Winchester campsites

Winchester is an energetic and bustling city, yet one with the rolling countryside of the South Downs National Park on its doorstep. Loved for its rich history, the city's highlight has to be Winchester Cathedral. You can explore more than 1000 years of history in Europe’s longest medieval Cathedral. Discover the beautiful illuminated Winchester Bible, 12th-century wall paintings, medieval carvings, contemporary art and the awe and wonder of this magnificent building.

Wolvesey Castle, standing next to Winchester Cathedral has been an important residence of the wealthy and powerful Bishops of Winchester since Anglo-Saxon times. The extensive surviving ruins of the palace date largely from the 12th-century work of Bishop Henry of Blois. With such a beautiful setting, this is an ideal picnic spot.

Winchester City Mill has stood at the heart of the historic city of Winchester, the capital of King Alfred’s Wessex, since at least Saxon times. With a history of over 1000 years, Winchester City Mill is probably the oldest working watermill in the UK. With hands-on activities and audio-visual displays about milling and the rich wildlife in the area, as well as regular flour milling and baking demonstrations, the City Mill has stood the test of time.

The City Mill is also the official gateway to the South Downs National Park, providing a wide selection of information for those wishing to explore local walks and the attractions found within the South Downs, including the many historic National Trust properties.

For family attractions, head to the Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium. One huge activity area exploring the principles of life, the universe and everything all housed in a spectacular white pyramid. Become a deep space explorer in the fabulous Planetarium - one of the largest in the UK.

Winchester Castle and Great Hall gives you and the kids a chance to visit one of the finest remaining medieval halls, which contains a replica of King Arthur's Round Table. The hall is all that is left of Winchester Castle, which was built in 1067! It is a vast stone building with lots of interesting features to check out including beautiful stained glass windows.

If you prefer green spaces, just outside the city you’ll find Winnall Moors nature reserve or the lovely Lakeside Country Park, created from reclaimed gravel pits, which makes the range and quality of its landscaping even more special and interesting! You can see Galloway cattle, kingfishers, tawny owls, foxes, grass snakes and roe deer. Well worth bringing binoculars along.

Looking for something to do with family and friends or seeking a fun day out, then why not explore Winchester on a self-guided Treasure Hunt Themed Treasure Trail. The Trail starts at the Guildhall and follows a circular route along the riverbank. The route then leads you past Wolvesey Castle and Winchester College and then through the grounds of the magnificent Cathedral, before returning to your starting point.

A few miles south is Marwell Zoo, a superb day out with everything from meerkats to giraffes, zebras and snow leopards spread across a 140-acre site.

Local walks include Viaduct Way, Keats Walk and routes alongside the River Itchen.

Literary types may appreciate a visit to Jane Austin's House (she is buried at the Cathedral), or for fans of Downton Abbey, Highclere Castle is around 30 minutes away where you can enjoy exploring the history, gardens, events and life behind the scenes of ‘The Real Downton Abbey’.

Nearby, pop over to Alresford to take a ride on the Watercress Line steam railway.

Winchester’s central location at the heart of a good road and rail network makes it very easy to explore other parts of southern England. Portsmouth, Chichester and Salisbury are less than one hour’s drive away, the New Forest can be reached in just over half an hour and Southampton is only 20 minutes, making Winchester the perfect base for a touring holiday.