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Winchester Cathedral

Tourist attraction Historical landmark History museum Local history museum Place of worship Cathedral

One of the Most Revieweds in Winchester


Address

9 The Cl, Winchester SO23 9LS, United Kingdom

Website

www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk

Contact

+44 1962 857200

Rating on Google Maps

4.60 (8.8K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Tuesday: 9 AM to 5 PM
  • Wednesday: 9 AM to 5 PM
  • Thursday: 9 AM to 5 PM
  • Friday: 9 AM to 5 PM
  • Saturday: 9 AM to 5 PM
  • Sunday: 12 to 3 PM
  • Monday: 9 AM to 5 PM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: cathedral (53) Winchester (42) history (34) visit (34) Cathedral (28) tour (23) worth (20) building (15) beautiful (15) year (13)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Daniel 2 years ago on Google
    An amazing experience and an absolute pleasure to be able to see such a vast history. You really have to interact with this cathedral you can look at it from a great distance but until you have walked the long hallways and exhibition you have not experienced much. the staff were very friendly and I thoroughly felt welcome. I have included some Aerial photography that I took on this day. really gives you a whole new experience!
    8 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Ali A. 2 years ago on Google
    Winchester Cathedral is one of the finest medieval cathedrals in Europe. Nestled at the heart of historic Winchester, once the seat of Anglo-Saxon and Norman royal power, this magnificent Cathedral is the resting place of Saxon royalty, bishops and Jane Austen, the much-loved English novelist. One of the best ways to discover the Cathedral is with a Cathedral Guide, who will take you on a journey through over 1,000 years of history.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Todd S. 1 month ago on Google • 540 reviews New
    Worth every moment of time spent here. Don't miss the Winchester Bible and the Crypt.

  • 4/5 CD 1 year ago on Google
    Winchester Cathedral can probably rival Westminster Abbey in London in terms of its magnificence and sheer size. As I enjoyed the surroundings walking about, one question comes to mind: Is this cathedral a relic, or is it a living breathing monument? If there aren't faithful followers of Christ worshipping God in the fullness it is made for, then the grandeur and magnificence of the building are merely aesthetics without substance. The cathedral becomes just a dead relic of the past, trying to find relevance in a modern world. These days, people are spiritually hungry and looking for authenticity. Forget about rainbow colours and bright flashy lights that tickle the senses but do little else. I would love to see Spirit-filled, vibrant worship fill this cathedral again. Real Christ-centred worship not only invites and engages the spiritually hungry to partake and come before the Lord Jesus Christ. We desire passionate worship that raises the roof and exalts the Lord Almighty in the heavenlies. Now, wouldn't that be more exciting?
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kerry E. 7 months ago on Google • 5 reviews
    Thoroughly enjoyable experience today. Entry fee is good value for money, you can get guided tours too included. Amazing, huge building with lots of history. Friendly staff and guides. Thanks for a lovely visit. Your ticket is also valid for a year but I still thought it was great value for one visit!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Eddie R. 1 year ago on Google
    My first impressions of Winchester cathedral are just how impressive and absolutely stunning it is. You don't need to know the history of the cathedral to appreciate the design and architecture of this cathedral. I went there 3 days in a row and every day I noticed different parts that I had previously missed. The entrance fee of £10 also acts as a 12 month pass to visit as many times as you like, outstanding value for money. There are also free tours of the cathedral at various times which is very informative. I will definitely be going back several more times over the next 12 months.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Irina S. 2 years ago on Google
    Absolutely amazing and unforgettable experience from seeing the Cathedral and all historical buildings in the area. You better plan your trip ahead as there lots to see. The place is very popular, so can be very crowded, but worth it. Don't miss a chance to visit Wolvesey Castle ruins too, while in the area, which located not far from Cathedral. Definitely recommend it!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 win t. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful n peaceful time I had there. Love architecture n history n this cathedral is providing me both. Just amazing to b there. Nice place to walk around coz this area is really historical. Many places around in every corner around this cathedral. Not far from train station even just beside the high street. Best time to visit here in summer n enjoy the weather too in big garden place around.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Paul G. 5 months ago on Google • 88 reviews
    Went last minute and arrived around 4.30pm. Closed 6pm in the week. Used local car park, inexpensive only had to pay to 6pm. Circa 40 to 50 stalls I'd guess, friendly lovely atmosphere. Plenty of food and drink options in the centre and lots of toilet options. Lovely pre Christmas experience. Thoroughly enjoyed, even non shopper me 🤣
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Marcus S. 1 year ago on Google
    Wow, what a cathedral. Anyone who is in the vicinity must see it. We were also lucky enough to see the choir rehearsing and we were accompanied by church songs through the huge building. If you are interested in history, you should bring time, as there is a lot to read and learn.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Alex K. 2 years ago on Google
    Visiting Winchester Cathedral was an exceptionally moving experience. In fact, the beauty of this magnificent structure brought tears to my eyes after I had seen the inside of it. It was lovely to see the amount of people sitting on the grass outside of the Cathedral, enjoying themselves and appreciating the wondrous view. It is the perfect place to visit more than once and notice something new each time.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Simon S. 2 months ago on Google • 251 reviews New
    Superb & impressive 1000+ year old Cathedral in the center of Winchester. Known to be one of the earliest stone built buildings in the whole of England & Europe. Also there is a museum inside over 3 floors. You can get a free guided tour which is included in the entrance fee. (The entrance fee allows unlimited visits in the year) See images for pricing and opening times. Definitely worth a look. 👀 Cafe, shop and toilets. Parking available in the town at various places

