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©Copyright The Francis Frith Collection

The unofficial capital of England during the time of Alfred the Great (9th century), Winchester has remained an important city throughout British history. By the time of the Norman conquest, during the 11th century, the city was already of such significance that William I was crowned both there and in London. While there he built a castle in the southwest angle of the city walls as well as establishing a new cathedral in 1070.

The new cathedral is today is a main historical focus of the town. Built on the site of a early Roman forum, it is the burial grounds for notables kings such as King Cnut (Canute) as well as some important celebrities like William Rufus, Jane Austen, Izaak Walton (author of the Compleat Angler). St Swithun had also wished to be buried in the church yard but his remains were moved into the body of the church on 15 July 971. Just after the removal, torrential rain starting pouring down the city for the following 40 days non-stop - giving rise to the legend that if it rains on the 15 of July, the rain will carry on for 40 days.

Winchester is also famous for its public school, Winchester College, which was founded by Bishop William of Wykeham in 1382 to provide education for 70 poor scholars and prepare them for a career in the church. Today the college is one of the most prestigious in England and provides education for more than 500 students from all over the country. The modern college is a beautiful and interesting mixture of medieval and Victorian styles.

Winchester is a city of very important social, political and historical roots and its cultural heritage is still displayed in every corner.

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