As the nights get longer, explore our top picks for a perfect night out in Winchester
Sunday 27 October marks the end of Daylight Savings. As the clocks turn back and the nights get longer, discover the best ways to enjoy Autumnal nights in Winchester.
Take a sunset stroll around the city
The perfect way to relax after a long day is by enjoying a golden hour ramble around Winchester’s cobbled streets. The Sunset Trail starts at The Broadway, where you can purchase the map from the Winchester Visitor Information Centre. It encompasses St Giles Hill, The Weirs and Abbey Gardens, as well as passing some of the city’s oldest and most picturesque buildings. If you start the trail at 4pm, you will reach the St Giles viewpoint in time for panoramic views of the city as the sun sets. When you share your photos, be sure to tag us @VisitWinchesterUK on Instagram.
Cosy up in one of Winchester’s historic pubs
If you are in the city for an evening, why not stop by one of the cosy pubs nestled in the heart of the city? Sandwiched between the Cathedral and the 14th century college, The Wykeham Arms is a luxurious country pub surrounded by heritage. Their menu is a seasonal mix of high-quality, locally sourced ingredients and fantastic selection of ales and wines. If you fancy making your evening in Winchester an overnight stay, The Wykeham Arms also offers rooms!
If you are in the mood for a livelier night, look no further than St James Tavern. This little pub is full of historic charm, local food and a delightful events calendar. Join the locals for the Tuesday Night Quiz, have a boogie to contemporary jazz performances, or try your luck at one of the monthly bingo nights! Check out their Instagram for the next date for the diary.
Treat yourself to dinner and an evening show
Start your evening right at one of Winchester’s many eateries, all within a 15-minute walk of the Theatre Royal Winchester. Kyoto Kitchen serves up authentic Japanese cuisine in a gorgeous contemporary setting. They also offer a fantastic range of vegetarian and vegan dishes. The award-winning Chesil Rectory occupies a 600-year-old medieval house in the heart of Winchester. It offers a modern British menu featuring simple, classic, seasonal dishes and an abundance of fresh local produce. A popular favourite, Rick Stein offers a modern British menu featuring simple, classic, seasonal dishes and an abundance of fresh local produce.
Be sure to make your way over to the Theatre Royal Winchester with enough time for a pre-show drink from the Cafe Bar, which opens 2 hours before the performance begins. The theatre presents a diverse programme of drama, dance, family theatre, music and talks throughout the year plus a hugely popular traditional family pantomime each December. Find out what’s on here.
Experience must-see exhibitions and events after dark
Did you know Winchester Science Centre hosts after hours events for all ages? Enjoy a romantic evening under the stars of the Planetarium, step into the South Downs National Park with guided night sky tours, get hands-on with family friendly science shows, and more! You can find all After Dark events here.
For an unforgettable evening of culture and creativity, explore The Arc's diverse lineup of evening events. Hear first-hand from experts, experience live performances, ‘paint and sip’ with your friends, and much more at Winchester’s premier arts venue. Find their full programme of events here.
Why not stay the night?
Winchester is the perfect place for a short break, so why not make a weekend of it? For last-minute bookings, be sure to check out one of our city-centre hotels. The Mercure Winchester Wessex Hotel is just metres away from the 11th century Winchester Cathedral, while the Winchester Royal Hotel is bursting with historic charm in the heart of the city. Just a 10 minute drive from the city, and nestled on the edge of the South Downs National Park, you’ll find the voco Winchester Hotel & Spa.
Check out all of accommodation options, both in the city and the beautiful district beyond, by clicking here.
