South East - Hampshire

There has been a Christian presence on the site of Winchester Cathedral for over 1400 years, the current building dating from 1079, when a new building was constructed on the orders of William the Conqueror.

Architecturally, the Cathedral has examples from every century since, and is considered one of the greatest gothic Cathedrals in the world, boasting the longest medieval Nave in Europe.  Its many treasures also reach across the same centuries, from the 12th century Winchester Bible and Tournai Marble Font, to the more modern Sound II by Anthony Gormley and the Icons by Sergei Federov.

Dating from the birth of our nation, it is the resting place of many famous people. Members of the Saxon Royal Family are buried there, from the time that Winchester was the ancient capital of Wessex, alongside many Bishops and other highly influential characters from our history. Other famous ‘residents’ include Jane Austen and Izaak Walton.

Daily worship continues to take place and there is a fine choral tradition, upheld by its world famous Cathedral Choir, and there are regular concerts and events throughout the year.

There are regular tours of the building, the tower, the crypt (when available), and there is an army of volunteers who can help visitors of all ages to decode the building. There are also printed guides (including one for children), souvenir booklets and everything the visitor requires to make the most of their time at the Cathedral.

There is a modern Visitors’ Centre, with an inspiring Gift Shop selling souvenirs and gifts and, recently updated, is an online shop with a range of over 300 products for mail order. And a perfect way to round off the visit is in the popular Refectory, serving refreshments and meals throughout the day.

Full details and much more can be found at: www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk.