Located in Hampshire, at the western end of the South Downs National Park, it’s a wonderful destination full of historic architecture, including Winchester Cathedral, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Europe. Here you can take a tour of the magnificent library, the exquisite 14th-century oak carved choir stalls, the soaring medieval stained glass windows and the archways of the crypt highlighted by a statue by British sculptor Antony Gormley.
For five weeks over the Christmas period, the inner close of the cathedral is turned into a large open-air ice rink – perfect for a romantic festive break.
Don’t miss the Winchester City Mill, which is the oldest working watermill in the country. It also acts as a tourist information site for the South Downs National Park, so is the perfect place to stop by to pick up maps and brochures of the local area.
Tree lovers should head to Winkworth Arboretum, managed by the National Trust, which is home to more than 1,000 species of trees and shrubs and is a must-see during bluebell season. A little further afield you will find Micheldever Wood, which offers year-round beauty.
