Step back in time and immerse yourself in the captivating tapestry of Winchester’s rich past. From Iron Age forts to the magnificent cathedral, England’s ancient capital is steeped in centuries of heritage, giving history buffs plenty to sink their teeth into during their getaway.
Begin your exploration at the iconic Winchester Cathedral – a magnificent masterpiece of medieval architecture. Renowned for being one of the finest medieval cathedrals in Europe, it boasts over 1,000 years of history and is home to several awe-inspiring artefacts and displays, including the famous Antony Gormley statue in the Crypt and the Kings and Scribes exhibition, which takes you on a journey of discovery about the cathedral’s Anglo-Saxon origins.
Behind the cathedral sits the world-famous Winchester College. Founded by William of Wykeham in 1382, visitors are welcome to take a guided tour of the Chamber Court, Chapel, College Hall, Cloisters and the 17th Century School building. The college has ancient collections of art and archaeology for you to discover, too, along with spectacular portrait medals of the Italian Renaissance. We recommend booking ahead and planning your campervan rental Winchester to avoid disappointment!
There’s also Winchester Great Hall – a medieval gem that should be on your list when you hire a motorhome in Winchester. Once part of the magnificent Winchester Castle founded by William the Conqueror in 1067, its Gothic remains proudly hold King Arthur’s Round Table, offering a glimpse into England’s past.
Lace up your walking boots and take a stroll through Hampshire’s vast unspoilt countryside. Set between the cathedral cities of Winchester and Chichester, the South Downs is home to a rich variety of wildlife, fauna and flora, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking and leisurely strolling.
There are many trails to choose from – each one suitable for varying fitness levels – including Shipwright’s Way, Seven Sisters and Cissbury Ring. You’ll also find plenty of charming cafes and tea shops along the way, where you can stop, rest your weary legs and refuel with a hot drink and slice of cake. You could even take your treats back to your Winchester campervan rental to enjoy in the tranquillity of the Winchester countryside.
If you’re feeling brave, why not test your endurance by giving the 100-mile South Downs Way a go? Perfect for long-distance cyclists, keen hikers and casual wanderers alike, this 160-km path starts at the Old City Mill in Winchester and ends at Beachy Head in Eastbourne, providing spectacular views of glorious heathland ridges, ancient woodland and white coastal cliffs.
There are plenty of landmarks for you to discover along the way, too, including Bignor Roman Villa, Devil’s Dyke and Old Winchester Hill – a National Nature Reserve that offers rolling views of Portsmouth, Southampton and even the Isle of Wight on a clear day. It takes most people 8 or 9 days to complete the South Downs Way, but you can hop in at any point for a shorter walk. For hassle-free campervan rental Winchester, trust Kamper Hire to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your adventure.