Are you seeking out warm colours, cosy evenings and the fantastic tastes of autumn? Find your perfect autumnal Winchester escape.
Are you seeking out warm colours, cosy evenings and the fantastic tastes of autumn? Find your perfect autumnal Winchester escape.
Find your perfect place to stay
Winchester has accommodation to suit every budget for anyone planning their autumnal break. If you're feeling indulgent, book into the Winchester Royal Hotel for a luxurious stay. This historic hotel features elegant rooms, beautiful gardens, and is just a short walk from the city’s main attractions. Another excellent choice is the Hotel du Vin, known for its boutique charm and exquisite dining.
If you enjoy the fresh air and views of the breath-taking Hampshire countryside a stay at a luxury cottage at Wallops Wood could be just for you. Take in the tranquil, stunning views across the Meon Valley as you relax in your personal hot tub.
Nestled amidst over 300 acres of breathtaking scenery and vibrant woodlands, Oakley Hall Hotel offers the perfect setting to embrace the beauty of the Autumnal season. Book before 30 November to enjoy their two night autumn foodie getaway package.
Find your favourite view
The Winchester district offers spectacular views and breath-taking landscapes, and what better way to discover the beauty of the district then on a self-guided walk.
An autumnal visit to Winchester wouldn’t be complete without a stroll along the Keats Trail. Very little has changed since Keats enjoyed his daily walks through the Cathedral Close and water meadows to St Cross in 1819. Watch the colours change as you walk the same path that inspired Keat’s ode ‘To Autumn’.
After a day exploring the district, a relaxing walk could be just what you need. Wander out of the city and along the Sunset Trail for amazing views over the city centre. Plan your walk for sunset and enjoy a view unlike any other. Couple this walk with our Tree Trail for some spectacular autumn colours.
The South Downs National Park is known for its sweeping panoramic views and stunning scenes. The South Downs Way starts right in the city centre at Winchester City Mill and is the perfect way to start an autumnal adventure.
Find your favourite garden
What better time to explore the stunning gardens in the Winchester district than in autumn. Gilbert White’s Gardens are inspired by the surrounding countryside and a beautiful place to explore. Look out for the original, historic features including the Haha, Sundial and Fruit Wall as well as the Great Oak planted in 1730.
Visit Chawton House, once loved by Jane Austen and her family, and a favourite with residents and visitors alike. The grounds have been restored to the English landscape style and are the perfect place to spend an afternoon.
While in Chawton a visit the Jane Austen’s House is a must. The present garden shows an extensive range of plants known in Jane Austen’s time and includes wildflowers common to this area of Hampshire.
The Master’s Garden in the Hospital of St Cross is another oasis of beauty and tranquillity. It includes a wide range of plants with flowering interest throughout the year and includes a border planted to celebrate the Queen’s Golden Jubilee in 2002.
Find your favourite tipple
Are you looking to wet your whistle during your stay? Don’t worry Winchester has you covered. Book your visit to the Bombay Sapphire Distillery and find your perfect cocktail.
If gin isn’t for you, Incognito offer a variety of cocktails and the team at Cabinet Rooms are always ready to delight your taste buds with an eclectic mix of delicious recipes.
If a cosy pub is what you are after, then the Wykeham Arms, nestled between the Cathedral and Winchester College, combines historic character with a menu of hearty pub favourites and fine wines.
The Chestnut Horse, located in the idyllic village of Easton, serve up well-known beers, draught ciders and local ales alongside carefully crafted wine from the local vineyards.
Find your favourite dish
Winchester has long been known as a foodie haven so finding your favourite dish is going to be a challenge. Book your table at Kyoto Kitchen and explore the cuisine of Japan, take your taste buds on a visit to the British coast at Rick Stein's or delight in a pub favourite at The Chestnut Horse.
There are so many places to enjoy outstanding dishes!
Explore our market towns
Across the Winchester district you'll find a rich tapestry of market towns, each with unique charm and historical significance. Alresford for its Georgian architecture and the Watercress Line. Bishop’s Waltham with its high street, lined with independent shops and cafes and the ruins of Bishop’s Waltham Palace; a medieval bishop's residence that adds a historical depth to the town's modern-day vibrancy. Wickham for its expansive medieval square.
Market towns of Winchester district.