst the Hospital of St Cross - a medieval almshouse - still offers the Wayfarer's Dole to travellers as it has done for more than eight centuries.

Home of good food, birthplace of the modern game of cricket, resting place of author Jane Austen and inspiration to the many craft-makers and artists who live here, Winchester is truly a destination for all seasons.

Photo gallery

Take a look at our photo gallery for a sneak preview of some of Winchester's sights and attractions.

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