It was off to Winchester today, about 20 miles from our house sit in Catherington. Lovely drive again through the South Downs – this time to its very western end. Winchester is a significant city in the history of England. Kings were crowned and lived there. Important decisions were made and history changed at Winchester. But eventually the centre of power shifted to London.
Winchester Cathedral is also very famous – love that old song by “The New Vaudeville Band” – and a popular tourist spot. The building was closed the day we were there; someone had booked it for a wedding! Never mind. It was still interesting to walk around the surrounding lawns and gardens and look at it’s very impressive architecture – even if was only from the outside. Also nice to see the wedding party enjoying themselves after the ceremony. They were all looking very smart!
We walked along the very busy main street of Winchester – lots of people, lots of shops – to visit the Westgate Museum. The museum is housed in the western medieval gateway of Winchester Castle. It’s tower room was once used as a prison. It was amazing to see the very old ‘graffiti’ left by prisoners on the walls and floor boards. Just goes to show nothing is new! Also checked out “The Great Hall” of the castle which was built in the 1300’s and now houses King Arthur’s round table. It’s mounted on one of the end walls. There is a huge royal family tree painted on some of the walls, and numerous statues and artwork. There are also passageways leading outside from the Great Hall’s basement. They were used to spring surprise attacks on the enemy or as a means of escape. Also for secret visits to the King. So much to see. A great day out to a very interesting place.
Lots of love
Di and Reg
This entry was posted in Catherington, Hampshire, England, House Sits, United Kingdom