Every September Winchester throws open its doors to celebrate our heritage, community and history. It’s your chance to see hidden places and try out new experiences – all of which are FREE to explore.
Every September Winchester throws open its doors to celebrate our heritage, community and history. It’s your chance to see hidden places and try out new experiences – all of which are FREE to explore.
This year the festival runs from 6 - 15 September 2024 with the optional theme of 'Routes, Networks and Connections', celebrating the movement of people and ideas throughout time.
Whether your interests are medieval or modern, in the everyday experience of people throughout history, technological advances, or courtly clashes, there is an event for you to enjoy at this year’s HODs.
Winchester Cathedral
Curious about the Cathedral and its unique collection of historic books and artefacts? Especially for Heritage Open Days, Winchester Cathedral’s Curator is leading a talk where you can explore the cathedral’s collections. Come and learn more about some of the fascinating treasures from our archive with these drop-in, behind-the-scenes talks led by our Cathedral Curator.
The talk lasts for roughly 45 minutes and will be repeated at intervals across the morning. Those attending are kindly requested to take a seat 5 minutes before the start of the next session. Timings for each session are as follows:
– Session one: 9.30am-10.15am
– Session two: 10.30am-11.15am
– Session three: 11.30am-12.15pm
The Great Hall
Step into the legendary past at The Great Hall, home to King Arthur’s Round Table, and discover the stories of medieval knights and kings and the turbulent history of the English monarchy. On Saturday 7 September, take advantage of the classic and sports cars display in Castle Yard, where you can feast your eyes upon some stunning cars and talk to their passionate owners. The Hampshire Regency Dancers will also demonstrate dances from the Regency era throughout the day.
Wolvesey Castle
Wander through the ruins of Wolvesey Castle, once the palace of the Bishops of Winchester. The castle’s history spans over 1,000 years, offering a glimpse into the ecclesiastical power that once dominated the city. For great views of the castle, visit the top floor of Winchester Friends (Quaker) Meeting House. On 14 and 15 September, they will have an exhibition called “Loving Earth Project”, where you can view panels of sewn collage celebrating parts of our planet that people value and want to conserve. You’ll be able to explore their Grade II listed Georgian house, which has interesting historic features inside and out, along with the peaceful walled garden. Cream teas and refreshments available.
The Hospital of St Cross open day
900-year-old Medieval Heritage Site is nestled in Winchester's beautiful water meadows at the foot of St Catherine’s Hill. Heritage Open Day on the 8th of September offers free admission, free tours, and a fun family/group mini escape rooms.
Winchester College
One of the oldest schools in the country, Winchester College, opens its doors to reveal stunning medieval buildings, beautiful courtyards, and a wealth of history dating back to its foundation in 1382. Book for the one-hour Archive Tours on Friday 13 and Saturday 14 September, or take advantage of the Treasury’s extended opening during these two days! The War Cloisters Tour, College Tour and Fellow’s Library Tour are also taking place; booking is required.
Events not to be missed
Come down to HorsePower Museum at Peninsula Barracks, Winchester, to explore how The Hussars have been portrayed in pop culture across their 300 year history. There is free admission to all of Winchester's Military Museums on Saturday 7th and Saturday 14th September 2024.
At The Royal Logistic Corps Museum, Museum Director Simon Walmsley will explore some of the weaponry held in our collections in this engaging talk, enhanced by real examples, and aimed at a non-specialist audience.
Routes & Networks in antique maps at Kingsgate Books & Prints. In their famous and historic window, a display of fine, unusual and rarely-seen antique maps will reflect the dynamic and fascinating relationship with the world and its very shaping by nature.
Meet the Anglo-Saxons at the Arc. On 7 September, the Anglo-Saxons will be setting up an outpost at The Arc. Come and join them for a taste of what life was like in 878AD Winchester.
Winchester Today, Winchester Yesterday at The Heritage Centre
The Heritage Centre has selected several photographs from their archive, taken at different times during the 19th and 20th centuries, and then photographed the same views today. Find out more.
The Friends of King Alfred Buses collection of vintage buses dating from 1929 to 1970 will operate a range of free bus services on Winchester Broadway on Sunday 15 September, from 10am to 4pm.
It is expected that 12 or more historic vehicles will operate over a variety of routes, offering passengers the chance to experience bus and coach travel as it used to be. Buses will pick up and set down anywhere on the route so passengers can break their journey. With the extensive range of King Alfred free bus rides, there will be plenty of space for everyone, so booking is not required. Just turn up and travel!
There is so much more to explore this Heritage Open Days in the Winchester district.
