Wolvesey Castle

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Wolvesey Castle

Street:	College Street
Town:	Winchester
County:	Hampshire
Postcode:	SO23 9NB

Contact:	English Heritage
Telephone:	01489 892460
Website:	http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/
Email:	customers@english-heritage.org.uk

Key Features:

• Historic Castle located in Winchester
• Free to enter
• Parking available
• Guided tours
• Picnic areas
• Site shop

Description:

Wolvesey Castle is an historic building located in Winchester, Hampshire and was formerly the principle residence of the Bishops of Winchester. The Castle was an extensive keep and bailey castle built about 1100 on a site in use during the Anglo-Saxon period.

This historic building was extended and "modernised" by the powerful Henry of Blois, the Bishop of Winchester, during the Civil War between Queen Matilda and King Stephen (1135-48).

The Castle saw many an important visitor over the years, but the last great moment of its history came on 25 July, 1554, when Philip II of Spain and Queen Mary of England had their wedding breakfast here before proceeding to the Cathedral for the wedding ceremony.

In 1680 the castle was demolished in order to build a new palace in the then-popular Baroque style. That palace can be seen directly beside the ruins. All that remains of Wolvesey itself are ruined walls and the chapel, which was incorporated into the new palace. The castle is now in the care of English Heritage.

Wolvesey Castle is a great attraction and place to visit in Hampshire, we hope you enjoy your visit.

Tariff:	• Entry is free
Opening Hours:	• Opening dates - 6th April to 30th September • Opening times - 10am to 5pm, everyday

Other Information:

Guided tours are available in August on Sundays from 2pm

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