Winchester Cathedral

Nestled in the heart of Hampshire, one of Southern England's most historic buildings, Winchester Cathedral boasts centuries of English heritage, magnificent architecture, priceless treasures and works of art. Once the seat of Anglo-Saxon and Norman royal power, this fascinating site has played host to Kings and Queens for centuries, including William the Conqueror, Mary Tudor and Prince Philip of Spain.

Steeped in history, one of the best ways to explore the Cathedral is with a trained Guide, who will be able to tell you all about its colourful past, including wonderful stories about the people associated with the Cathedral, such as William Walker, the diver who saved the Cathedral in the early 1900s. As part of the tour, you will have the opportunity to discover the massive vaults of the Cathedral's early Norman crypt, the ornate Renaissance chantry chapels, Jane Austen's grave and the Great West Window. Frequent guided tours are available Monday to Saturday, from 10:00am 3:00pm and are included in the admission fee (subject to availability).

All groups, large and small, are welcome. Winchester Cathedral can arrange general interest and themed guided tours, provide catering packages and assist with other aspects of planning, such as the length of visit, advice on travel and parking, and neighbouring sites of interest. A special rate of £10.00 per person applies for groups of 10 or more and includes entry and a standard cathedral tour.

Visitors who are feeling adventurous can also climb the Cathedral Tower, which offers magnificent views across Winchester and the surrounding county. You will see the ringing chamber, the great Cathedral bells and walk the full length of the Nave roof with its huge wood beams. Visit the Winchester Cathedral website or phone the Box Office for more information (additional fees apply to Tower Tours, booking in advance is essential and a signed health and safety form is required).

A wide range of events take place throughout the year. From classical concerts, open-air theatre and family trails to art exhibitions, light installations and the Christmas Market, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Evensong is held at 5.30pm Monday and Saturday, and 3.30pm Sunday. Occasionally the cathedral may need to close for special services and events. All temporary closures are listed in the cathedral website.

Directions

Walking from the Winchester Visitor Information Centre, turn left and walk up the High Street shopping area. Take the 2nd turning left into Market St. The Cathedral is straight ahead with the Visitor Centre, (Shop, Refectory & Paul Woodhouse Suite) located opposite the cathedral on the right. The cathedral is signposted from the city centre.

By train, Winchester is on the South West main line, with regular and direct trains to and from London Waterloo and major cities across the South and Midlands. It is approximately a 10 minute walk from the railway station to City Museum. Buses run regularly from the railway station to the city centre.

By bus, Winchester is served by bus services from Stagecoach, Bluestar and National Express. The nearest stops to Winchester Cathedral is Broadway and Winchester Bus Station.

By road, Winchester is well connected to the motorway network and can be easily accessed from all directions. Located just off the M3 (Junctions 9, 10 & 11), it’s an easy journey by road from London (1.5 hours) and Southampton (20 minutes). Take the A34 from Newbury (35 minutes), Oxford (1 hour) and the A30 from Salisbury (40 minutes).There is no parking within the Cathedral Close or the immediate vicinity, so the Park & Ride service is recommended.

Group Visits

Winchester Cathedral welcomes groups, large and small. Taking a guided tour with one of the cathedral’s expert guides can make the visit all the more special so they encourage group organisers to make use of their guides where possible. Read more about group visits to Winchester Cathedral here.

Venue Hire

The cathedral is extremely versatile, boasting everything from outdoor marquees to contemporary meeting spaces with all the latest facilities; the cathedral is bursting with character and history. Find out more about hosting an event at the cathedral here.

Facilities & Accessibility

Foreign language leaflets available.
Chairlift access to Cathedral ground floor and upper ground floor.
Induction loop.
Touch and hearing facility
Braille guide
Sensory trail for pre-booked groups
Disabled toilets
Wheelchair access to the Visitors’ Centre.
Dogs on leads welcome.
Café.
Gift Shop.

Prices

Adult: 13.50
Concession: £12.00
Student: £7.00
Children under 16 (with family): Free

Tickets are an Annual Pass. Pay today and visit as often as you like for 12 months.