Our Winchester Travel Guide includes recommended places to visit and things to do, accommodation options, tips and more for this beautiful English city. Everything you need to plan your visit and essential reading for any visitor to Winchester!
Plan your visit to Winchester
The historic city of Winchester is a former capital city of England. Winchester has everything from Roman remains to a historic and imposing medieval cathedral and is an easy day trip from London by train.
Located in the southern English county of Hampshire (which roughly forms the dividing line between South East England and South West England) the cathedral city is also famous for its Great Hall in which(what was believed by Henry VIII to be) King Arthur’s Round Table is hung.
Winchester also holds a famous Christmas market in November and December every year, and many festive events and celebrations are held in and around the cathedral.
What you will find in this complete Winchester Travel Guide
Map of Winchester England
Winchester travel guide – Visiting Winchester FAQ’s
When is the best time of year to visit Winchester?
The best time of year to visit Winchester is during the summer months of July and August. This time period offers the best chance for warm, sunny weather to help you enjoy all that this historic city has to offer! It is also peak time for tourists so expect the city to be busy.
May and September usually offers pleasant visiting weather too (though bear in mind it is the UK so the weather can be unpredictable)
In the autumn and winter months, Winchester (like anywhere in the UK) can be cold and wet. If you are travelling to the area during these months, it is best to be prepared with appropriate outerwear and rain gear.
Read more about the best time to visit the UK in my detailed guide.
What is the best way to explore Winchester?
Winchester is a compact city easily explored on foot. Enjoy the many restaurants, shopping opportunities, architecture, and history as you explore this medieval English city.
Winchester has an extensive public transportation network serving both local and regional destinations.
What is the best way to travel to Winchester from London?
🚆 By train
The direct train line between London and Winchester takes only about an hour from Waterloo train station. Trains run several times per day, making it easy to plan your trip around the things you want to see!
Tip – If this is your first time catching a train in the UK read our article about travelling the UK by train which includes tips to make travelling around the UK by rail a more relaxing and stress-free experience.
🚗 By car (road trip option)
Driving to Winchester from London takes approximately two hours (depending on traffic). Park and Ride is available in Winchester – park your car and take the bus into the city centre.
Winchester is located only 15 minutes from Southampton International Airport (by road or rail) and a 20-minute drive from the cruise terminals.
Via Southampton Cruise Terminal
If you are arriving or departing from Southampton Cruise Terminal, why not book a tour or a chauffeur transfer, which includes a stop in Winchester?
- To enquire about a transfer (chauffeur service) contact XFA Cars
- To enquire about a transfer tour contact My Tailored Tours
Winchester Tourist Attractions – Things to do in and around Winchester
Winchester Cathedral
No visit to Winchester would be complete without a tour of its famous cathedral. The medieval Gothic cathedral is the final resting place of (amongst others) Jane Austen.
There is a charge to enter the cathedral. This is a truly magnificent cathedral with a fascinating history.
The Great Hall & King Arthur’s Round Table
Hanging in the Great Hall of Winchester Castle is King Arthur’s Round Table. The tabletop is inscribed with the names of the knights of King Arthur’s court (and although King Arthus is broadly accepted to have been a fictional character, the Arthurian tabletop is a magnificent sight).
The tabletop has been hanging in the Great Hall since 1348.
Highclere Castle
Located only 24 miles (approximately 30 minutes by car) is Highclere Castle (or Downton Abbey to fans of the TV show and films)
Read our guide to visiting Highclere
Other popular destinations in the county of Hampshire
Winchester Travel Guide – Best Tours
Accommodation in Winchester
There is a variety of accommodation options in Winchester to suit every budget. These are my choices of some of the best hotels, lodges and B&Bs based on location and customer reviews.
voco® Winchester
voco® Winchester is a stylish and modern hotel, ideally located for visitors looking to explore the rich history and charm of Winchester. Offering a blend of contemporary design and warm hospitality, this hotel makes for an ideal retreat after a day of sightseeing.
Key features:
- Prime Location: Situated on the edge of the scenic South Downs, voco® Winchester is just a short distance from the heart of Winchester. It’s the perfect base to explore top attractions like Winchester Cathedral, The Great Hall, and the historic High Street, all just a few minutes away.
- Relaxing Rooms: The hotel offers 131 beautifully designed rooms with comfort in mind. Each room features plush bedding, blackout curtains, and rainfall showers, ensuring you can unwind in style after a day of exploration. With amenities like Smart TVs and complimentary Wi-Fi, your stay will feel both modern and homely.
- Dining: Enjoy locally sourced British cuisine at the hotel’s on-site restaurant, The View, where you can savour delicious meals while enjoying stunning views of the South Downs. Whether you’re indulging in breakfast, lunch, or dinner, the restaurant provides a welcoming atmosphere to fuel your adventures.
- Amenities for Leisure: The hotel offers plenty of comforts for those looking to relax after a long day of sightseeing, from the cosy lounge bar where you can enjoy a drink and a light bite to the serene spaces perfect for unwinding. Plus, ample parking makes it easy for those driving through the beautiful Hampshire countryside.
- Sustainable Stays: As part of the voco® brand, the hotel is committed to eco-friendly practices, such as plastic-free bathroom amenities and sustainable materials, ensuring your stay is not only comfortable but also kind to the environment.
Why stay here?
With its contemporary design, central location, and relaxing atmosphere, voco® Winchester offers the perfect escape for travellers eager to explore the beauty and history of Winchester and its surroundings. Ideal for a weekend getaway or a longer stay, voco® Winchester ensures you’ll have a memorable and comfortable visit.
More Accommodation options in Winchester
Featuring free WiFi, The Old Vine offers accommodation in historic Winchester, 150 m from Winchester Cathedral.
Free WiFi, within walking distance from Wolvesey Castle and 550 m from the Winchester Cathedral.
City views, free WiFi and free private parking, situated in Winchester, 500 m from Winchester Cathedral.
➡️ More accommodation options near Winchester
More special stays – Accommodation Guide for England
Enjoy your visit to Winchester
This guide will have provided inspiration plus practical information to help plan your visit to Winchester. You will find more inspiration and ideas to help plan your travels around England in these travel guides:
Find more inspiration for your travels in my England Travel Guide which includes information about what to see, where to stay, how to get around, travel tips, recommended reading and more to make the most of your trip.