Built by William the Conqueror, Winchester Castle was the seat of power of medieval monarchs. The Great Hall, one of the finest medieval halls in England, and the Westgate, which served as the castle’s primary defence, are now the sole survivors of this once magnificent historical site.
Located at the top of the High Street in the historic city of Winchester, Westgate Museum is housed inside a surviving, fortified medieval gateway. The museum tells the story of this remarkable building and the history of Tudor and Stuart Winchester. It also offers unrivalled views over the city from its roof.
A debtors’ prison for 150 years, this beautifully refurbished, ancient scheduled monument is the last of the main medieval gates into the city. Today, Westgate Museum’s displays include a famous collection of pre-imperial weights and measures and a fine painted ceiling commissioned by Winchester College in anticipation of a visit by Mary Tudor and Philip of Spain on the occasion of their marriage in Winchester in 1554.
There are plenty of hands-on activities for all the family to enjoy during your visit. Try on a replica coat of armour and Tudor costumes and pose for a photograph! Make a brass rubbing to take away and have a go at the Westgate spotter trail. Throughout the year, we run a programme of fun, family-friendly events and activities.
Discover age-old stories of heritage, myth and lore, uncover the hall’s battle scars and immerse yourself in the history of ancient secrets at Winchester’s Great Hall.
Take in the impressive, majestic surroundings and historic architecture, watched over by the iconic Round Table of Arthurian legend, which takes pride of place within the hall.
From its life as a royal residence, to a defensive stronghold, a courtroom and now a thriving tourist destination, discover the place where history was made, and heritage is felt.
By car: Westgate Museum is located in the centre of Winchester. Use City Centre Park and Ride services.
By rail: Westgate Museum is a short 6 minute walk from Winchester railway station
A ticket offers 12 months access to both The Great Hall and Westgate Museum
Please see website for ticket prices.
We regret this Grade-1 listed building is not wheelchair accessible due to its age, and there is a steep staircase from the street entrance.
Guide dogs are permitted and there is a hearing loop. For those with visual impairments there is a ‘touch and hear’ information point.
There is no toilet in the Westgate.
Winchester Market has a fantastic selection of seasonal produce, fresh flowers, vintage clothing and handmade homewares.
Vendors gather on Winchester’s historic streets to show an eclectic offering of their wares at the Antiques, Vintage, Retro & Collectables Market.
Award-winning market, held on the 2nd, and last Sunday of the month. 30 to 40 stalls attending each market. Fresh local produce from small businesses based in rural areas.
Leave the city and embark on a day long nature experience unlike any other! Join Mafia Weekend CIC, as they gather in a calm woodland just outside Winchester. Immerse yourself in tranquillity, reconnect with nature, and uncover new creative abilities. Enjoy guided mindful walks sessions, filmmaking and creative writing sessions.
Hampshire Archives & Local Studies and Wessex Film & Sound Archive help bring Hampshire’s history to life. From their base at Hampshire Record Office in Winchester, preserving and providing access to archives relating to Hampshire, and film and sound material relating to central southern England.
The Itchen Navigation Heritage Trail stretches from Winchester in the north, to Woodmill near Swaythling in the south
Craft shop and activity centre for all ages, with a tea room cafe and soft play area. Offering pottery, glass painting, jewellery making and more. We also sell a range of craft supplies including wool, fabric, paints and much more. Open everyday with workshops all year round!
Europe’s biggest conservation charity. We look after nature, beauty and history for everyone to enjoy.
Step into Anglo-Saxon Winchester! The year is 878. The future of the Kingdom of Wessex hangs in the balance.
The St James’ Way passes through Winchester and is one of the UK legs of the world-renowned pilgrimage route, the Camino de Santiago and is approximately 68.5 miles/110 kilometres long.
Big rides, small rides, play areas, entertainments and an astonishing collection of exotic birds and animals, all set within 140 acres of beautiful parkland... home of Peppa Pig World!
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 over 220 of 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...
Hattingley Valley is a family owned business located in Hampshire specialising in premium English sparkling wines.
Explore this charming country home set in 25 acres of gardens
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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.
The Museum of the County Regiment for Hampshire and the Isle of Wight – Serving the Crown for nearly 300 years.
The Museum of The King’s Royal Hussars. Hampshire’s only museum of Cavalry, located within the grand setting of Peninsula Square, Winchester, a site full of military heritage.
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.
ClueCapers offers fun inclusive escape games to share with friends, family and colleagues 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.
Join a guided tour with one of Winchester's official tourist guides to take in the city's highlights.
The Guildhall Winchester sits on the historic Broadway situated at the heart of one of England’s most beautiful heritage cities.
Hosting a variety of exhibitions throughout the year
A modern exhibition space in the centre of Winchester
Three galleries tell the story of Winchester's past from its origins as a prehistoric trading centre and Roman regional capital through to modern times.
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
Enjoy a trail that combines the beautiful scenery of the Meon Valley with the opportunity to discover historical churches dotted across the district.
A National Trust elegant country house with highly distinctive gardens
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 over 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
Winchester's Military Quarter is a grouping of six regimental museums situated within yards of each other on a historic site, close to the city centre of Winchester.
Library, exhibition, gallery and performance venue. Formerly Winchester Discovery Centre and set in an iconic, Grade II listed building on the city's Jewry Street, With upgraded facilities and revamped spaces, The Arc as a unique cultural destination.
Let off steam and travel by a lovingly restored steam train.
Founded in 1382, Winchester College has the longest continuous history of any English school and it still occupies its original medieval buildings.
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
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Beautiful and intimate Edwardian-style, 400 seat theatre situated in the heart of the city.
The final remains of Winchester Castle and home to King Arthur's round table.
A visit to Marwell is a chance to get close to the wonders of the natural world and find out how conservationists are making a difference for future generations.
