Discover the Enchantment of Winchester: A Historical Gem
Explore the historic charm of Winchester, where ancient architecture meets vibrant culture in the heart of Hampshire.
Winchester, a city steeped in rich history and stunning architecture, invites tourists to explore its ancient streets, majestic cathedral, and vibrant culture. A perfect blend of the past and present, it's a must-visit destination!
A brief summary to Castle Ave
- Winchester, GB
Local tips
- Visit the Winchester Cathedral early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
- Take a leisurely walk along the River Itchen for beautiful views and peaceful surroundings.
- Check out local events and festivals in advance for a chance to experience Winchester's vibrant culture.
- Sample local delicacies at the Winchester Farmers' Market if you visit on the first and third Sunday of the month.
- Plan your visit to the Great Hall during weekdays for a quieter experience and better photo opportunities.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving from Reading, take the M4 motorway towards London. Merge onto the M3 motorway at Junction 2, following signs for Southampton. Continue on the M3 for about 20 miles and take exit 9 for Winchester. Follow the signs for Winchester City Centre. Once you are in the city, look for signs to Castle Avenue. You can park at one of the public car parks nearby, such as the Chesil Multi-Storey Car Park, which is a short walk from Castle Avenue.
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Public Transportation
To reach Winchester by public transport from Basingstoke, take a South Western Railway train from Basingstoke Station to Winchester. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes. Once you arrive at Winchester Station, exit the station and head towards the city centre. You can either walk (about 15 minutes) or take bus number 1 or 2 from the bus stop outside the station, which will take you closer to Castle Avenue. Alight at the stop nearest to Castle Avenue and walk to your destination.
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Public Transportation
If you're coming from Southampton, you can take a direct South Western Railway train from Southampton Central to Winchester. The journey is around 20 minutes. After arriving at Winchester Station, exit the station and either walk (~15 minutes) or take bus number 1 or 2 towards the city centre. Get off at the nearest stop to Castle Avenue and walk to your destination.
Discover more about Castle Ave
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
King Alfred the Great Statue
0.8 km
A towering bronze tribute to England’s Saxon king, standing proudly in Winchester’s historic Broadway since 1901.
Hilton Reading
47.3 km
Discover the perfect blend of modern luxury and convenience at Hilton Reading, your ideal base to explore the vibrant city and surrounding attractions.
Edward VII Statue
50.1 km
A distinguished Edwardian bronze statue near Reading station, embodying regal history and artistic heritage from the early 20th century.
Holy Well of St Anne
51.1 km
A tranquil medieval pilgrimage site in Reading, dedicated to St Anne, echoing centuries of healing waters and local legend.
Lord Wantage Monument
55.1 km
Historic Victorian monument atop an ancient Bronze Age barrow offering scenic views and a tribute to Lord Wantage near Wantage, Oxfordshire.
Tunsgate Arch
55.5 km
Historic neoclassical arch on Guildford’s High Street, once a bustling cornmarket gateway and now a cherished civic landmark.
Barbury Castle Country Park
56.9 km
Discover the enchanting Barbury Castle Country Park, a historical landmark perfect for hiking, nature walks, and breathtaking views in Wiltshire.
Hackpen White Horse
57.2 km
Discover the enchanting Hackpen White Horse, a remarkable chalk figure in Wiltshire, where history meets stunning natural beauty in the heart of the English countryside.
Oldbury Castle Hillfort
58.3 km
Discover the ancient wonders of Oldbury Castle Hillfort, a historic landmark offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into Iron Age Britain.
Wallingford Castle
61.4 km
Discover the enchanting Wallingford Castle, a historical gem with captivating ruins and scenic meadows on the banks of the River Thames.
Bincknoll Castle
61.8 km
Experience the enchanting allure of Bincknoll Castle, a historical gem in Wroughton, perfect for heritage enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
BCA Zoo
63.4 km
Discover the wonders of wildlife at BCA Zoo in Maidenhead, where adventure and education come together in a beautiful natural setting.
Miniland
64.4 km
Explore Miniland at LEGOLAND® Windsor, where famous landmarks are reimagined in stunning LEGO detail, offering a family-friendly adventure for all ages.
LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort
64.4 km
Explore LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort, the UK's premier family theme park, filled with thrilling rides, creative attractions, and LEGO magic waiting for you.
Bowood House & Gardens
64.4 km
Discover the enchanting Bowood House & Gardens, where history and nature harmoniously blend in a breathtaking English countryside setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market
0.5 km
Experience the magic of Christmas in historic Winchester with over 125 traditional chalets, festive treats, and enchanting cathedral events.
