878 AD

The year is 878. The future of the Kingdom of Wessex hangs in the balance. The fate of the people of Winchester depends on the victory or defeat of their king, Alfred, as he faces the mighty Viking Guthrum at the Battle of Edington.

An immersive experience for all the family, discover early medieval Wessex and the sights, sounds and smells of Anglo-Saxon Winchester in this exciting exploration of the city and its history. This two part Anglo-Saxon adventure is brought to life by the spectacular world of Assassins Creed Valhalla and its educational experience, Discovery Tour: Viking Age fun for all ages!

Discover the stories of Winchesters Anglo-Saxon people with interactive, live performances. Prepare for battle as you enjoy captivating live theatre from our Anglo-Saxon soldier and shield-maker, who ready their weapons from inside the safety of the city walls, to our healer who will tell you all about ancient healing practices from leeches to charms! Take part in a shield wall and even decide the outcome of an Anglo-Saxon street trial!

Have a go at interactive activities and games for all ages, from digital quizzes to Anglo-Saxon board game, taefl. Collect a free children's trail the people of Winchester have hidden away their most precious objects. Each object bears a special rune. Find the runes and uncover their hidden meanings to solve Aethelflaed's riddle! Learn about the city's rich history with our impressive collection of Anglo-Saxon artefacts. From gaming pieces made of bone to iron prisoner restraints, our fascinating collection of historic objects offer a valuable insight into the very real lives of people of the past. What might your day have looked like 1100 years ago? View the spectacular Winchester reliquary the only known object of its kind to have been found in England. There's no story quite like it!

Explore the lost buildings of Anglo-Saxon Winchester with 878 AD: Winchester Revealed, our astonishing augmented reality app fun for all the family. Defend the city walls with augmented reality archery, brew Anglo-Saxon remedies and cures to help heal ailments, craft your own virtual pot and even create a virtual shield! Collect map fragments at landmarks around the city centre that reveal Alfred's lasting legacy.

Enjoyable and educational for all the family, begin your Anglo-Saxon adventure today. #878AD

Directions

878 AD is located on the upper floor of The Brooks, Winchester. The second part of the experience is a self-guided augmented reality tour throughout the city of Winchester.

Winchester is accessible by car via major road routes including the M3, A34 and A31. Winchester Park and Ride has multiple parking sites across the city, with a stop just a short walking distance to the venue. Find out more at Winchester City Council’s website. Parking is available in The Brooks Shopping Centre’s car park and at car parks throughout the city. Please note that The Brooks Shopping Centre car park is open until 6:30pm Monday – Saturday and 5:30pm on Sundays.

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 15 minute walk from the railway station to The Brooks Shopping Centre. 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 stop to The Brooks Shopping Centre is Siverhill Road, alternatively, the main bus station is a short walk away.

Group Visits

878 AD caters to school groups. A KS2-tailored programme offers a unique, immersive experience that enables pupils to discover all about the Anglo-Saxon times through exploring two exciting venues! 878 AD also offers discounted tickets for groups. Please visit their Group Bookings page for more information.

Facilities & Accessibility

Fully accessible for wheelchairs.

Assistance dogs are welcome.

Dimmed light and flashing imagery.

Accessible facilities at The Brooks available.

Prices

Adults: £15.00

Children (5-16 years): £10.50

Under 5s: Free

Concessions: £13.50

Family (5 people): £49.00

Art Fund Members: £6.25

Groups (15 or more people): See Group Bookings page

With the great value Historic Winchester Super Explorer and Explorer tickets, you can visit our Winchester heritage attractions as many times as you like for a whole year. Enjoy 10% off all ticket prices when you book online! Find tickets at Historic Winchester.