Hello, explorers and adventure-seekers! Today, we’re hopping on a train from the bustling city of London for an unforgettable day trip to the charming town of Winchester. It’s a quick escape that’ll transport you to a world of history, culture, and delightful surprises. Join me as we dive into the must-see spots, and trust me, you won’t want to miss this ride!

Getting to Winchester from London

To get to Winchester, I took a South Western train from London Waterloo. It took just over an hour to get there.

St. Giles view point

After getting to Winchester, I walked from the train station across the town centre towards St. Giles view point. It’s a short, steep walk to get to the vista, but the view is worth the exercise. You can sit on a bench and enjoy the panorama of Winchester, including the Cathedral, castle and the Old Town.

City Mill: The Riverside Gem

From the hill, I took a leisurely stroll to the Winchester City Mill, a picturesque spot nestled alongside the River Itchen. This working watermill is a window into the past, showing you how grains were milled for centuries. The river views alone are worth the visit! It’s free to visit the Winchester City Mill. It won’t take you long to explore it, even 15 minutes can be enough. There is a second hand bookshop and a cafe inside if you fancy a rest. You can check the opening times on the website https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/hampshire/winchester-city-mill.

Wolvesey Castle

After visiting the Mill, I walked towards the ruins of Wolvesey Castle along the old Winchester City Walls and River Itchen. It’s a short but lovely, picturesque walk. Wolvesey Castle, or more affectionately known as Wolvesey Ruins, is a must-visit on your day trip to Winchester. This ancient gem transports you back in time with its romantic, crumbling walls and echoes of centuries gone by. Once an impressive palace, it’s now a hauntingly beautiful ruin that oozes history and mystery. You can wander around the ruins, soak in the stories, and enjoy the stunning views of the cathedral from this picturesque spot. It’s like stepping into your very own fairy tale, right in the heart of Winchester. The Castle is free to visit. You can check the opening times on the website https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/wolvesey-castle-old-bishops-palace/.

Winchester Cathedral: Awe-Inspiring Beauty

My next stop was none other than the awe-inspiring Winchester Cathedral. As you step inside, prepare to be greeted by stunning Gothic architecture, soaring vaulted ceilings, and a sense of timeless grandeur. Don’t forget to catch a glimpse of Jane Austen’s final resting place. This cathedral is a piece of history you can’t afford to miss. You can check current opening times and prices on the official website: https://www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk/welcome/plan-your-visit/. You can buy the tickets online or at the door. If you’re interested in climbing the tower, you need to book a guided tour in advance – there are usually a couple of tours on chosen days. I wasn’t aware of this and unfortunately wasn’t able to explore the tower during my visit – I was told the tours usually sell out a fortnight in advance. You can book a Winchester Tower Tour on the Cathedral’s website here: https://www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk/event/tower-tour/.

Lunch and Local Fare

After visiting the cathedral, I went back to the high street to find a spot for a short rest. After all, no day trip is complete without delicious food. Winchester boasts a delightful array of cafes, pubs, and restaurants, perfect for refueling with some classic British dishes or international cuisine. Choose a spot with a view, and enjoy your meal! I treated myself to a sweet pastry and a hot coffee. Yum!

Winchester Great Hall: Uncover the Past

Refueled with coffee and cake, I continued my Winchester adventure. If you’re a history buff, make sure that your list of things to see in Winchester includes the Great Hall, where the legendary Round Table of King Arthur is on display. Marvel at the medieval architecture and take a moment to travel back in time. Check out the official website for opening times and admission prices: https://www.hants.gov.uk/greathall.

Winchester City Museum: Dive into Local Lore

Before catching the train back to London, I had time for a final stop. I made my way to the Winchester City Museum. It’s a treasure trove of local history and culture. Here, you can discover the story of Winchester, from its Roman roots to its medieval glory days. With engaging exhibits and interactive displays, it’s a perfect way to wrap up your visit. For opening times and ticket prices, visit https://www.hampshireculture.org.uk/winchester-city-museum.

Overall thoughts after the trip

From London to Winchester, this day trip is a gateway to an enchanting world of history and charm. The cathedral, city mill, castle, and museum are just a few highlights in a town full of surprises. I really enjoyed my day trip to Winchester and would recommend it to anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of London. So, what are you waiting for? Plan your adventure, pack your camera, and get ready to create unforgettable memories in the heart of Winchester. Happy travels!

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