With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, are you’re looking for romantic things to do in Winchester, Hampshire? The Winchester Royal Hotel has compiled some of the most romantic things to do on your romantic retreat.
Winchester Cathedral
It’s just not possible to visit Winchester without taking in this stunning sight.
Sitting in the grounds of the cathedral, maybe with a picnic (if the weather dictates) and just watching the world go by… there’s nothing quite like it.
If you’re not afraid of heights, or don’t simply detest steps, the views from the Tower give an incredible view of the city and are definitely recommended.
Winchester Science Centre & Planetarium
While the Science Centre does sound a bit of a kid zone, it’s actually great fun for couples too.
The main romantic attraction is most certainly the Planetarium – the largest capacity planetarium in the UK. Gaze into the stars with your loved one and admire the beauties of the Universe.
There are also some ‘Fulldome Films’ screened twice a day, which from the sound of their website sound incredible – go and have a look to find out more.
Keats’ Walk
You don’t get more romantic than John Keats. His poetry, despite not particularly well-received during his lifetime, went on to become beloved by the end of the 19th century.
In 1819, he stayed in Winchester touring the city using a book called ‘An Historical Account of Winchester’. Obviously the city has changed somewhat in the near 200 years since, but you can still follow the same walk that Keats took.
When he was in the city, Keats even wrote one of his most famous poems, ‘To Autumn’. It can’t get much more romantic than that, surely?
Find out more about the route on Visit Winchester’s website:
Jane Austen Trail
While we’re on the subject of famous writers, who could forget Jane Austen.
The English novelist was laid to rest in 1817 at Winchester Cathedral and as her popularity continues to increase, people flock in the thousands each year to see her house and museum in Chawton and the memorial above where she was buried.
It’s worth doing anyway, but especially if your other half is a Jane Austen fan.
Sunset Walk
Another popular self-guided walk is the Sunset Walk, which allows you to see some of the most stunning views across the city.
Go off the beaten track through the historic Winchester and up St Giles Hill where you’ll find an idyllic setting for a picnic or twilight stroll.
The walk takes in some of the oldest buildings and most beautiful landscapes, so make sure you take your camera.
Marwell Zoo
If you’re an animal lover, there’s nothing quite like the zoo. And for couples, it’s a lovely way to spend the day.
Less than eight miles from Winchester, Marwell Zoo is simply brilliant with 134 different species and nearly 2,000 animals in the 14-acre wildlife park.
They’re open all year round, currently from 10am – 4pm. Check out their website for more info.
Mottisfont, National Trust
Located just 15 miles west of Winchester is the stunning Mottisfont country house, conserved by the National Trust.
Described as a ‘romantic country house and gallery set in beautiful riverside gardens’, which sounds lovely. Explore this country house with trails full of surprises, view the various exhibitions throughout the year, or see art gallery displays and extraordinary murals.
If the weather is kind, you can amble round the walled rose gardens as well as viewing the stunning landscapes in which this property resides.
Visit their website to find out more.
The New Forest
If you really want to get rural, The New Forest is also about 15 miles from Winchester.
This famous National Park is 219 square miles in size, so you do need to plan your visit. With many villages and small towns in the Forest and around its edges, you’ll never be short of picturesque walks and lovely places eat and drink.
Visit their website to plan your visit.
Paultons Park
If you’re more of a thrill-seeking couple, then Paultons Park is probably more for you.
Less than half an hour drive towards the stunning New Forest, Paultons Park is great for couples and families alike.
It has everything you can imagine, from rollercoasters and log fumes to pirate ships and go karts.
Opening hours, ticket prices and more details are available on their website.
Escape Room
Being locked in a room trying to find a way out doesn’t sound like much on the face of it, granted, but it’s actually a great way to spend an hour or so.
It’s recommended to have more than just two people, so maybe ideal for a double date? The whole concept gets your brain working in a completely different way as you and your team have to solve a series of clues to eventually unlock the door. From first hand experience, we can assure you it is a lot of fun.
The ClueCapers Escape Room on The Broadway in Winchester has three rooms with an interesting Winchester twist. Find out more on their website.
Garden Restaurant
You can’t go on a romantic getaway without a romantic meal for two…
That’s where the Garden Restaurant at the Winchester Royal Hotel fits in perfectly. With great views overlooking the secret garden, a relaxing ambience and not to mention delicious food and fantastic service, it’s the perfect place to recharge and relax after a lovey-dovey day in Winchester.
Check out the new menu offering.
Cocktails
Why not finish your romantic day in style?
With a range of cocktails available in the lounge at the Winchester Royal Hotel, you really can unwind and relax with a nice, tasty cocktail or beverage.