Winchester Cathedral boasts a fascinating history, glimpses of which can be discovered as you explore the building. There’s animals and beasts carved in stone and wood, mortuary chests containing the bones of Anglo Saxon kings and a great west window filled with the original medieval stained glass shattered by Oliver Cromwell’s troops. Added to this you’ll find contemporary works of art including a sculpture by celebrated British artist Antony Gormley in the beautiful and atmospheric setting of the Cathedral crypt and the grave of England’s great novelist Jane Austen.
Walking through the length of the Cathedral’s vast nave, looking up at the impressive vaulted ceiling is an experience that all ages will enjoy. A free children’s trail brings the Cathedral to life in a fun and interactive way, encouraging families to crawl on their knees, find hedgehogs and monkeys and discover the story of the deep sea diver who saved the Cathedral with his bare hands.
Cathedral Tours are available free of charge and offer a great introduction for everyone over about 8 or 9 years old to the Cathedral, its history and treasures. Hear about Winchester during Anglo-Saxon times and what happened when the Normans invaded. Tours are great for academic projects and extra-curricular school support.
Tower tours are fun for older children who are happy with heights and confined spaces. They carry an additional charge and a minimum age requirement of 12 years but climbing the turret, seeing the bell chamber, panoramic views from the top and a walk through the huge nave roof is an impressive experience for children and adults alike.
Admission price