  • 5/5 Carol S. 2 months ago on Google • 109 reviews New
    The tour is a must. Really enjoyed our hour spent with Simon. What an excellent guide. Definitely needed to understand history of cathedral and we got so much more from it. Ticket entities you to return visits for a year.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Bimeny P. 2 years ago on Google
    Winchester Cathedral at the heart of Winchester City is a historical but also a very stunning building impossingly stunning the city visitors. The staffs and really amazing in here. They're very welcoming and there are plenty of very lovely volunteers providing guided tours. They also provide activities leaflets for children and their ticket last a whole year so you can go back there on the same ticket all year round. Cannot recommend it enough
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Simon K. 2 years ago on Google
    Wow. It’s not one of the most spectacularly decorated cathedrals I’ve been in but don’t let that stop you. This place has some incredible art and the scale of the building is immense. More importantly though you re surrounded by history. The wedding of Mary Queen of Scots to Philip of Spain. The grave of Jane Austin. The bones of St Swithin. The remains of many Kings from Cnut to William Rufus. Everyone should visit here. Second only to Westminster Abbey for historic, religious buildings.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 John B. 1 year ago on Google
    Very impressive cathedral. Under going a major cleaning and will look more spectacular every year. So much to see, you could spend many hour investigating. Docents were easy to find and very helpful.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Lee “Leeroy” F. 2 years ago on Google
    We only did the Tower tour, but we loved it. We got to go up into the bell tower, in the roof, on the roof, balconies inside the cathedral looking down on everyone. The guides had so much information to give. *Warning* some of the winding stairs are not for the faint hearted. They are VERY narrow and steep, but well worth it when you get to the top. Highly reccommended
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Julia W. 1 year ago on Google
    Loved it! The place is steeped in history, and the atmosphere reflects it. The building is beautiful and if you get the chance, do the bell tower tour. You get to go on the roof and look out over Winchester. Fabulous and well worth the entrance fee.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Rhys H. 2 months ago on Google • 116 reviews New
    Amazing place to visit, so much to see and learn about. The Moon was just incredible and seemed so real. Also wonderful to see the Bible dating back over a thousand years. Really helpful, kind staff. The crypt was brilliant. The architecture was just mingling. Your ticket lasts 12 months so you can visit as much as you want for the year.

  • 4/5 Les Y. 1 month ago on Google • 101 reviews New
    An efficient lunch time experience despite the large number of customers. Good service and tasty food.

