 December is a month where we start to think about heading home for the holidays and spending time with our families. This month Travelling Actuary Eve Hartridge takes you back to the city where she grew up and calls home, Winchester.
There is a good chance that I'm biased, but I love Winchester. To this day the ancient capital of Wessex steeped in history and Arthurian legend has some mystical hold over me. Wherever I am in the world I feel the need to return to Winchester and never bore of all there is to see. At this time of the year in particular there is definitely something magical in the festive air!
Winchester is best explored by foot and in comfortable shoes! If you're feeling brave start at the top of St Giles Hill for a wonderful view of the city, otherwise by The statue of King Alfred is an obvious starting point. As you wander up the High Street Winchester looks like any other town on any other day, but for something special take a left by the Buttercross into the Cathedral close. Here you will find unusual boutiques, charming gift shops and the un-missable Cathedral.
From the end of November the grounds of the Cathedral are transformed into a Winter Wonderland with an outdoor ice-rink and traditional German Christmas market. The Cathedral itself is open daily, if you're lucky you might catch a choir rehearsing and experience the stunning acoustics first hand when viewing The Winchester Bible or Jane Austen's tomb. Tours of the crypt are less frequent so worth checking and booking early to avoid disappointment. From the Cathedral close you can walk up to The Great Hall, the only remaining part of Winchester Castle and see the epic round table- it is magnificent and you too will want to believe in the Camelot legend! If you still have time on your hands visit Winchester's Military Museums, my favourite is the very moving Ghurkha Museum based on the Romsey Road.
Favourite Shops:
Cadogan and Co (www.cadoganandcompany.co.uk) - high quality anything and everything for ladies and gents
Cadogan and James (www.james-martin-at-cadogan.co.uk)- venture with celebrity Chef and local resident James Martin
Kingsgate Wine and Provisions (www.kingsgatewineswinchester.co.uk)- just delicious!
Boudoir Blush (www.boudoirblush.co.uk) - gorgeous underwear and swimwear
Favourite eateries
The Chesil Rectory (www.chesilrectory.co.uk)- stunning fine cuisine
The Wykeham Arms - probably one of the most famous pubs in the UK serving traditional Fayre
The Cathedral Café- light bites locally sourced
The Avenue Restaurant at Lainston House- well worth the trip to sample what Hampshire chef of the year Andy Mackenzie has to offer.
Favourite Hotel
On the outskirts of Winchester you'll find Lainston House, a former Jacobean manor House and now luxury hotel. Part of the Exclusive Hotels Group Lainston offers a traditional country welcome so warm you won't want to leave. With just 50 bedrooms and so many special offers a stay here is the perfect winter treat.
www.lainstonhouse.com
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