One Easter we hosted some visiting friends from the Netherlands and for the first day tour in Hampshire, I toured them around the medieval City. Here’s what we got up to if you’d like some ideas for a full day walking around this glorious place…

✔️ Starting point was the east park and ride, where they were able to park their car and towed caravan, on checking with the council through their helpline we found that they take motorhomes and caravans for visitors.

🐟 Then came our first stop on the tour, walking alongside the peaceful Itchen navigation and past the the historic Winchester College grounds. There were lots of nice houses by the riverside which we had to stop and look at a few. An easy ten minute walk or so.

🏰 We then explored the grounds of Wolvesey Castle, an intriguing location rich in history. The ancient ruins offer a glimpse into the past and provides a spacious area for kids to run around. With free admission, it’s a must-visit stop on the tour.

💦 Joining back up the river walk, spotting more interesting old houses and peaceful gardens, we then arrived at Winchester City Mill – National Trust which is free to enter with optional voluntary donation, it has a cafe inside, and you can explore various areas including the hidden gem garden at the back, beneath the mill, rushing waters and interactive exhibits. We even saw a friendly duck on the way!

🍟 We love a foodie stop so had to grab some takeaway lunch from Shoal by the guildhall which serves up excellent fish and chips as well as gelato. They have a restaurant too, but we decided it was best to enjoy in the cathedral grounds and the soft grass. Around £20 for a decent portion of large cod, large chips and mushy peas, enough for all.

⚔️ Westgate Museum next with great view over the high street, lots of history to see and dress up for the kids as well as trails inside too etc. It’s run by Hampshire Cultural Trust who also run other attractions in the City like the great hall, city museum and 878 AD.

🔔Winchester Cathedral was of course on our list and the family were awestruck by its beauty inside and out and its sheer size. Plenty to do inside with lots of exhibits and the friendly staff including Dutch speaking volunteer Esther who was fantastic with the kids. Jane Austen’s final resting place is inside with lots of inspirational cards from her many worldwide fans and very interesting crypt in the cathedral too.

If you fancy a complete Jane Austen day out, you should check out this article…

🫖 We enjoyed a afternoon tea at the cathedral refectory which was a good price at around £6.95 with a large pot of tea, choice of jam, cream and large scone. It was warm enough to sit outside in their marvellous sun trap garden with a peak view of the cathedral front and it’s a perfect peaceful haven.

💜 Lastly we strolled the ancient streets of Kingsgate around the back of the cathedral, snapped some pics of the beautiful wisteria, popped into book shop PG Wells and headed along the college street for a circular finish to our walk.

Overall, our Winchester tour was a hit with our friends from Friesland. From exploring historic sites like Wolvesey Castle and Winchester Cathedral to enjoying local treats and scenic walks, the day was filled with highlights. The blend of history, charm, and relaxation made it a memorable experience for everyone. We highly recommended this walk if your planning a day in Winchester and will for sure be doing it again.

🅿️ Parked up at East park and ride for £3.50 for all day – https://www.winchester.gov.uk/parking/park-and-ride/

👉 Winchester offers highly-rated accommodation options for longer stays, too!

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