  • 5/5 Larken “Virch” F. 1 month ago on Google • 81 reviews New
    The tour guid Julian was a very helpful and kind gentleman with plenty of interesting facts and information. The cathedral is steeped in deep, rich, history and was overall very beautiful and amazing.

  • 5/5 moramiko 2 months ago on Google • 73 reviews New
    An impressive place to visit. Lots of interesting historical facts and beautiful interior. Entry £12,50 per adult, but it is worth the price. You can easily spend minimum 2 hours inside if you like history and facts.

  • 5/5 The Glassy W. 1 month ago on Google • 68 reviews New
    Visited the cathedral to see the "Moon" art installation. Stayed around to view the interesting details of the damage done during the Civil War, the steps taken to repair the damage, and the badly thought out attempts to change the roof, the temporary pillars still in place 500 years later. There are fascinating scrolls on display from the monks of Winchester through the centuries - well worth the visit

  • 4/5 Melanie K. 2 months ago on Google • 67 reviews New
    What a beautiful building, went to see the Moon Exhibit and I enjoyed the experience. Acceptable entry fees staff and volunteers are very friendly. Flat white is good at their cafe 😊

  • 5/5 Kay F. 2 months ago on Google • 48 reviews New
    Winchester Cathedral is just beautiful at any time and I never miss a chance to visit. This time I came for the "moon display" - an art installation of the moon suspended at the top of the nave in front of the low altar and carved wooden quire screen, with the orb lit from within, which creates some interesting photo's. The crypt was flooded when I visited, but I was still able to see the Antony Gormley sculpture from a distance, and the 15th Century carved stone screen behind the high altar is worth the entry fee alone. Attendance at one of the (free) pre-Christmas carol concerts is a must too, if you happen to be in Winchester mid December (the dates are published on the cathedral's website each year). I bought an annual ticket which enables free entry for a year, so is good value for money if you're local or visit Winchester regularly (and there's a 20% discount on tickets for over 66's). With a faith or with none it doesn't matter - the ethereal atmosphere of the cathedral will captivate you.

  • 5/5 Blessy P. 2 months ago on Google • 48 reviews New
    We truly enjoyed our visit to the cathedral. The tickets are reasonably priced for what is on offer and Kids go free, which is a bonus. The ticket is valid for multiple entry for a whole year. I would recommend to go for the guided tour which is included in the admission ticket as you can learn a lot about the history of the cathedral. The staff are really passionate about their work and on hand to answer any queries. The moon exhibit was on while we were visiting, which was a pleasant surprise. There are also multiple activities for the kids, to keep them occupied. It is a must visit.

  • 5/5 Jaime K. 2 months ago on Google • 40 reviews New
    Oh my goodness! Do yourself a favor and visit the Winchester cathedral! It cost £12.50 to visit but was so worth it! We had a wonderful tour guide (which is included in the cost of admission) and I highly recommend the tours! So informative and they can only scratch on the history of the cathedral. Very cool to see Jane Austen’s burial site. Definitely check out the crypt if it isn’t flooded (which it may be seasonally but we lucked out in January). Also worth visiting the complimentary Exhibit which houses the Winchester Bible and Bishop’s library. Very wonderful experience.

  • 5/5 Emily B. 1 month ago on Google • 36 reviews New
    Beautiful building in a beautiful setting

