A Visitor's Introduction to Winchester Cathedral

History of Winchester Cathedral

The history of Winchester Cathedral spans over 1,000 years, making it one of the oldest cathedrals in England. The current building, primarily Norman in design, was begun in 1079, but its roots go back further to an earlier Christian church, Old Minster, founded in 642 AD. This earlier structure served as the center of Christianity for the Kingdom of Wessex, playing a key role in early English Christianity. The current cathedral replaced Old Minster, which was demolished after the Norman Conquest to make way for the new, larger structure.

Throughout its history, the cathedral has been a focal point of significant events. It was the site of royal coronations, including that of William the Conqueror's son, and has been the final resting place for numerous monarchs, including King Canute and William Rufus (son of William the Conqueror). The cathedral also holds the graves of early bishops and many notable historical figures.

Winchester Cathedral Architectural Highlights

Winchester Cathedral is renowned for its breathtaking architecture, a blend of Norman, Gothic, and Perpendicular styles, reflecting the long history of construction and renovation.

The Nave: At 558 feet long, Winchester Cathedral has the longest nave of any Gothic cathedral in Europe. Its towering arches and beautiful fan-vaulted ceiling create a space of awe-inspiring grandeur. Visitors walking down the length of the nave will appreciate the meticulous stonework, completed between the 11th and 14th centuries.
  
The West Front: The facade of the cathedral is an impressive example of Perpendicular Gothic style. Its large, detailed window and statues of saints and kings provide a fitting introduction to the grandeur within.

The Crypt: One of the oldest parts of the cathedral, the crypt dates back to the 11th century. During winter or rainy seasons, the crypt can be partially flooded, creating a reflective surface that beautifully mirrors its ancient arches. The crypt also features the modern art installation "Sound II" by British sculptor Antony Gormley, which adds a contemporary dimension to the ancient space.

The Tower and Transepts: The Norman transepts remain largely unchanged since their construction in the 11th century. The central tower collapsed in 1107 but was rebuilt, lending the building its solid and imposing presence.

The Choir Stalls and the High Altar: The choir features beautifully carved wooden stalls and misericords, some dating to the 1300s. The High Altar, a key focal point of the cathedral, is adorned with intricate carvings and mosaics, and is the site where important religious ceremonies still take place.

The Great East Window: Destroyed during the English Civil War in 1642, this large stained-glass window was painstakingly rebuilt using the shattered fragments of the original glass, creating a kaleidoscopic patchwork of medieval art. The window is an important symbol of the resilience of the cathedral and its ability to preserve its heritage.

The Winchester Bible

One of the treasures of Winchester Cathedral is the Winchester Bible, an enormous 12th-century illuminated manuscript considered one of the finest examples of medieval artistry in Europe. The Bible is housed in the cathedral’s library, where visitors can see its intricately decorated pages. Made between 1160 and 1175, the Winchester Bible was left unfinished but still stands as a monumental work of craftsmanship, with its illustrations depicting biblical scenes and its text written in beautiful Latin calligraphy.

The Tomb of Jane Austen

One of the most famous figures buried in Winchester Cathedral is the celebrated novelist Jane Austen. She died in Winchester in 1817 and was laid to rest in the cathedral. Although her original gravestone only mentions her personal virtues, a brass plaque was later added that acknowledges her literary contributions. Today, her grave draws admirers from around the world, and a nearby memorial window honors her life and work.

The Mortuary Chests

The cathedral houses a collection of ancient mortuary chests believed to contain the remains of pre-Norman kings of England and Wessex, including King Canute, Egbert, and other royal figures. These chests are positioned above the choir screen, offering a direct link to England’s early monarchs and the cathedral’s royal connections.

The Pilgrims' Way and St. Swithun

Winchester Cathedral was an important stop for medieval pilgrims, especially those journeying along the Pilgrims' Way to Canterbury. Many came to venerate St. Swithun, a 9th-century Bishop of Winchester who became the city’s patron saint. His shrine in the cathedral was a major pilgrimage site during the Middle Ages, though much of it was destroyed during the Reformation. Today, a simple stone marks the location of his original shrine, preserving his memory.

The Reformation and the English Civil War

Winchester Cathedral endured periods of turmoil, particularly during the Reformation in the 16th century and the English Civil War in the 17th century. During the Reformation, many religious relics were destroyed or removed, and the dissolution of the monasteries led to significant changes in the cathedral’s function and appearance. The English Civil War saw further damage, including the destruction of stained glass and monuments by Puritan forces. Despite these challenges, the cathedral survived and continued to evolve.

Modern Day Events and Services

Today, Winchester Cathedral is a thriving centre of worship and community events. Regular services are held, including Evensong, a traditional choral service that attracts visitors for its beauty and historical resonance. The cathedral also hosts a wide range of cultural events, including concerts, exhibitions, and seasonal activities like the Winchester Christmas Market, one of the most popular Christmas markets in the UK.

The Christmas Market is set up in the cathedral’s Inner Close and features traditional wooden chalets selling crafts, food, and gifts, alongside an ice rink. The festive atmosphere draws thousands of visitors every year.

Educational and Visitor Facilities

Winchester Cathedral offers a variety of resources and facilities to enrich the visitor experience. The Cathedral Visitor Centre provides interactive displays and exhibits that delve into the history of the cathedral and its significance over the centuries. Guided tours, led by knowledgeable staff, are available to help visitors fully appreciate the cathedral's architecture and history.

For those interested in further exploration, there is also the Library and Archives, home to rare books and documents that shed light on the cathedral’s past, including its role in the religious and political life of medieval England.

The cathedral has a gift shop, offering a selection of souvenirs, books, and locally made products. There is also a café, located in the cathedral’s grounds, which provides refreshments and light meals in a relaxed atmosphere with views of the cathedral.

Nearby Attractions

Winchester is a city rich in history and culture, and several other attractions are located within walking distance of the cathedral. These include:

The Great Hall: Famous for housing King Arthur’s legendary Round Table, this medieval hall is a short walk from the cathedral and is one of the city’s most important historic landmarks.
  
Wolvesey Castle: Once the residence of the Bishops of Winchester, this ruined castle offers a glimpse into the medieval power held by the church in the region.

Winchester City Mill: A working watermill dating back to Saxon times, the City Mill offers a unique insight into the industrial history of the area.

Winchester College: Founded in 1382, this prestigious school has beautiful historic buildings that can be explored through guided tours.

Practical Information for Visitors

Opening Hours: The cathedral is generally open to visitors from Monday to Saturday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and on Sundays from 12:30 PM to 3:00 PM. However, hours may vary due to services and special events, so checking the cathedral’s website for up-to-date information is recommended.

Admission: There is an admission charge for visitors, though entry is free for those attending services. Tickets can be purchased at the cathedral or online, and discounts are available for groups, students, and seniors.

Accessibility: Winchester Cathedral strives to be accessible to all visitors, with ramps, lifts, and accessible restrooms available. Wheelchairs are also available for use.

Getting There: The cathedral is located in the centre of Winchester and is easily accessible by road and public transport. Winchester railway station is about a 10-minute walk from the cathedral, with regular services to and from London and other major cities.