What's on in the area

The Westgate Museum

Daily

Cost: Free

Hours: Apr-Oct: Mon-Sat 10am-5pm; Sun 12pm-5pm
Nov-Mar: Tue-Sat 10am-4pm; Sun 12pm-4pm

The Westgate Museum in Winchester dominates the upper end of the High Street. One of only two remaining fortified gateways in the city, today it offers brass rubbing and other activities for children.

Displays include collections of pre-imperial weights and measures and a fine painted ceiling from Winchester College that dates back to the 16th century.

The gateway was built and altered between the 12th and 14th centuries. The last parts to be added were the portcullis and two early gunports. From the 16th to 18th centuries it was used as a prison for drunkards and then for debtors, whose graffiti scribblings are still visible on the walls. It became a museum in the 19th century, as well as a repository for the city archives.

Please note: during the winter season the museum is closed on Mondays.

The Westgate Museum