Things to do in Winchester
6 iconic local spots
Ruth Sneddon
Forestipedia writer | Helping you to discover the best places on your travels
Winchester is a beautiful cathedral city in Hampshire, surrounded by green countryside but still offering plenty of urban conveniences. If you’re planning a visit and wondering what to do in Winchester, there are so many local attractions and activities to make your holiday here an unforgettable one.
1. Take a cathedral tour
Winchester Cathedral is a magnificent gothic building with a fascinating history dating back to 642 AD. Enjoy a guided tour of the cathedral and discover its secrets.
Winchester Cathedral
2. Visit a historic local pub
The Wykeham Arms is a famous Winchester pub which started off as a coaching inn in 1755. This is a perfect place to enjoy a pint with the locals. The Wykeham Arms has a tasty seasonal menu, an extensive wine list, and a tea list to accompany afternoon tea in the St George Tea Room.
3. Explore Blackwood Forest
Enjoy some time in nature, surrounded by the peace and tranquillity of Hampshire’s leafy Blackwood Forest. There are plenty of woodland walking trails and cycle paths, and the log cabin accommodation will lend a truly magical feel to your stay.
Cycling at Blackwood Forest
4. Spark your little one’s imagination
A trip to the Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium is the perfect day out for families visiting the city. This interactive science and technology centre boasts the biggest standalone planetarium in the UK. There’s so much to explore, including live science shows and hands-on exhibits.
Spaceman for the day at Winchester Science Centre Planetarium
5. Meet Exotic Animals
Another of the most popular things to do with kids in Winchester – visit Marwell Zoo for a day of fun and learning. Marwell Wildlife works to conserve species and habitats, and the zoo looks after a wide range of exotic and endangered animals. Here you’ll see white rhino, Amur tigers, cheetahs, snow leopards and more.
Marwell Zoo Lemur experience
6. Discover The Great Hall
History and culture buffs will enjoy a visit to the last remaining piece of Winchester Castle, which is home to King Arthur’s legendary Round Table. Visitors to The Great Hall can explore Queen Eleanor’s Garden full of 13th Century foliage, take part in trials and quests based on Arthurian legends, and take selfies in some of the amazing costumes available.
The Great Hall at Winchester Castle
These are just a few of the iconic landmarks to check off your Winchester holiday list – from local shopping to riverside walks, there is much more to do in Winchester, and you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to local attractions.