Follow in poet Keats’ footsteps and discover some of the wonders of Winchester
Winchester suited the poet John Keats (1795-1821) perfectly. He appreciated its ancient centre, the calm of the Close, the swift water of the River Itchen and the healthy air from the surrounding Downs. On this walk, we follow in his footsteps to St Cross, through the landscape that inspired him to write "Ode to Autumn" and the opening lines: "Season of mists and mellow fruitfulness, Close bosom-friend of the maturing sun; Conspiring with him how to load and bless, With fruit the vines that round the thatched-eaves run." Passing the city’s ancient landmarks, this walk includes a visit to the cathedral, Winchester College and Wolvesey Castle, then crosses the Water Meadows to the Hospital of St Cross, built "for those who once had everything about them but suffered losses". Sheltered accommodation is still provided for 25 elderly gentlemen, who wear a uniform of black or red cloaks, and wayfarers can claim the "dole" - a mug of beer and a morsel of bread.
Leave Winchester train station and follow the green signs opposite, downhill to the city centre via the Theatre Royal and along Jewry Street. Turn left into the High Street pedestrian zone. The tourist information office is at the bottom of the High Street in the Guildhall, just before King Alfred’s statue.
Take a right at Market Street to reach the cathedral (£3.50 is a suggested donation), which has its origins in the seventh century, where you can see the memorials to Jane Austen, the grave of Izaak Walton, father of anglers, and St Swithun’s shrine. The singing of evensong by the cathedral choir takes place daily (call 01962 857200 for times).
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