  • 5/5 Anatori S. 5 months ago on Google
    Subject: A Tranquil Journey Through Time at Winchester Cathedral I had the pleasure of visiting Winchester Cathedral in August, and the experience was nothing short of awe-inspiring. The cathedral, nestled in the heart of Winchester, captivates both history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Upon entering, the sheer grandeur of the cathedral is immediately apparent. The magnificent architecture, with its towering spires and intricate details, transports you to a bygone era. The breathtaking interior is a testament to centuries of craftsmanship and devotion. One of the highlights of my visit was exploring the beautiful chapels within the cathedral. Each one tells a unique story, adorned with stunning stained glass windows and ornate tombs that carry the weight of history. The tranquil ambiance inside creates a sense of reverence, inviting visitors to reflect and appreciate the cultural and religious significance of the site. Winchester Cathedral's famous nave is a marvel in itself. The soaring ceilings and the play of light filtering through the windows create a serene atmosphere, making it an ideal place for quiet contemplation. The architecture and the artistry on display truly make this cathedral a masterpiece. The guided tour provided valuable insights into the cathedral's rich history. Learning about the notable events that took place within its walls and the prominent figures buried on its grounds added depth to my appreciation of the site. Outside, the cathedral grounds are equally charming. The well-maintained gardens and the close proximity to the city center make it a peaceful retreat amidst the bustling town. In conclusion, my visit to Winchester Cathedral was a journey through time and a feast for the senses. It's a place where history, art, and spirituality converge seamlessly. I left with a profound appreciation for the dedication and skill of those who contributed to the creation and preservation of this cultural gem. Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or someone seeking a moment of tranquility, Winchester Cathedral is an absolute must-visit.

  • 5/5 Juelz C. 1 year ago on Google
    We had a guided tour with the lovely Christine, who was extremely knowledgeable & such a sweet lady. She made the tour so interesting & we thoroughly enjoyed our visit. We returned another day to see the Kings & Scribes Exhibition. This was our third visit & just as enjoyable as the first.

  • 5/5 JBD 4 months ago on Google
    Magnificent Cathedral. If not the most beautiful in England, certainly one of the top two. Winchester is a lovely town with a lovely shopping area.

  • 5/5 Gordon L. 6 months ago on Google
    This historic cathedral is well-preserved and restored. Jane Austen is buried here. We enjoyed wandering the entire cathedral and grounds. Delightful little cafe and gift shop as well.

  • 5/5 Ajay B. 7 months ago on Google
    It's a great place to explore the great history of Winchester. It's really a big church with beautiful art and historic monuments. There is a small garden in front of it and you can spend quality time with your family and friends.

  • 5/5 Larraine1uk 2 years ago on Google
    We love it here. So packed full of history. The best bit was seeing the boxes that the remains of many Anglo Saxon kings and queens are interred in. If you are planning to go you must go to the exhibition about the scribes. So interesting and you get a really good view of the cathedral from up there. There is also a small ancient library attached that you can going into.

  • 5/5 Slavomir K. 2 years ago on Google
    First I thought £10 might be a bit much to see the cathedral but I was so wrong. There is so much to see in there so make sure you look into all the places who often hide just around some inconspicuous corner (nearly missed the crypt). We've spent 2 hours in there but could have done a bit more. The ticket is valid for 12 months so come back later if you feel you missed something.

  • 5/5 Mary R. 2 years ago on Google
    Fascinating history and stories around the building. Would thoroughly recommend the guided tour. We also enjoyed the Tower tour, but not for the faint hearted, have a heart or lung problem or you don't like narrow steps or heights. You need at least three full days to get the most out of a visit here. One ticket lasts a full year so your return is feasible. Another exhibit we enjoyed was The Kings and Scribes. Extremely interesting history.

  • 5/5 James D. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful Cathedral. Well worth visiting

  • 5/5 Stuart G. 2 years ago on Google
    A very interesting Cathedral which goes back to Alfred the Great.The volunteers are very knowledgeable. A visual feast inside. A few photos are attached.If you are in Winchester it's worth a visit.

  • 5/5 Mhai P. 2 years ago on Google
    Winchester is the last surviving kingdom during the vikings invasion. This town survive because they have a clever and wise king.. Alfred thr Great! The cathedral is so huge and offers great history. We’ll come back next to explore the interior of the church. One of the finest medieval churches I’ve seen in England.

  • 5/5 Christine R. 2 years ago on Google
    Such a beautiful cathedral. I really like the crypt as well. We went for the flower show and the exhibitions were beautiful.

