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Winchester

An unspoilt cathedral city on the edge of the rolling South Downs, Winchester is England's ancient capital and former seat of King Alfred the Great.

Today, Winchester combines the best of city life with the freshness of the surrounding countryside. One hour from London, this is England as it ought to be.

Popular for its bustling shopping streets, its floral summer season and quirky open air events, Winchester is most well known for its eleventh century Cathedral and for the Great Hall which for over 700 years has housed the mysterious Round Table.

Winchester College is the oldest continuously running school in the country, whilst the Hospital of St Cross - a medieval almshouse - still offers the Wayfarer's Dole to travellers as it has done for more than eight centuries.

Out and About

Winchester's many bars, traditional pubs and restaurants make eating out a pleasure, and there are pretty riverside walks past tranquil water meadows.

A short distance from the city the INTECH science centre has 100 hands-on indestructable activities for inquisitive children! Also nearby is Hampshire's largest animal attraction, Marwell Wildlife. This 140-acre park is home to over 250 exotic and endangered species in beautiful, landscaped surroundings.

Lively street theatre, a thriving contemporary arts scene and fine architecture also make Winchester an attractive destination for visitors.

Home of good food and the country's largest farmers' market, birthplace of the modern game of cricket, resting place of author Jane Austen and inspiration to the many craft-makers and artists who live here, Winchester is truly a destination for all seasons.

Over four million people visit the ancient city every year. This video highlights some of the best attractions the beautiful Winchester district has to offer.

Visit the official tourism website for Winchester.