Medieval mysteries of Winchester Cathedral and the surrounding neighborhood!

We had the amazing experience of taking the Winchester Cathedral and city tour during our Viking Vela Iberian Explorer cruise in January 2025. Not only did we explore the history surrounding this iconic medieval landmark in southern England, but we also went underground to the crypt, and found an unexpected surprise rising from the flood waters. We were amazed at the wall art in the oldest part of the cathedral, dating back to the Crusades. But that wasn't all! Our Viking guide had a lot more fascinating stories dating back over 1,000 years as we walked the area surrounding the Cathedral, featuring the ruins of a medieval castle and one of the oldest boarding schools in Winchester.
INSIDER TIPS:
1. On Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, visit the Open Market on High Street for amazing local produce and treats!
2. Go to the Crypt and find the Sound II statue by Anthony Gormley.
3. Uncover the biblical wall paintings from the Crusades.
4. Walk back more than 1,000 years around the grounds of Wolvesey Castle, once one of the most important residences in England.
5. Relax along the River Ichen and marvel at the beautiful English gardens.
6. While sailing away from Portsmouth, go on the top deck and enjoy a tour of the historic dockyards featuring HRH Naval Command Headquarters, HMS Victory, Spinnaker Tower, and Southsea Castle.

#vikingcruises #vikingvela #winchester #winchestercathedral #wolvseycastle #hertfordshire #portsmouth #spinnakertower