  • 5/5 Thomas B. 2 years ago on Google
    Winchester cathedral has been historically significant for the country, since Anglo-Saxon times through to the Norman period. Remaining a regional powerhouse for sometime thereafter. Burial place of Jane Austen, saints and Anglo saxon kings. Inside, there is an interesting museum exhibition. Exploring the history of the museum. The cafe and gift shop is in a separate building, opposite the entrance. You have to pay to visit the cathedral. But like the few other paid entry cathedrals in the country, they are worth it

  • 5/5 Lucy_ M. 8 months ago on Google
    Didn't pay for entry We felt £12.50 was quite a lot for entry and decided not to pay, but we did soon realise how big it was and could see potential justification for why entry was expensive. You can explore a garden and see lots of the architecture without going in. The gift shop is expensive and mostly about the area not just the Cathedral.

  • 5/5 Melanie 9 months ago on Google
    We did the guided tower tour at an extra GBP3 and it was well worth it. So much information, a great view from the top and the chance to see behind the scenes. Lots of very narrow stairs though so not suitable for anyone with mobility issues. And take a small bag if at all.

  • 4/5 Huge R. 1 year ago on Google
    Lovely grounds and a huge cathedral. It's a £10 to enter to ensure maintenance is kept up Nice to see an early bible on display and it's well protected and showcased. Jane Austin tomb inside just after the entry on the left. Amazing how massive the cathedral is and how intricate the detailing is. Lots of tour guides on hand to answer any questions - They were super nice. If in Winchester suggest you visit.

  • 4/5 Vicci S. 1 year ago on Google
    I was incredibly impressed by Winchester cathedral and it is 100% worth the £10 entry. Upon entry we were told a free guided tour would start soon - you should definitely partake in this. Our tour guide was knowledgeable and witty. He took us around the whole cathedral and told us stories and facts about the cathedral, its history, the royals and of Winchester itself. Thank you for having these tours as it really sets the visit apart. The cathedral is stunning architecturally and you can see the different styles as you move throughout the cathedral. There was also an exhibit on which added even more value to the ticket. I would certainly visit again even though it's a 2 hour drive. This is by far the best thing to do in Winchester. The only reason it got 4 stars is because of the toilets - water and mud all over the floor and it smelt like the sanitary bins needed changing.

  • 5/5 Michael K. 1 year ago on Google
    Winchester Cathedral is an absolute gem and a must-visit if you're in the area. From the moment you walk in, you're struck by the grandeur and beauty of the space. The soaring ceilings, stunning stained glass windows, and intricate stonework all combine to create a truly breathtaking experience. One of the highlights of visiting the cathedral is the chance to see the Winchester Bible, one of the finest surviving 12th-century English Bibles. It's a real treasure and the detail and artistry in each page is simply incredible. The staff at the cathedral are also friendly and knowledgeable, and they're happy to answer any questions you might have about the history and architecture of the building. I highly recommend taking one of the guided tours to really get a sense of the stories and people behind the cathedral. If you have the chance, make sure to attend one of the choral services - the acoustics in the cathedral are amazing and it's a truly moving experience to hear the choir sing in such a beautiful space. Overall, I can't recommend Winchester Cathedral highly enough. It's a true masterpiece of architecture and a testament to the skill and creativity of the people who built it.

  • 5/5 Lesley B. 9 months ago on Google
    We loved it here and I would recommend getting a tour. It was really interesting and had lots of history. We didn't get to see it all so going back next week.

  • 5/5 Laura C. 10 months ago on Google
    One of the most amazing Cathedrals we have visited. We had two children aged 9 and 7 with us, and the staff could not have been more welcoming or inclusive of them. Nothing was too much and they answered the endless stream of questions they had too. The rich history and pure beauty of this spectacular building must not be missed. We were here for four hours and felt like we rushed around. Could easily have spent an entire day here. Thank you Winchester Cathedral and all your amazing staff.

  • 5/5 Sofie B. 10 months ago on Google
    A spectacular cathedral. We joined a free tour (once you pay to get in). The tour took over an hour. The guide was very knowledgeable and interesting. If you are visiting Winchester this is a must.