Winchester Cathedral
0.6 km
Explore the longest medieval nave in Europe and centuries of English history at Winchester Cathedral, a majestic blend of art, architecture, and living worship.
Jane Austen's House
24.3 km
Step into Jane Austen’s cherished Hampshire home where her timeless novels were crafted and history lives on.
iFLY Basingstoke Indoor Skydiving
26.3 km
Experience the thrill of flight indoors with expert coaching at iFLY Basingstoke’s exhilarating vertical wind tunnel.
Highclere Castle
29.4 km
Explore the enchanting Highclere Castle, home of Downton Abbey, with its breathtaking architecture and rich history in Hampshire, England.
Old Sarum
34.1 km
Explore Old Sarum’s ancient hillfort, Norman castle, and medieval cathedral ruins—the birthplace of Salisbury with over 2,000 years of layered history.
Stonehenge Rd
35.4 km
Stonehenge Road leads you through the timeless Salisbury Plain to the legendary Stonehenge, where ancient mysteries and natural beauty converge.
Woodhenge
35.4 km
Explore Woodhenge, a Neolithic timber circle near Stonehenge, revealing ancient ceremonial mysteries through its aligned wooden posts and sacred landscape.
Durrington Walls
35.6 km
Explore Durrington Walls, the UK’s largest Neolithic henge and ancient village site, a monumental ceremonial landscape near Stonehenge.
The Nature Discovery Centre
37.5 km
Explore wildlife, interactive exhibits, and scenic trails at Berkshire’s vibrant Nature Discovery Centre.
West Berkshire Museum
37.6 km
Explore West Berkshire’s rich history and heritage in Newbury’s iconic 17th-century Cloth Hall and Granary buildings with free entry and engaging exhibits.
Victoria Park
37.8 km
Newbury’s vibrant green heart with diverse activities, historic charm, and scenic riverside walks for all ages and interests.
Northcroft & Goldwell Parks
37.8 km
Award-winning green spaces in Newbury offering playgrounds, sports pitches, woodland walks, BMX thrills, and stunning panoramic views.
The Ladywell
38.5 km
Discover The Ladywell at Speen, a serene ancient holy well steeped in history, healing legends, and tranquil rural charm in Berkshire.
Shaw House
38.8 km
Explore Shaw House, a stunning Elizabethan manor blending Tudor grandeur, royal history, and vibrant community life on Newbury’s peaceful edge.
Essential places to dine
GOAT ON THE ROOF
37.6 km
A vibrant British tapas restaurant and sustainable wine bar in Newbury, celebrating local flavours with a stylish, relaxed atmosphere.
Bella Luna
38.0 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality at Bella Luna, Thatcham’s vibrant Italian restaurant on High Street.
The Woodspeen Restaurant
39.2 km
Michelin-starred modern British cuisine in a charming farmhouse with seasonal menus, award-winning wines, and an adjoining cookery school near Newbury.
The Spring Inn
42.6 km
A charming gastropub in Sulhamstead offering locally sourced British cuisine, a vibrant drinks selection, and a welcoming countryside atmosphere.
Bunk Inn Pub & Dining
42.6 km
A charming Berkshire country pub blending Mediterranean-inspired dining with classic British hospitality in the heart of Curridge.
Damson Restaurant
42.8 km
An intimate, sustainably driven dining experience in a beautifully transformed historic pub in Winterbourne, Newbury.
The Pot Kiln
44.1 km
Historic country inn with Basque-inspired tapas, boutique rooms, and tranquil Berkshire countryside charm.
L'Ortolan
46.0 km
Experience the legacy of L'Ortolan, Reading’s iconic Michelin-starred French fine dining restaurant housed in a historic 1840s building.
Harvester Mansion House Reading
48.0 km
Family-friendly British grill and bar in a historic setting with fresh salads and hearty meals in Reading’s Prospect Park.
The Herd Restaurant
49.4 km
Experience expertly grilled British steaks and vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Pangbourne at The Herd Restaurant.
Buenasado Argentine Steakhouse - Reading
49.7 km
Savor authentic Argentinian steaks grilled to perfection in a vibrant riverside setting at Buenasado Argentine Steakhouse, Reading.
Coconut Bar & Kitchen
49.7 km
A vibrant Pan-Asian hotspot in Reading blending bold flavors, crafted cocktails, and an industrial chic vibe for all-day dining and late-night fun.
Miller & Carter Oracle
49.7 km
Savor expertly aged Black Angus steaks and vibrant bar & grill fare in the heart of Reading’s Oracle Centre.
Bill's Reading Restaurant
49.7 km
Elegant Georgian setting meets hearty British fare with all-day dining, private rooms, and a sunny terrace in Reading’s town centre.
