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The Great Hall & King Arthur's Round Table

Daily

Cost: Free

Hours: Feb-Oct 10am-5pm; Nov-Jan 10am-4pm

The Great Hall is all that remains of Winchester Castle. It dates back to the 13th century and is considered the finest of halls from this period. Inside is one of the greatest symbols of medieval mythology - the Round Table of King Arthur.

The original castle and hall were constructed during the reign of William the Conqueror in the 11th century, but by the following century they were in great need of repair. The present hall was built at this time. Over the next few centuries the castle reached the peak of its military importance, but Parliamentary Forces took over in the 17th century and Oliver Cromwell ordered it to be destroyed. The Great Hall, though, was retained for official functions.

What makes the hall so special is that those built just before this were notoriously gloomy, but in the 13th century they became lighter and more comfortable. This was the first of its kind, with Purbeck stone columns, pointed arches and plate tracery windows. It also reflected the taste of the king, Henry III, for more refined and sophisticated art and architecture.

The Round Table was made in the 14th century and repainted by Henry VIII. However, over time it has almost become the mysterious table of the "Once and Future King," Arthur. The table is five metres in diameter and has King Arthur at the top with the names of the 24 knights written round the edge.

The Great Hall & King Arthur's Round Table