Winchester

The ancient city of Winchester is only a few miles away but for one reasons or another we very rarely go there, but with a day off and fine weather Mrs BB and I drove over for an almost touristy look around. An early stop was the cathedral which was open for the mourning of Queen Elizabeth. and gave Mrs BB the opportunity to light candles for two family members who are in difficulty.

Following the Itchen Way out of town are the remains of Wolvesey Castle, know as the Old Bishop's Palace. Now in ruin but sympathetically stabilised. The original site dates back to 970 and was briefly fortified during the later years of Henry of Blois, the Bishop of Winchester around 1126.

The Itchen trail follows delightful water meadow out beyond the city limits.

The water is fast flowing and crystal clear filtered as it is by the chalk hills of the south downs.

The cathedral is a major landmark, visible from the surrounding hills and is perhaps one of the finest medieval cathedrals in England and even Europe. I'm sure the cost of upkeep is huge but I do have an issue with the church charging £10 for entry, that seems very counter to it's purpose.