
Winchester
What you need to know before you go
Winchester is an ancient city and former royal capital that travelers fascinated by history won’t want to miss out on, thanks to its cathedrals and old ruins. The Winchester Cathedral is a stunning example of what this city can offer, boasting a world-famous reputation as the longest Gothic cathedral in Europe. It dates back to the mid-7th century, though its current iteration is a Norman addition to the original that occurred in 1079, and several pieces have been rebuilt over the centuries since after collapses.
One of the most impressive structures of historic Winchester is Winchester Castle, though only the Great Hall remains standing today and serves as a museum. Travelers may also check out St Catherine’s Hill, which is a massive green hill that covers what was once an Iron Age fort. Keen-eyed travelers will be able to spot the earthworks that still stand out on the modern-day hill.