London Street Brasserie
49.8 km
Elegant riverside dining in Reading offering refined British cuisine with local, seasonal ingredients and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Kennet Shopping
37.4 km
A central Newbury shopping hub blending 1980s retail charm with modern stores, cafes, and cinema in a unique historic town setting.
The Works
37.4 km
Affordable arts, crafts, books, and toys come together at The Works Newbury—a creative hub for all ages and interests.
La La Vintage
37.5 km
Discover unique retro and vintage fashion treasures with a sustainable spirit in the heart of Newbury.
No 96 Home and Gifts
37.8 km
Discover unique, upcycled furniture and quirky homeware at No 96 Home and Gifts, Newbury’s charming independent boutique.
Artisans Handmade UK
37.8 km
Discover unique handcrafted jewellery, prints, and gifts at Newbury’s beloved independent artisan shop in Parkway Shopping Centre.
Parkway Shopping Centre
37.8 km
A vibrant shopping destination in Newbury blending major brands, boutique stores, and community culture under one roof.
Bonmarché
38.4 km
Affordable ladies’ fashion and accessories nestled within Thatcham’s welcoming Wyevale Garden Centre.
Peach's Stores
39.5 km
Discover the convenience of Peach's Stores, your go-to stop for snacks, beverages, and essentials in Reading, UK.
Englefield Stores & Tea Room
45.0 km
A charming village tea room and store in Englefield offering hearty meals, local produce, and a tranquil rural retreat near Reading.
Yattendon Village Stores & Post Office
45.5 km
A welcoming village hub combining convenience shopping and postal services in the heart of Yattendon.
B&M Store
45.9 km
Shop smart and save big at B&M Store in Reading, where unbeatable prices meet a wide selection of products for every traveler.
Litten Tree Antiques
47.0 km
Discover unique decorative antiques and bespoke vintage furniture in a charming historic Wesleyan Chapel in Hampstead Norreys.
Well Cool Stuff
48.1 km
Explore one-of-a-kind gifts and unique souvenirs at Well Cool Stuff, a charming gift shop in Reading that celebrates local culture.
The India Shop
48.9 km
Discover vibrant fair trade treasures and authentic Indian craftsmanship in the heart of Marlborough’s charming market town.
Curate
49.0 km
Discover artistically inspired fashion and homewares at Curate, Marlborough’s award-winning independent boutique on High Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Lock Stock & Barrel, Newbury
37.6 km
Charming canal-side pub in Newbury offering seasonal dishes, craft ales, heated terraces, and vibrant live entertainment in a family-friendly setting.
The Sesh Bars
42.0 km
Transform your event with The Sesh Bars’ stylish mobile cocktail service, delivering expert mixology and vibrant vibes in Reading and beyond.
The Fox and Hounds
43.8 km
Charming dog-friendly gastropub in Sulhamstead offering hearty British fare, scenic beer garden, and a warm countryside welcome.
The Bell
46.6 km
A charming Georgian coaching inn in Ramsbury offering exquisite farm-to-fork dining in a historic, countryside setting.
The Fox at Peasemore
47.8 km
A warm and inviting gastropub in the heart of Peasemore, serving freshly prepared British classics with a modern touch.
The White Eagle
49.2 km
A lively Polish pub in Reading offering hearty cuisine, a vibrant beer garden, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
The Nag's Head
49.4 km
A vibrant traditional pub in Reading famed for its exceptional real ales, craft beers, and welcoming atmosphere.
The Face Bar
49.5 km
Experience Reading’s vibrant live music and club scene at The Face Bar, where two rooms bring diverse sounds and late-night energy together.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar in Reading
49.6 km
Vibrant two-floor cocktail bar in Reading’s centre, blending eclectic style with expertly crafted drinks and lively events.
The Purple Turtle
49.7 km
A vibrant bar in Reading famed for its unique layered outdoor spaces and diverse drinks menu, perfect for lively social nights.
All Bar One Reading
49.7 km
Stylish riverside wine bar in Reading’s Oracle, perfect for cocktails, casual dining, and social gatherings in a modern setting.
High Spirits Cocktail Company
49.8 km
Expertly crafted cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere in Reading’s city centre, perfect for relaxed evenings and lively weekends.
Milk Bar Reading
50.0 km
A vibrant cocktail bar in Reading blending classic flavors with creative twists and a lively urban atmosphere.
Wild Lime
50.0 km
A vibrant, modern bar in Reading offering fresh food, creative cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere all week long.
Oakford Social Club
50.1 km
A lively Reading pub with retro charm, great food, diverse drinks, and an inclusive, vibrant atmosphere for every night out.