Kings Worthy Hampshire hotels:

Winchester is an unspoilt cathedral city at the western end of the South Downs Way. Winchester, the county town of Hampshire, has a long and interesting history and during Saxon times was the capital of England chosen by King Alfred (Alfred the Great) - and the city remained a Royal residence for centuries afterwards. In 1066 Winchester surrendered to King William the Conqueror, who extended the Saxon royal palace and built a castle, ...in 1079 the construction of the present Cathedral began, ...and in 1086 the Domesday Book was compiled in Winchester. Visit Winchester to see all these historic buildings and many more..... the Great Hall for instance, which for over 600 years has housed the mysterious Arthurian round table. Today, Winchester combines the best of city life with the freshness of the surrounding countryside. Popular for its shopping streets and architecture, its floral summer season and quirky open air events, Winchester is best known for its 11th-century cathedral, whilst the Hospital of St Cross a medieval almshouse still offers the wayfarer s dole to travellers as it has done for more than eight centuries. Home of good food, birthplace of cricket, resting place of author Jane Austen and inspiration to the many craft-makers and artists who live here, Winchester is truly a destination for all seasons. Must see and do ...The Cathedral, The Great Hall, City Museum, The Westgate Museum, Winchester College, Hospital of St Cross, Winchester's 6 Military Museums and Visitor Centre. - The 100 mile (161 kilometre) long South Downs Way follows the old routes and droveways of ancient man along the chalk escarpment and ridges of the South Downs. The route provides the visitor with the opportunity "to get away from it all" without having to travel too far in this busy part of England. The undulating route provides a wonderful trip for long distance riders as well as walkers. With Winchester being so close to the South Downs Way it is ideal as a stop over, or base to start or finish the Walk, or as a base for providing interesting day trips and short breaks in Hampshire.