King Alfred the Great

Scholar, soldier, statesman, King Alfred (c 849-899) rebuilt Winchester after the Dark Ages and made it his capital. His last known resting place has been commemorated with the opening in 2003 of Hyde Abbey Garden, designed by leading landscape architect and former pupil of Winchester College, Kim Wilkie.

Today his imposing bronze statue which dominates the Broadway is one of Winchester’s most famous landmarks. Towering over the city, this bronze statue was erected in 1901 as the result of a national commemoration of the millenary of the great Saxon king’s death.

The sculptor, Hamo Thornycroft, came from a family of artists. His father, Thomas, is best known for Boadicea and her Daughters on the Embankment, London, with which Hamo assisted.

Trace the footsteps of King Alfred with our self-guided tour of Winchester’s historic landmarks - the 'City Walk'. You’ll learn about the earlier history of Winchester and how it has evolved in more recent times. A hard copy of the tour is available to purchase from Winchester Visitor Information Centre, or click on the link below to download the trail.

Download the City Walk

Immerse yourself in Anglo-Saxon Winchester