Windsor Taxi Tours

The Magnificent Beauty and History of Winchester Cathedral

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Winchester has a rich history dating back to prehistoric times, and it was an important city during the Roman occupation of Britain. It became the capital of Wessex under King Alfred the Great in the late 9th century and was later the site of the coronation of William the Conqueror in 1066. 

 

Winchester Cathedral is a magnificent medieval cathedral, its stunning Gothic architecture and rich history make it a popular destination for tourists and pilgrims from all over the world.

The cathedral was founded in the 11th century, shortly after the Norman Conquest of England. It was built on the site of an earlier Saxon church and served as the seat of the Bishop of Winchester, one of the most powerful religious figures in England at the time.
One of the most striking features of the cathedral is its soaring nave, which is over 160 feet long and nearly 80 feet high. It is decorated with stunning sculptures and carvings, including the famous 14th-century statue of William of Wykeham, the bishop who oversaw the construction of the nave.

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The cathedral is also home to several notable tombs and monuments, including the ornate chantry of Bishop William of Edington and the tomb of Jane Austen, the famous English novelist who lived in Winchester during the early 19th century.
Perhaps the most famous feature of Winchester Cathedral is its stunning medieval stained glass windows. The cathedral has over 100 windows, many of which date back to the 13th and 14th centuries, and they are renowned for their intricate designs and vibrant colors.
 

Winchester also has a number of other historic buildings and attractions, including the Great Hall, which houses the legendary King Arthur's Round Table.
In addition to its rich history, Winchester is also a vibrant and modern city, with a thriving cultural scene and a range of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

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During your visit, you can enjoy a 3 hours visit to Winchester. You will be able to see the Great Hall, one of the most beautiful surviving corridors of the 13th century, and the further development of the original Winchester Castle built by William the Conqueror. When you enter the Great Hall, you can step back in time and admire the soaring marble columns and exquisite stained glass. You can learn about the history of the building and the battles and secrets that took place here. You can also marvel at the Round Table, a medieval replica of the legendary King Arthur's Round Table, which hangs on the wall of the Great Hall.

Take a stroll through the Long Gallery and meet the heroes of the past. You can try on amazing costumes and take selfies. You can also relax in Queen Eleanor's Garden, a small 13th-century garden filled with fragrant and colorful roses in summer.

 

Afterwards, you can explore the rich history and architecture of Winchester Cathedral, or even climb to the top of the tower for breathtaking views of the city and surrounding countryside. As part of the tour, you will have the opportunity to explore the huge vaults of the cathedral's early Norman crypt, the ornate Renaissance chapels, Jane Austen's tomb, and the Great West Window. Winchester Cathedral is a magnificent medieval cathedral that is a popular destination for tourists and pilgrims from all over the world.

 

Another interesting place to visit is Wolvesey Castle, a ruined castle built in the 12th century by Henry of Blois, Bishop of Winchester and King Stephen's brother. It served as a bishop's residence and was an important center of power in the Middle Ages. The castle was strategically located on the banks of the River Itchen and was surrounded by a moat. The castle also had a deer park and a vineyard. Today, only the ruins of Wolvesey Castle remain. It is a fascinating piece of English history that demonstrates the power and influence of the medieval Bishops of Winchester. Its ruins testify to the castle's turbulent past and remind us of the important role it played in the country's history.

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If you're more interested in a water mill than a ruined castle, you might want to visit the Winchester City Mill, a historic water mill that dates back to the 11th century and has been in continuous use for over 900 years, making it one of the oldest working mills in the country. The mill is located on the River Itchen and was originally used to grind grain for the estate of the Bishop of Winchester. The mill is now a popular tourist attraction and working museum where visitors can learn about the history of the mill and see it in action. Visitors can watch millstones grind wheat into flour with the power of the river. The mill also has a small exhibition that tells the story of the mill and its importance to the local community. In addition, there is a shop on-site where visitors can buy freshly ground flour and other souvenirs.

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While in Winchester, you can also walk along the cobblestone streets, admire the old medieval buildings, and see the river bank, which takes you around on cozy flowery promenades. You can also sit in a cozy restaurant or café. In the main square, you can listen to street musicians and buy small souvenirs. No matter which program you choose, whether you go on this tour alone or with your family or friends, everyone will find something to their liking and have a pleasant time.

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5 hours tour  £245

from Heathrow Airport and Heathrow hotels and Windsor, Cliveden House, Burnham Beeches, Dorney, Ascot, Bray, and Slough hotels, as well as the Royal Borough area.   

 

6 hours tour

from London  £295

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Winchester Cathedral is open to the public year-round, and visitors can purchase tickets at the cathedral's ticket office.

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Ticket  Adult  £12,50
            Student (with valid ID)   £6.50
            Under 16    Free
           

  

 

​Great Hall is open to the public year-round, and visitors can purchase tickets at the Great Hall's ticket office. 

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Ticket  Adult  £4,00 

            Student (with valid ID)   £3.50     

            Child  5-16 years   £3.00           

       

The costs for tours above do not include any admission costs or refreshments.

-There will be plenty photo opportunities. 
- pick up and drop off - extra charges may apply if different

  

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Prices 
Payment for tours can be made on the day and is accepted in cash or by card.
Tour prices are PER VEHICLE, not per person.

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