Winchester, a historic cathedral city in Hampshire, England, may be small, but it’s packed with centuries (and centuries) worth of history. Once the capital of England before the Normans took charge, this town has more than a few stories to tell. Oozing with charm, surrounded by the countryside, and only an hour from London, it’s easy to see why people have been coming here for so long.
And, in the middle of it all lies The Wykeham Arms. Part pub and part hotel, it’s the kind of place that feels like it’s been around forever–and kind of has. It’s been serving pints since the 1750s and started out as a coaching inn for travelers heading to the coast. Located just steps from Winchester Cathedral (which has been around since 1079 and is the final resting place of Jane Austen), it’s the perfect spot to unwind after a day of enjoying the city. And, while this 14-key stay is full of history, it has a nice, laid-back vibe that makes it feel like home. Speaking of history, it’s even rumored that Lord Nelson (the famous admiral who’s best known for his victory at the Battle of the Trafalgar) stopped by here way back when.
These days, The Wykeham Arms still opens its doors to travelers, pub-goers, and everyone in between. The pub itself is one of the top-rated spots in the area, with its multiple fireplaces, cozy nooks, and a very relaxed atmosphere. Locals rave about the food here, with Head Chef Luke Emmess at the helm. The standout dish? The Wykeham Arms lamb pie, which has earned a reputation as the best in town. Plus, they serve a whole slew of drinks including beer, wine, and classic cask-conditioned ales like London Pride.
As for the actual hotel, the rooms are right upstairs. Recently refurbished, the hotel has kept the building’s old-school charm while adding in some modern touches. Guests will find comfy beds with Egyptian cotton linens, sleek bathrooms, and great views of the little town. Each room comes with a selection of teas, Artisan Coffee Co. coffee, and even handmade chocolates. Plus, the bathrooms are stocked with Bramley products, and the towels and robes are super soft. Oh, and the minibar? It’s free—no surprise charges if you want to crack open a late-night drink.
While the rooms and pub are great, what really sets The Wykeham Arms apart is its history and great character. There’s even a tale about a ghost (Mrs. Reddington, to be exact) who’s said to haunt the hotel. Some guests have felt a chill or heard odd noises, but whether or not you believe in ghosts, the lore adds to the place’s charm.
In terms of things to do in the area, the options are endless for history buffs and food lovers alike. As mentioned, the Winchester Cathedral is a massive, gorgeous piece of Gothic architecture where you could spend hours roaming around. The Winchester Great Hall is another must-see, especially for fans of King Arthur—it’s home to the famous round table. And if you’re into nature, St. Catherine’s Hill has amazing views of the city and the countryside.
When it comes to food and drinks, you’d be surprised at how many options there are for such a small town. Grab a bite at The Chesil Rectory, a cool restaurant set in a 600-year-old building serving up classic British dishes. For a relaxed pub experience, head to The Black Boy pub, a historic spot with a cozy atmosphere and excellent ales. And if you’re in the mood for something a little more modern, The Old Vine has contemporary bites that pair well with its lovely wine list.
Whether in Winchester for the weekend or just passing through, it’s definitely worth a visit. The Wykeham Arms is the perfect spot to learn more about the town’s history—and maybe even become part of it.
Top Takeaways
Location: 75 Kingsgate St, Winchester SO23 9PE, United Kingdom
Rating: Four-star
The Vibe: Old-school charm meets laid-back comfort. It’s got that pub feel, but with the added bonus of a cozy hotel vibe.
Food + Drink: The pub’s food is solid, with classics like lamb pie, roasted hake, and tons of puddings. There’s also a nice selection of drinks, whether you’re in the mood for a pint or something a little fancier.
Our Favorite Part of the Hotel: The vibe. It’s relaxed, welcoming, and has just enough character to make it memorable. Plus, the ghost story makes it all that more interesting.
Amenities: Free minibar; Bramley bathroom products; Egyptian cotton sheets; Artisan Coffee Co. coffee; Handmade chocolates; Free WiFi
What’s Nearby: The Winchester Cathedral is right around the corner, and The Chesil Rectory, a historic 14th-century Grade II listed restaurant is less than a 10-minute walk
Any Personal Neighborhood Recs? Definitely take a stroll around the Cathedral grounds. For history buffs, the Westgate Museum is nearby, and there are plenty of walking tours to learn about the city’s past.
Rooms: 14 rooms
Pricing: Rates start at $230 per night.
Closest Airport: Southampton International Airport (SOU)
