A Sunset Walk, Festivals and More

Plus this week's Hampshire events

Author

Hannah D
January 14, 2025 • Estimated Reading Time: 8 minutes

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Happy Tuesday Hampshire!

I hope you’re managing to stay warm after what was a beautiful but freeeezing cold weekend. Temperatures look like they’re going to pick up a little bit over the next few days, which bodes well if you’re hoping to get out and about and make the most of the Hampshire.

This week, you can try a great walk in Winchester. There are also plenty of events and some dates to bookmark for later in the year.

Have a good one, Hannah

🍞 Shout-out: A high-five to Hoxton Bakehouse for making January a little sweeter. Their passion for baking (and our taste buds) is unmatched. You can find them dotted around Hampshire. Check out their website for more.

Winchester’s Sunset Walk: A Stroll with Views and Stories

The view from St Giles Hill in Winchester

This was captured on a cloudy day - best to plan your walk on a clear one

There’s something about a sunset that makes any view feel a little more special, and Winchester’s Sunset Walk is no exception. This 1¼-mile circular route takes you through some of the city’s most picturesque and historic spots, offering a perfect way to soak in the charm of this ancient city.

Highlights of the Walk

  • Broadway Beginnings: The walk starts on the Broadway, once a Roman thoroughfare, where the bronze statue of King Alfred the Great stands tall. Erected in 1901, it honours the king’s role in restoring Winchester’s prominence.

  • St Giles Hill: After a steady climb, you’ll reach the wide green at the top of St Giles Hill, where the view over Winchester is spectacular. With landmarks like the Cathedral and Wolvesey Castle in sight, the scene becomes even more magical as the sun sets. This hill was once the site of the famous St Giles Fair, a medieval trade hub.

  • The Weirs and Riverside Path: Following the River Itchen, this peaceful stretch is a delight for wildlife watchers—keep an eye out for otters at dusk! Along the way, the Chesil Rectory, dating back to 1450, adds a touch of Tudor charm.

  • Abbey Gardens: The walk ends here in a quiet oasis where the remains of Nunnaminster Abbey can still be seen. The scented garden, designed for visually impaired visitors, is a lovely finishing touch.

When to Visit

This time of year is a good choice for a sunset walk. With the sun setting earlier, you can enjoy the golden hour without waiting too long. On clear days, the view from St Giles Hill is especially stunning.

If you can’t make it now, it’s a walk worth bookmarking for later in the year. Autumn skies and early evening light offer a different kind of beauty, making this a trail to enjoy across the seasons.

Practical Information

  • Accessibility: The route includes steps, particularly up St Giles Hill, and may not be suitable for wheelchair users or those who find inclines challenging.

  • Map: Detailed maps are available at the Winchester Tourist Information Centre or download this one.

Tue 14th – 9°C ⛅ | Wed 15th – 10°C 🌫️ | Thu 16th – 9°C 🌫️ | Fri 17th – 9°C ⛅ | Sat 18th – 8°C ⛅ | Sun 19th – 9°C ☀️ | Mon 20th – 9°C ⛅

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Events in Hampshire This Week

Wednesday 15th January 2025

Thursday 16th January 2025

Saturday 18th January 2025

Sunday 19th January 2025

Wednesday 22nd January 2025 – Sunday 2nd February 2025

Festivals to Look Forward to in Hampshire – 2025 🎉

During a show of Melt Festival when Nina Kraviz was playing behind the decks. The crowd went wild during her set which was extremely good. I was dancing with my camera in my hand while taking shots. The smoke and light hit the people just right and I quickly climbed on the shoulders of a friend to take this shot.

I know it’s only January, but with tickets already on sale and early bird offers available, it’s the perfect time to plan your festival season. I started adding all the details to this newsletter, then soon realised there were so many! So I created a separate article….

Hampshire Hot Picks

🌿 Explore Gilbert White's House with 50% off for all Hampshire residents—offer valid until 14th February! Plan your visit here.

🌅 Enjoy all-day views at Spinnaker Tower—pre-book online and save £5 per person, tickets just £13! Book now.

🔭 Discover and save this January with discounted afternoon saver tickets at Winchester Science Centre! Grab your tickets here.

🐠 Dive into savings! Portsmouth and Hampshire Library Card holders enjoy 10% off at Blue Reef Aquarium. Learn more and book here.

🚢 Set sail and save! The Big January Cruise Sale offers up to £500 off—book by 17th January with Cruise 118. Explore deals here.

💆‍♀️ Relax in style! Enjoy a 4* Hampshire Court Hotel & Spa stay for two with breakfast, dinner, health club access, late checkout, and spa upgrade—save up to 55%! Book your escape here.

🌳 Adventure awaits! Snag 15% off the Treetop Challenge at Go Ape when you book for a Sunday with a group of 4+ - use code SUNFUN at checkout. Book your adventure here.

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