The cathedral is truly glorious; the nave clearly demonstrates the architectural abilities and vision of Bishop Wykeham, who rebuilt the original Norman nave to the proportions and beauty we see today. It was in this nave, according to legend, that Queen Emma walked barefoot over nine red-hot ploughshares to prove her innocence of plotting against her son, Edward the Confessor.
Still to be seen in the cathedral are the graves of Izaac Walton and Jane Austen. The crypt can be visited, but only in summer, as in winter it becomes too wet. This brings to mind the efforts of the diver William Walker, who single-handedly filled the flooded foundations with concrete, to save the building from sinking into the Itchen marshes.
Fabulous architecture and history are not the only reasons to visit Winchester though as this bustling City has plenty else to offer visitors. The streets around the Cathedral and its close are especially rewarding when explored on foot, there are old pubs, tea rooms and restaurants offering food for all tastes.
The countryside around the City is also well worth exploring, with pretty towns, picture-postcard villages and many gardens, castles and historic houses to visit.
One fine example is Hinton Ampner Garden, a few miles east of the city. Hinton Ampner is the concept of one man, Ralph Dutton, who designed the 12 acre garden, rebuilt the mansion and assembled the collection in the mid - to late 20th century. The garden is a masterful example of a formal layout complemented by rich informal plantings in mainly pastel hues, with numerous magnificent vistas over 80 acres of parkland and rolling Hampshire countryside.
Close-by travelling northward, is the delightful Georgian Town of Alresford. Home of 'watercress' it boasts its own steam railway, many interesting walks, gardens and historical landmarks all within a short distance. Here, centrally located in West Street opposite the Post Office, you will find The Bell, a small, charming, family-run free-house offering great food and carefully selected wines. The bar and dining room are a delight to sit in; the atmosphere is relaxed, informal and it specialises in the provision of fresh seasonal produce cooked to order. This beautiful Grade Two listed former coaching inn, dating back to 1767, has been carefully and lovingly restored to provide individually designed rooms - all en-suite and beautifully equipped.
If you're interested in the natural world, then beautiful Marwell is situated six miles southeast of Winchester and makes a wonderful day out for all the family. Founded in 1972 by John Knowles, a pioneering conservationist, the zoological park covers one hundred acres of rural Hampshire countryside. There are over 200 species of rare animals, including tigers, in magnificent enclosures. Don't miss the snow leopards, rhinos, jaguars and hippos! Marwell has one of Europe's largest collections of rare hoofed animals including zebra and antelope, and is dedicated to the conservation of endangered species. There are many popular favourites such as giraffes, meerkats, kangaroos and gibbons. You can enjoy the World of Lemurs, Into Africa, Tropical World, Penguin World, the Fossa Exhibit, Aridlands and the Bat House. Marwell offers a day full of fun and interest for all ages and is open daily, family tickets are available.