After breakfast we checked out of the hotel and made our way to the Hospital of St Cross. This turned out to be a bit of a challenge, it was Winchester College’s graduation day so with the ceremony taking place in Winchester Cathedral there was traffic congestion.
The Hospital of St Cross is one of England’s oldest almshouses and it is still in use as an almshouse. The Hospital is a special place; it is very peaceful and has stunning architecture. After we had bought our tickets, we made our way to the Master’s Garden which was lovely and tranquil in the October sunshine. When we had finished walking around the garden one of the brothers starting talking to us. The party of people he was due to take round the Hospital had been delayed so he had time to very kindly take us into the Church of St Cross and to some of the many interesting features in the church before leaving us to explore for ourselves.
We spent a long time in the church before leaving to look at the brothers hall. Making our way to the hall we inadvertently found ourselves walking along a path in a private part of the hospital. I am not quite sure how we missed the sign but I do feel quite bad about it.
After our visit we made our way to a National Trust property, The Vyne, for lunch. We toured the house which was only partially open due to roof repairs before taking lunch. It was interesting to see the scaffolding needed for the roof repairs being put into place and we enjoyed listening to the very informative commentaries about the history of The Vyne from the room guides.
We then set off on our long journey home, bringing to a close an enjoyable break in Winchester.
Beautiful photos – it sounds as though you had a wonderful short break there and fitted so much in
It was a wonderful break
I do like to do my research so one visit flows to the next, leaving plenty of time for relaxation
You make the most of these things, Cherie.
I try too
I love almshouses.
I visited one in Hereford.
I like almshouses too