Hybrid working has left many workers commuting less, opening up a host of new options when it comes to choosing somewhere to live. Londoners have found themselves drawn to the slower pace of life offered by a home away from the capital. But the rural idyll isn’t for everyone either, and many look to smaller cities and towns for a more laid back approach to life without having to skimp on the amenities and buzz altogether.
One destination that meets this brief is Winchester, an ancient cathedral city nestled in the heart of Hampshire. The centre of the city is bookended by the towering cathedral at one end and the 13th century Great Hall at the other, which contains a round table traditionally linked to King Arthur (but don’t believe everything you read…). Here are just a few reasons why Winchester might tempt you away from the Big Smoke.
It’s packed with gorgeous historic architecture
With a history stretching back to Alfred the Great, it’s little wonder that Winchester has an embarrassment of historic architecture. The city centre is a charming jumble of styles, from Georgian terraces to timber framed Tudor inns. Leading away from the centre are streets lined with pretty Victorian terraces and larger bay fronted Georgian townhouses.
NEXT READ: This picturesque town with an enchanting castle is just 90 minutes from London
Foodies will be spoilt for choice
Winchester’s top restaurants include Rick Stein, a fish and seafood restaurant founded by the famous chef, and the posh Ivy Brasserie where residents can sip champagne and watch the world go by. There’s also a full slate of independent bakeries and coffee shops including the trendy Coffee Lab Academy. Winchester’s Farmers’ Market takes place on the second and last Sundays of each month. Boasting 95 stalls, it’s the largest farmers’ market in the UK!
There’s plenty to do nearby
Winchester marks the start of the South Downs Way; keen walkers can take on the challenge of the 100-mile path across stunning chalk ridges down to Eastbourne on the coast. Those looking for a different kind of adventure can head to Marwell Zoo, a much loved attraction housing hundreds of exotic and endangered animals across a large site served by a fun road train. Winchester is a history fan’s dream, with not only the cathedral and Great Hall but also a collection of military museums.
Transport connections are great for commuting to London
Winchester is very well connected to the capital. By train you’ll arrive at London Waterloo in just over an hour, with trains running late into the night. A season ticket to travel twice a week into London will set you back just under £6,000 for the year, which is a sizeable cost to factor into any budget. Other major cities nearby include Southampton and Portsmouth, both served by regular trains.
It’s home to some top schools
Winchester benefits from a raft of excellent schools. The Westgate School to the west of the city takes students from 4 to 16. Westgate is rated Outstanding by Ofsted and ranks as the best state school in Hampshire by grade attainment. At the more exclusive end of the spectrum, Winchester College is an independent boarding school dating from 1362. Today, Winchester takes boys as boarders from age 13 and offers day places for girls from age 16.
BUT you will pay a premium to live here
The bad news is, you pay a premium to live in attractive and well connected Winchester. Rightmove notes the average sale price in the city is in excess of £630,000. Rental properties can also be pricey, averaging £1300 per month. However there is a variety of housing stock available and if you don’t set your heart on one of the city’s many charming terraces then you’ll open up more options, and the chance for a bargain.
The Hattie 