An afternoon wandering around Winchester
20 people attending
0 places left
3 people waitlisted
Spend an afternoon exploring the historic city of Winchester and the nearby River Itchen and St. Catherine's Hill... with photo ops galore! :)
We'll spend the first part of the event walking around Winchester, seeing the famous sites of the Great Hall, Wolvesey Castle (the Old Bishop's Palace, where we can explore the ruins for free) and the glorious Winchester Cathedral (sadly there won't be time to go in, but lots of time for photos from the outside!). If people wish, we can also have a short bit of free time to explore Winchester market near the cathedral, and the King Alfred statue.
We'll then walk out of town along the River Itchen, passing the Hospital of St. Cross before reaching the historic Hockley viaduct. From there we return to Winchester along the Itchen Navigation but not before climbing St. Catherine's Hill where we can rest and enjoy the views as well as attempting the maze!
We'll end the walk at The Black Boy pub where we can stop for a drink - it is about a further 20 mins walk from there back to Winchester station, which I'd be happy to direct.
Alternatively, stick around for the Winchester Social that evening - please book separately if you'd like to attend.
Dogs are welcome to join us on this event but we do ask the following: Please ensure you adhere to the Countryside Code at all times - see (Keeping Dogs Under Effective Control). If your dog is uncontrolled and strays in open land frightening other animals or livestock, the leader is supported by the OutdoorLads board of trustees to ask you to leave the event as this is not acceptable behaviour.
IMPORTANT! - Participation Statement
You MUST complete a Participation Statement in addition to booking your event space before attending an OutdoorLads event. You only need to complete this Participation Statement once, not for each event you attend.
Thank you to @geekyjames for the use of photos.
What to bring
For your comfort and safety please be prepared for the anticipated weather and the terrain of the walk - keep in mind the following:
Footwear: trainers or light walking boots should be fine for this walk. There may be some mud around the river and hill depending on recent rainfall.
Suitable clothing: please dress suitably for the weather - bringing layers is always a sensible idea.
Waterproof Jacket: essential when hiking in all but the calmest of weather.
Hat: essential in summer to prevent sunburn and heatstroke.
Small Rucksack: One that is comfortable to wear is essential so that you can use your arms freely. Place valuables in water proof bags inside.
Sunglassses: April- Sept: comfortable sunglasses enhance your pleasure and keep insects out of the eye
Water: even in winter one can loose a litre or more of fluid by perspiration. If you fail to make this up you'll get dehydrated which can lead to headaches and other problems. A hydration bladder is easier to use than bottled water, but higher maintenance.
Food: snacks should suffice for this event
Medicines: If you have allergies, are diabetic, or have minor ailments don't forget these!
Food & drink
This an afternoon walk so please eat lunch beforehand. We will have a little free time in Winchester while looking at the cathedral, so chance to pick up coffee or a snack.
Please bring plenty of water - it is peak summer, and the hill is fairly steep!