MAGICAL: Winchester is one of the best places to visit for Christmas (Pic: PR)
The Hampshire hotspot is steeped in history and every street corner shows remnants of its medieval past.
Set on the border of the South Downs National Park and filled with cobbled streets, boutique shops, markets and plenty more – you have to pinch yourself that this gem of a location is just 60 miles from the hustle and bustle of London.
The city is stunning year-round, but it really comes alive over the festive period.
Here are three reasons you should head to Winchester this Christmas.
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1. Winchester Cathedral
The centrepiece of this wonderful city is the impressive cathedral.
One of the largest in Europe, the impressive building holds a whole host of Christmas events in December.
The Cathedral Carol Services on December 18, 19 and 21 are sure to fill you with festive spirit.
There are also the traditional Nativity Services on display throughout December.
However, simply stepping into the building – which holds the longest nave of any Gothic cathedral in Europe – is a magical experience.
IMPRESSIVE: Winchester Cathedral is one of the biggest of its kind in Europe (Pic: PR)
2. Christmas Market
Situated next to the cathedral is the magical Winchester Christmas market.
It claims to be one of the best in the continent due to "its unique location, high quality exhibitors and bustling atmosphere".
More than 100 chalets selling clothes, crockery, gadgets and mulled wine line the pathway behind the cathedral.
There is even a whole "village" for British craft goods, if you want to buy locally-made products.
SELECTION: There are over 100 chalets in the Christmas market (Pic: PR)
3. Ice Rink
To finish off your Christmassy escape, a visit to the ice rink is a must.
Set in the heart of the market with the cathedral in the background, the rink is particularly picturesque.
Run by the Cathedral, the rink caters for all the family with small penguin stabilisers for the little ones.
Expert guides are also on hand to help with any falls.
FUN: The ice rink is suitable for the whole family (Pic: PR)
Where to stay
Any visit to Winchester is simply not complete without staying at the Black Hole B&B.
The boutique Bed and Breakfast is filled with character – each room is individually designed and furnished and the entire building has a prison theme.
Instead of room numbers you are given keys to your "cell" and the doors are aimed to mimic those seen in a 1950s jail.
But fear not – while it may seem like you will be slumming it the result of this meticulous attention to detail is an experience of nothing but comfort.
The B&B is situated directly next to a charming pub (The Black Boy) and across the road from a Michelin-starred restaurant (The Black Rat).
They are all owned by the same people, which means you can simply pop next door to grab a glass of wine and are allowed to carry it up to the beautiful roof terrace above your room, which offers breathtaking views of the entire city.
RELAXING: Despite its prison theme, The Black Hole B&B is full of charm (Pic: BLACK HOLE)
Factbox
£8.50 for entry, which lasts for a year.
£11 per adult, concessions and family tickets also available.
Prices from £85 per night
All rooms are doubles and en suite. Guests can choose from a full English breakfast or Continental breakfast.
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