What's on in Winchester - May 2023

Winchester is a historic and vibrant city, and there’s much for visitors to explore, should you wish to get out and about. Here are our suggestions for the coming month.

As one of England’s most historic cities, and indeed its ancient capital, with its links to King Alfred the Great, the Coronation is a central part of May’s events.

Majestic Winchester Cathedral will host a grand celebration of the Coronation of King Charles III, including unique and symbolic floral arrangements, a Thanksgiving service, a screening of the Coronation and two tours on England’s historic roots.

Patrick, the Head Gardener, and Judith, the Flower Arrangers Section Head, have carefully planned the floral decorations, which include a suspended Corona made of dried native species, willow fleur-de-lis, lavender, dried roses, herbs, and other local plants. A wonderful spectacle in its own right.

The celebrations will begin on Friday May 5th with a public Thanksgiving Service at 7:00pm. This will feature the music of local children’s choirs, The Spitfire Band, The Royal Corps of Drums, and other military musicians.

On Saturday 6th May, a screening of King Charles III Coronation will be available to watch inside Winchester Cathedral. Words and music will be provided, allowing everyone to participate in this historic event as if they were there, creating a unique and immersive experience. The cathedral will be open all day (no admission fees will be charged) and visitors are encouraged to come and take their seats early.

On Monday 8th May, there will be two tours titled, ‘This Royal House of Saxon Kings and Saints’. It will be an opportunity to learn about England’s historic roots in the heart of the ancient capital. You can find more about the events and the Cathedral on their site HERE

May 6th also sees Play to the Crowd presenting Hat Fair in The Square. A celebratory afternoon of performances and more in and around The Square, Winchester, to mark the Coronation of Charles III. The event will welcome back Hat Fair favourites and local talent for a veritable festival of street performers and entertainment. You can find more details HERE

Yet more festivities are on the cards, with the Winchester Mayfest returning on May 20th. A celebration of traditional folk music and dance, plus more besides, expect lots of Morris dancing and other displays, all taking place in then centre of Winchester. A spectacle with bells on! Be sure to come and enjoy this traditional entertainment. More details can be found HERE

For the foodies, and fun seekers of all kinds, we recommend the Alresford Watercress Festival. Taking place on May 21st this acclaimed annual festival attracts large crowds to New Alresford, Hampshire, to celebrate all things watercress. The streets of this classic Georgian town are closed to traffic, transforming the historic town centre into a family-friendly festival.

Street markets, food & drink stalls, cookery demonstrations, the Hampshire Farmers Market, even a  Kids Zone featuring Falcon Displays and Circus Skills, the festival boasts something for everyone. The undisputed highlight of the day is the Watercress Eating Championship at 3pm on the main stage. A must see event hosted by Paul Rees, keeping the participants in order and the crowd in stitches. Some very British silliness of the finest calibre.

The festival opens at 10am and runs until 4pm, and you can find more details HERE

We hope you enjoy your May stay with us at The Winchester Hotel & Spa, and please don’t hesitate to ask if we can be of any assistance during your visit. Relax, enjoy, and we’ll be back next month with some more great events in and around Winchester.