Family Friendly Winter Walks
Hot chocolate season is here, and this can only mean one thing, the South of England is turning into a wonderland of frosty walks.
At Famshire, we are huge fans of Winchester Cathedral, and it’s easy to see why! Whether you’re interested in the Royal and literary connections or its historic gothic roots, this stunning 7th Century Cathedral offers something for every member of the family. We recommend adding it to your must-see attractions list!
Winchester: Rich in History as England’s Ancient Capital
- Nestled into the heart of Hampshire, Winchester has charm, rich culture and great food. Once the ancient capital of England, Winchester is packed with stories and character, the city may be old but its rich heritage has a modern twist. Located on the edge of South Downs National Park, Winchester has the right balance of cultura Historic landmark Marwell Zoo
l attractions, gardens, shops and restaurants.
Whether you’re popping into the city for half an hour or making a day of it with the whole family, Winchester Cathedral is definitely worth checking off your list. You can even climb the Cathedral tower on a guided tour which is included in your general admission tickets and only takes an hour.
Military & Maritime History
- Visit the National Museum of the Royal Navy and set sail at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. Containing historic ships from the HMS Victory, ordered for The Royal Navy in 1758.
- The Mary Rose Museum in Portsmouth lets you travel back in time to explore the rich history of The Mary Rose (1510). The crew of the Mary Rose are honoured in the museum as well as the wider collection sharing the same name and legacy.
A little bit of history about Winchester Cathedral
- Winchester Cathedral is the largest of its kind in Northern Europe and holds over 1,000 years of history all under one roof! Winchester Cathedral has its own story and history as rich as the city itself, not only literacy fame. Winchester Cathedral is famously known as the resting place of locally born author, Jane Austen and has been a place of Royal Coronations and noteworthy recuses. William Walker’s, who originally worked as a professional deep-driver, carried out repairs that saved Winchester Cathedral a century ago and is the reason it still stands today! In early 1900 the Cathedral was at risk of collapsing due to substance, William spent 5 years supporting the building’s water-logged foundation by using cement bags and concrete blocks
- Whilst you’re wandering around Winchester Cathedral, you should also stroll around the Cathedral grounds. Just a short walk away on the Cathedral grounds lies quiet viewpoints to admire your surroundings, perfect for a slow stroll with a hot drink. See below for a map of the grounds.
Just up the road there is more to be discovered, where you’ll find the Great Hall, which once served as the castle’s primary defense. Winchester knights are also heavily associated with the Great Hall of Winchester Castle, which is well worth the visit in its own right. The Great Hall is also home to the Round Table of King Author and just further along you’ll find the formidable Westgate. Walk through if you are and try to listen out for the echoes that still linger in the stone. Furthermore, you’ll find the Wolvesey Castle Ruins, which is a hidden gem for history lovers.
Our top tips for your visit
- Skip the queue and buy your tickets online
- Take a guided tour around the grounds and see the stunning views at the top of the Cathedral tower
- Pack a picnic to enjoy in the Cathedral close
- Enjoy a cup of tea and a slice of cake in the Cathedral cafe
- Stroll the High Street independent boutiques.
The Perfect Place for a Pit Stop
- Winchester Cathedral conveniently has an on-site cafe, located behind the gift shop. The Cathedral Cafe offers a quiet space to take in the atmosphere and admire the beautiful Cathedral views. The cafe is open daily and offers shelter behind an ancient flint wall within a courtyard as well as accessible toilets and seating. This cafe is suitable for the whole family, companion dogs and guide dogs are permitted inside the cafe and all dogs are welcome in the courtyard area. Enjoy a cup of tea and a slice of cake or a ‘Waste Knot’ soup at lunchtime made with surplus vegetables. Alternatively, there are lots of spaces in the grounds to sit and enjoy a packed lunch, one being the inner or outer Cathedral Close.
- Located behind the refectory is a calm walled garden, a generous green space with picnic tables and willow tree, this is the perfect spot for a packed lunch and a book.
Things to do whilst you’re in Winchester
- If you are wanting a riverside walk, the River Itchen runs through the city and makes for a wonderful afternoon walk and if you feel like a challenge, you can hike up St. Catherine’s Hill. Afterwards, head over to the high street and take a stroll through the characteristic cobbled streets. You’ll find child friendly cafes, independent boutiques, markets and bookshops.
- During your time in Winchester, we also recommend visiting Winchester City Museum which is free to enter and great for kids, as well as Jane Austen’s House & Trail and Marwell Zoo… The options are endless!
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