Winchester, Hampshire travel information
Winchester Hampshire England
Located in the heart of Hampshire with the River Itchen running through it, Winchester proudly owns the title of being Hampshire’s county town. In the past Winchester has played a vital role in British history. Originally the Roman’s, who felt it necessary to build Venta Bulgarum, a vast wall to protect the region from the possibility of invading forces, considered Winchester an area of great significance. However, what really made Winchester famous was the Saxon’s considering it the country’s capital when King Alfred The Great made Winchester the capital of his Wessex kingdom. The original city wall constructed by the Romans can still be seen today in parts and was later fortified by the addition of a medieval wall.
Winchester’s other great claims to fame include the fact that the Domesday Book was written there, Henry III was born there and John Keats wrote his wonderful ‘Ode to Autumn’ inspired by a stroll around the city. It was also home of the much respected and powerful Bishops of Winchester who resided at the impressive Wolvesey Castle.
Today Winchester is a thriving market town best known and loved for its spectacular medieval cathedral that never fails to impressive its many visitors. It’s a city that is small enough to explore on foot and the tourism office has plenty of recommended scenic walks to guide you through the best sites the city has to offer. The architectural splendour of Winchester even includes the Tourist Information Centre that is housed in the magnificent Guild Hall.
