The one time capital of England and of ancient Wessex, Winchester can lay claim to an important history in the culture and determination of England. The history of the city is played out all over and attracts many visitors to view the most significant historical remnants of early England. Also situated by the South Downs and forming the county town of Hampshire, Winchester forms an excellent base from which to experience the delights of Hampshire and the south coast. Winchester hotels evoke all the history and culture of the area and offer a range of first class accommodation options.
The city of Winchester owes much of its present day appeal to Anglo Saxon times and Alfred the Great who fortified the city and south coast against invaders. The Saxon street plan was laid out as it is today and much of the medieval city wall remains. After the Norman Conquest, parts of the city were destroyed by fire. A curfew bell still rings each night at 8:00pm as a reminder to put out home fires. Dedication and work by the Bishop of Winchester restored the city and incorporated many of the magnificent architectural structures so popular with visitors today, such as major elements of the Cathedral and the College.
Winchester Cathedral is widely regarded as one of the world's great gothic masterpieces. It has the longest nave of any cathedral in Europe and incorporates architectural styles spanning five centuries from its original construction in 1079. Forming the starting point for the Pilgrim's way to Canterbury, the Cathedral is steeped in the history of the area and is the final resting place for Alfred the Great, Edward the Elder, many of the Bishops of Winchester and also local author Jane Austen.
The Cathedral Close is also the site of many historically important structures, such as Pilgrim's Hall, the longest existing hammer-beamed building in England, and Cheney Court, the 15th century timber framed Bishop's court house.
The Cathedral is certainly a major attraction in the city but it is not the only one of significant historical and visual interest. Other notable buildings include the College, with beautifully laid out courtyard and cloisters, and Winchester Castle, most renowned for its Great Hall, in which King Arthur's Round Table hangs. A major visitor attraction, the Round Table of Arthurian legend has all the names of the Knights of the Round Table written around the edges and a painted depiction of King Arthur on the throne. Whilst the chronology of the table does not fit the legend it still dates from the 13th century and is an ever popular adornment of the Great Hall.
Most people visit the town to see the sights and soak up some of the wonderful history associated with the many great architectural and historical marvels, but the town itself is a thriving, contemporary place with much to offer modern travellers. There are many good cafes, bars and restaurants and a selection of fine Winchester hotels. Some hotels display all the aged character of the town and offer accommodation in keeping with the style of the building, such as authentic wooden beams and decor and soft furnishings which transport guests back in time.
Other hotels are more modern establishments and there is a selection of international chain hotels and lodges which offer a high consistent standard of accommodation. Whether traditional or contemporary, hotels will have all the necessary amenities and facilities demanded from modern hotel accommodation. This will likely include in room features such as tea and coffee making facilities and often television and audio systems. There may also be internet connectivity and direct dial telephones.
Many of the more modern hotels will have additional features for business. Meeting rooms and event spaces with all associated technology for business communication will be available as will workstations with PC and internet access. Appropriate modern technologies and conveniences are to be expected from all Winchester hotels. A comfortable stay is ensured and most hotel accommodation comprises a full English breakfast or alternatives to start each day. Most hotels will offer additional dining options too, often in excellent restaurant facilities.
An excellent accommodation option which evokes all the history, character and tradition of old England is the coaching inns and lodging houses which for centuries have provided travellers with sustenance and rest. These traditional inns will combine comfortable accommodation, often in a charming style in keeping with the property, with opportunities to enjoy a drink and social atmosphere in a classic English inn setting. They will also likely offer traditional English pub fare in a lounge bar or restaurant.
Luxury hotels will display all the exclusive luxury characteristics of any top hotel and often will be housed in wonderful buildings. Business facilities, and concierge and room services will attend to guests needs and the rooms and suites will be equipped with the highest quality furnishings and state of the art entertainment systems. Luxury en suite bathrooms will be spacious and equipped with quality bathroom products often including slippers and robes. In a land of historic kings it is still possible to live like royalty.
In the Winchester surrounds and wider Hampshire countryside there are opportunities to indulge in all the exclusive features provided by country house type Winchester hotels. Often with associated sporting activities such as tennis or golf and leisure features such as spas, gyms and pools, these particular Winchester hotels offer the best standard of accommodation available.