  • 5/5 Simon H. 9 months ago on Google
    Remarkable building, with fantastic exhibitions and guides, well worth the price of entry and definitely worth checking out. The building remains a functioning church, but in addition it acts as a museum and art gallery. Definitely worth getting the guided tour, and make sure you check out the actual museum section (off to the right hand side towards the back of the church).

  • 5/5 ifat k. 1 year ago on Google
    Winchester, a city with hundreds of years of history. One of the jewels is the Cathedral. With a huge history going back to kings of Wessex, this impressive cathedral is a must visit. As with many places of worship there is a real sense of serenity as you wander around. There is a sense of the weight of history. Entry is £10 for adults but there are numerous concessions. Stunning stained glass, intricate statuary as well as the impressive 4000 book library are within the cathedral. There is an exhibition on the kings of Wessex and the rise of a country. Jane Austen is also buried there. A must see is the Winchester Bible, painstakingly scribed onto vellum from the 1100s!! Recommended trip. Cafe, toilets and gift shop in the grounds.

  • 4/5 Alan A. 8 months ago on Google
    A lovely Cathedral BUT it definitely needs money spent if its to maintain this tourist attraction in 100 years. I am sure there is a lot of subsidence to the rear into the cemetery. Will need underpinning at some point. The Cript was closed today so thats quite a shame as this does not reflect in the entrance price. The 5500 organ pipes have been removed undergoing a 30 year restoration project. This also is not reflected in the entrance price which all seemed a tad disappointing. The "Poppy" garden was closed so nobody could walk completely around the Cathedral. All in all a lovely Cathedral but not worth the entrance fee at this time (£25 for 2 adults).

  • 5/5 Caroline R. 8 months ago on Google
    Beautiful huge gothic cathedral very rich with history. Book a special tour - there are literary and music ones, many not busy thus plenty opportunity for questions and discussion with guide. No chance to take everything in on a single visit - trying this makes it stressful. Focus on one or two aspect.....

  • 5/5 盐 ຍ �. 1 year ago on Google
    Spending some time in Winchester I decided to take a look at the famous Cathedral which is the biggest tourist spot in the area. The cathedral is much bigger than it first seems and has a lot of history and famous people buried there. We had a tour guide and he made the hour long event very interesting (an hour is normally too long for me but not this one!). well worth the visit. In the grounds you can also relax with the family and there is plenty of space for children to walk around and play. There are also some side avenues and hidden areas that are a pleasure to just sit and admire the scenery and historic nature. This city was the capital city of the U.K. many centuries ago and this is the main tourist spot that you have to visit!

  • 5/5 Chris B. 11 months ago on Google
    Exhibitions were very good, and the cathedral itself has plenty to see. A lot of history. Unfortunately we timed our visit badly and missed out on a guided tour, which I'm sure would have been informative.

  • 5/5 Louise B. 1 year ago on Google
    If you love a wander round beautiful Cathedrals then this one is a treat. Imo, the outside doesn't do the interior justice ... It's breathtaking with the added interest of the museum, home of the beautiful Winchester Bible. Really enjoyable visit with excellent staff/guides.

  • 5/5 Kristin K. 5 months ago on Google
    Located in the charming city of Winchester, the cathedral is an easy walk from the train station. Winchester is easily accessible by rail from London and I did it as day trip. If you walk a few minutes past the church you can also see the final home that Jane Austen lived in as well. The cathedral is grand combination of Norman and English gothic style. But honestly what you really probably want to know is that it’s just really lovely and set in beautiful grounds! The entire town is worthy of the trip with the charming high street and many listed buildings. It is worth the visit!

  • 5/5 Jon Cass #. 5 months ago on Google
    What a gorgeous historical place to have a graduation. So we'll organised in a wonderful venue & City. Lovely and Warm we were nice and comfortable during the 90 minutes ceremony. Perfect memories made today in a gorgeous historic building.


Call +44 1962 857200 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible entrance

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