Our final visit of the year takes us to Winchester Cathedral, one of the largest and most impressive Gothic cathedrals in England – and in Northern Europe. Founded in 1079 and extensively remodelled and extended over the next five centuries, the Cathedral contains a rich array of architectural styles. It is also home to priceless works of art, including mediaeval wall paintings, the magnificent 12th-century Winchester Bible, pre-Raphaelite stained glass and contemporary artworks and sculptures, such as Antony Gormley’s Sound II.

Our day will begin with a guided tour focusing on art in the Cathedral, followed by a group lunch, after which you are free for the rest of the afternoon to explore the church or other nearby places of interest, including the famous Christmas Market.  

Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market is renowned for its bustling atmosphere and stunning location. The wooden chalets, nestled in the historic grounds surrounding the Cathedral, are inspired by traditional German Christmas markets. Each year the market showcases the creativity and craftsmanship of highly skilled craftspeople, both local and from across the UK. An ideal opportunity for visitors to buy unique, authentically handcrafted and locally sourced Christmas gifts direct from the makers and soak up the festive, pre-Christmas atmosphere!

For more information about Winchester Cathedral, follow this link.

If you would like to spend longer in the Cathedral, you can visit the Kings & Scribes exhibition.

To discover more about the Christmas market, click on this link. 

Planned programme for the day:
9.00:   Depart Hop Oast
10.45:  Welcome tea/coffee served in a separate room in the Refectory
11.30:  One-hour guided tour “Art in the Cathedral”
12.45:  Group lunch (soup + filled baguettes) served in private room in Refectory
Then:  Time to explore the Cathedral & environs and visit the Christmas Market
16.30:  Coach departs for home
18.15:  Arrive Horsham

Cost: £58.50 pp. Trip includes coach & gratuity, entry to the Cathedral + bespoke tour, welcome tea/coffee on arrival + group lunch. The Cathedral offers this “welcome drinks + lunch” catering package to large groups like ours to avoid congestion and queues and provide a relaxing environment for us, especially at this very busy time of year.