The Hospital of St Cross & Almshouse of Noble Poverty

Founded just 65 years after the Norman invasion, ‘The Hospital of St Cross’ was first conceived by the grandson of William the Conqueror, Henri de Blois. De Blois was a young French monk and nobleman who later became (amongst many things) the Bishop of Winchester. In 1132, de Blois founded the hospital to house 13 frail men unable to work, as well as feed 100 men at the gates daily.

During the mid-15^th Century, Cardinal Henry Beaufort then set up ‘The Almshouse of Noble Poverty’ and constructed the majority of the hospital buildings, including the wonderful line of elegant Almshouses, The Beaufort Tower, and The Brethren’s Hall. Since then, the site has grown throughout the medieval era and has continued the tradition of providing Almshouse accommodation to this day. The combined foundations created ‘The Hospital of St Cross & Almshouse of Noble Poverty’ which remains its full title.

'The Hospital' (the origin of hospitality), welcomes visitors to explore the stunning and tranquil heritage site, walk around and worship in the majestic de Blois Chapel, as well as enjoy the stunning sculptural Master’s Gardens which have breathtaking views of St Catherine’s Hill.

Call in to the Porter’s Lodge, where you can receive the unique 'Wayfarers’ Dole' of bread and local ale; sample the bespoke wares in the Porters Lodge gift shop; dine out on delicious coffee and cake in the Hundred Men's Hall Tearooms; explore the richly timbered Brethren's medieval hall and Tudor kitchens; and walk along the Ambulatory, through to the gardens or chapel to find peace and calm.

Please note, the tearooms are now closed for the Winter Months.

Directions
By road: The Hospital of St Cross is one mile south of Winchester city centre, midway between Junction 11 of the M3 and Winchester; behind the Bell Inn on St Cross Road. From the M3, Exit the motorway at junction 11. Follow the signs towards Winchester. From the B3335 (St Cross Road) turn right immediately after The Bell Inn, into our driveway called 'The Gravels'. Parking for visitors is along the right-hand of the 'The Gravels', tucked into our flint wall leading to The Hospital. There are spaces for up to 8 cars.
By foot: To reach The Hospital of St Cross & Almshouse of Noble Poverty by foot is a delightful walk of less than a mile from the City Centre, passing by the Cathedral, through the Cathedral Close, and ambling past Winchester College. Either enjoy the Dickensian walk of Kingsgate Road past College houses, their cricket grounds, and The Queen Inn, or take the 'Keat's Walk’ through the beautiful water meadows alongside the River Itchen. The whole route is signposted.

Group Visits
The Hospital of St Cross welcomes groups, large and small. Taking a guided tour with one of the Brothers. Their guide makes the visit all the more special with a personable rich account of the foundation’s history. Book a tour.

Venue Hire
The site has many beautiful spaces to hire for private events, corporate events, weddings and concerts. There are two Medieval Halls (one with catering facilities), an atmospheric under croft, space to host marquees for wedding receptions, a Tower Room, and a delightful Chapel for concerts with sublime acoustics. Find out more about venue hire.

Facilities & Accessibility

• Chairlift access to Brethren’s Hall ground floor to upper ground floor.
• Induction loop in the Chapel
• Disabled toilets
• Wheelchair access to Chapel
• Dogs on leads welcome in the Outer Quad
• Café
• Gift Shop
• Wayfarer’s Dole on request

• Adult: 7.50
• All Concession: £5.00
• Children under 16: £4.00
• Registered Carers: Free (when accompanying a disabled visitor)