{England Travel}

With a 2005 population of 40,000, Winchester is located in the south east region of England on the River Itchen, and is the county town of Hampshire. Winchester was once England's capital in the 10th and 11th centuries under King Alfred the Great, and although it has nowhere near its former status, there is much rich history preserved here.

Winchester Cathedral is most definitely the main attraction for visitors, as it is a magnificent structure that was originally built in 1079 with much additional fine architecture added through to the 16th century. It has the longest nave in all of Europe, was an important pilgrimage center, and also is the burial place of numerous Anglo-Saxon Monarchs and Bishops of Winchester, as well as Jane Austen. There are also many fine additional buildings on the Cathedral Close, such as the 13th century Deanery, the 15th century Cheyney Court, and the oldest hammer-beamed building in England, Pilgrims' Hall.

Winchester Castle is also a great place to visit. Inside the famous Great Hall, which was built in the 12th century, you will see hanging on the wall the famous King Arthur's Round Table. Although the table was originally unpainted, in 1522 Henry VIII had it painted with the names of the Knights of the Round Table along with an ornate depiction of King Arthur.

More medieval structures exist at Winchester College, which was founded and erected in 1382. Be sure to check out the magnificent college chapel. The city center in Winchester is compact and can be easily explored on foot. It has a distinctly medieval feel with its narrow pedestrian streets and medieval buildings with jetties into the river. Winchester has excellent unique shopping which is refreshingly devoid of many of the usual chain stores. Make sure to stop by the arcaded Pentice for some shopping, as well as the pedestrianized High Street, The Square, Parchment Street and great Minster Street.

The Guildhall is an excellent example of Gothic Revival architecture, built in 1871. Also worth seeing are the water mills along the River Itchen, particularly the Winchester City Mill which has been restored and is once again milling corn. 

By: Ian Morrison

No related posts.

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.