WINCHESTER CASTLE & WOLVESEY PALACE

The original wooden Norman Winchester Castle datngfrom 1067 burnt down in the civil war of 1141 but was rebuilt. In the 17th century it was sold to a Royalist and after its capture in the Civil War it was slighted. Now only the Great Hall (1222 - 1235 and 100 foot long by 50 foot high) remains as the Winchester Courthouse.

The West Hall of Wolvesey Palace was built in 1110, probably close to the earlier 10th century Bishop's residence. The East Hall and a curtain wall were added in 1135 - 40. It was damaged in the fighting of 1141, but with the addition of a keep in 1150 the palace was given the appearance and strength of a castle. It was abandoned in the 18th century, having been replaced by a new palace in 1680.

Wolvesey - English Heritage, open all year.
Winchester Castle Great Hall open all year.


Directions
Winchester Castle is west of the cathedral
Wolvesey Palace is adjacent to the east side of the cathedral.

Scroll down for other photos

 

Larger photo of the Wolvesey keep